"Okay...just a little more..."

...

...

"Alright. I think I'm good to go..."

...

...

"I always get the jitters. You'd think I'd be used to them by now. Heh. Anyway. Time to get started in three...two...one..."

beep

"Hello, everyone!" Captain Mizuki, the B-Class hero, excitedly greeted with an energetic smile. "So, it's been a bit. Sorry about that. But it is time for another One Punch Man Fan Club update!" She exclaimed.

Picking up a small remote, Captain Mizuki turned on a TV that hung on the wall behind her.

"So! The BIG news everyone already knows by now is Genos. He's the latest addition to the S-Class roster AND the second official disciple of One Punch Man. Many people have been losing their minds over this, especially since Genos is a cyborg. They've asked things like, "How can he be One Punch Man's student? He doesn't have any muscles!" or "This guy showed up out of nowhere! Why does HE get to be the next disciple?!". All of these, except for the rude ones, are valid questions. However, One Punch Man wouldn't make some RANDOM guy his disciple. We still don't have much info at the time of this update. But, as your club president, I will see if I can't reach out and get a comment from him. Some might say that's a long shot, but our club has always had a good relationship with him. So, it's worth a try." She stated.

Pausing momentarily, Mizuki pressed another button on the remote still in her hand. This time, it changed the image on the screen. What was shown now, instead of Genos, was One Punch Man's apartment building. However, it was SWARMED.

Every member of S-Class, except Blast and Puri Puri Prisoner, was present. EVERY employee from the City Z branch of the Association was there, along with several more. Specifically, regarding those on the roof exiting a helicopter, they seemed like some of, if not ALL, of the executives! Then, on the street, mixed in with the heroes and employees, some recognizable B-Class faces could be discerned.

"So, you might be thinking, a LOT is happening in this picture. You're right!" Mizuki began with a warm and friendly smile. "This picture came from an anonymous source and was sent to the email address I use for club activities. They offered what little information they could, but even they weren't sure what was going on. In short, something concerning One Punch Man happened. Is it bad? Good? Middling? We don't know. The source, by confession, was coming to try and see if they could catch a glimpse of One Punch Man. Yet, they accidentally stumbled onto this mess. Again, I hope to receive a comment from One Punch Man about this, but I wouldn't keep my hopes up, everyone. This could be some top-level need-to-know stuff we're seeing. We're lucky even to be aware that something HAS happened. Remember that before you write your comments or start talking on the message boards." She told her audience.

Following that, Captain Mizuki turned off the TV.

"And with that, this update has come to a close." Captain Mizuki said as she set down the remote. "I'm sorry that I don't have many details right now. But if things go well, I should have more to share by the end of the day. Until then, everyone!" She closed out, punching the air with a triumphant fist.

After remaining still for a few seconds to make the edit easier, Captain Mizuki stopped the recording.

"Phew. Another good shoot." Captain Mizuki said with a proud smile. Despite her status as an Olympic athlete, talking in front of a camera like that when it wasn't at a sporting event was always a little stressful.

Carefully, Captain Mizuki removed the camera from its tripod. Once in hand, she'd gently place it in its bag, then wrap the strap around her shoulder. With that done, Captain Mizuki left her home and set out for her morning run. While out, she planned to deliver the camera to the club's main video editor.

It had been a hot minute since the official OPM Fan Club had an update. But, to be fair, nothing all too exciting has happened. The incident with Vaccine Man was broadcast on television, so there'd be no point in reporting that. But that didn't mean the faithful president of the club was sleeping on her duties!

There was ALWAYS something to be done. Fan Club merchandise. Group meet-ups. Potential events. Etc. Plus, since a MAJORITY of the members were heroes as well, the club was a good way to expose themselves and build their careers and reputations.

Captain Mizuki took this very seriously. Initially, she started it to have other people to gush about One Punch Man with. But since, at that time, she had become a hero herself, many saw it as the undeniably "Official" club. Then, when Captain Mizuki managed to get One Punch Man's ACTUAL seal of approval, oh, that was it. No other club could compete.

So, through her appreciation of One Punch Man and pride for the club she accidentally built, Captain Mizuki gave a hundred-&-ten percent and then some. Thankfully, the woman didn't work herself to death. Not because she wouldn't, but because Captain Mizuki had help. Her "Vice President", as it were.

Running on her route for fifty minutes, which was no issue, she barely broke a sweat; Captain Mizuki stopped at an intersection. This was the usual meeting spot for her and her co-leader.

ching ching

Looking down the street to her left, Captain Mizuki saw the VP of the One Punch Man Fan Club. The first member (not including her). This individual had their eyes on One Punch Man before he even became that. Back when the number one hero was known mainly for a blue jumpsuit.

"Satoru!" Captain Mizuki greeted with a smile, waving at her fellow hero as he approached.

Dressed head to toe in the best combat gear he could obtain, the cyclist for justice, Mumen Rider, was heading toward the bubbly athlete. Captain Mizuki used the top-ranked C-Class hero's actual name since they were close friends. They had bonded when first meeting after the club's creation.

"Hey, Mizuki!" Satoru responded, also with a smile, while getting closer.

"Anything interesting to report?" Captain Mizuki inquired as he came to a stop next to her.

"Nope. Not much monster activity lately." Satoru said. "It's weird. Even the small ones that just harass people haven't been seen. Chatter across the cities has been nearly non-existent." He told her.

"Huh..." Captain Mizuki replied, giving it some thought. "Maybe...with all of the stuff that's happened with One Punch Man lately, the monsters are laying low to avoid drawing his attention? Or attention in general? Everyone's been pretty jumpy because of Vaccine Man and the Genos situation." She suggested.

"Yeah. That makes sense." Satoru agreed with a nod. "Whenever One Punch Man takes out a monster, regardless of severity, things calm down for a week or two." He added.

"Which is always nice. Good to have a break for the rest of us." Captain Mizuki responded with a grin. "Oh! But before we continue, here you go." She said, remembering the main reason for this meet-up.

"Thanks," Satoru replied, accepting the bag from her. "So, after you complete your morning exercises, what're your plans for the day?" He asked.

"Well..." Captain Mizuki began, looking off to the side. "I...was maybe...sort of...possibly...intending to try and see...One Punch Man..." She confessed.

"I'm...not sure that's a good idea..." Satoru told her. Even though he hadn't seen the video yet, he and Captain Mizuki had talked about its contents the night before. So, he knew about the mysterious hysteria at One Punch Man's apartment building.

"I know. I know." Captain Mizuki assured with a sigh. They've had countless conversations like this before. "But we HAVE to know what's going on! And I'm not saying that as a fan, but as a hero! Sure, it's S-Class. The best of the best. But does that mean we should sit on our hands and do nothing? That we ignore our responsibility and desire for justice?" She argued.

"Of course not. But with all of the Association security and possible S-Class heroes within a one-mile radius of One Punch Man, the chances of learning ANYTHING or getting close are slim." Satoru countered.

"Ah. But I have a plan for that!" Captain Mizuki proudly exclaimed.

"You...do?" Satoru questioned.

"Yup! But we'll have to stop somewhere on the way." Captain Mizuki stated before suddenly running. "Come on! Better keep up!" She told him.

Taken aback by the abrupt departure, Satoru quickly began peddling after Captain Mizuki.


Half An Hour Later...


Perimeter assignment. An important but usually boring task. However, in this case, every Association employee on duty took it more seriously than ever.

The perimeter they were given to maintain, protect, and observe was One Punch Man's apartment building and the streets that led to it. The employees were also meant to check alleyways and other free spaces that could be seen. If ANY activity was detected, regardless of how trivial, it was to be reported.

Yet, there was a situation that was currently unfolding that the employees weren't prepared for. It wasn't suspicious people. It wasn't monsters. It wasn't the hostile target they'd been told to keep a lookout for.

Two heroes came down one of the streets, wearing suits and glasses like theirs. On the left, with a confident smirk, was B-Class hero Captain Mizuki. On the right, walking beside her, was the top-ranked C-Class hero Mumen Rider. Admittedly, he was harder to discern due to his lack of armor, headgear, and bicycle. But you'd have to be blind and ignorant not to know that the Amazonian woman beside him was Captain Mizuki.

The employees, of which there were two, that the heroes were approaching stood and waited. What were these two doing here? How did they even know each other?

"Hello there." Captain Mizuki greeted them once they arrived. She was trying to make her voice huskier. Why? "We're here on a special assignment." She stated.

The employees said nothing. Instead, they slowly turned their heads to look at Mumen Rider.

"Er, that is correct," Satoru confirmed. He spoke normally, albeit a bit nervous. "We were told to patrol the inner perimeter." He explained.

...Ooooooooooooooooh. So, THAT was the plan. The employees understood everything.

"I...see..." The first one spoke. "Well, we're grateful for the added assistance. Good to know HQ is taking this as seriously as it needs to be." He said.

"Mhm. They're taking no chances." Captain Mizuki assured, maintaining her deeper tone.

"Honestly, even with everyone pitching in, we're shorthanded. Of course, the other branches and HQ itself can't reduce staff numbers too much, so it's understandable. But now that you're here, we can breathe a little easier." The second one confessed.

"Well, it's good that we've arrived then," Satoru replied. "But, on that note, we should get to our posts." He said.

"Of course. Go on ahead." The first one permitted as both employees stepped aside.

With entry granted, Captain Mizuki and Mumen Rider walked right on by.

"Man, what a clever idea." The first one began as they resumed their initial positions. "Having lower rank heroes pose as Association staff. That ninja won't know what hit him." He said.

"Yeah. Plus, the assassin won't recognize them because of their lower rank. At least, not immediately." The second one responded. "I wonder why Captain Mizuki sounded like that, though?" He asked.

"It's probably a cold. The poor woman exercises herself to death with morning runs, then spends the rest of the day doing One Punch Man's routine. Her stamina is otherworldly." The first one answered.

As the employees continued their conversation, Captain Mizuki and Mumen Rider, now out of earshot, also started one.

"Alright. I'll admit. I was wrong." Satoru said while looking down at his suit. "I can't believe this is all it took. The Association needs to address some security issues." He went on.

"Or my disguises are just THAT good." Captain Mizuki suggested. "Either way, we can get closer to One Punch Man's apartment. I just need a few minutes of his time, and we'll be out." She stated.

"I hope we don't run into anyone from S-Class. They'd see through us in an instant." Satoru worried.

"Why would they still be here? Surely, they've got other important things to do." Captain Mizuki questioned.

Before they could continue their conversation, the heroes were forced to stop. However, it wasn't due to someone halting them, but because they saw something completely unexpected. The entire section of the ghost town where One Punch Man resided was a mess. Association employees, construction workers, AND, most shockingly, S-Class heroes were diligently working.

Allow me to paint you the full picture, as Captain Mizuki and Mumen Rider saw it. Every building that stood in that specific area? Gone. In their place were new buildings being constructed. The one that was furthest along was where the former apartment building stood.

From what Captain Mizuki and Mumen Rider could tell, it was another apartment building. Yet, this one, even in its unfinished state, was MUCH bigger and would have WAY more rooms. If you thought they were building a hotel or something akin in size, you wouldn't be faulted for it. Did One Punch Man request this? Did he ask all of these employees and his fellow heroes to perform free labor?

No! Absolutely not! One Punch Man was righteous! He was the flawless pillar of heroism the world adored! He'd never abuse his position and power to make all these people do anything for him! Even if they were happy to do it!

So...what then? What was the explanation? There were a few ideas Captain Mizuki and Mumen Rider conceived, all of which were sensible and plausible. But they couldn't determine which it was from this shocking sight alone.

Although, one thing was ABUNDANTLY clear. Locating One Punch Man in this mess would be impossible, especially while remaining incognito.

"Hmm...ideas?" Captain Mizuki inquired.

"I'm still stunned by what we're seeing," Satoru responded. "What does this mean, you wonder?" He asked.

"It could be a bunch of stuff." Captain Mizuki began. "Better accommodations for One Punch Man. A new base for the Association overseen by One Punch Man. This could even be One Punch Man trying to get people to return to the ghost town. He could be spending money to make the buildings stronger and the overall area safer." She suggested.

"True One Punch Man would do something like that." Satoru agreed with a nod. "Anyway, though. Our best approach would be to walk around the perimeter, as is our story. We'll be able to work out the faces and eventually find him." He reasoned.

"Yeah, that does seem to be our best plan." Captain Mizuki replied with a small sigh. She didn't have issues with his idea, only that it'd take a while.

As Captain Mizuki and Mumen Rider tried to decide which direction would be best, they saw something unusual. Amidst the sprawling mess of people and construction, various machines, powers, and abilities being used, there was an odd one out. A suspicious person, wearing a ball cap, sunglasses, a face mask, and a questionable hoodie, was masterfully weaving through the crowd. They used blind spots, objects, and any instance of attention drawn to one location or person to go unnoticed.

Furthermore, this individual's speed was superb. One moment, they'd be hiding behind a dump truck. The next, they were casually strolling between some people.

"Whoa. Do you see the same thing?" Captain Mizuki whispered to Mumen Rider.

"I do," Satoru nodded, speaking at the same volume.

The duo continued to track this mysterious figure. No one else knew what was happening, including the S-Class heroes! Eventually, this hooded person found themselves outside of the group. Once they were free, they began walking down one of the roads.

"We need to follow them!" Captain Mizuki quietly exclaimed so as not to draw attention.

"Yeah. Something's not right with them. And we seem to be the only ones who noticed." Satoru agreed. "You go ahead; I need to get my bike in case a chase happens." He told her.

"Roger." Captain Mizuki responded before running after the individual. To avoid detection, she ducked into a nearby alley and continued to use them.

With his partner in pursuit, Mumen Rider returned to where he safely stored his bicycle. Then, using the alleyways and backstreets like Captain Mizuki, he'd expertly evade any surveying gazes and regroup with her.


A Short While Later...


tap...tap...tap...tap...tap...tap...tap...tap...

The sudden shift from a noisy environment with bustling people to the expected emptiness and silence of the ghost town was jarring. The only thing that could be heard was the slow walking of a hooded figure. Whoever they were, they took their time going through the vacant streets. Fortunately, this was beneficial to the heroes who were tailing them.

Captain Mizuki and Mumen Rider, now in their usual attire and out of their suits, followed closely behind the unknown stranger. They stuck to building corners to remain unseen. Each one wondered about this person's identity and why they were present at One Punch Man's (now former) apartment building.

"Where do you think they're headed?" Captain Mizuki asked, still speaking in whispers.

"Not sure. This isn't the way to the train station. If they're part of a group or are working for someone, then perhaps a rendezvous location?" Satoru answered, also at the same volume.

"Hmm, that would make sense. A bunch of S-Class heroes all gathered in one place? Even without One Punch Man being there, that's a LOT of intel for a criminal organization." Captain Mizuki responded.

"Still, we can't jump to any conclusions." Satoru reminded.

"Right." Captain Mizuki agreed.

Watching the stranger walk around another corner, the heroes quietly yet swiftly caught up to them. When they did, the duo made a startling discovery. At the end of the next street, which the hooded figure was traversing, a SECOND person was shrouding their identity! This individual was taller than the first, but the attire was nearly identical. Ball cap. Sunglasses. Face Mask. And a far more normal hoodie. Apart from the height difference, that was the only altered detail.

"It is a gang!" Captain Mizuki quietly exclaimed in alarm.

"We don't know that yet. But something is going down. That much is clear." Satoru replied.

Observing the two persons, they seemed to exchange a few words before heading into the building closest to them. The structure in question was quite big. There were undoubtedly multiple floors. What purpose the building served or what it might have been once before the ghost town was abandoned was up for speculation.

"Do you think that's their hideout?" Captain Mizuki proposed.

"Possibly. It would be a good location. Especially if the objective is to gather information on One Punch Man." Satoru responded.

"Should we go in, then? Break up their operation and expose them as the villains they are?" Captain Mizuki asked.

"That might be our only action. But I'd like us to get closer and see what's happening inside. The entrance is made of glass, including the doors. We'll be able to hide behind the columns and peek into the building without getting noticed." Satoru answered.

"Wow. You're good at this." Captain Mizuki complimented him. "Then again, you've always had a sharp mind. Anytime we've worked together in the field, you have all kinds of plans and strategies." She went on.

"Nah, it's nothing worth bragging about." Satoru dismissed as they began their approach. "When you're like me, someone without cool powers, fighting techniques, or technology, you need to be creative. Sure, my main thing is my bike. But still, if that's all I have, even when fighting a fairly weak monster, I'll be in a bad situation." He explained.

"Aw, don't sell yourself short, Satoru. You've got more to offer and are more capable than you realize." Captain Mizuki insisted, making him smile.

"Thanks, Mizuki," Satoru replied.

Soon, the duo was in place behind the columns. They each peered around the side and into the building. The glass Mumen Rider mentioned was remarkably clean, giving them a perfect view. However, when the heroes found their targets, they were...confused?

The hooded figures...they were...playing an arcade game? Specifically, it was a fighting title. Upon greater inspection, Mumen Rider and Captain Mizuki realized this location was an arcade. So...these two...were just here...to play games?...

"Uh..." Captain Mizuki began, trying to deduce what was happening. "Do...you think they're talking while they play?..." She guessed.

"I...think they are. But...something's off..." Satoru responded as he pointed to the shorter of the two. "That one's body language implies anger or irritation. The taller one is calm, relaxed, and maybe even enjoying himself. If they are talking about the information the shorter one gathered, this is an odd way to do it." He told her.

Suddenly, a voice rang out through the air. When Captain Mizuki and Mumen Rider heard it, they experienced the most intense shock of their lives.

"OH, COME ON! THAT'S SO CHEAP! HOW CAN YOU DO YOUR SUPERS BACK-TO-BACK?! HOW IS THAT EVEN FAIR?! DIDN'T THEY PLAYTEST THIS?!"

...That...That...That...That...That...

"That...was...One Punch Man..." Captain Mizuki muttered with widened eyes.

"There's...There's no...way..." Satoru muttered in disbelief, his widened eyes hidden behind his glasses.

"Hey, don't blame the devs because you don't know the tech." The taller one spoke. His voice was familiar too! "You could easily do this stuff if you labbed for a while. It's not even pro-level strats." They said.

"YOU don't get to say that! You're LITERALLY the best player in the world!" The shorter one exclaimed.

"Nah. There's no way." The taller one denied. "I'm sure there's someone out there who can match me. I...just haven't found them yet." They insisted, needing to think of a "reason".

"...Satoru..." Captain Mizuki started, slowly turning to look at him. "Is...Is that?..." She tried to ask but struggled to get the words out.

"I think it is..." Satoru replied, knowing what she was going to say. "...Mizuki, I think we need to reveal ourselves. If it IS them, then there are no problems. Well, there ARE, but not the kind we assume. If they're not, we attempt to interrogate them and fight if things escalate." He suggested.

"Yeah. I think that's the only course of action now." Captain Mizuki agreed.

Taking a moment to steady themselves with inhales and exhales, Captain Mizuki and Mumen Rider headed inside once ready. The latter left his bike by the column rather than take it into the building.

ding

A little bell above the door. Neither hero had noticed this. But you best believe the two figures they wanted to speak with did.

Everything came to a stop. Captain Mizuki and Mumen Rider were motionless in the doorway. As for the mysterious individuals, they had turned around, and their eyes locked onto the heroes. Everyone was processing the situation.

"...Wait..." The shorter one spoke. "...Aren't you...Captain Mizuki? The president of my fan club?" They asked.

That statement clarified everything. The heroes' assumptions had been correct. However, Captain Mizuki wasn't focused on that. If anything, that particular thought was no longer in her mind. Instead, she was overcome with indescribable joy.

"You...remember my name?..." Captain Mizuki asked, genuine tears of happiness forming in her eyes.

"Of course." The shorter one answered before removing their sunglasses and face mask. "I saw you a couple of days ago. Plus, like I said, you're the president of my fan club. It'd be weird if I didn't know who you were." Saitama said, his identity revealed.

With One Punch Man revealing himself, the taller figure did the same. Gasp! It was King!

"Saitama, are you sure this is a good idea?" King questioned while removing his sunglasses and face mask.

"Yeah, King. She's cool. She's not one of the psychos." Saitama assured before looking at the hero next to her. "And you're... top-ranked C-Class hero Mumen Rider, right?" He guessed.

"Uh, y-yes, sir!" Mumen Rider exclaimed, not expecting to be recognized.

"He's also my VP!" Captain Mizuki quickly chimed in. "Of the club, that is! The club's first-ever member!" She added.

"Oh, yeah! He is!" Saitama realized with a snap of his fingers. "Sorry that I didn't remember that right away. It's been a bit since we've met." He apologized.

"N-No! Please! It's okay!" Mumen Rider promised, not wanting One Punch Man to feel he was rude. "You have a busy life and meet a lot of people. I wouldn't expect you to remember a C-Class hero like me." He explained.

"Huh, Mountain Ape and Eyelashes said something similar..." Saitama recalled. "Hey, listen. Just because you're a C-Class hero doesn't mean you aren't worth knowing or remembering. Any hero, regardless of class, is important. The ranks only exist to help people understand their limitations so they don't put themselves in needless danger. Of course, that doesn't mean they'll stay in that rank forever. I mean, look at me. Sure, I started in S-Class because of Agoni, but I became strong through hard work. If it can happen for me, it can for anyone." He told him.

Captain Mizuki, Mumen Rider, and even King looked at Saitama with surprised expressions. His words were so inspiring that the others were speechless. Saitama only realized this a few seconds afterward.

"Er, anyway..." Saitama began, hoping to change the subject. "Why're you two here?" He asked.

"Hm? Oh! Right!" Captain Mizuki exclaimed, brought back to Earth. "Well, you see, it's a long story. But, the short version is this. We wanted to talk to you about the Genos situation AND what's happening at your apartment building. We're not looking for confidential S-Class details. We just wanted your comments and feelings on both. If even that is too much, we understand. We only wanted to see if getting your word on the matter was possible. But when we arrived, we saw you in your disguise leaving the area. So, we followed in case someone had snooped around for intel." She explained.

"Ah. Okay. That makes sense." Saitama said, followed by a smile. "Alright. If you guys want an interview or something like that, we can." He permitted, once again shocking the others.

"Wait, what?" King questioned, the most surprised of all. "Really, Saitama? You don't have a problem talking with them?" He inquired.

"Not at all. My official fan club has never been weird, uncomfortable, annoying, or aggressive. Whenever she wanted to talk or see me, Captain Mizuki was always very polite. She's written letters, sent emails, and, in the few times we've met in person like this, she's behaved like a normal person rather than a rabid lunatic. The least I can do to show how much I appreciate that is to respond with the same respect and consideration." Saitama explained.

"Huh, yeah, when you put it that way..." King trailed off, again impressed by his best friend. No matter how much time passed, Saitama never ceased to amaze him with his humbleness and kindness.

"Thank you, One Punch Man!" Captain Mizuki exclaimed, overjoyed by this outcome.

"It's no problem. Seriously. I'm happy to do it." Saitama assured. "Oh, but could I make one request?" He asked.

"Of course! Anything!" Captain Mizuki enthusiastically permitted.

"If we're going to talk to each other, I'd prefer if we dropped the hero names. Would you mind if we used our actual names? I'd like this to be as casual as possible." Saitama requested.

In reaction, Captain Mizuki stiffened like board. Her eyes were wide, and there was an excited smiled frozen on her face.

"...Um...are you okay?" Saitama inquired.

"Sorry." Satoru apologized on her behalf. "She IS your biggest fan, after all. The idea that she can use your name as if you're friends is a big deal for her." He explained.

"Ah. Gotcha." Saitama said. "Well, how about I go first? It's a pleasure to meet you, Mizuki." He told her while extending his hand.

"...Mizuki..." Mizuki quietly responded, slowly taking his hand and shaking it. She wanted to say Saitama, but the poor woman's head was imploding.

"I'm Satoru. It's an honor and a pleasure, sir." Satoru introduced himself, assuming One Punch Man would want him to.

"Nice to meet you, too." Saitama replied, shaking his hand once he was done with Mizuki.

With introductions out of the way, and after Mizuki calmed down, the four heroes proceeded with the interview. The fan club was going to LOVE this.