The Dark Knight of Chiba 2: Knightfall

by BlackPsych

Sequel to 502nickster's "The Dark Knight of Chiba". After toppling the city's most vicious crime family, Hachiman's internal drive and means of greater power sets his alter-ego, the Huntsman, on a questionable path. Timing couldn't be worse as he resolves to ease his guilt over a certain Yukinoshita and beyond, all while the remaining evils of Chiba surround the young vigilante.

9. Ace Chemicals (Part 2)

Chapter 9: Ace Chemicals (Part 2)

Hikigaya Hachiman

An armed guard stationed way up here, all alone? Are some of your men playing hooky, Isshiki?

"The hell are you waiting for? There's a vantage point right above him—take him down already," Todd muttered impatiently.

So much for expecting him to stay polite. Ah, shit! The masked guard twitched his head my way and I immediately broke into a sprint. He jumped backward but I reacted first, drawing three batarangs and swiping them in his direction. Two pummeled his chest, while the last one hit his wrist, making him cry as he dropped his shotgun to the ground. I launched my fist against his head, another one on the torso, slamming him to the ground and knocking him out cold.

Ha, what a rush! Though I might have overdone it—

"Really?" Todd scoffed into my ear.

Ah, what now?

"What's the problem?" I asked as I ducked down to wrap the unconscious man's legs with rope. I noticed up close this grown man was wearing elaborate orange fox-like ears, sending shivers down my spine. The hell was this guy into? What a freak.

"That was sloppy work! Using that vantage point would have been quicker to get the jump on him with an easy sleeper hold. Better than using three fresh batarangs for no reason," Todd explained in exasperation as if his method was the most obvious thing in the world.

Smug little bastard. I mean…it did feel like a waste of resources, though my pride wasn't going to let me outright admit it.

"The grappling hook, you've had experience launching yourself above nearby enemies without them noticing?" I asked him rhetorically.

"No shit! People are in their own heads most of the time or they screw their senses over from the get-go," Todd vehemently argued. "That guy was wearing a full-face gas mask. Night vision or not, no way was he gonna see shit until you got in his face. Need any more convincing?"

Todd made a good point and I'm almost certain I've done just that in the past alone, without any trouble. I picked up the batarangs I threw out instead of responding right away. They were still in good condition to reuse, but I made a mental note to keep my adrenaline in check. I didn't want to give the kid the satisfaction of being right again, after all.

I unloaded the fox guy's shotgun and discarded it entirely in another room, behind some dusty shelves.

"I'll keep that in mind," I finally answered Todd.

"Yeah, you do what I tell you," he replied.

My eyes twitched at his words. This boy was irritation personified—I've never encountered such a problem child in my life. Hats off to Wayne and Alfred for being so kind as to entrust a crude street urchin with the position of Robin.

I continued my way down hallways and corridors at Todd's behest, stopping by all the office rooms once used by the people who managed this place.

*Click*

Tsk. The first time I heard that sound, I nearly had a heart attack. I was looking around inside a dimly lit storage room filled with old broken laptops and other stored material. Like every other room, I took more than a few minutes to scan almost everything with Hunter's Vision.

There were various boxes and document folders all strangely shipped here from only the following six corporations…

Citigroup. Bank corporation from America.
Alphabet. The conglomerate that owns Google.
Dupont. A very rich and large chemical company.
Microsoft. Electronics and software company.
Unitedhealth. Healthcare company from America?
Sony. Electronics corporation from here.

If there was any significance to this, I was missing it wholly and neither Todd nor Alfred said anything.

However, I just know there's something they're hiding.

I would be rummaging through just about any heaping pile of garbage and suddenly hear a click or two by my ear. When I didn't feel a freakin' hole in my head from a gunshot, I figured out that Todd was taking screenshots on his end, failing to mute his software. I'm certain he meant to keep that a secret—why else would he let me go through all this garbage without complaint?

I had a few guesses why. For one, it's strange for the office section of an abandoned Ace Chemicals warehouse in Japan to be filled with technology and documents from these American companies. Each in industries that hardly intersected, for the most part.

Well, perhaps Dupont, Microsoft, and Sony can be explained since Dupont is in the chemical industry and the office workers may have required computers and other tech hardware from Microsoft and Sony for their everyday operations.

But Citigroup, Alphabet, and Unitedhealth having a vested interest in this place, all those years ago? I couldn't fathom why and it appears the Bat-Family will be able to connect these dots faster than I ever will.

Maybe the most unsettling part was that almost everything was in pure English, revealing to me that the former office workers were mostly Western foreigners. However, anything concerning Sony was in Japanese…meaning that Sony was the Japan-based liaison for the other American corporations? That's all I could speculate, for now.

*Click*

I gritted my teeth. That was seriously obnoxious! Todd might as well have been over my shoulder, constantly cocking a gun to my head.

Hmph. Robin, the boy wonder, armed with a gun—now there's an image… For my sanity's sake, I had to find out why he was taking pictures of what looked like garbage to me. If I'm lucky, I could goad the little delinquent boy into giving out some information I wasn't privy to.

Eugh. Dust bunnies.

I leaned against a dusty emergency exit door, which Todd told me would finally lead to the core sections of the building. He grunted when I stopped moving but I didn't keep him in suspense.

"You keep making strange noises every time I sift through piles of documents," I started dryly. "I also heard snapshots taken from your end. Care to explain?"

Todd hurriedly clicked away with his mouse, forgetting that his microphone was on again.

Seriously? He was like a total amateur with this computer, I swear. This truly was his first time as an 'operator', huh? Still, you'd think anyone our age wouldn't forget to simply mute themselves during a call when—

"Don't be an idiot and make it obvious but I cut off Alfred's audio just now," he suddenly whispered.

I paused at this, feeling slimy. "What?"

So now we were truly alone for the moment? Gross. Put the nice old man back on this channel, you little jerk.

"Just had to get something through your head without getting shit for it later," Todd explained as if he read my mind. "You're living under a rock if you haven't figured out who the fuck ran Ace Chemicals. That's why I was taking screenshots."

Huh? It was an easy guess all along who took over Ace Chemicals? Color me surprised.

I scoffed at Todd but I squatted in place so that Alfred would think I was quietly taking a break, "You're insane and not everyone in the world is privy to the crime drama in Gotham City or the States in general—"

Todd cut me off with that smug tone of his, "That's where you're wrong, kiddo."

"Quit it with that. I'm two years your senior, idiot!" I barked out at the kid. "I'm not going to tolerate being talked down by a literal squeaker."

Todd whined like a kicked puppy after that and I felt satisfied that the insult landed that hard.

"Sh-Shaddup! I'm just trying to level with you here! I…fuck me… Even across the world, no one's down to give me a shot?" Todd weakly finished.

Huh? Is that what you were trying to do? 'Level' with me? Look, cutting me off from Alfred, the one I'm more familiar with between the two of you, only served to activate my 'stranger danger' response. So don't get upset over me lashing out at you like a cornered rat. I'm still considered to be an innocent minor, after all.

Todd was still whining to himself over the comms, his tone getting more discouraged by the second.

Ah, I see how it is—you're terrible at getting your point across, aren't you? I—ugh. I want nothing more than to call you a useless moron. It would be well-deserved but…the thing is, I can empathize with that kind of problem.

…I'll drive out my urge to argue. I'm old enough to know the logical action for me to take now is to be the, uh, mature 'senpai' and let you have the floor. You get one shit though and you better hope Alfred buys this next act of mine. Nothing suspicious about a young Japanese boy suddenly breaking out into radio calisthenics, right?

"The fuck are you doing—"

I snapped my fingers by my ear to get Todd to focus.

"Todd, try to be less aggressive next time you want to talk. Go ahead and make your point from earlier, I won't interrupt this time," I said in a low voice.

Huh, bending over and jumping even in a place like this feels pretty good. Never mind doing this only now just to trick Alfred, I should add these movements to my routine.

"...Yeah well, don't interrupt me from the start, idiot," Todd replied after a moment.

I ignored that last bit, letting him get the last insult so that we could move on quickly. Once it got through to his head that I was waiting patiently and playing along, Todd revealed the big secret.

"...The Joker. Anything involving Ace Chemicals almost always leads back to that fucking psycho," Todd murmured, a mix of fright and disgust attached to his voice.

Ah…shit. Yes, Todd was right earlier—I've heard of him before, all of Japan has for sure. Through the years of the false peace we experienced, we were all astounded at the existence of a 'clown prince of crime' in the States. An infamous, psychotic criminal wreaking chaos in a major metropolitan city…and he went international for some time. Here, right under our noses.

I stopped stretching and crossed my arms, venting my anger with a sigh. I thought it was bad enough that Black Mask had a hand in corrupting Chiba. Now I learned another dangerous Gothamite touched my city and infected it with his poison years ago. Both operations were under the guise of legitimate businesses and yet, there was still another thing I couldn't make sense of.

"What about the involvement of the other companies? Why take pictures of their broken electronics and outdated documents?" I asked, fearing the answer. There was no way they funded Joker's activities here in Japan…right?

"Ace Chemicals was legit years ago and everything you scanned predates Joker's takeover," Todd explained, confirming the history I dug up myself about the company. "But…I see here on my screen that Bruce wanted me to take those snapshots for a separate 'impertinent' issue. Whatever the fuck that means."

I stumbled in the middle of my jumps, taken aback like the wind was knocked out of me.

"You're telling me this warehouse isn't a unique case?" I asked in a deepened tone, still feeling my face scrunch up in horror.

"Nah…this is the third hidden Ace Chemicals facility Bruce found outside of the States, the one you're at is the only one in Japan. I know this 'cause I peeked at his files once and, yeah, the same six fucking companies were involved in the other two branches. Sketchy shit if you ask me," Todd replied nervously, not bothering to put on a brave front as I tried.

No shit? That's not possible...I have to ask for more. "Surely you've found similar documents and other traces of these companies in the Ace Chemicals in Gotham?"

Todd merely sighed. "No, just the ones outside of the States. This is part of some high-level case probably and it's important to Bruce 'cause Ace Chemicals was...nah, that's all I'm saying. Look, just recognize that you should follow my advice while you're there, 'cause I've faced Joker and he's gotta be involved somehow. This ain't some baby shit."

Ignoring that last bit...what the hell? A case higher than Joker? Something about Ace Chemicals is personal to Wayne.

It frustrated me how Todd minimized my agenda as 'baby shit' compared to what Wayne wants from this case, but could that be an accurate assessment? I don't…could Venom have just been a measly byproduct of an evil corporate cabal? I don't want to sound like a crackpot conspiracy theorist, but six companies, seven if you included Ace Chemicals while it was still functional, pooled resources together in a facility like this for…a purpose.

Wayne must have thought so—he has a clearer picture in his private files for sure. I could only speculate something like… I don't know… Expensive electronics manipulating people's health with chemicals… controlled remotely via software or manually?

Now I definitely sounded like a crackpot. No…I can't be distracted right now over a case not even Wayne has solved yet. Joker and the activities taken place before and after his reign of Ace Chemicals should matter to me, but only so far as to how they've affected Isshiki Iroha and Chiba. At this moment, it was more important to focus on the mission at hand.

"So? What do you have to say about that? Quick, before I put Alfred back on," Todd whispered sharply.

"Nothing concrete right now," I answered smoothly, cracking my stiff neck. "I'm heading down now, so go ahead and unmute us from Alfred."

"Tch, so long as you get why it's important I'm here," Todd grumbled.

He sounded a little disappointed with my reaction. Probably thought I'd blow up after I just stood there, processing it all. I suppose he has a personal grudge against the Joker and wouldn't waste an opportunity to create enemies for him abroad? Whatever the reason, I can see there's more to Todd than just a delinquent child.

He's a sneak, for one. Not someone to be underestimated at all—I felt resentment for the Joker's past presence in Chiba and felt the need to dig deeper. Ah, but I might as well give this 'kohai' of mine what I think he truly desires…some gratitude.

"Yo, Todd. Thanks for the, uh, heads up. I think you made the right call," I awkwardly muttered. Without waiting for a response, I opened the emergency door and quickly dashed down a pitch-black stairwell.

Why did it feel like I was doing the cliche 'tsun' act of running away after thanking a guy? Eugh.

Todd stayed quiet after that, maybe because he didn't know how to respond to a sincere thank you. I didn't care. I'm honestly still hung up on the mysterious office section I left behind and the reveal of the Joker's past involvement in Japan.

I get one question answered and a dozen more spring up in my head. Many of them will never be resolved, unfortunately. Here's one—that time Batman rescued me when I was a child, was this warehouse a place he was looking for?

The thought of that possibility makes me gag. To think that Isshiki Iroha and I had our lives altered in the same period by a clown and a bat… I couldn't afford to let this matter go, only a fool would think this was the end of it all. No, Batman knows more than he's letting on and I plan to find out what links the Joker's past actions along with all of those companies myself.

That's the key to preventing a future tragedy, worse than the case of Isshiki Iroha. Maybe even a kid, like I used to be, can walk through the streets without ever having to hold out for a hero.

---

"Huh, must smell like shit."

This kid…

"What is it?" I voiced impatiently at Todd. He asked me to stop running about a minute ago, even after I finally detected signs of life with my Hunter's Vision.

"Be glad you got that mask on. Your sensors are detecting a high amount of kush in the air. Not dangerous but annoying," Todd noted with disgust. Must have been quite a common smell in his city.

"Oh, from that direction?" I asked rhetorically, knowing the answer.

"Yeah yeah, beyond that door, there's—"

"Junkies, doing the small stuff to keep themselves entertained while the good stuff's being prepared," I interrupted him, shaking my head at the absurdity of it all. Recreational drugs in Chiba...what a disaster.

"Yeah, good guess… Hey, stare down at that corner to your left, where the circles are congregated the most, then close your eyes," Todd instructed me to the bottom left of the door. I did as he asked, hearing my suit activate Hunter's Vision twice in rapid succession before it reverted after a moment.

"Yep, free to open your shit now," I heard Todd say.

"What'd you do?" I asked, ticked off to find out he could activate my suit functions remotely.

"I activated a deeper layer to your—fucking cringe—Hunter's Vision. Over here, we call it Detective Mode. Batman and I got the latest version which is easier on the eyes, while your ass is stuck with the beta. Anyway, I got to see beyond the junkie circles," Todd explained slowly.

I wanted to tell him off again for the insult, gah… Nevermind. "And? What did you see?"

Todd sniggered like the snot-nosed brat he is. "Lucky us, pal! We've just stumbled upon the end of a cook and all the trash is lined up for a taste! Saw guards with melee weapons doling this stuff out and only a couple of them were armed. Easy shit—now move!"

Funnily enough, his voice cracked at the end of his command. Although this was good news, he didn't mention the presence of my priority target.

"No, not yet. You didn't see a petite girl's silhouette down there?" I inquired apprehensively. "That should be Lady Comedy. I can't let her get away while I'm busy rounding up everyone down there."

"Lady Comedy's seriously a small girl? How the fuck… Nah, there was no one down there like that. Just mostly lanklets and fatties for guards and the usual tweakers for customers," Todd answered, much to my chagrin.

"Then it stands to reason the 'boss' of this operation has herself holed up in a deeper place within the warehouse. I'm not leaving without her in cuffs," I declared fiercely. Um...sure it looked like I was just talking to the door, but my resolve was certainly there!

Todd scoffed at my demand. "Well too bad for you, I didn't see your bitch down there."

"That so? Then we continue with the search. The junkies can wait."

"Really? Arresting thirty-something screw-ups isn't enough for you to be satisfied with?"

What? Is he joking? "Would it be enough for you to let a boss have a head start to run away the second she hears her goons going down?" I asked rhetorically.

"Tch, I'm not like you," Todd answered. "Over here in Gotham we'd round them all up—"

"Over there you have a partner to help you do two things at once!" I yelled at Todd, fed up with it all. "I don't have that luxury, so I'm forced to prioritize and compromise even if it pisses me…ah, hold on!"

I do have a partner.

"What?" Todd asked.

I kept silent, fiddling around with my Batwave Commlink to a specific contact. Let's see if she's up for some action from my end.

"Don't keep me in fucking suspense, you got a plan or something?" Todd asked again.

"Quiet for a minute, you'll figure it out quickly," I snapped back.

It was dialing… C'mon, pick up, lady. You chewed me out when I was being secretive earlier. The least you could do is answer right away when I ring you up…finally!

"H-Hello?" A nervous voice greeted me.

"Captain Ellen Yin—"

"No, I told you to call me Yin Etsudo, not my American name!" she berated me, as expected. "You also picked a bad time to call. I was lucky enough to sneak away from my backup without looking suspicious."

Backup huh? Dammit Chiba, can't you relax while I'm busy here? Busy here with...ah good grief. Are there really that many criminals in this place? Maybe there's a glitch in the software… Nah that's wishful thinking—Hunter's Vision's never been wrong before. I hope you still have enough men to spare, Yin.

"Sorry for the sudden call, but this is urgent. You wanted to know what I was up to tonight and, well, I need your assistance here," I admitted.

"Oh? And where is that, exactly? I did assign a few patrol cars to drive by the warehouse area, but nothing had come of it in the past few hours," Yin whispered with clear satisfaction.

Oh boy. Bat Family's going to ream me for this, but there's no alternative if I want to find Isshiki without having the warehouse and its miscreants locked down. I'm prioritizing efficiency over a promise that's already been broken so that all Venom production ends tonight.

I cleared my throat, feeling my pride sink down to my stomach. "...I'm at the abandoned Chimera Chems warehouse, and I've just confirmed it's being utilized as a drug production facility, for the stuff known as Venom. There's almost twenty—no—thirty junkies here, waiting in line to get their fix."

"W-What? Are you serious?" Captain Yin asked in clear disbelief.

"Yes. Many of them are already in possession of other recreational drugs, I believe. That's not counting the twenty or so thugs keeping them in line and distributing the goods for cash," I kept going, surprised I wasn't immediately rebuked by Todd or Alfred.

"Over twenty guards? So around fifty drug fiends in your location? Are any of them armed?" Captain Yin kept gathering what details I had. I could hear her sprinting all the while, probably over to her car.

"From what I can see, most of them only have bats and steel rods. Only two have shotguns and sidearms. Everyone's wearing masks, which may negate any effect that tear gas would have. Can you muster up enough men too?" I asked, hoping there wouldn't be any issues. Tonight I'll finally see what it means to have a captain of the police force on my side.

"Who do you think you're talking to? This isn't my first bust, y'know! We'll have the place surrounded in fifteen minutes, tops," Captain Yin asserted with undeniable confidence, her smirk carrying over the line. "They're all mine tonight, guaranteed, so be sure not to aggro or frighten anyone away, got it?"

"Ah, are you really saying that to me, after I chose to be honest with you about this operation? A decent person would respond with gratitude," I shot back at her in good jest.

"Hmph, we'll see who needs the other more by the end of the night... Godspeed, Huntsman," Captain Yin signed off sincerely. I acknowledged her with a grunt and ended the call.

The time showed it was a quarter until four in the morning. It was a school night, so I shouldn't waste too much time, everything that happens after I extract Isshiki is on the police.

"You always flirt with chicks on the job? The fuck was that?" Todd squawked indignantly.

Huh?! That's flirting?! I—never mind, I don't think you have a clue what you're talking about.

"Hikigaya-san," Alfred started in a heavy tone. "You were told to keep this operation only between us and yourself. Even including someone as trusted as Captain Yin is in total breach of our agreement."

"That's true, there's no denying I bent the rules just a couple of hours before beginning this infiltration. However, Alfred, the same could be said about you and Wayne including Todd without checking with me first," I swiftly argued, only hearing the old butler sigh before I continued. "I understand bringing Robin into the fold was a last-minute compromise on your part, but I don't believe it was that much different than me giving my police contact a heads up for a scenario like the one we're in now."

Alfred scoffed, totally baffled. To be fair, I was also surprised at my audacity here. "Oh? I'm sorry Hikigaya-san, but I beg to differ and so will Master Bruce when—"

"—Bah, I don't see what the big deal is, Al," Todd interjected. "Sounds like both of you couldn't keep your word, so now one blabbermouth cancels the other."

Flawless logic.

"That's not how agreements work, Master Jason," Alfred argued, seemingly more baffled at Todd's point than I was.

"Well, it should do. Hey, I'm the operator so, I say we deal with the broken promises later and finish this mission right now," Todd stated in a final tone. Well, about as decisive as a teenager could sound, though this was a direction I could agree with.

Without warning, I activated my Hunter's Vision and went through the door, into the production room of the warehouse. Immediately to my right, a thug was playing on his phone as he leaned over the rail of the catwalk. I avoided my gut instinct to put him to sleep and snuck away to the left, past his line of sight. My HUD suddenly indicated nearby vantage points—I grappled to the highest one and took a full view of the room.

A bunch of littered shelves, scaffolding, thick pipes, and large hanging lamps were fitted just underneath the ceiling, where I was, giving me various vantage points to grapple and hang off of.

The catwalk had some guards standing, not doing anything, though two of them were armed with shotguns and sidearms. One of the armed men seemed to be answering a call on his flip phone. Underneath the catwalk was, as Todd described, junkies, sitting in circles smoking cigarettes and joints, having a loud, wild time. The guards in that main lobby of the room were keeping things in order, gathering payments from their clients, everything leading to a room where, I believe, the Venom drug was being cooked.

None of the guards in that section were moving about, just keeping an eye on their lab equipment. This tells me they were just waiting for a timer now and distribution would occur very soon.

"Sorry Alfred, time is of the essence," I whispered into my earpiece.

"Ah, you have my apologies as well. I suppose it isn't the end of the world that a trusted friend like Yin Ellen has become involved in this," Alfred conceded.

Well, I picked a good cop to share tonight's mission with while you and Wayne picked an aggressive teen...but whatever.

"Things will get chaotic once the police arrive to arrest everyone. Locating Isshiki before that is important. Perhaps my Hunter's vision will—"

*Shriek*

The screeching chime of a PA system encompassed the entire room. Of course, lucky me was sitting right next to one of the loudspeakers. It startled me so badly that I almost fell!

"Hellooooo! Lady Comedy here! I've decided to grace all my lovely customers and cute foxes with my voice just to say thanks! Your patronage and help are super appreciated as always."

My HUD had confirmed the voice identification, but I recognized the particular 'cutesy' intonation and elongation of her vowels.

Isshiki Iroha.

"That said, I have to say it seems like tonight's going to be a special night! Tonight's specially chosen 'Kitsune' has stopped calling me back every half hour as I asked."

A Kitsune?...Shit! Does she mean the freak from upstairs, with the fake fox ears?

He was a goddamn warning bell.

"Now this could mean one of two things. One, I'm sadly going to have to make another example of Kitsune-kun for thinking it's okay to just sleep on this important job. As if last week's example wasn't harsh enough to fucking get that through your thick skulls."

I'm swinging away from this speaker. Such a loud, angry girl. Shrill, yet commanding…a total 'S'.

"The second reason why he might not be calling me? Well, I'd like that…bitch to come down to my cute office so that we can have a nice chat. And I do mean, like, right nooow."

Ah, there it was. A direct invitation to talk with her in person. I planned on this anyway, but now I have to anticipate a trap along the way. What a failure of success.

"Either way, I already asked two of you idiots to go upstairs and see what's up! Everyone else, keep the money coming! Tonight's batch is gonna be the last for a while and I made sure it was going to have a special touch, so don't go anywhere! Bye-bye! *CHU~*"

I let out a sigh. All the guards down there were now on high alert, though my HUD indicated two of them went upstairs to locate the Kitsune I knocked out in the beginning. Surprisingly enough, the clientele didn't start panicking and left in droves. The hustle and bustle from before resumed soon after her voice fell. I suppose they were too high to process all of Isshiki's words. How pathetic.

"Fucking GG. We've been compromised," Todd finally broke the ice, sounding as frustrated as I felt.

"I did think it was strange for that one person to be up there all alone. She suspected I would try to sneak in through the rooftop one night? How could she even anticipate this?" I asked no one in particular.

"The bitch did say she chose a different guy to stand by upstairs every night. Yeah, easy to figure this base was attacked weeks prior, and she's been prepared ever since," Todd concluded.

I scoffed at that. "Easy to figure you say, yet it never crossed our minds until now."

"Yeah, well, I probably would have thought about it if you didn't distract me with the stupid way you took him down," Todd responded defensively.

No need to start a rant, I wasn't even trying to assign blame on you.

"Let's not go backward with 'what ifs'," I asserted, pointing towards my line of sight. "Those vents I'm looking at, do any of them lead downward?"

"Ah, well, wade over to the vents first," he asked me. Thankfully his temperament subsided before it exploded again and I made my way over to the ventilation shafts on the other side of the room. I had to walk quietly on the catwalk by two guards having a chat. Hunter's Vision showed that both vents traveled downward.

"Take the one over there on the left," Todd suggested.

One of the guards left behind the other who was still leaning over the railing.

Now's my chance!

I snuck directly behind the leaving guard, matching his footsteps once I was close enough. Together we walked in sync, the sound of his footsteps covering my own.

Easy…please let no one look this way.

Now!

The second I was next to the left vent, I broke off and climbed right into it in two easy steps. I crawled away with no one being the wiser, feeling proud until I bumped myself into a corner within the pitch-black vent.

Okay, remember you have freaking night vision…use it.

"Easy now," Todd snorted. "Not gonna lie, that was pretty smooth. See how much better you are following my advice?"

"Stuff it, you," I replied, now inching forward ever so carefully.

---

This vent is disgustingly grimy and dusty, a bit weird since I didn't have to pry open a cover. Hopefully, I won't have to keep crawling or dropping down for much longer.

"So, about Yin, you recruited her back into our thing huh?" Todd suddenly brought up.

"My operation," I corrected him. "Chiba is her priority now, she told me so herself."

"Whatever, it's just good to hear she's still active and didn't completely disappear. Losing touch with Yin Ellen for good would have sucked," he said sincerely.

"I see you all share the same confidence in Yin Etsudo's capabilities," I corrected Todd again. "Glad to keep hearing I didn't choose a dud for a law enforcement partner."

"Huh? Oh yeah, I mean, Yin's smart, got moves and all, but between you and me—I was talking about how she's a baaad bitch too," Todd followed with a raunchy laugh.

"..." I was struck silent by this sudden commentary, wondering why I even bothered to converse with him.

This guy was still talking about his one-sided lust for Captain Yin when I emerged from the other side of the vent to a small enclosed room. One with two more open vent shafts hanging on the ceiling. Hunter's Vision showed both going in the same direction to the next and last room of the warehouse, faintly showing a couple of heat signatures. Only two large silhouettes, which sank my gut.

Damn it. If I'm right, I can expect nothing more than disappointment here. I jumped up and climbed into one of the hanging vents, lots of things going through my mind because there was no clear route after this mission. Should I fail, where can I go from here?

"Yin don't have the biggest assets, but hey, she's still pretty banging with that toned, athletic body she's got!" Todd piped up with unmatched excitement. "Y'know she winked at me when Batman and I said goodbye?! Goddamn, I never wanted Asian cooch so badly in my life before—"

Kami-sama, kill me now.

"Master Jason! Enough of that! You—"

"Hey! Huntsman, hold it right there!"

Alfred was about to accost Todd for his raunchiness when the latter suddenly called out to me. I stopped in my tracks, somewhere in the middle of the vent, and looked forward.

"What's the problem—ah, that's no good!"

I see why Todd had freaked out. There was a scary-looking shotgun contraption pointed at the end of the vent just up ahead, which was suspiciously closed off for once. So that someone sneaking in like me would trigger the trap and get a face full of buckshot.

"Backtrack and find another way through. Though it's likely that crazy bitch rigged the other vent too, so don't crawl into that one either," Todd advised.

I did as Todd said and jumped back down to the small room I was in before. I walked over to the wall for a thorough examination, pointing my Hunter's Vision to see both ends of the ventilation shafts were fitted with traps. Not only that, the same two large heat signatures were pointing rifles in their direction like they were expecting someone to pop right out of them.

Just who the hell was Isshiki expecting? Me? This level of preparation was beyond what I expected from an insane girl. Todd was right, Isshiki's precautions are that of a cornered mouse...I'm just hoping what I saw beyond the two thugs before backtracking here wasn't completely correct.

Ah, look at me playing the fool, I know what I saw. A third petite heat signature wasn't going to pop up in that final room just because I hoped for it. Focus, Huntsman, focus.

"Some kind of shocking device at the end of this one," I noted about the end of the second vent. "My suit would probably withstand most of the damage, but it's not worth taking a chance. Especially not with those two armed cretins hiding behind them both. I'd be rushed immediately."

This was frustrating, to say the least, being limited to one option...the weak wall to the right that separated this room from the other.

"True. So, if you're thinking what I'm thinking, then you know you're shit out of luck and have one way to go about this—loud," Todd replied, backing up my thoughts.

A certain can of volatile substances made its way out of my belt. I sprayed a hefty amount of the explosive gel across the weakest points of the structure until I was satisfied it would be more than enough. A big, loud explosion was key to this solution. Stretching my limbs and taking a deep breath proved to be relaxing as I prepared to engage.

"Got a plan or do ya need good ol' Robin to give ya pointers?" Todd smugly asked me.

"Watch me," I simply replied, pushing on the explosive control button.

*Boom* *Boom* *Boom*

The wall disintegrated after a series of explosions, creating a light dust cloud which I rushed through immediately. As expected, the riflemen foolishly thought the loud sounds had come from the shotgun contraption and they fired their guns haphazardly at the first vent. My ears were ringing because their rifles had been shot so close to me, but I powered through and didn't flinch.

"The fuck is that?!"

One of the riflemen heard my footsteps beyond the dust cloud, but it was too late. I launched myself at him, grabbing both of his hands and raising them above my head. Disoriented, he dropped his rifle and I kicked his chest twice as I climbed over him, stepping over his head and slamming his face down to the ground.

"Fucking cocksucker!"

I was still high in the air when the second rifleman reacted quicker than expected, getting off three shots in my direction—right as I activated two electrified batarangs and swiped them into his arms!

"AHH," He cried as he was hit with electric shock, his carbine discarded to the ground.

By a stroke of luck, only one of his shots managed to graze the thick bit of armor on my shoulder and I was unharmed as I landed in front of him. Not missing my chance, I rushed at him with a raised elbow and struck him on his fat shoulder, producing a satisfying crack.

The second rifleman fell face forward as he held on to his posterior shoulder blade, being careful not to roll over onto it as he writhed in agony.

"Holy shit, nice elbow chop!" Todd exclaimed in my ear.

You're telling me…been a while since I did something so harsh. No regrets here though.

I wrapped myself around the crying thug and put him in a sleeper hold. He tried resisting but soon his breaths slowed and he fell unconscious along with his buddy.

Ah, not bad.

With the fight over as quickly as it began, I gathered my bearings, rotating my arms in place before quickly tying up both thugs together. The first rifleman probably had a concussion, while the second had a dislocated shoulder according to my Hunter's Vision—nothing fractured.

"You can play doctor later, the 'cute office' is just around the corner, though I'm sure you've already seen we hit a dead end with this crazy Iroha bitch," Todd commented.

I sighed in frustration, hating that I was right all along. "That appears to be the case, but it wouldn't hurt to check."

I rounded the corner to confirm what my Hunter's Vision had briefly shown me a couple of minutes ago—the only two people down here were thug one and thug two. I've definitely reached the last room of this place as well.

Isshiki Iroha…was never here tonight.

This was indeed her private office. What else could explain the girly pink wallpaper, hanging Christmas lights, and a fluffy yellow bean bag chair by the corner desk? Hell, there was even a large mirror and the latest iPad model on the desk, along with empty containers of makeup and face paint. All of the 'essentials' you'd find in a regular teenage girl's room, I guess, were found down in the last level of a reworked chemical warehouse.

Oh, would you look at that? An intercom device, probably linked to the PA system, with a pre-recorded tape inside. I ejected the cassette tape, already knowing what it contained. She used her voice as bait, probably instructing the guards I just knocked out to play this tape the second her chosen 'Kitsune' stopped responding. I fell for it, hook, line, and sinker. Well played, Isshiki.

What's this? A vial...labeled Venom-T was placed in one of the drawers of the desk. Amazing find! The note attached to it was even written in Isshiki's handwriting. It seems the guards I knocked out were meant to use this as a last resort...I figure the 'T' part of the label indicated this as the mutation variant that turns regular people into disfigured monsters with unmatched strength and rage.

Isshiki probably took this in the past, given how strong she was in our last encounter, but she didn't mutate or succumb to blind rage like the others I've fought with. Strange.

There were also a few documents laying on the desk next to the iPad. I folded them all and stored everything in the empty pockets of my utility belt. The iPad was too large, of course. I intended to carry it back as well, but I powered it on out of curiosity.

"Careful, Huntsman. There could be an underlying purpose to that tablet's oversized, thick case," Alfred advised.

Damn. Scanning it revealed the tablet's potential to explode, though my HUD indicated it was remotely controlled. This meant I could at least give it a quick look over before ultimately leaving it behind.

"You didn't forget we got the fucking cops coming too, right? Crazy fuck, messing with a bomb. If you really want to find her, then wail on one of those stupid junkies upstairs until they talk instead," Todd obnoxiously berated me.

I ignored the boy, eyeing the Apple logo as the device booted up. Alfred went 'ahem' in my ear, no doubt in my mind he was going to tell me to cut my losses and leave.

"I'm sorry, Huntsman. The next course of action really should be for you to return to the Den and review what we've learned."

He spoke the truth but this whole week I expected to have Isshiki knocked out and in my custody at the end of tonight. However, because somebody spooked her since we last met, her guard was up tenfold and I have no immediate leads to her newest location. Explosion or not, I needed a huge clue at least… Ah, never mind! The iPad's just showing a black screen and nothing else now. That's just great!

I let the bricked tablet device fall and clatter back onto the desk without care. I sighed to avoid groaning in front of my peers. However, my anger boiled over anyway and made its way from my shaking fists to my words.

"This is beyond disappointing, pointless even. You were supposed to be here, you stupid—"

"Umm, excuse meee?"

A young, feminine voice cut through my rant like butter. Neither from my earpiece nor behind me, but from the desk in front. I rushed to the tablet I discarded, gasping at the sight of my missing kohai scowling at me as if I was a pile of trash.

"Ish—Lady Comedy, you..."

Damn. Get it together, stupid Hachiman! You almost called her by her name!

"Go ahead, finish what you were going to say! Wanted to call me a bitch, right?!" she popped off.

Phew, that was close. I was still taking in the sight of her as she waited for a response. It's been over a month since this crazy woman kidnapped me right after school hours. I barely got away and all I've heard from her since then was just that one letter she stuffed in my locker and rumors of the Venom drug.

Isshiki Iroha finally made an appearance, though she was still quite beyond my reach.

She looked fresh out of the shower, no clown makeup on her. That glare of hers didn't let up as she proceeded to dry her wet, flaxen hair with a towel wrapped around her neck. Widened and unblinking, Isshiki's hazel orbs betrayed her feelings of confusion and fear. My appearance here wasn't expected by her or anyone else, after all.

"Enough games. Tell me where you are," I demanded.

"...Sorry, not sorry, but I was taught not to give disgusting creeps my address—not even the stupid 'Savior of Chiba'. Actually, you should be happy that someone as cute as I am is talking to you at all," Isshiki replied nonplussed after a moment, choosing to examine her nails as if I had completely lost her interest.

I didn't buy it, because she could have just immediately disconnected from the video call. The fact that she hasn't already and seems to be waiting for me to continue this conversation… means I still have a chance.

"...What is it then?"

" Huh?"

"I'm asking what led you to this kind of setup. Sure you delegate, but ultimately you're the type to always have a personal hand on things," I explained. She was visibly annoyed, sticking her nose up.

"Ew. Don't like, presume you know anything about me, 'kaaay? My style changes like the weather and I—"

"This coming from the girl who personally attacked Sobu High school and its students, twice?" I derisively mocked her. "No, there has to be a reason for you being cautious all of a sudden and you should tell me why, now."

"Even if something did happen, why is it that you of all people need to know?" Isshiki sneered back.

Really? Can't you see your fate being plucked off the streets by a greater danger is inevitable? Seems like I have to get this through to your head.

"I intend to get to you before anyone else and seeing as I'm standing in the room you used to sleep in, it's clear your traps and men are useless. Now talk already, it'll save us both time!" I growled at the device, my modified voice boomed across the room I was in.

Isshiki had flinched, trembling now as she threw me a faux look of anger before retreating into herself. The frightened girl remained on the call, though she was silent and certainly wouldn't lock eyes with me anymore. She fiddled with the sleeve of her tattered pink nightie, the wisps of her hair draped over her face. I blinked twice at the sight, refusing to let this pathetic display sway me over to apologize.

"Perhaps a bit of tactfulness is warranted for the young girl, Huntsman," I heard Alfred calmly speak into my ear. "Remember how strongly you advocated for her identity to remain a secret from the police. At this moment, she is Isshiki Iroha—treat her as such."

Yeah, I did advocate Isshiki's continued anonymity for her future's sake. Alfred was right, I had to cool off this instant or she'd definitely close off for good and I'd be back to square one.

This could be a delicate situation. Isshiki was spooked into temporary sanity—the sanest she's been in weeks, I bet. Adopting a softer, Alfred-like demeanor is probably the best way to reach her.

"...Tell me, were you hurt?" I started again.

Isshiki straightened up at my question. "Huh?"

"A business like this, conducted in a warehouse full of loser young men…" I trailed off, hoping to ease into the seriousness of what I was asking this girl. My kohai. "Were you threatened or did someone…attempt to...try to do something awful to you?"

There, I asked the question...I guess. Isshiki didn't blow up right away as I expected, she just stood still, looking surprised that I even asked such a thing. She was contemplative but didn't exhibit shifty or avoidant behavior. A sign that she was fine in that regard?

"I'm okay. I…ugh. Nothing like that happened! Sure, these boys come to me looking for an easy lay at first, but once I give them Venom-C then nothing else matters anymore and they listen to me without question!" Isshiki argued confidently as if her logic wasn't mentally deranged.

Venom-C? That must be the non-mutating variant of the original Venom drug that's addictive and the only purpose is for recreational use—it's what she's been selling to junkies all this time. Also as a recruitment tool…that's disturbing to hear.

All things considered, it was still a relief to hear she wasn't sexually assaulted. Oh, wait. Her life was probably threatened instead—that was still something to worry about.

"...Good to hear, but creating a gang through drug addiction? Listen, girl, we both know that's not your real self," I sincerely tried reasoning with her. "There's still a way out of this situation and that's through entrusting me with your safety."

She was still skeptical, but heard me out nonetheless and responded with an inkling of anticipation in her voice, "What you're saying is, you want to make a deal?"

Finally, something is going my way, I replied hurriedly, "No, not a deal. An offer with no strings attached other than you giving me your name and current location. I intend to come to you and treat your...affliction. No worthless therapy, at least not by itself, but an actual cure."

She flinched back at hearing my proposal, skeptically narrowing her eyes.

"You...you came here to help me get better?!" Isshiki shouted more than asked, hunching over the tablet on her end. "Look, I'm not a stupid bitch, I have no reason to believe a creep like you! How about you give me your name right now? You won't!"

Um, if I did give you my real name, you'd probably doll yourself up and lay out the red carpet for me immediately. Really says something when invoking the name 'Hikigaya Hachiman' might just be the easiest way to spur this one female to a life of sanity. I didn't exactly take pride in this possibility, that's for sure.

Hm? Wow. I really wanted to punch something when I heard the words "Don't actually do it" in my ear. Yeah, no shit—thanks a bunch for the useless tip, Todd! The hell does this boy take me for?

I tried to start again, "You're right, girl. You're—"

Isshiki cut me off, slamming the table after I swerved her question. "I'm what?! How about you answer my first question before asking me stupid stuff and making promises I don't even get. This is getting annoying now."

Unbelievable. I'm starting to annoy you? Who the hell do you think you are? Weeks of looking over my shoulder as 'Hachiman' and hours of tedious detective work over your tragic family backstory! Surely you must know that your tale isn't hidden enough for no one to do something about it—that, maybe, there exists an obstacle between your fate and the abyss?

Personally speaking, I would have clung to this olive branch of mine if I were in your shoes. As soon as it was offered—like a tick to a deer or a moth to a flame.

This realization stings at my side just as hard. I refuse to look and feel…desperate…especially when you're supposed to mean nothing to me…

Calm down. Getting spiteful here won't help. Don't let her brattiness sway you from what you believe is true. Nothing has changed on that front. Shout at me all you want, Lady Comedy. It doesn't matter because Isshiki Iroha is innocent…with asterisks attached. For one, she's a thousand times more dangerous to herself and everyone around her than your average teenage girl.

Okay, I think I know what to say. Coddling Isshiki turned out to be the best approach in getting her to stay on the line, but injecting a dose of reality might get her to talk.

"...I think you're a stupid, lonely girl. This has gone too far and you're completely in over your head. There isn't anyone you can trust right now—no friends, no family, no senseis. No one," I finished in a low tone. Isshiki stood still, the expression on her face faltered but remained defiant.

"N-No, I… Shut up, go away—"

That hesitation in her voice made it easy for me to cut her off. I ramped up the urgency in my tone.

"I don't even know you, yet I was the one to find you. That's how dire your current situation is, so it's a rather easy choice. Put your trust in me."

I directed a thumb towards the red insignia on my chest as I said that. Ah, my little speech appeared to be a critical hit, considering I've made a girl cry again.

"Why, why would I have to do that? What do you want out of this?" she asked, stubbornly trying to dry her tears with a torn sleeve.

"I just told you why. About my intentions, well…I believe you're a regular girl underneath. Troubled for sure, but you could still have a future beyond this hell hole," I vaguely explained.

Isshiki fell silent again, a confused expression on her face. I anticipated this state after having broken her a bit with a side of reality. Now it was time to shower her with compliments to manipulate her dependence on me.

...Eh, maybe Hiratsuka-sensei wasn't completely off when she said she could see me leading a cult.

"...You're clever and stronger than most girls, many of whom would have buckled down in these same streets within minutes. It's not too late for you, there's still a chance before you truly become a lost cause," I reiterated with an air of urgency again. "Maybe the people at fault for your current state won't ever face justice, but know that I'm here to…provide you with a semblance of that."

"Y-You're here to…take responsibility?" she asked timidly, which flickered something fierce within my chest.

"Again, I don't think this is completely your fault," I breathed out, re-centering myself. "There's a high chance of me being right, about your potential to turn over a new leaf soon enough."

"You seriously think I have potential?" she asked quietly again. I grunted and gave her a curt nod right away, causing her to dart her eyes downward.

"N-No way…are you hitting on me? I…" Isshiki trailed off before she straightened up and shook her head with an appalled look on her face. "Sorry, that's not happening. I have someone I love that's eight times the man you are. Don't even think of trying again!"

Eight times the man, huh? No clue at all who you're referring to…wait!

"Nonsense. I wasn't trying to hit—"

Isshiki didn't let me explain myself, beckoning for my silence instead.

"Let's say I did think you were being, like, real about 'helping' me, whatever that means. What would you want from me the second I turned myself over to you?" she asked, fidgeting with something on her desk.

That was a valid question, so I moved on to an even tone as I answered her.

"I'd put you in handcuffs, in case your affliction caused you to suddenly lash out. Understand now that you can't take any more 'Venom-T' because I don't know about its adverse effects or how it specifically works on you. I found a sample of the drug from your old desk, but a blood sample would still have to be drawn, followed by sedation, and—"

*Smash*

The hell?

I was cut off by a loud shatter from the other end, followed by heavy breathing. Everything slowed down when I realized what happened. Isshiki had broken what appeared to have been a glass of water. Shards of the shattered glass now impaled the palm of her right hand, which she raised at the screen as if to give me a better look at the blood running down.

"You—" I quickly shut up, my eyes widened in disbelief at what just happened. Countless things ran down my mind. Was it on purpose? An accident? Should I give her first aid advice?! Why?!

Suddenly, Isshiki snickered at my stunned silence, shifting over to bouts of giggles as she plucked the shards of glass out of the bloody mess that was her hand. Eventually, the wounded girl fell into a deep, crazed laugh. Her eyes opened, looking wildly in all directions as they teared up before locking on to me.

"I can't believe that I almost fell for that! Well, you were like waaay more convincing than that evil sneaky bitch who came by a few weeks ago. I get it now. She...she's your partner!" Isshiki spoke giddily like she had come into some grand revelation.

I held back a scoff, moving to tell her off.

"You're mistaken, I'm not trying to pull any tricks. I have no clue what you're talking about!"

"Liar! You asked for my blood like she did! Freaks! You want to put something inside of me to recruit me for some big plan!" Isshiki smeared her bloodied hand across her lips, forming a disfigured, red smile on her face. "This is what you and that lady want? Take a good look at it right now, because you and that bitch are never getting blood from me."

Who? You were asked for your blood by some woman? What the hell? I was losing Isshiki to psychosis fast and the disturbing sight of her bloody lips raised the hairs of my neck.

"Girl, I have no clue what you're talking about. Whoever broke in here and tried to recruit you through means of blood is, I agree, a freak. Call an ambulance or give me your location if that's not possible! I can rush over and provide first aid while you tell me what happened—"

Isshiki paid no mind to me as she tore the hem of her tattered nightgown and wrapped the pink cloth tightly around her wound as a makeshift bandage. She turned back at me, glaring.

"Oooh, like you don't already know. That night when that sneaky, snooty bitch slipped by here to talk about an alliance, all she needed was Venom and my blood. Yeah right! I saw right through her bullshit and she tried to take me away, probably to wherever you two…fuck! If it weren't for my foxes being too much for her to handle, I bet you and her would be having your way with me right now, freaks!"

A place where a woman and I—what is Isshiki going on about? A woman snuck into the warehouse and approached Isshiki to propose an alliance, only to end up rubbing Isshiki the wrong way and was chased out of the warehouse by Isshiki's foxes—her guards?

"This bitch is off the deep end. This is just psycho talk," Todd whispered in my ear.

I had to agree. This supposed woman in Isshiki's tale asked for her blood then tried to kidnap her when negotiations fell through? This whole thing sounded ridiculous!

"Your gang protected you from a lady who wanted your blood? Listen—"

"And you've been getting my foxes arrested every night! And the ones who disappeared instead of going to jail—I bet she's been taking them away to brainwash them! It's all sooo obvious now. You and that and that evil bitch have been whittling us down after I said no."

Isshiki didn't let up on her tirade while I was still processing her sudden self-harm and the talk of this new person...who threatened her weeks ago? I was quickly losing pace with Isshiki—no, I think I lost her entirely.

"Listen to me, girl, I'm not associated with anyone like that. I'm one of the few who wants to protect you—you have to trust me!" I defended myself, frantically trying to convince her of the truth. But it did nothing to convince her. She shook her head at me with a disgusted look on her face.

"I don't believe you. I just realized you two are, like they say, cut from the same cloth. Sneaky, beast-like, vampiric—teehee. This city looks at you as its savior, but I know the truth now—Chiba has no one and it's fucked," Isshiki spoke resentfully.

I was failing here and neither Alfred nor Todd had anything to offer after I messed up executing the former's advice. One wrong thing was said and now Isshiki is hung up on some woman who was...sneaky and beast-like? Someone involved in blood work and manipulating DNA?

Ah, no way...

The answer came to my head after a thoughtful moment, but my gut felt like it was wrong, it was like being stuck on a true or false question. Could Isshiki be talking about…Kanai Ai, AKA Nekonee?!

Big, if true. If I could just get past this sour mood and switch her off from defense mode, the truth will come out from this bout of insanity.

"Girl, take it easy for a moment and—"

"You keep fucking calling me that. What happened to calling me 'Lady Comedy' like they do in the news, huh?"

"That's not who you are."

"Shut up, you don't know anything about me and that's not going to change! Ahh, my cameras are showing the police surrounding the place. That's too bad, I take it this is your fault?"

I didn't immediately respond to that, only because it was true. Unfortunately, my hesitance only served to exacerbate this image Isshiki now has of me—a deceptive, 'vampiric' being. A beast who wants to 'have his way' with her.

"The evil bitch, the police, the news, and you. All of you have called me Lady Comedy and never my real name because you don't know it," she spat out with venom in her voice.

Isshiki growled, looking down at her bandaged palm as she applied pressure to it. I could only stand there as I realized I was about to lose track of her again in just a few moments. I almost marveled at the sight of the petite girl hurting herself as her lips formed into an impish smirk. Something clicked in her mind again as she breathed slowly before sharing her disturbing thoughts.

"You can't, like, fathom how happy this makes me. It means that manlier guy I mentioned earlier—he's protected me like I had faith he would!" Isshiki exclaimed like a swooning maiden. "He didn't give me up or tell anyone about our last date, which means he really likes me! All this time I was scared that I messed things up badly. No, now I know for sure that there's something real between me and him. With him and only him."

Isshiki clutched her heart with both palms, a pink blush adorning her wistful gaze. Unbeknownst to her, the target of her deranged affection was witnessing her confession in real-time.

With Hachiman and only Hachiman? That's...fine. I can at least limit the danger she imposes to only myself. I have to believe keeping Isshiki's identity a secret from the police isn't a mistake. Let her rant on, Huntsman. Don't forget what she says next. Don't forget that vengeful glare she's chosen to share over the impenetrable walls erected around her heart.

"Listen you freak, only he can take responsibility for everything that happens to me from now on, whether he wants to or not. No one will get in our way. Not you, that evil bitch, the police, or any of the whores at school. But, if you reaaaally want a hint about what I have planned before you die, then listen closely," Isshiki whispered mockingly as she clicked on a button from her end.

My HUD went into a frenzy and flashed red warning signs on the tablet I held, but I made no effort to run away just yet.

"Huntsman, toss that shit! Get out of there!" Todd yelled into my earpiece.

"Huntsman!" Alfred followed immediately.

I know! Not yet! Not yet!

"I'm going to kill his fucking girlfriend. Teehee!"

Isshiki drew out that last detail before the FaceTime app shut off. I swung the iPad like a frisbee across the room and hightailed it out of there. An ear-ringing explosion followed and I was partly caught by the blast, blown away by the wind out the door.

I landed on the unconscious thugs, who remained unconscious as they cushioned my fall. What felt like a good moment after, I slowly got up and examined myself. My cape had gotten just a tad scorched, though it still appeared functional following a quick zap test.

I carefully checked the room where the explosion took place, finding broken, blackened furniture but no signs of fire breaking. Thankfully I had placed the vial of Venom-T in my utility belt so no way was it shattered during the fall. The documents I procured were safe as well.

"Huntsman, you alright? Respond as soon as you can," I heard Todd just faintly, moving a finger beside my temple to respond.

"Robin, my ears are still ringing but, yeah I can hear you."

"Good to hear, you were out for a good minute. Vitals other than an increased heart rate still look good. That shin of yours Alright? Picking up some discomfort."

"I'll manage and I have everything intact."

I leaned against the wall to take a breather. Again, Isshiki came very close to killing me, this time with a trap meant for a whole different person. A female in black garb, who wanted to manipulate her blood…

Not only that, Isshiki's next target is my girlfriend? I have a girlfriend? That's news to me. Who could she possibly be talking about? I can't think of any candidates she mistook for… No, now wasn't the time to think about it—I need an exit strategy and fast.

"Huntsman, I advise you to leave right now, sneak away from the same way you came back."

"Eh, why's that Alfred?" I asked the butler. I planned on leaving, sure, but did I really have no other exit point?

Todd stepped in with a cough. "Seems after the crazy bitch tried to blow your head off, she activated all the lockdowns to the warehouse. No emergency exit will open now, so ya gotta leave through the roof."

"I see…give me a second."

Oh well, that changes things. Leaving this place on lockdown didn't sit right with me, a police siege could end with casualties on their side. I cracked my stiff neck, a surge of excitement flowing right through me.

"Hey, we don't have all night, but I can see you're anxious about something. Maybe not so obvious to Al here, but I'm guessing ya wanna stay behind and knock a few heads down before leaving them to the 5-O?" Todd asked.

"Hmph. That obvious, huh?" I replied, unable to hold down a smirk. At least the little jerk can understand this kind of need.

"A foolish endeavor! You contacted Captain Etsudo and she has the place surrounded. It will only be a matter of time before the siege breaks through. You can leave it all to them," Alfred snapped at us both, as expected.

"I mean, they know they're all trapped now," I began, all the while moving aside boxes to uncover a door the thugs purposefully blocked off. "Desperation will take over and I'm needed up there to quell the chaos for a peaceful arrest to take place, especially since a large number of them are already trying to escape."

"How do you figure they have an escape route, Huntsman?" Alfred asked dryly.

"Well, Isshiki seemed very upset at losing her goons. So I don't think she'd leave them locked in without a failsafe. There must be some sewage underneath where they're at. She'll contact one of them to give them instructions maybe," I explained, breaking the doorknob with a satisfying kick.

Ooh, some stairs leading back up, nice!

"A strong assumption, is that all?" Alfred asked again, choosing to press the issue.

Ah, let's just be honest here.

"Yeah, I'm also in the mood to punch something and these morons have been asking for it," I said matter-of-factly. "It'll be a quick 'hunt', I promise."

"Let's gooo!" a gleeful Todd obnoxiously shouted in my ear.

Ah, but I couldn't resist delving into the mutual hype we shared in this instant. I sprinted up those stairs with feverish anticipation, ready to tear Isshiki's goons a new one.

---

As expected, everything was in chaos, such that no one noticed the costumed vigilante walk through a previously locked door and immediately grapple to the nearest vantage point.

The view from up here was pretty amusing. The clients all had racing hearts being frightened of the sudden turn of events and the guards weren't faring well either.

"Tonight's 'Kitsune' or whatever the fuck got knocked out upstairs and then there was an explosion downstairs? The fuck is going on?"

"I don't fucking know, I'm just trying to get the fucking back door open!"

"No! I told you to fucking stop! The fucking police are all out there. No way to sneak out and they know we're holding these people hostage. You'd get us all pinched if you give them an opening, fucking idiot!"

"Fuck you, I'm not going down for you or that crazy bitch. Venom or no venom. When the fuck is she gonna get back to us?"

"I already told you. Boss said to give her five minutes and she'll tell us how to bail—hey you! You fucking deaf?! Stay the fuck down!"

Ah, one of the junkie customers was brave, or stupid, enough to walk up to the panicked guards.

"P-Please sir, you got my money and my weed, I can't breathe too good on the ground—"

*Smack* "I told you to stay the fuck down!" *Smack* "Anyone else wanna speak up like this retard?! Next one gets to eat the fucking ground, got it?!"

Lots of yelling and similar beatdowns all around the floor. Seems like I was right though, Isshiki locking the place down was meant to buy her goons time to open up an escape route.

"Hmph. Junkie guards and Junkie hostages are none too smart. What a surprise…yo, a better vantage point is up to your left," Todd pointed out.

"One step ahead of you."

I grappled over there, holding tight onto the grappling gun as I trembled. My nerves were getting to me, I was a bit too excited for this. Not exactly a good thing. A clear head could do me better than just launching myself at these guys.

Inhale. Exhale.

Controlled breathing helped settle me down, though an idea sparked in the midst of it.

Hmm, an opportunity to get a glimpse of the predator mindset of another! I've been in worse scenarios, something like this should be a cakewalk. However, it wouldn't hurt to pick up more than a few things from someone who's been trained by the best. With that in mind, I activated Hunter's Vision, giving me a clear view of all the guards.

"Robin, right now, I'll settle for your approach," I spoke hastily.

"Uh, come again?" 'Boy wonder' asked, making Alfred chime in.

"I believe Huntsman's asking you to recommend what his next actions should be, Master Jason. Focus now."

"R-Really? About time!"

Robin squealed so loudly I almost decided to say 'never mind' and handle it myself. Ah, he really is just a squeaker wanting to prove himself in any way he can.

"You may not smell it, but I'm sure there's a disgusting stench in the air from all that marijuana. Fucking junkies love it when they can't see straight, so take away their light," Robin dramatically suggested.

I chuckled at his shameless edginess.

"...You come up with that yourself, boy wonder?"

"Shaddup!"

He grumbled but I followed his line of thinking and decided to go through with it. I gathered three EMP batarangs and threw them all across different points of the ceiling. Each small range EMP's area of effect activated upon hitting its target, causing all of the lights to go out. Screams and strings of curses echoed across the pitch-black room.

"Ha! You hear that? Oh! I see two you can take out now. Those junkie guards on the catwalk!" Robin exclaimed.

"I get the idea!" I yelled back.

Two frightened lone guards. I jumped down to their level as Todd instructed, throwing a batarang at one to my left while I rushed to the other a few meters away. The batarang caused the thug to fall and tip over off the catwalk onto the junkie customers, knocking him out instantly.

"What the hell was that?! Who's screaming?!"

I rammed the second thug off the catwalk, hearing more of the customers cry as he came crashing down on them.

"The fuck is going on?! Stop screaming!"

Utter chaos, none of the thugs knew left from right! I caught myself breathing through my teeth as I prowled around, looking for my next target.

"These idiots don't even have night vision! They left that to the 'Kitsune' upstairs, haha. Huntsman, hear those steps?! Left left! Blind 'em!" Robin shouted.

Blind, blind—right!

I threw a flashbang at a huddled pack of thugs rushing up the stairwell, the second one of them reached the top.

Direct hit! The herd leader stumbled backward but I charged at him before he could regain his footing. All five thugs went tumbling down like dominoes along the staircase, their weapons hitting each other in the process. The loud racket caused even further mayhem among the other guards and crying clientele. Seven downed guards, fifteen to go!

"Cycle around the vantage points I'm labeling for you. Quick! You've been spotted!" Robin urged me to grapple upwards through my HUD as I saw the person he warned me of—that guard's vision must have finally adjusted to the shadows since he charged directly towards me. Before I followed Robin's advice, I whipped out my escrima sticks from my sides. Linking them together turned it into ol' reliable Bo Staff, with which I tripped the charging thug as I sidestepped him. I slammed his side hard with the other end of the staff, causing him to writhe and cry in pain.

"He's fucking over here!" A second thug had gotten close while I knocked out the one with the bruised ribs. I whipped out my grappling gun and shot it at the ledge above the second guy as he ran towards me. With the Bo Staff still in my other hand, I jousted at the charging thug's clavicle, launching him upwards and back down onto the hard concrete as I arced upwards to safety.

"Shit, that was cool," Robin said, impressed. "Ya still gotta cycle though, fucker! Speed! Speed!"

I heeded Robin's words as another group through various objects my way. My Hunter's Vision software labeled various vantage points for me to cycle through. I grappled through them all, getting hit in the legs once or twice with various objects by the remaining thirteen junkie guards before they lost sight of me again.

"This can't fucking be! I signed up to smoke some blow on the side, not for this shit!"

"Yo Hunter-freak! Get the fuck down here and fight like a real man! Where's your fucking honor?!"

If I had any, you wouldn't be entitled to it, idiot—

"THIS IS THE CHIBA PREFECTURAL POLICE DEPARTMENT. WE ARE ARMED AND HAVE THE PLACE SURROUNDED BY ALL EXIT POINTS. COME OUT PEACEFULLY WITH YOUR HANDS UP!"

Damn, that was loud. We heard the police finally announce themselves through blaring loudspeakers, right behind the locked doors. I bet they heard the loud commotion inside. The guards cowered, gathering together like sheep while I paused to think of my next move. It was best to end this quickly.

"Tch, now they fucking say something, I'm guessing they'll break things down in about five minutes," Robin grumbled.

"About time if you ask me," I replied, giving the contents of my belt a quick check over. It was nice to see I packed more than enough gadgets for what was to come.

"Whaaat? You can't be done yet!" I heard Robin, er, Todd whine in my ear.

"I'm not, but I can't prowl around anymore. It's time I fight," I explained, looking down below.

Todd snorted. "Hmph, good. Hey, that fucker to your nine. One of them finally got smart and is going for the breaker. Get him before ya start beating shit."

"I have a better idea."

I grappled close to the thug messing around with the breaker. The second he got a handle on the lever, I glided fast in his direction. The sudden burst of light blinded all of the thugs for a good second, giving me enough time to glide-kick the junkie onto the wall and launch myself onto another vantage point right after in one smooth motion.

From there, I only had twelve left to deal with, every single one huddled together at the clearing of the room. Ah, but now I spotted two interesting things in the center of it all. A guard in the middle kneeling down with a key pressed to the floor and a cell phone next to his ear. Right next to him, a guard with a machete pressed against the neck of a junkie customer.

"Fucking lights blinded me. Almost slit this fucker's throat. Hurry the fuck up with that door!"

"Shut up, I'm trying you fucking bitch! N-No, not you boss! I said that to someone else, I swear!"

Boss? Ah, the bozo with the cell was talking with Isshiki on the other line. True to her word, she was giving them a way out of this mess. I suppose the guard with the hostage was supposed to prevent me from getting close. Idiots.

"I won't let you…" I said under my breath, preparing to swoop down.

"Yo, before you fully take the reins again…I'd like to test something. Got a remote control batarang?" Todd asked.

This came out of nowhere but I whipped one out anyway and turned it on.

"What of it? I only use this for stealth and places I can't normally reach," I asked, giving it a once over.

"...If I'm right, then this shit should link…heh," Todd mumbled to himself. "Gonna sound like a waste, but trust me, throw it to your left and just let it be."

I sighed but did as he asked again. The remote control batarang's internal motors whirred to life. It looked like it was going to hit the shelves at first but then it swerved back around. Soon it swerved in the pattern of an infinity symbol, or an English number 8. Strange. Some kind of standby mode?

"Ah yeah, that's the shit. Hey, so where were we? Are the remaining guards trying to escape through some sewage tunnel? Guess you were right about their crazy boss still wanting these fuckin' junkie goons. Take it from here, Huntsbitch," Todd rambled on.

I stood right above the huddled mass, who were all still oblivious to me. I took a deep breath as I let myself slip off the edge of the vantage point, falling fast and hard towards them below. None of them saw what was coming next!

"H-Hunter! Wherever you are, stay the fuck away or this fucker loses his throat—"

Hunter-freak, Huntsbitch, Hunter—I can't believe I still have to get this through your thick skulls.

*Slam*

In one fell swoop, I landed on both the hostage-taker and the guard fiddling with the escape key. Both of their shoulders crunched underneath my heels, knocking them out cold and leaving their heads bruised by the concrete floor. The key and the escape door were blocked by both of their unconscious bodies. The hostage scurried away, back to the safety of the other cowering junkie customers.

The other ten guards looked my way immediately, all flinching backward. No escape route, no hostage—only a crimson shadow with an escrima stick in each hand. That's it. Within their heart of hearts, they knew freedom was closed off to them for good. All they could look forward to was getting beaten into a bloody mess.

"I'm Huntsman!" I growled out, my voice modulator carrying my words across the room. "You're mine, all of you!"

From behind, one of the thugs rushed towards me with a machete in hand. Ah, there's always one moron who thinks he could end this horror show in an instant. I stepped back, dodging his jabs once then twice before catching the edge of his blade with my left escrima stick and pushing it in his direction. The blade pierced his shoulder, giving him a superficial wound. It was easy enough then to bash his face in with my right forearm.

"Ahh!"

He fell headfirst into the concrete, pushed aside by one of the fatter guards who came to take me out just as quickly. Fatty was much larger but slow, easy enough for me to swerve around him and jab his eye with a gloved fist.

Stunned! The body! The body!

I jabbed at the fat bastard's chest and ribs repeatedly in quick succession. No room for him to breathe with his lungs getting pummeled.

"Help! Help!"

He croaked out before falling to his knees. From my peripherals, I saw two other guards running towards me with bats in their hands.

I put away my escrima sticks and took out my explosive gel can. Spray! Size of a tennis ball, that's all you need! Time this right—now!

*Boom*

I detonated a small bit of the explosive gel that I had laid right by fatty's feet, leaping away just in time for him and the two rushing guards to all get hit by the concussive blast. Their weapons clattered on the ground as they fell backward, writhing in pain, all clinging to their legs. Not missing a beat, I grabbed a metal bat and slammed it in the abdomen of each downed thug, finishing them off.

*Bonk* *Bonk*

Dammit! I was hit twice on the shoulders by two sneaky thugs armed with wrenches. I leaped a few meters away, dropping my bat, a bit shaken by the two hard strikes. They walked slowly towards me but I knew they were trying to distract me from some asshole behind me. I turned around to see a third thug ready to slam down a chair at me.

*Clunk*

I caught the chair with my forearms at the last second. Footsteps were rushing behind me and I used all my strength to push back. The chair came crashing back down at the thug and I swiped a weak fist at him before creating more distance between me and everyone, the two wrench thugs just narrowly missing me.

"Heh, you hit like a girl," the chair thug said mockingly, brushing off my defensive maneuvers. He and the five other remaining thugs gained confidence—laughing at me.

Shut up!

I threw two smoke bombs in the air, engulfing us all in large grey clouds. Laughter turned to coughs and my Hunter's Vision automatically activated, allowing me to accurately throw a couple of batarangs at the thugs. Two morons getting hit made them all crash and wildly swing at each other.

I rushed in and grabbed the chair thug's legs, bringing his whole body crashing to the ground with an alligator death roll. Disoriented, he couldn't do anything as I stepped on his thigh and twisted his leg until it cracked and was left bent in a funny way.

Good. Just lay there and cry now.

I looked up to see the smoke had mostly dissipated, deactivating my Hunter's Vision. The other five idiots were down to three after they beat two of their own to a bloody, messy pulp in their confusion. They were startled by what they had done and the mangled state of the man whose leg I broke.

Instead of running away, two of them came charging. I ducked underneath their arms before they could even touch me and countered by grabbing both of their heads, using all my strength to slam them down to the ground. I rolled into the slam in the direction of the thug who didn't rush at me and launched a heavy roundhouse kick into his ribs before he could even react.

"Fuck!" he managed to cry out before I grabbed him by the shoulders and head-butted him with the thick front of my mask. He shut up and dropped down after that.

"Ugh, motherfucker!" I heard one of the thugs behind me. I was surprised he wasn't knocked out like his buddy. He stood up but was clearly ready to fall. From right by my feet I picked up a discarded wrench and threw it at his chest. He endured the hit but I swiped my cape at his face, causing him to fall on his back. He looked up at me with fear as I stood over him.

"W-Wait!"

No.

I snarled and jumped onto his abdomen knees first, causing air to suddenly expel from his lungs. Finally, I pounded his face in with a closed fist, rendering him unconscious.

Yeah, who's laughing now? I took a moment to breathe, not realizing I was smiling until a few moments later. Thankfully no other guards were coming at me. The only ones left conscious were the junkie customers, still cowering in their corners.

I glanced around the room at my handiwork, a total of twenty-two incapacitated thugs. Isshiki will be furious I bet, fuming over tonight's arrests and how I did it just so I could, according to her, extract her blood… What a strange delusion—ouch.

My shoulders finally felt the shock from getting hit earlier. Thank Kami-sama for this armor, I'm sure there'd be more than just bruising later on in the day if I didn't have it on.

I rolled my shoulders and stretched my limbs in satisfaction, ready to leave this place after I get a sample of that Venom-C—

*Cling* *Clang* *Cling* *Clang*

Huh? Running footsteps?! From where—the catwalk!

Looking up, I saw a brick thrown towards me but I was too slow to react and it crashed against my chest. I felt the armor reverberate, taking the brunt of the hit. It didn't hurt but who the hell—

Fox's ears?

Shit! It was the 'Kitsune' guy I knocked out when I entered this shithole from the rooftop above. He and an armed thug were ten meters to my right, upon the catwalk. I immediately ducked for cover behind a stairwell the second I saw the thug raise his 12 gauge shotgun at me, getting off two shots.

*Bang* *Bang*

Loud but not a scratch on me. Didn't look like the junkie customers were hit either but they were all screaming nonetheless.

"We forgot a guy?! Don't bother going easy here, smoke and Vision up!" Todd piped up in my ear.

Right, that's a good plan. I retrieved the necessary gadgets from my belt as I responded to his confusion. "Must have been the one sent by Isshiki to pick him up. It appears the chosen 'Kitsune' can't even stand up though—"

*Bang* *Bang* *Crack*

"Ahh!"

Shit! W-What hit me?! Ow!

Two loud shots rang in the air and my arm felt pain like no other after it was slightly cracked by gunfire. Hunter's Vision revealed the source. A second gunman on the complete opposite of the room with his pistol sights set on me! Why was—right! Isshiki sent up two guards to get the Kitsune and they just happened to be armed as well—damn it!

I spring right out of my spot by the stairwell, immediately met by gunfire from both sides, dropping the smoke bombs and activating Hunter's Vision immediately. My arm stung up the catwalk stairs. Thankfully, there were sheet metal railing panels alongside certain sections of the mid and top rails of the catwalk, thick enough to protect me from the first gunman's shotgun fire.

*Bang* *Bang* *Bang*

Don't stop Huntsman, don't stop or you're dead!

I ran as fast as I could to reach the second gunman, rolling headfirst and ducking behind cover whenever possible, mindlessly throwing batarangs his way when he tried to round the corner of the catwalk and shoot me in a straight line. I never stopped charging him and he started running away from his initial spot as he sprayed a hail of bullets my way. One or two grazed my sides, but stopping to flinch meant certain death!

"Stay the fuck back, you freak!" the second gunman shouted, discarding his shotgun and switching to his sidearm again.

He's right there! I can take him!

He gets off three pistol shots as I leaped toward the second gunman, my arms shielding my face.

F-Fuck! One of my escrima sticks took a hit, getting cracked, but the other two shots shattered the armor covering my left forearm. Bits of the broken armor and the bullet pierced the inner layer as my left arm flew back from the sheer force.

The pain was agonizing and I felt my arm go limp mid-air. This, however, pumped up my adrenaline even faster as I swung my good right arm hard into the face of the second gunman. He landed on his back, dropping his pistol, his Desert Eagle, to the side.

"No! Please, I—!"

"Shut up!" I snarled at the coward. My knuckles dug into his face again, the cartilage underneath giving way as I bent his nose to a crooked angle.

I didn't even give him the chance to finish his plea for mercy as I followed up with a curb-stomp to his chest. Definitely broke a couple of ribs there. He wasn't exactly knocked out cold, but with the way he was crying, I'm sure he wished he was.

"Huntsman, to your left!" I heard Alfred yell in my ear.

I turned and saw that we had gotten close enough to be right in front of the sitting Kitsune and the first gunman, just five meters away! Too close and there's no nearby cover!

"Shit!" I yelled out, bracing for impact as the gunman pointed his Desert Eagle at me. Blocking my face with my one good arm.

"Kill him!" the Kitsune yelled out.

"Die, bitch!"

*Whack* *Bang*

"AAAHH!"

The gun fired but I felt no blowback?!

Huh? No way! The moment the gunman pulled the trigger, a batarang had swung at full speed toward his face! His aim had faltered and the bullet missed me entirely.

I glanced to my side, half-expecting to be greeted by, perhaps, Wayne, but… Ah, I get it now! It was the remote control batarang from earlier, the one I threw in the air! Meaning—

"Robin," I scoffed, fighting down a smirk.

"Saved your bitch ass," Robin replied smugly.

Robin did much more than that. The batarang had pierced through the gunman's cheek with its sharp edges. That man was going to need stitches and some painkillers later.

"Fugg fugg! M-My tung ith pleedin! Ith fuggin pleedin!" he cried out incoherently as blood poured out from his mouth. I couldn't even imagine the pain, but that's because my wounded arm still hurt as if nothing else could compare.

From the corner of my eye, Kitsune-san scrambled to retrieve the discarded gun.

"Haah!" I growled out, swerving the cracked escrima stick at the sneak. It connected with his head quite hard, just before he was able to even touch the gun. He was out again.

I made my way to retrieve the escrima stick, glancing back at the bleeding gunman with the batarang in his mouth who was down in a fetal position, covering his face when I looked at him. Yeah, you stay down and keep that wound of yours covered, asshole.

*Ding* *Ding*

A bell sound echoed from across the room, signaling that another batch of drugs had finally finished cooking. The last that would ever be prepared in this godforsaken facility.

It was over for Venom; Chiba was finally free from this poison. Ace Chemicals was conquered and the evidence in that room will put all of this scum behind bars for a long time. Isshiki is still at large, but her gang and means of money are at an end. I'm just glad I didn't have to face any Venom-T mutants this time. I suppose she still has limited quantities of that variant of the Venom drug safe for herself and the last of her personal guard.

I got a sample of Venom-T and a few documents she left behind, so it's only a matter of time before I can triangulate her location and take her in. Maybe figure out the inner workings of this drug. This was me partially coping, but that's all I could do for now.

*Rustle*

Ahh, shit—that stung. My suit's automated tourniquet was applied around my arm, stopping the bleeding. The sudden pressure…I hated that feeling. Extensive damage was done to the armor shell off my forearm. I would have been in huge trouble if Todd hadn't swooped in at the last second…

About that...something crept into my mind as I walked over to the 'kitchen' and retrieved a sample of Venom-C. There's a huge issue at hand, concerning my autonomy. The remote control batarang…my initial reaction was to smile at Todd's intervention. However, this was troubling after giving it a second thought. I can understand certain suit functions being linked to the Gotham Batcomputer because of the LiveHunt connection, but Wayne never told me I was packing literal drones available for the Bat Family to activate on a whim.

Concentrate Huntsman, you can ask about this later. For now, it was time to let the police clean the house and get the hell out of here. Along with Venom-C, I'll also be taking one of these large American pistols back to my Den. I mean, two Desert Eagles in Japan? Unbelievable.

"Huntsman, the best way out of there is to take the sewage route yourself. Look up, the rooftop's being swarmed right now," Todd urged me.

True enough, advanced Hunter's Vision allowed me to see just enough armed officers for me to discard the idea of gliding away from up above.

*Bzzrt*

The buzz of a loud saw came from the direction of the locked entrance. Sparks flew from the sealed double steel doors, the manual locks were being cut like butter!

"Shit!" I shouted.

"Um, goooo?!" Todd shouted exasperated.

Right. I leaped towards the goons I first landed on top of when the fight began. A few of the junkie customers figured out what I was going to do and stumbled towards me like a dog expecting a treat.

Too close, get away from me! You're all staying here!

I growled and made an example of the closest one towards me, connecting my escrima sticks back to its Bo Staff form and slamming it into his ribs. He screamed and fell backward and, thankfully, everyone else got the message and kept their distance. Unfortunately, the cracked escrima stick popped off and I had to store both away quickly.

I rolled the unconscious guards away from the trap door and found the key still intact and the cell phone they used to talk to Isshiki with. I pocketed the latter and immediately started rummaging with the key.

*Slam* *Slam*

Squadrons of officers burst into the room, everyone in either plainclothes or uniform and armed with pistols. They appeared bewildered by the sight of this botched operation before quickly moving forward.

"THIS IS THE POLICE! EVERYONE ON THE GROUND NOW!"

"GET DOWN ON THE GROUND NOW AND DON'T MOVE!"

"YOU'RE UNDER ARREST. NO SUDDEN MOVEMENTS OR WE WILL SHOOT!"

Their loud megaphone boomed across the room and everyone including myself could tell their threats weren't bluffs. Quickly, they stormed into the building in a practiced motion, slamming the junkies down left and right.

Key, key, key! Please work already!

*Click*

Yes!

I flipped the batch door open all the way, the sound attracting the attention of a few armed officers ten meters away. They flinched at the sight of me, immediately pointing at me with their pistols.

"What the hell? H-He's here?!"

"Huntsman took 'em down?!"

"Police! Freeze, vigilante!"

The police cried for my surrender. Fat chance of that! I discreetly retrieved a couple of items from my utility belt, still crouched beside the hatch door, my good arm obscured by the shadow of my cape. No sudden movements or you're dead, Huntsman…

"W-Wait! Hold your fire, the Captain said—"

"He's gonna run! Shoot now!"

The second I heard a couple of safeties go off, I threw down two smoke bombs, encompassing the entire area around me with large grey clouds.

*Bang* *Bang* *Bang*

I heard people coughing immediately, followed by a hail of bullets haphazardly shot my way. I got down through the hatch without another hit on me and closed the door, activating night vision. I was surprised to see that I was able to lock the door from my end! I did so, slid down a rusted ladder, and ran as fast as I could through the sewers.

"They saw that you did good and still tried to pump you full of lead? Not surprised," Todd tsked to himself. "Fuck twelve."

"Master Jason! Instead of grumbling to yourself, guide Hikigaya-san above the surface again!" Alfred yelled from the other end, doing nothing to calm my nerves.

"Yeah, yeah. Uh, you'll come across two tunnels soon—take the right," Todd said after remotely activating my Hunter's Vision for just a second.

"I only glanced a bit but the cops were above the left?" I asked.

"Oink fucking oink," Todd confirmed crudely. "Don't forget that your arm's fucked. Hold it tight and make sure you don't trip into that gray water."

Yeah, the last thing I wanted was to get piss and shit in this wound.

"Our connection appears to be wavering the further I go in," I mentioned. "I'll turn off the LiveHunt for now and reconnect as soon as I'm above ground."

"Roger dodger," Todd replied, disconnecting from the call.

I followed through, keeping a swift, steady pace through the tunnels, more than ready to get back to the Hunter's Den.

Ace Chemicals—what a fruitless shit hole. More questions than answers were gained from this mission. Hopefully, I'll never have to return to that decrepit building ever again.

---

Captain Yin Etsudo (Ellen)

"Ahhh I'm going to die!"

*Slam*

"Not before you're behind bars. Now shut up and hold still!" I yelled at the bleeding junkie, holding him down as the paramedics put a tourniquet over his arm which was grazed by a couple of bullets. Bullets fired by my men.

The junkie dropped down soon enough for the bleeding to stop and to be airlifted onto the ambulance. Zip-tied, of course.

"You two got this?" I asked a couple of patrolmen beside me, referring to the other superficially injured junkies who needed to go to the hospital for bandages.

"Yes ma'am," they said in unison, nodding at me.

I nodded back and went off to find a colleague of mine to vent my frustrations over this mess within the warehouse-turned-drug lab. I passed by dozens of patrolmen guiding drug addicts up against the walls as they had their rights read, handcuffs applied to their wrists, and their pockets searched for identification, weapons, and contraband. Everything was logged and bagged, of course. Besides the large fresh batch of Venom we found in the back, there was a small hill of recreational drugs being gathered from the pockets of every arrested junkie.

Beaten thugs, the guards of this fucking place, were dragged over to paramedics and EMTs but the ones who were shot at were given priority and driven away to hospitals via ambulances.

More were coming on the way. There were just so many goddamn people to arrest that we ran out of conventional handcuffs and had to resort to zip ties and rope to restrain them all.

I sighed, still pissed that something like this was going on in Chiba and we botched it with one-sided haphazard gunfire. The policemen directly responsible were sat down and monitored outside of the facility—their pistols logged and bagged as well. Those men were rattled by the event…I hated that they just might be put up for senseless manslaughter, but a dead body is a dead body.

*Cling* *Clang*

Huge footsteps rattled the catwalk above. Ah, now there's the son of a bitch I was looking for.

"Yuigahama!" I called out to a tall, silver-haired, barrel-chested man, ten years my senior. He looked around with an intimidating, stern chestnut gaze, not flinching at all once he finally met mine.

"Yin?" he said gruffly, turning around while easily lifting two crying thugs by their shirts.

Hmph. Captain Yuigahama Yuuri. A head taller than every man on the force, belly filled with more beer than a keg, and the arms and torso of a Silverback gorilla. He's been on the force since he left school, supposedly around the time the Chief was still a Captain. He claims to be a quarter Russian from his father's side and I believe him.

I wordlessly shoved a thumb to an isolated corner of the room, away from the other officers, medical servicemen, and the 'alleged' drug fiends.

Yuigahama handed off the two junkie gang members to a couple of patrolmen, dusting off the arms of his black trench coat as we walked over to speak in private.

"I know that tone and I know that look. You're not going to pin this travesty on me, Yin."

As expected, he wasted no time putting on a strong front. I kept calm and waited until we were out of everyone's earshot to give him a piece of my mind.

"Yuigahama, I told you to direct the men not to shoot unless they were armed and ready to shoot back. Now we have four people—"

"—Lowlives, you mean—"

"—dead! All unarmed and killed by mass hysteria and panic by our subordinates! How the hell are we going to spin this to the Chief?! The snakes in the press?!" I spouted out in frustration, making it clear how much I loathed the media. And tonight we fed them well with this joke of an operation—just in time for the morning news!

"Look, Yin. It's bullshit to say they weren't armed! We found ten firearms, at least six of them right beside the junked up 'guards' of this hellhole," Yuigahama growled out, before shooting me an accusatory glare. "Don't worry, no one will investigate us all for any secrets if that's what you're really worried about."

"What the hell are you implying?" I glared right back.

Yuigahama just shook his head, seeing right through my bluff, dammit. He looked around for any eavesdroppers before speaking low.

"You have a couple of squad cars surrounding this area, hours before calling this specific warehouse in? From what, a 'civilian' tip-off?" He asked incredulously, making me aware of how stupid my excuse sounded. "Then the men report getting 'ninja bombed' by that Huntsman vigilante, who took all of these junkies down before they got here?"

"You're—"

"Don't give me any lip service like I'm some kind of buffoon, Yin. Your sources and intuition aren't enough to explain away all of that. I'm not a snitch either but it's guaranteed you'll be on the Chief's radar. Especially after tonight," he said, shaking his head.

I could tell he was trying to look out for me with this warning, but I had to deny everything and put up a strong front myself. If there's one thing I know about how to deal with higher-ups who suspect you...it's to deny, deny, deny.

"...I have no clue what you're talking about. If somebody thinks I'm suspicious—that's on them to 'expose' me. Right here and now, what's concrete is our people disobeyed orders and panic-fired into a group of, yes, lowlives, but lowlives that had already surrendered!"

I held up a finger to Yuigahama's face which made him visibly pissed off. Truth be told, I wanted to rip his head off as well.

"So what? You want me to own this night to the Chief?! You've got a lot of nerve, Yin. I finally get off a double shift, eat a good late dinner, bang my wife, about to go for round two—only for the Chief call and say 'Oh, Captain Yin's got an immense tip-off of some drug op' that none of us were prepared for!" he yelled, his face getting redder by the second.

"Don't get crass with me, Yuigahama, you think I wanted this? What was I supposed to do besides call it in?! Did you or did you not tell them to just surround this place and nothing else before we got there?!" I yelled back.

Unbelievable. He had the nerve to flare his fat nostrils at me for doing my job?! I glared at the older man with contempt and he did the same to me before speaking again.

"Yeah, Yin! I gave them your order to stand down and hold their fire but things went to hell anyway! They heard screams and felt compelled to act because men can get scared of things they're not prepared for!"

"What kind of stupid excuse is that?! We're supposed to set an example as the police no matter what!"

We had practically roared at each other, disgustingly spitting in each other's mouths, probably loud enough to be heard from across the entire room. Yuigahama was like a bulldog that couldn't be tamed and I wasn't in the mood for it tonight, not when I had a splitting headache urging me to knock his teeth in.

"C-Captain Yin! Captain Yuigahama!"

"What?!"

We turned to see we had frightened a young, fresh-faced patrolman with our anger. He bowed in place, trying his best to relay something important I hoped.

"U-Um, we got the trapdoor open. The old blueprints for this place forwarded to us by the tech guys were right, it's linked to the sewer system—nobody went down, we just saw running water at the very bottom," he quickly interjected that last bit after my eyes bulged at the thought of our men doing something so stupid as to run down in the tunnels. Thank Kami-sama they stayed put.

"So fucking Huntsman gave us the slip again! So much for hoping he trapped himself down there like an idiot. Great, anything else?" Yuigahama asked loudly.

The new hire hesitated, unable to look both of us in the eyes. Goddammit, that was not a good sign.

"Spit it out, rookie. We know it was your senpais who pressured you to update us, just speak and get it over with," I curtly reassured him.

"S-Sorry, Captain. It's just…we got four more stiffs in the back. Paramedics and EMTs couldn't save 'em all," he timidly revealed.

"You're kidding me."

"Fuck."

Yuigahama and I instantly voiced our frustration at the growing mess we were in. Four more dead bodies? Just…fuck. I stayed still, holding trembling fists while Yuigahama started pacing back and forth.

"Yeah, fuck. What a fucking 'loss' to society! Tch, you'd think bleeding out whatever these junkies injected themself with would have had the opposite effect. Stupid motherfuckers!" Yuigahama finally vented without a filter. He kicked at nearby debris, making a bigger mess.

I felt the same and was about to lash out before my headache stopped me from moving. It felt like a needle was digging into my forehead, not stopping until after I breathed deeply.

Easy, Yin. Rookie here and everyone else needs orders, just power through, girl. You have a mission, er, job to do here...

"...Put the four dead men aside with the others. The entire room is to remain on lockdown," I began, speaking firmly and locking eyes with the rookie. "No one goes downstairs or upstairs until everyone's been arrested and we're joined by the reinforcements coming in ten."

The rookie nodded at me before his attention was drawn by my fellow Captain, who finally calmed down as well.

"You said no one's tried escaping through that hatch or thinking of pursuing the vigilante, right?" Yuigahama tenderly asked the rookie, having read the mood and my intentions.

"Yes sir, we're standing by for orders," he replied.

"Good. Keep it that way and have everyone mind the safety of their firearms, alright son? Go on," Yuigahama relayed, giving the rookie a nod.

"Ma'am! Sir!"

The rookie saluted us both, swiftly moving back to the rest of the men to relay our orders. Yuigahama and I exhaled. Our responsibilities as Captains came rushing back to both of us, I suppose, and we couldn't afford to waste time squabbling with each other. That kind of stuff sets a bad example for the subordinates.

"...Any chance these deaths were Huntsman's fault?" Yuigahama asked hopefully after a moment. I just shook my head at that.

"Are you kidding? Not all of the dead addicts were handed a beat down and those who did meet his fists? The coroner will find broken noses, ribs, arms…and fucking gunshot wounds to the head and other vitals. Small chance of our guys getting cleared of that at all," I explained rationally, to his disappointment.

"Son of a bitch vigilante. No way is that bastard's hands clean after all this time…" Yuigahama trailed off.

"We need to keep cooler heads, Yuigahama. I don't expect this to be over for you but…"

"...Yeah, yeah. The men need unity right now. Five of them will have to live with this mistake for a good while."

He spoke the truth as we got on the same page. Good leaders know when to take responsibility and right now that was the best course of action to help not just the five cops who probably never once pulled the trigger until tonight, but every other man under our wings.

I looked up at the cracked ceiling of this warehouse, away from Yuigahama's expectant stare but not once forgetting the ground underneath my feet that held me as I swallowed my pride.

"...Look, I'm sorry for trying to, yeah, blame you for this mess when it's clear everyone's been on edge lately. I too…haven't felt well rested for weeks now," I finished apologizing, still not eyeing Yuigahama but at a familiar batarang embedded in the ceiling. What a familiar sight. It was strangely comforting.

"Yeah, you look the part," Yuigahama replied jokingly.

Really? This old fuck had the gall to eye me over and shake his head right in front of me!

"Thanks for that," I replied sarcastically, crossing my arms in a fit.

He snorted and from past interactions, I could tell he accepted my apology. Though I could never understand why he couldn't just say so.

"Well I'm not just slugging at you for fun—you really do look pale, Yin. Go see a doctor," Yuigahama suggested earnestly.

I couldn't though, not now. Although I'm exhausted and my apology for blowing up was sincere, I couldn't give certain things up. I had to let him know now, face to face this time.

"I'm fine. I'll be more than fine once we get a grip on these criminals and Chiba's safe again. I'm willing to do…whatever it takes," I spoke low, not breaking eye contact.

"Are you saying… This isn't going to stop, is it, Yin?" He asked, knowing the answer like a disappointed father.

I shook my head defiantly, not hesitating once because I knew that would mean I'd start second-guessing myself. No, somebody needed to keep tabs on the Huntsman and I was the best suited to do this. After a moment, Yuigahama broke off, sighing as he scratched his neck.

"Then we better prepare the men starting tomorrow so that they don't spazz out next time. All because girly here's a stubborn bitch…unless?" He tried to get me to talk one last time.

I shook my head at him and he rolled his eyes but didn't go off into a tirade. About my sources, I guess we reached an understanding. For now.

"Alright, won't ask, won't tell... Look, when we go back to the office and take the heat later, I'll take the bigger share since the Chief likes me better," Yuigahama said smugly.

"No, I won't let you take the fall for me. I mean, I did ruin your night with that gorgeous wife of yours," I scoffed with a smile.

"Yeah you did, she was just as pissed as I was," Yuigahama admitted outright. Ah, don't say it like that. Now I feel worse for the lovely woman.

"I can imagine this giving her the wrong idea. She kept looking my way, all nervous like, in the last office party, y'know?" I told him, slightly cringing. "Reassure her or something! I don't want to trouble her in the upcoming Christmas party if that's even happening."

Yuigahama bellowed a loud laugh, his palms holding his huge gut.

"You noticed that, huh? She's such a jealous girl, my Yuna. I had to tell her like five times that a real man like me would never step out of our marriage for a stick like you—"

*Bam*

"Oof—Ha!"

"Bastard."

Yuigahama just barely caught what would have been a well-deserved punch to his fat cheek. I'm not a fucking stick, old man!

"Shit, Yin. Practiced your speed since last time?" he said, grimacing as he retrieved his hand.

Oh, come off it.

"Tch, isn't everything fast compared to you, lardo?" I quipped, still pissed.

"Now that was mean," Yuigahama pouted mockingly before frowning at his hand again. "Ah, fucking hell, you've been eating your beans and spinach too?"

My fellow captain nursed his hand as if I had stabbed it or something. He's either being a baby or mocking me again, this dumb fat tank. I just decided to ignore his ribbing and started walking back.

"Geez look at this, it's bruising! I swear some of you ladies can never take a joke," he scoffed, trying to guilt-trip me with his palm sticking out.

I turned around, rolling my eyes as I avoided looking at either of his hands.

"Oh shut it, take it like a 'real' man! Come on, now that we're square, we have to go back to the others and, well, delegate like we've got a clue what to do."

I started walking again and it would be a couple of seconds before Yuigahama matched my step, looking annoyed at something on his smartphone.

"Yin, I got a message from the quarters—jail's filled up again. The center at Inage should be able to process these junkies by now, you think?"

I thought about what he asked when I suddenly got a splitting headache. It drove me to think erratically, but I endured it, narrowing my thoughts down until I spit out the first thought that won me over.

"...No, we should send them to the center at the Midori Ward."

Yuigahama gave me a dumb look, his eyes bulging at me for even suggesting that center.

"Huh, the one at Midori? I mean, that's kind of far and they're even slower than our guys—"

"My cousin works around this area, Yuigahama. The same school your daughter goes to—I hate that these junkies almost certainly lurked around that building. Wouldn't you rather the filth we're arresting now be kept as far away as possible?" I asked him with a sharp tone.

I mean, who knows how long…they've been here…shit.

My vision blurred and my sudden troubled breathing was freaking me out. All of this arguing was draining me past the point of exhaustion, I suppose. My head trembled in my hands now, the searing pain I felt now visible to my fellow captain.

I heard the sound of a chair scraping over to my side and Yuigahama gently pressed my shoulder to sit me down. I look up to see the older man hand me a red-labeled bottle of water. I thanked him and chugged it all down in one gulp as he spoke.

"You got me there, Yin. Fuck 'em. Fuck 'em all. Running a goddamn drug-op near my baby…" he trailed off, holding a tight fist.

We were still for another moment, I suppose, thinking about our loved ones. Shizuka wasn't stupid enough to detour during times like these. I still made her promise to drive herself straight home from work every day. The same went for her parents, all of them being the closest thing I have left to a family.

Meanwhile, Yuigahama has a wife and daughter on his mind. His small family worked as both a source of strength and weakness for him, and he treats them well. I admire that about him—don't get me wrong though. I wasn't about to become a homewrecker, especially not with old man Yuigahama. Gross.

However, I did feel like a piece of shit for not only taking him away from his home tonight but for giving him back with a nasty, purple blob on his left hand. I only peeked now when he didn't notice and it appears he was right to complain earlier…I should mind my strength from now on and avoid lashing out like that again. He's technically still my senpai—not very lady-like of me to try and sucker punch someone like him.

"These shitheads will suffer from withdrawals in their holding cells before their trials since the center at Midori is so ass-backward and, yeah, slow as hell," I continued.

"God willing. Well said." Yuigahama nodded in agreement.

"...I'm sorry for invoking your love for your daughter, and I know you don't like the person in charge of that particular center. Don't worry, I know a guy there who will keep these addicts in check for however long they end up staying there," I reassured him.

He had waved off my second apology with his purple-blotted hand, wincing a bit.

"Yeah yeah, I'll call it in right now. Leave it to me," he said, a smirk forming on his tired face as he walked off. "Heh, 'I know a guy' she says. Probably some loser yearning for that honeypot."

"Hey! He's a…nice guy, okay?" I lamely defended my contact, trailing after him.

Yuigahama and I were met with quiet nods and a few salutes when we were visible again to the regular officers. Mostly the rookies. Some who had been there longer were still skeptical of me, but followed our relayed orders since they've known Yuigahama longer and earned their respect, so they fell in line all the same. The rookie from earlier perked up, seeing his captains weren't arguing anymore like little kids.

Yuigahama signaled me to the reinforcements with a thumbs-up as he walked to call the center at Midori. Really subtle of you, senpai. You're right though, I should keep building up the credibility attached to my name and rank.

Sure, I was tempted to send a message to Huntsman, but duty calls, so I'll have to connect with him later. These men needed me.

---

Hikigaya Hachiman

"You need a doctor, Hikigaya-san," Alfred said for the hundredth time.

I was back in the Hunter's Den after running through those sewers for a good half hour. Surfaced through an old emergency exit and made my way here—I was lucky the abandoned canal wasn't so far off. Alfred was instructing emergency aid through a video call on the Batcomputer.

"He'd need a coroner if it weren't for my genius planning."

"Master Jason, I swear—"

"Hey-hey, we can keep arguing after Alfred tells me how to stitch this, I promise…"

I eyed Todd, who grunted before stuffing his hands in his pockets and looked away. He was pissed alright, especially after I ranted a bit about the tech batarangs being literal 'Bat Family' drones this entire time. He seems to think I didn't appreciate being saved after all and has been itching for a fight, even while I was currently occupied…

I mean, come on, give me a break you little shit. I could lose my arm here!

My forearm armor was shattered by the Desert Eagle's 50 cal bullet. To my disgust, my arm was painfully embedded with many sharp armor shards. I bled a lot, having had to transfuse a blood pack and drink some OJ at Alfred's behest.

All the while, Todd and I were arguing about his little intervention in the fight. Although I appreciated not getting my other arm blown off, I had a problem with Wayne having had remote access to every tech batarang he ever sent me. Autonomy my ass. Not when I was planted with thousands of mini-drones at the Bat Family's disposal the entire time.

"Your stitching skills could use more work, but it should hold. When you get home, take a shower as carefully as possible and—"

I waved Alfred off, feeling light-headed.

"Yes, Alfred. I'll be fine, thank you, " I tried to reassure him, regretting not being able to bow for a proper thank you. Even with the painkillers kicking in, it hurt to move.

"Don't cut Al off, he's just trying to save your life—like I did tonight," Todd stepped in again.

Oh, did I come off as disrespectful? I didn't know you took manners so seriously, Todd. Ah, but the way you're looking at me with anticipation makes me think you're just trying to bait me.

Knowing this, I just blinked at the younger boy before turning my head and full attention again towards the butler.

"So Alfred—"

"Hey!"

"—I can assume you and Wayne were never going to come clean about this?" I asked, ignoring Todd. Alfred calmed him down with a pat on the shoulder, sighing.

"Master Bruce would not waver on this decision, Hikigaya-san," he admitted.

"I didn't think I'd have to assume every tech-enhanced item can turn into a drone easily handled by a teenager," I replied, jerking my head at Todd.

Ha, now that got the boy riled up.

"Y'know, even though it was my first time, no fuckin' way any other random cunt would have handled it as great as I did!" he yelled into the mic, taking the bait to my satisfaction.

"Master Jason! Hikigaya-san, I'm sorry but all I can do is pass along your note of disapproval. Master Bruce always has his reasons and he might share them with you at another time," Alfred replied like his hands were tied.

Wayne 'might' give me an explanation? The further this was discussed, the more I came to realize how unacceptable this discovery was.

"These batarangs—"

*slam*

Alfred had been unable to restrain Todd any longer, the latter gaining my full attention after he slammed the desk in outrage. He leaned into the webcam, shooting me with a piercing blue glare.

"Your batarangs, your Hunter's Vision, every part of your suit's got motion trackers and logs of use somewhere in our database servers here. If you really have a problem with it or you just don't want to admit you were naive as fuck to not realize this earlier, then drop the suit and everything you've been supplied with!"

"Our agreement was broken," I stood firmly on this matter. Maybe nothing will be resolved tonight, but to not say anything would be worse.

"Is that what you really want though? Not easy to think about fuckin autonomy when your city's safety is the priority, yeah? And-man, fuck—can we just get to grading me or whatever? I'm starving here and you can settle things with Bruce another time," Todd broke off, losing interest.

Well, mauling off Alfred's head wasn't going to solve anything. Still pissed off though, but I should calm down and think things through.

"Right, go ahead with whatever you want," I said dismissively, troubling myself with Isshiki's files while Alfred and Todd discussed the latter's performance tonight.

"Ah, Master Jason. I thought you'd control your colorful vocabulary throughout the night of your test, but no, it was as if you wanted me to pour detergent down your throat."

"Soap? Come at me with a whole bottle of bleach, Al. You oughta know by now that I got the whole fucking rainbow down...my throat," Todd replied lamely. "Um, no homo, aight?"

What a productive talk they were having. Now, time for Isshiki's writings...

I see. The Venom drug was originally something she stole from the warehouse itself. So its initial production predates either of us and a copy of the formula was left abandoned along with the means of production. Both variants are addictive, made with mostly the same chemicals. Venom-C is for consumers to get high off of. Venom-T, T for Titan, is the variant that mutates her men into beings of rage and muscles.

Isshiki has certainly taken some of that Titan variant herself. It would explain her immense strength the few times I fought with her. Except she was never grotesquely mutated for some reason. Venom-T affects everyone's body except hers? Why?

I tried looking for a hint in the other documents, finding nothing but scribbles. Some psycho ramblings of a lady in black.

'Lady in black.

Lady bitch in red, no, black.

Tiger eyes. My red blood!'

I mean, this is kind of insane for any to willingly go through. To have gone so far into the warehouse and dodged being captured by Isshiki's goons? That's why I'm very skeptical that this happened at all the way Isshiki described it. However, assuming Isshiki wasn't just being insane, I can only think of two people who could have spooked her.

That 'Talia' woman who attacked Chiba with her League people could have returned. Scratch that, any one of her personal guards could do the same. But for her to ask for Isshiki's blood? Last I checked, Isshiki wasn't a Lazarus Pit or someone of any interest to assassins. Plus, if she wanted to kidnap Isshiki, I'm certain all of Isshiki's 'foxes' would be dead.

No, the more likely suspect is Kanai Ai, aka Nekonee.

If Isshiki's description was spot on, then I suppose Nekonee covered herself in some black garb before sneaking in. Otherwise, Isshiki would have rambled about her other obvious feline features, besides her 'tiger eyes'.

What would Nekonee want with Venom-T? To get stronger, sure but could she even handle an injection? Kanai spliced her DNA with those of a cat. Who knows what the adverse effects of Venom-T would have on her cat-human genetic mutation. Instead of getting stronger, she could set up her death with a single drop.

That said…why would she want Venom-T and Isshiki's blood? Unless…there's something about Isshiki's blood that Nekonee believes could be useful for studying before taking an injection herself?!

Maybe Isshiki was exposed to some past version of Venom or an entirely different drug that the Joker was producing? Isshiki Isamu, her father, was a warehouse worker before his death. That may be how she got exposed to this other drug, which resulted in lasting effects.

This past exposure...maybe that's what allows Isshiki to inject herself with Venom-T without having her body mutate and her mind lost to blind rage, but still gain enhanced strength and endurance. That could be why someone like Nekonee would benefit from examining her blood. Nekonee splicing Isshiki's DNA into her own would allow her 'neko' form to be even stronger than it is right now.

I leaned back in my chair, taking a deep breath. Did I just figure this out already? Seemed a bit too simple, honestly.

For one, I can't think of any motivation for that feline lady to pursue more power. Was it as simple as Nekonee not wanting to lose again in a fight with me or anyone else? That's reason enough since she was crazy enough to mutate herself before all this. I'll have to be on the lookout for whispers of a 'lady in black' from now on and assume it's the cat lady herself.

What's next? Ah, right. I have in my possession a burner phone, samples of Venom-T and Venom-C, and the two Desert Eagles, one of which cracked my armor.

F-Fuck.

My bad arm stung at the sight of the last item, after being numb for over a goddamn hour! Damn, I had hoped I wouldn't have to take another pain reliever but it seems there's no avoiding it. Alright, just bear through this…

The burner phone, not much I can do with it, though I have Isshiki's last known number and she might not have disconnected it just yet.

The samples of Venom-T and Venom-C will have to be examined by the Batcomputer with Wayne's assistance, him being an actual scientist compared to myself. We'll finally figure out how this works and it'll be the first step towards curing Isshiki Iroha, though her blood sample will still be needed for the final steps.

The guns will remain in my possession…for now. It was pretty strange earlier. Right when I surfaced outside of the sewers to travel back here, Todd had me stop on a rooftop and scan the items in my possession. Wouldn't you know it, the guns turned out to have miniature GPS tracking chips—Todd immediately advised that I disassemble the Desert Eagles and throw them away.

Instead, I took one of my EMP batarangs and activated it on the guns from a distance. Thankfully, the chips seemed to have been permanently disabled and now I was in possession of two illegal, debugged firearms.

Let's see if I can do this carefully with one of them…

Good. The magazine popped out without any trouble and…no round in the chamber. Ahh, there's the shorted chip. Once I have this whole thing scanned…hopefully we'll see how the hell this came into Japan in the first place. and thought it was worth keeping tabs on the owner's movements.

"It's a .50 cal. Not easy to shoot, I hear. Those junkie fucks got lucky enough to get a couple on you. Bruce isn't going to like hearing about those chips on the guns either," Todd commented, shaking his head.

You two done with your talk?

"I would hope not since this clearly came from the States," I curtly replied. "Willing to share more rather than keep me in the dark?"

Todd's eyes narrowed, not at me, but at the gun itself before he looked away. Hmm, I guess he wasn't allowed to reveal anything about this until Wayne felt it appropriate to give up that bit of intel.

Well, enough is enough. I turned towards Alfred, eager to sign off from this mission.

"As we promised, I'll scan all of these documents and items along with my ideas in a small report. Should we cover anything else before breaking off?"

"I know I wanted to rush you to get a good rest at home, but there is something I wish to ask of you, regarding Master Jason's performance tonight as your operator."

Huh, you want my input? Really?

"Well, you were with us the whole time, I think you'd be a better examiner than myself. I don't know what to expect from a good operator like you and Wayne," I said.

"Be that as it may, I do think your input would be valuable to my overall assessment of Master Jason," Alfred insisted with an encouraging tone. "Based on the infiltration, what you managed to recover, and the injuries you're facing, what would you say of Master Jason's performance?"

I took a moment to think for myself, with Alfred waiting patiently. Todd seemed to restrain himself from saying anything and angrily looked away. I wanted to say Todd was terrible and I never wanted anything to do with him again, but that would have been too rash and based on emotions alone.

If I walked through everything again, I was able to enter the warehouse without any trouble thanks to Todd's assessment of the building. No camera spotted me from the outside and he was able to recognize my ability to glide onto the rooftop, even when I had second thoughts about the distance.

My initial run with the kitsune and not recognizing him as a walking alarm for Isshiki? That was our fault for getting heated with each other. Todd was annoying about the way I did things and didn't shut up to give me time to think. Still, the blame was on both of us for that.

He got me safely to Isshiki's lair and I was able to avoid being blown to smithereens. In the end, however, when I got shot at by the only armed guards of the warehouse? That was totally on him for not being my eyes…

No, that was wrong. I allowed that one thug to turn on the lights when he advised me to get him. Sure, he let it go but…ahh man. There's no spinning this, I feel pressed to speak the truth as I see it.

"About my arm getting hurt…the fault lies entirely on me," I professed, seeing Todd look up again. "The lights should have remained off instead of giving any of those thugs the chance to see me clearly enough to shoot. The same goes for the aftermath—the police would have not spotted me escaping through the hatch in the dark. Maybe Todd was caught up in the moment as I was when I made that decision, but I take full responsibility for this," I finish, gesturing at my arm.

"...Well said, Hikigaya-san. I forget how mature you can be for your age," Alfred mutters after a moment.

I scratched my neck. It felt strange 'evaluating' someone's performance for the first time. Well, it shouldn't be since I just copped to being the one to blame for this mess. I have plenty of experience in that.

"Todd…passes, I guess," I continued. "Although I'm discontent with what I found out about the tech batarang, it's better overall that I didn't get shot point-blank thanks to his actions."

Alfred nodded at my words and from the corner of my eye, I swear I just saw a sliver of a smile on the kid's face.

"Yes, I agree with that. Very well, Master Jason. By my standards, you lost many points for being tactless, unprofessional, and downright obnoxious," Alfred said to Todd without skipping a beat.

"What? Hey!" Todd looked like he was about to go on a full rant until Alfred calmed him down with a mere pat on the back.

"Master Bruce will be pleased to hear that you passed nonetheless, even if just barely!" He smirked at the kid before turning to me again. "Hikigaya-san, good work tonight. We'll examine everything you've found on our end. Surely there will be something of importance there and we'll share…what we can."

Typical. Meh, at least he's being honest now.

"Well, I'll always have the originals. Thanks again, Alfred. Todd."

I nodded at them both and logged off the call to scan these items as fast as possible and send them over to their end. A sample each of Venom-C and Venom-T, various corporate documents, the burner cell phone, and the Desert Eagle with the disabled bug device still attached. Quite a treasure trove of goodies for the Bat-Family.

At first glance, most of this crap meant nothing to me as I haven't the skills to make something out of all this. If anyone can uncover some sort of clue or discrepancy, it'll be Wayne. I don't expect them to get back at me right away and I have to accept they might not at all. Whenever I'm on downtime, I should read up on everything I extracted and examine what I can. This cell phone, for instance, needs a charging real soon, I might have a spare cable at home—

*Ring* "Incoming call." *Ring*

What's this? A video call from the Batcave…so much for letting me finish this off so I could get home quickly. Don't people in the States understand the sanctity of a goodbye enacted between two parties? It goes without saying that neither party should initiate contact again until after a reasonable amount of time has passed. Geez.

I accepted the encrypted video call, meeting with familiar child-like blue orbs attached to a smirk. "Todd? What are you—"

"So you admit I was right all along, huh?" he started. "I didn't hear no 'thank you', you big bitch."

Ah, I really should have just outright told Alfred to fail you. Too bad it seemed like the butler had gone off somewhere while Todd stayed behind. Tch, piss off.

"Thanks. Now, if that's all you wanted, I'll be logging off. Send a message next time," I replied in a surly tone. At least then, I'd have an easier time ignoring him.

"Hold on, hold on," Todd waved at me before I disconnected from the call. "You can scan that shit while talking, right?"

He referred to the previously mentioned items by my desk, right next to the WayneTech 3D/Image scanner.

"I…prefer to work alone," I replied, cringing as I finished. Kami-sama, that was lame.

"Whatever bro, just hear me out. It won't take long, aight?" Todd requested.

I looked away and sighed. More talking? At this hour? You're surprisingly clingy for a guy who clearly doesn't know how to be friendly with others.

"What is it?" I asked, going back to what I was doing in the meantime.

"Two things. First off, I'm calling bullshit on this autonomy shit you were crying about earlier," Todd replied.

I see. So the apple doesn't fall from the tree, huh?

"Oi, I'm not in the mood to argue this over with you. I already expressed my gratitude—everything else is between me and your boss," I asserted.

"Bastard, you speak like you're above me or something!" Todd said in an accusatory tone, pointing my way.

"...That's because I am, boy wonder," I said mockingly after a moment. I turned to see his reaction and immediately chuckled at his beet-red face.

"You're dead wrong if you think I feel small being called what I am. Try again, I dare you, bitch," Todd seethed into the mic.

Gross. Quit eating the mic. It feels like you're breathing into my ears.

"I'm not going to stand being put in the same ranking as Batman's sidekick, it's as simple as that," I replied.

"Bruce gave you that suit! And you have his 'old' tech too? Oh man, you have to know what this means, right? What he's got planned for you, right? Don't be stupid!" Todd yelled.

"How about you enlighten me?" I asked calmly as I lowered his audio, almost tempted to just outright mute the little bastard.

"Shit, you're in denial? For real? That's pretty sad," Todd tried to ridicule me, looking ticked off after I didn't take the weak bait. "...Look, I don't know what Batman's told you but you'd be retarded to think any of this 'autonomy' shit is true."

"Just hurry and get to your point, Robin," I groaned out.

The boy snickered obnoxiously as he shook his head at me and for a split second, I wanted nothing more than to slap that toothy grin off his face.

"See, that's the thing! You can call yourself Huntsbitch or whatever the fuck, but the truth is, you're just another Robin. Nippon's first edition, hahaha," Todd laughed at his stupid joke.

I would be lying if I said he didn't get my full attention. Seriously, what the hell did he just call me? "A Robin? No, I refuse to believe that. My independence—"

"—Means jackshit when he's given you access to almost everything a 'Robin' hasn't already had," Todd cut me off.

"Oh, he keeps multiples of you?" I asked sarcastically.

"...This jackass. You know what I mean! In a few years, there might be a third kid in my place while I finally break off and do my own thing."

Your own thing? Do you mean to start working as an independent vigilante one day? My curiosity won me over to ask, "As who?"

The young lad switched from grinning to giving me an accusatory look. "What, ya looking to steal the cool mantle I came up for my future self, Huntsbitch?"

"Not really—"

"Red Robin! Remember that, ya hear?!"

I chuckled at that. "...And you still revealed your future identity like an idiot. Also isn't that the same name just with 'Red' added?"

Todd was knocked out of his excitement the second I pointed out how lame I thought he was being. He frowned at me. "Shaddup! Unlike you, I know who the fuck I am now and won't forget my roots when I'm grown."

"That may suit you but, again, I'm not interested in joining your family from abroad," I insisted.

He groaned. "...You're being a killjoy. The second thing I wanted to mention is based on this thing of ours."

"Thing of ours?" I repeated, not understanding the translation he gave.

Todd didn't explain himself right away, but I could see he was racking his brain for the right words during his silence. His eyes shifted left and right, to check if he was still alone in the Batcave I presume. He sighed in relief, slicking his jet black hair with his fingers like he was some kind of mobster from those western mafia films. I don't believe that motion was intentional, nor did it really suit him. It just came off as a nervous tick from a lonely kid.

"...I'm proud of what I'm a part of. Before meeting Bruce, all I knew was to look out for number one," Todd whispered, sticking a thumb at himself. "Serious crews and even upcoming gangs that wanted to run Gotham someday—they always put me back out on the street. ...Probably because they couldn't handle my epic o-or something."

Yeah, I'm sure that's the reason. Ah, but I couldn't bring myself to quip that back to the boy. He only said that to gloss over how his voice quivered at admitting he was constantly abandoned. Todd knew he was a problem child most didn't tolerate.

"Y'know, I've run into some of them a bunch of times, either still working solo or under big bosses like the Penguin. None of them recognized me duh, but kicking their asses with Batman never gets old," Todd muttered wistfully with a toothy grin. "...Fuck 'em. All of them. The Bat Family is the best gang anyone could ever join and no one can change my mind about that."

You've convinced yourself that it's their loss for tossing you away. I'd more than likely agree with you on that thought, though with more than a few asterisks attached.

"Good for you, I guess," I offered.

With that same grin, Todd glanced at me in earnest. "Heh, dumbass. You're a part of this too."

I tilted my head towards him. "How…why am I a part of this?"

"Batman only knows but…you'll see," Todd answered confidently despite not saying much.

Oh, now you're suddenly in the know about all of Batman's intentions? Give me a break. I audibly sighed. That wasn't good enough for me to accept the idea and I could see Todd wasn't accepting no for an answer.

He couldn't understand why I resented the idea of this structure. It's not that I think the Bat Family is incapable or not in pursuit of the greater good. It's that I know when it comes down to it, it's only myself that's going to put Chiba first. Doing so in the capacity and mindset of a 'Japanese Robin' won't be enough. Chiba needs more than that...

I shook my head and waved in dismissal. "Instead of running your mouth, how about you speak only about things you actually know? Regardless of what you think, I haven't been swayed enough by your vague tragic past to fully submit myself to your current 'gang'."

"Then you'll be swayed by these hands, dick," Todd threatened without missing a beat.

This kid's got no problem going to the extreme in a split second!

I scoffed at Todd, letting my poker face fall. "Go for it, kid."

"Tch, alright!" Todd stood up, pointing at the screen. "Next time Bruce goes to Japan, I'll tag along so I can show you how it's done."

"You're looking for an actual fight? Would Wayne even let you off your short leash?" I quipped.

Todd's eyes bulged, letting out a breath of excitement. "Calling me a dog? Bitch-ass nip, I'll fuck you up real good. Teach you your place in this world again like that guy, uh, Commander Perrier!"

Perrier, the seltzer water brand? Really? This little piece of shit looked prouder than he should have been for spouting that last bit.

"Ah, more of that stupid Yankee arrogance that won't help you in our spar," I caught myself saying in a serious tone. I made a point to give Todd a look over and snorted. "At least Commodore Perry had his black ships—I see nothing lethal about you."

That shut him up for just a moment before he looked at me, confused.

"...The fuck you mean about black ships? Wasn't Perrier the guy behind Nagasaki and 'Shima?" Todd asked, scratching his head.

He really meant to go there and only made an ass of himself. W-Where the hell would I even begin to correct this fool? This…was no longer worth my time.

"Retard." I called him. Astounded in disbelief, I lost my composure and gave Todd the nastiest glare I could muster before unceremoniously leaving the call.

Finally alone. I immediately stretched my arms out in relief, as if talking to that kid was physically exhausting as it was mentally. I looked at a clock and groaned over where its arms lay. Scanning all this took much longer than it should have because of Todd's sudden call.

I quickly stashed all the evidence in a lockbox and made my way over to my duffel bag to change and get home quickly. I'll have to jog home if I don't want to get caught but even then, I just might encounter Kaa-san, the early riser. If it comes to that, it shouldn't be too hard for me to just say I got up for an early run. She'll definitely give me an earful for stepping out alone anyway, no avoiding that.

"Oh, shit." My damn arm is still hurting and tonight's mission was too high of a priority to have made time for my usual two to three-hour nap before school. Ahh, what a pain. I guess today will be one of those days where I'm thankful for my less-than-visible desk placement, teachers who don't annoy me, lunch, and even the Service Club. All times and places I'll be where I'll catch some Zs…

I glanced at a mirror and saw a worrisome look etched on my face. A bead of sweat ran down from my nose, giving me the appearance of a scared, snot-nosed kid.

Maybe that wasn't an inaccurate description.

Ahh, how pathetic... Isshiki, you're truly insane to have fallen obsessed over a guy who has no say over any part of his life. I suppose Hayama's the same way for different reasons, so at least you're consistent in the type of man you wish to target.

'Hikigaya Hachiman'. One part loser. One part…puppet. And this city calls me a…what was it again?

"This city looks at you as its savior, but I know the truth now—Chiba has no one and it's fucked," Isshiki spoke resentfully."

---

Yukinoshita Yukino

"Mou, I think Hikki's being too hard on himself."

"Pardon?"

I was peeved at Yuigahama-san's sudden interjection and shot her a look of annoyance. She had only just handed me lists of ideas for the Student Council to consider implementing. The least she could do was sit quietly as I assessed these proposals for policy reform. Perhaps that was too much to ask of one with such a lively personality.

Choosing to ignore the air, Yuigahama-san gestured over at a pile of trash to her right. A sloppy mess illuminated by the afternoon sun's orange hues.

"Hikki's sleeping again. I mean he does that all the time now but maybe we should say something to him. Like 'studying is important but so is getting a good night's rest, you dummy'," she smiled softly.

Holding concerns over Hikigaya-kun, are you? I suppose whatever grievances you had against him recently have been settled.

"You're assuming too much of how Hikigaya-kun utilizes his time. If I recall, his test grades have slightly declined all across the board, except for Japanese," I freely jabbed the boy's academic decline as he stirred in place.

"Eh? Yukinon, you made the time to go to our class to check his test scores?" Yuigahama-san asked incredulously.

"I-I just so happened to be on an errand for Hiratsuka-sensei at the time. Don't misunderstand," I quickly explained, annoyed at the implication she just made. "I glanced over at your scores as well, Yuigahama-san…that was a pitiful sight—please try to apply yourself next time."

"Waaah, I'm so embarrassed! And here I thought you were just being a responsible club president! So mean—you didn't have to remind me of all that, Yukinon!" Yuigahama-san wailed, ducking her scarlet face behind her arms in shame.

Although my original point was ignored, I smiled at her liveliness instead of giving way to annoyance again. By no means was I going to let her aversion to studying slide any longer, since she was obligated to set an example for her peers more so than ever as my Vice President. However, it was not my intention to fundamentally change her demeanor, as I wished for Yuigahama-san to continue being a cheerful, charming girl that I've come to trust.

Yuigahama-san was making her best efforts and I'm more than grateful to have her company and counsel...even if it means refining or outright vetoing some of the ideas she's put forth. For example, I'm not sure an aggressive campaign to overturn the uniform skirt length requirement is something I'll undertake… I wouldn't be surprised if it were her other friends who lobbied for unnecessary points like this to be included. How shameless.

What was I expecting? Even okaa-san and otou-san believed shame and integrity weren't worth their weight in gold.

…

Stop. I'd rather not spill tears in front of Yuigahama-san again. The comparison itself was ridiculous, to begin with, horrible even. This is a high school Student Council, none of us are—

'Entitled, corrupt politicians.'
'Malicious financial brokers.'
'Power-hungry individuals.'

No...those are the city's cruel words—not mine. I was lucky that Yuigahama-san was checking her phone so she hadn't noticed I just choked on my breath.

'Repulsive upbringing she must have had.'
'Elitist bitch never talked to us.'
'Snobby to everyone, like we were beneath her.'
'Smug whore—her sister should be arrested too.'

Breathe. Breathe it in—just like Nee-san advised you to do so. We both know not everything the press or our peers say is true or has been proven to be true. There are many blatant lies we will have to take in stride as a consequence of being the daughters of tyrants, she said.

Except…I don't understand why she wouldn't consider the chance that okaa-san and otou-san are also the victims of libel and slander! That's an issue we've each dealt with growing up as individuals, so why is it any different now? Nee-san also wrote them both off as criminals, but maybe—

"Yukinon, is something wrong? You're sweating."

"Eh?"

I was met with the radiant warmth of Yuigahama-san's concerned, peach-like orbs. A bead of sweat glided down my left cheek right after I was taken out of my chilly trance. Yuigahama-san reached for her bag, no doubt to hand me her handkerchief once again, like a doting mother. However, I gently brushed her arm and indicated that I had my own pack of wet tissues. Melting in front of her was shameful enough, I had no desire to play the role of the 'daughter' right after.

Or ever again, for that matter.

I know Yuigahama-san had grievances towards Hikigaya-kun due to his less than tactful treatment of me. They were resolved due to my interference and it's that will to act again that won't cause Yuigahama-san to come close to burning bridges with anyone else for my sake. I didn't want to burden her anymore—in fact, I wanted her to…ch-cherish these next two years.

I ripped the packet of wet tissues open and wiped myself down, making sure to cover my reddened face as much as possible. Enough of my familial problems, for now. Either I perform my new duties or I resign in disgrace and curl up in a ball over what would be a black mark in my academic history. Even after everything, the choice was clear.

For example, what should be addressed sooner rather than later are the plans for a joint Christmas event collaboration that was prearranged between the Kaihin Sougou High School's Student Council and Shiromeguri-senpai. It remains to be seen if their President, Tamanawa-san, still wishes to go forward with the collaboration now that I'm in Shiromeguri-senpai's position. I have to consider the possibility of Kaihin Sougiu backing off, wherein Yuigahama-san and I find ourselves having to arrange the event alone by Christmas Eve, at the Takashu Community Center.

Perhaps we'll have a higher chance of success if Yuigahama-san is the one to reestablish communication with Kaihin. Their Student Council might find her more agreeable to speak with…

Unbelievable, another foolish thought! I'd be no different than incompetents like Sagami-san, delegating such tasks expected of a leader. Seriously, I have to compose myself as the new President and face all obstacles—

*Snore* *Snore*

Yuigahama-san and I eyed Hikigaya-kun again, with much less amusement this time…given the disgusting sight of saliva running down his mouth.

"Ew! His drool's getting all over the table! Should I get some napkins, Yukinon?"

Ah, why bother when there's no antiseptic on hand? Not that I think this shouldn't be addressed, but there's another solution that won't run you the risk of infection.

"Y-Yukinon?" Yuigahama-san repeated my name incredulously after I stood up and glided my way around the table.

It just so happened that one of my 'obstacles' was talking to the snoring, drooling mess sprawled over right in front of me. To think that this person was also to be credited with spurring me to act when he almost resigned from the Service Club and we haven't had a proper conversation since then. I will admit to not realizing he was baiting Yuigahama-san and me until the next day after the fact. Give credit where credit is due. Your subtlety is quite up there, Hikigaya-kun.

…Your hygiene, however, was another matter entirely. Up close, Hikigaya-kun's matted hair veiled his eyes, though not completely enough to conceal the dark bags underneath. I felt slightly envious of how that unkempt look suited this rotten individual quite well, at least, compared to myself over the past few weeks. I could never bear an appearance as pitiful as his in stride.

Out of habit, I brushed my hair back with my fingers, letting its strands gently fall behind my shoulders. Nee-san was at home this morning to assist me again, intent on restoring its 'silky touch' as she put it. Pity that not even Komachi-san reminded Hikigaya-kun that dousing yourself with spray deodorant wasn't a substitute for a proper shower.

That scent...spruce and fir needle, isn't it? What a waste of a good scent. It barely topped off Hikigaya-kun's underlying, unwashed musk that was fairly detectable from where I stood. Surprisingly enough, the image flash of a perspired Hikigaya-kun skipping a shower was more atrocious than the actual smell—

"Yukinon, you're kind of stalling in your head, aren't you?" Yuigahama-san playfully asked me.

I quickly turned around and felt a soft poke to my right cheek. During my trance, Yuigahama-san had managed to sneak her way over behind me. She withdrew her finger after a moment and burst out into soft giggles.

How embarrassing! I intended to ask a request from Hikigaya-kun, one that I gave serious consideration towards. Instead, if Yuigahama-san's Cheshire grin was anything to go by, I was dawdling around like a nervous child. I must have looked quite pathetic, hence her teasing.

"Please, Yuigahama-san. As if this wasn't already difficult enough," I frowned defensively, rubbing my cheek.

Yuigahama-san pouted, shivering in place. "Sheesh. At least hear me out before you think all I wanted to do was tease you."

I was skeptical but softened my features nonetheless and went silent, imploring her to continue.

"Heh, Yukinon's pouts are cute as expected. Anyways, go for it! Tell Hikki what's what, like you always do. I mean, he was giving you a hard time for sleeping here before and now he's doing the same thing!" Yuigahama-san finished her passionate tirade, pointing a finger at the sleeping hypocrite.

Normally, I'd chastise Yuigahama-san for bad manners but since it's directed at Hikigaya-kun this time, I'll gladly make an exception.

"I'd be lying if I said harping on him was what I intended but I suppose you're right all the same, Yuigahama-san," I tentatively agreed with her.

She beamed anyway, pumping a fist in the air as if her life depended on it. "Yeah! Let him have it. Say the first thing that comes to mind!"

Yuigahama-san left my side, plopping back down onto her seat in anticipation. Scolding her for looking at us as some kind of sideshow would have been too harsh. I knew she was being sincere, so doing that was something I wouldn't do. As for Hikigaya-kun, however…

"H-Hiki—"

Oh, enough of this already.

I stepped a little closer, tapping him lightly on the shoulder. Hikigaya-kun only stirred to his side, causing his earbuds to fall out and revealing his phone. For a split second, I caught the screen showing one recent notification. A strange message is written in English…junk mail, probably. Ah, now his phone was touching his drooling from earlier, what a shame.

Feeling braver, I continued tapping the boy's stiff shoulder a bit more firmly than before. Eh? Suddenly, his hand shot out and caught my own. M-My fingers were enveloped in his as he, the now confirmed sexual harasser, continued sleeping. I attempted to retract my fingers, failing to break free.

"H-Hikki, let go!" Yuigahama voiced her concern.

Truthfully, my hand wasn't in a vice-grip at all. In fact, I felt more like a child being held back by a firm parent. Except I wasn't a child and it was a salivating, narcoleptic Hikigaya-kun on the other end. What little pride and dignity I had left were in shambles...

After having fought the urge to step on his foot, I pried his fingers off with my free hand, one at a time. I wanted out of this situation before he—

"H-Hm?" Hikigaya-kun grumbled, his head rising cautiously.

Oh? Only waking up the second you have a young woman in your grasp, you beast?

"Wonderful timing…" I quipped.

The drowsy boy's eyes twitched before fixating at the sight of me holding his hand as I was midway through prying his fingers off. Idiot. My stomach sank further in embarrassment at the situation and I was close to voicing out the insult before the look on his face stopped me.

Hikigaya-kun appeared neither stupefied nor grateful that he'd someday, hopefully soon rather than later, die having at least once felt the palms of a cute girl. Instead, his face had squished into a grimace, as if his outstretched arm brought him a great deal of pain. He released my hand and breathed through his teeth, all of his movements being noticeably careful.

"Hikigaya-kun…" I began, admittedly confused over whether to address his discomfort or not. I wasn't sure if Yuigahama-san noticed since she hasn't said anything either.

He decided for us with a nonchalant "Yeah? Time's up?".

Something about the way he steeled himself within a couple of seconds irked me. Not that I ever wore my heart on my sleeve either, It's just...it gave me less confidence in my ability to receive a positive answer from him.

Nonetheless, I won't be prying any further about his pain at this time. I crossed my arms and met his deadpan expression.

"Don't sleep during club hours. I recall you said something similar to me before, just a few days ago. You should hold yourself to your standards."

Hikigaya-kun blinked once—twice at me, completely unaware of his shabbier than usual appearance. Your hair is pointing in every direction and a disgusting bead of saliva just ran down your mouth. Please stop, you really don't have the right to look at me as if there's an argument to be made…

"Ever heard of rules for thee, not for me? It's a philosophy that I intend to make an intricate part of my lifestyle starting now—"

"Clean," I dismissed his pathetic defense, gesturing at the mess he made on the table.

His eyes followed to where I pointed at, widening at the pool of Hikkigerms on the table and how it made its way onto his phone and sleeve.

"...Oh. My bad," Hikigaya-kun meekly replied after a moment, a tinge of red on his face. Yuigahama-san laughed for both of us from her seat.

It was also very amusing to watch Hikigaya-kun squirm left and right before I offered him my packet of wipes. He nodded thanks as he shakily accepted the packet and went to work. Ah, it's been a while since I last saw Hikigaya-kun in a self-conscious state, if ever.

Not that this meant he was excused from his earlier offense, of course. I still had half a mind to report him to the authorities. That said, I was also mindful of my clubmate's underlying discomfort. Out of pity, I wordlessly retrieved a bin and set it beside him. I didn't even acknowledge that he mumbled "sorry for the trouble". I only continued looking over, waiting for him to finish.

From the corner of my eye, I believe Yuigahama-san was pumping her fist in the air for my sake. A silly but welcomed notion, I suppose. I cleared my throat for the boy's attention again after he unceremoniously dumped all of the messy wipes into the bin.

"Hey, Hikigaya-kun," I began. He side-glances at me impassively before going back to wiping his phone. He turned on the screen for a second before immediately pocketing it. Very strange—

"Yeah? Did I miss a spot?" he asked suddenly, tilting his head towards the table.

"You did well enough for me to not pester Hiratsuka-sensei for a replacement table," I replied with a derisive smile.

He wasn't as amused, smoothing his hair down with an annoyed look. "What is it then? Something you wanted to ask me?"

Not here, somewhere else.

"Yes...that is, well…after the club..." I trailed off, holding a shaking fist to my chest. But Yuigahama-san's words of encouragement rang in my head and I refused to crumble in front of his scowl. As I've thought before about my skittishness and your practiced apathy—enough is enough. "Could you go out with me again?"

…

"Huh?" Hikigaya-kun leaned back, his mouth hung open in surprise.

A chair behind me skidded back, followed by palms slamming on the table. "What?! Y-Yukinon?!"

Ah, very poor choice of words.

---

Hachiman's e-mail message

Unknown contact: 'Yo your opsec is fucking trash and I'm the retard? Found your deets w/o help in just 1hr, no cap. BTW fk you but…ty for the good op review -JT'

---

A/N: So, my bad for taking over a year to update this. Part-time college student & full-time worker, you know the usual excuses. I even told people I'd finish this off sometime around May in PMs. To those people, if they're still here, I'm sorry for hyping you guys up with sneak previews and then taking half a year instead. I did plan to upload this big boy as two chapters but was otherwise told by 502nickster that this was good enough to publish as just one since Ace Chemicals is wrapped up in one go. Big ups to nickster for the help in editing this chapter, making suggestions, and telling me to get off my butt lol. I know some people went to him to ask if I was still alive and writing and I appreciate the enthusiasm. If I never get back to him of all people, then assume I am dead because I know he should always get a reply from me, however long it takes. That said, you guys should check out his stuff beyond just TDKoC 1 and ask him what's going on there lol. Dude deserves a bunch of reviews and follows. I really want to see where his multiverse Hachiman fic goes next, for example.

I wonder if you can find the two easter eggs in this chapter. If not, I don't think it means I'm clever or anything, just that it's probably harder to find due to the formatting on this site. I'll just say they're vertical abbreviations and a couple is in the dialogue. Let me know what you think of Yui's dad (Oh shit, I made Yui 1/8 Russian lol), how much of a little shit Jason is (I love this boy), how I wrote Yukino's POV (that part took me the longest and I'm still not satisfied with it, gimme tips), or anything else you found interesting. The next chapter will have more Oregairu with a sprinkle of Jason and other parts of Hachiman's vigilante life.

Anyone excited for upcoming capeshit? The only Marvel movie I want to see is that Spidey no home multiverse film and that's because the best Spider-Man's gonna be in it! TOBEY MY BIG BEAUTIFUL MAN. Actually, is it confirmed or at least obvious he's in it? I hope so. If his role in that film turns out to just be a cameo or non-existent, I will be mad. He also better be the strongest and smartest of the three. Well, I already know Marvel's quippy, a joke in every freaking line writing is going to make me cringe. Just hope they don't ruin the OG too badly. About, The Batman? Cooooool. People ragging on the edginess and I sorta have to agree if they go too far with it, but I'd be lying if I said I didn't like edginess. Robert Pattinson, I have no problem with the look of him in the trailers which are cool. Well, I liked the first trailer (DC Fandome teaser) more than the second, especially when Batman BRUTALLY beats down that one thug and follows with "I'm vengeance" lol. The edge maaan.

Thanks for the interest and reviews, sorry for the wait again. Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!