Warm...Cozy...Soft? Huh. That last one was a bit weird. Honestly, giving the prior two more thought, they were also fairly odd. This certainly wasn't the ocean or the tank from before.
Kombu Infinity slowly awoke. There was far less urgency to do so now that they had somewhat of an understanding as to where they were. They also felt safe in this environment, even with this sudden blackout. Speaking of which, why HAD Kombu Infinity passed out? Their mind was a bit fuzzy on that...
...
...
"SAITAMA!"
Kombu Infinity jolted upright in alarm. Their foggy memory thankfully surfaced in their head. The nice human Kombu Infinity had been greeted by and interacted with was humanity's God! The strongest creature in the world! One Punch Man.
However, as Kombu Infinity gathered their bearings, this shocking realization quickly disappeared from their thoughts. Why? To put it plainly, they were in a far more bewildering room. Its décor practically gave the space a voice, and that voice was screaming.
On the walls, several One Punch Man-related posters. On the shelves were multiple One Punch Man-related items. And when Kombu Infinity looked down at themselves, they discovered a One Punch Man blanket. Don't worry; it didn't have Saitama's face creepily plastered onto it. Instead, it had his red gloved hand with his hero name resting beneath. Although, for a monster, that was essentially the last thing you'd see before dying.
"...Oh...no..." Kombu Infinity muttered in horror as they deduced where they were and what was happening. "I'm...I'm...I'M A RITUAL SACRIFICE!" They shouted.
The posters. The items. The blanket. The signs all pointed in one direction. Kombu Infinity had heard rumors and stories from other Seafolk and a few monsters who got near the shore. Humanity was insane. Legitimately crazy. They worshipped One Punch Man in many ways. Sacrificing monsters in his name was one of them.
...Then again, the rational part of Kombu Infinity's mind quickly regained control. Ritual Sacrifice? Get real. Plus, there's no way Saitama was evil. Kombu Infinity had a front-row seat to that. There's no way his kindness was a trick. Yet, even if it turned out that it was, Kombu Infinity chose to believe it wasn't until proven wrong.
But that left a major question lingering in the air. What the Hell was going on? Why was Kombu Infinity in someone's room? Furthermore, why was it Saitama's stalker? That was the only logical explanation for this. Who else would have so much stuff dedicated to him? Even if he was humanity's God?
"Rise and shine, cutie!" A friendly and cheerful woman's voice called out from the other side of the room's door as it was pushed open. "I've got a nice hot breakfast ready for you!" It exclaimed.
Entering the room was a tall woman with black and white skin. On her torso was a cropped white shirt with "ONE PUNCH MAN!" in bold red lettering. Gee, wonder who the room belonged to?
Yet, when her eyes met Kombu Infinity's, there was a brief silence. They hadn't expected to be met so soon. She didn't anticipate them to be awake before she got back.
"Oh, you're awake." The woman said with a smile. "Good morning! You passed out after learning about One Punch Man's real name last night. Or, I guess, the other way around. So, you slept with me. Don't worry; I slept on top of the covers. I didn't want to make you feel uncomfortable." She told them.
"...Who are you?" Kombu Infinity asked. That was the MOST important question that needed answering.
"Duh. Sorry." The woman apologized. She should've LED with her introduction. "I'm known as Mosquito Girl. I was created by the man who owns this facility." She stated as she approached the bed. In her hands, she carried a tray full of delicious-smelling food. "One Punch Man said you liked meat, so we made sure to make lots for you." She informed them.
Setting the tray down on Kombu Infinity's lap, Mosquito Girl couldn't help but chuckle as it dominated their attention. The Seafolks' eyes locked onto the delectable platter of juicy breakfast meats. Did they die rather than pass out, and this was heaven?
"Careful, you'll drool." Mosquito Girl playfully warned, snapping them out of their meat-induced daze.
"Crap. My bad." Kombu Infinity apologized. Even though this situation was SO bizarre, they didn't want to get saliva on this woman's blanket. That'd just be rude.
"It's okay. No big deal." Mosquito Girl assured as she sat down beside them. "After everything you've been through, you deserve to kick back and relax." She added.
"Thanks." Kombu Infinity replied with a smile. Man, surface dwellers were so polite and nice. "So, uh, could you explain what's going on? Or rather, what's happened since I blacked out?" They requested.
"Sure thing!" Mosquito Girl accepted as they began to eat. "After you passed out, One Punch Man was so worried you had died from a heart attack that he rushed you to my Creator. Again, the man who owns this facility. He assured One Punch Man that you hadn't dropped dead. However, he needed to get back to his meeting to continue discussing what was to be done about the Seafolks' potential invasion. So, One Punch Man asked my Creator if you could stay with us since we're better equipped for non-human residents. My Creator, whose name is Genus, had no issues with that arrangement. Afterward, he came to my room with you while I was decorating it after getting a boost to my mood, long story, and asked if I'd be bothered by you bunking with me for a night. I said no, and here we are." She explained.
"Wow." Kombu Infinity responded with a mouthful before swallowing. "Thanks. That was really nice of you." They said.
"Aw, it was nothing. Honest. I was glad to have the company." Mosquito Girl promised. "Besides, you're just so adorable. How could I say no?" She asked.
"Hey! I am NOT adorable! I am a terrifying monster!" Kombu Infinity defiantly answered.
"I don't know. I think you're pretty cute~" Mosquito Girl teased with a playful wink. To her pleasure, she managed to get them to blush.
"Alright. Alright. Enough." Kombu Infinity told her, avoiding eye contact due to their embarrassment. "So, what did Saitama and the others come up with? Will they fight the Seafolk and not bother with the fake politics?" They inquired.
"They're experimenting with a few options right now. Not counting today, five days are left before the deadline. Five because they don't want to wait until the VERY last day." Mosquito Girl replied as a BIG grin appeared. "And, Saitama says that we might be able to help them~" She revealed in a sing-song way.
"...When you say we...you mean you and your allies, right?" Kombu Infinity assumed.
"Well, yes. But I'm also including you!" Mosquito Girl told him.
That brought the Seafolk to a hard stop. Every fiber of their being stiffened.
"...S...Saitama...wants me to help?..." Kombu Infinity questioned with widened eyes.
"Mhm. But it's not just a reward for telling them about the Deep Sea King and his soldiers. One Punch Man figured you'd want some payback IF it were possible. He still wants your assistance even if things don't get violent." Mosquito Girl confirmed.
"He...trusts me that much?..." Kombu Infinity continued to doubt what they were hearing.
"Yup. That's just one of the MANY reasons One Punch Man is so great!" Mosquito Girl proudly stated with a smile. "As his number one fan, I know everything about him. So, if you have any questions, feel free to ask!" She invited.
"Really? Are you sure?" Kombu Infinity asked, not wanting to annoy or take advantage of her kindness.
"Are you kidding? I've been DYING for SOMEONE around here to chat about One Punch Man! Consider me your encyclopedia!" Mosquito Girl answered.
Feeling another smile come to their face, Kombu Infinity proceeded to talk with Mosquito Girl as they ate their breakfast. Over the next hour or so, the two would swiftly forge a friendship.
Elsewhere, In City Z...
"Brr..." Saitama uttered with a shiver as a chill ran down his backside.
The world's strongest hero was in a meeting with Drive Knight, Metal Knight, and Child Emperor. The other members of S-Class were busying themselves with other matters relating to the Seafolk situation. However, NO ONE was to act before plans were fully realized. ONLY preparations.
"Are you alright, One Punch Man?" Metal Knight inquired. He and the other two looked at their leader when he suddenly shook.
"Yeah, sorry. I don't know what happened. A random tingle went through my spine." Saitama told them.
"It is rather cold in this room. Perhaps that?" Drive Knight suggested.
"Maybe. But it does feel nice, especially with how intense this is." Saitama said.
"True. We have to think this through. No gaps or oversights." Isamu agreed. "What were you wanting to say, Metal Knight?" He asked since the roboticist had been interrupted by their leader's unintended disturbance.
"Ah, yes. Thank you, Child Emperor." Metal Knight replied, grateful for the reminder. "I've already surveyed the waters in coastal areas and near rivers as Kombu Infinity advised. Their direction was spot-on. Lying in wait are several small groups of Seafolk. Their numbers are undoubtedly small due to their immense natural strength and abilities. Again, as mentioned by Kombu Infinity. With each group, there is one member capable of natural camouflage. They are hovering above their allies in the water to conceal them. I wouldn't blame anyone for being unable to discern the difference. Their adaptation far outclasses regular marine life. It's as impressive as it is terrifying." He stated.
"Unfortunately, we were unable to learn the full nature of Seafolk society and culture from Kombu Infinity due to them losing consciousness. A blunder on Sweet Mask's part has affected our strategies temporarily." Drive Knight commented.
"I mean, I should've asked Kombu about it before that happened. That's on me, guys." Saitama said, trying to stand up for the poor man S-Class constantly picked on.
"No way! You were busy establishing a proper relationship with the Seafolk! You were focused on ensuring them they could trust us!" Isamu exclaimed, not wanting their leader to blame himself.
"I concur. This is Sweet Mask's fault." Metal Knight agreed.
"Likewise." Drive Knight chimed in.
"...Sorry, Sweet Mask..." Saitama apologized to him in his head. Did he do something to the other members of S-Class? Why did they have such beef with him? "Anyway. For right now, we'll assume that it isn't a regime. It sounded like it could be, although, as Metal Bat put it, it could only be those close to the Deep Sea King. A tight-knit circle of brutes." He said before looking at Drive Knight. "I'd love to hear what your thoughts are, Drive Knight. How should we move forward with the perception that violence inevitably happens?" He inquired.
"Before I begin, Metal Knight, what is the size of the Seafolk gathered off the coast of City J?" Drive Knight asked.
"We can assume the largest among them is the Deep Sea King. He's inside a sunken barge. They're using it as their base. In total, including scouts that are moving in a rotation, there are thirty-one Seafolk. Each is a different species, meaning they have varied abilities." Metal Knight answered.
"Understood." Drive Knight responded before continuing. "Truthfully, if we're assuming conflict is unavoidable, a show of force would help to establish the Deep Sea King's actual standing. We believe he's arrogant and confident. If so, a sharp humility would help to prevent escalation. However, we're trying to maintain your goal of achieving co-existence with non-humans. So, if we are to use force, it must be non-lethal. Depending on their culture, this could still be seen as cowardice. But since your strength is known throughout their population, indicated by Kombu Infinity's knowledge of you, there is a high probability this will be interpreted as a gesture of mercy. One Punch Man sparing non-humans is not a new occurrence. You've done it intentionally and unintentionally in the past, such as the recent surrender of two brothers who planned to destroy City D. Yet, a show of mercy on this scale with such a wide-reaching audience of humans and non-humans will help future efforts. In conclusion, the best course is a non-lethal counterattack." He stated.
"If I may," Isamu interjected. "What if we took the Seafolk as prisoners? Of course, we wouldn't torture them or use them as bargaining chips. Instead, we could use them as a test for the rehabilitation process of innately violent non-humans. Doctor Genus has the space, resources, and tools to do this. It would also serve two additional functions regarding other matters. First, to further prove that Genus is on our side and isn't playing the long game as a traitor. Second, to see if, even before training, his creations are ready to attempt being heroes. We can benefit from this ordeal in multiple ways if we play the pieces correctly." He suggested.
"A sound proposal." Metal Knight praised.
"Indeed. There are many ways we can take advantage of this unforeseen scenario." Drive Knight agreed.
"..." Saitama was unusually silent. Oh no. Was there something wrong with Drive Knight or Child Emperor's ideas?
"One Punch Man?" Isamu spoke to him. He and the others were confused by the sudden lack of input.
"...Something Drive Knight mentioned got me thinking..." Saitama started. His eyes were closed as he thought. "The part where he mentioned other non-humans seeing what we're doing. Until now, we assumed ALL monsters were isolated creatures, even if they can sometimes resemble each other in small or big ways. But Seafolk existed, and we had NO idea that they did. What if there are other species like that? What if the Deep Sea King isn't the only royalty or officially-deemed ruler of a non-human race? This entire thing could cause most, maybe even ALL, to come forward. This situation could be what catapults us into a new world." He told them.
Afterward, Saitama opened his eyes. When he did, he was met with the sight of his three colleagues looking at him in amazed silence. Sure, Drive Knight and Metal Knight didn't have facial expressions like Child Emperor. But he'd been through this situation enough to know the reaction was shared between them.
"Uh...you guys okay?..." Saitama asked.
"One Punch Man...we...hadn't even considered that..." Metal Knight confessed in disbelief.
"...You...hadn't?..." Saitama nervously inquired. Damn it. Damn it. DAMN IT. HE COULD SEE WHERE THIS WAS GOING.
"It's true. We were so focused on the Deep Sea King, his message, and the Seafolk that we didn't consider what the discovery of their existence meant." Isamu confirmed.
"As always, our leader is thinking of everything. We were too narrow-minded. As a result, our vision was tunneled." Drive Knight stated, complimenting him.
"N-No! This was just a wild whim! A CRAZY idea my brain came up with!" Saitama exclaimed, trying to stop this.
"There's no need to be so humble, One Punch Man." Metal Knight replied. "However, we'll need to hold another meeting with everyone else. This includes Sweet Mask, the Blizzard Group, and the two heroes you've recently spoken to." He said.
"Why the others?" Isamu inquired.
"Simple. As our leader considered, this could radically change the world. The Blizzard Group is in the building with us and will be amid the ensuing chaos. Sweet Mask is the head of the Association's PR, and the potential scenario is within his expertise. Regarding the two heroes from C and B-Class, they're meant to be the heads of the upcoming hero-only news network. Their involvement will be necessary." Metal Knight explained.
"I'll go gather S-Class. They should still be in the dining hall." Drive Knight volunteered before leaving the room.
"I'll come with and inform the Blizzard Group!" Isamu exclaimed, following him out.
"I'll briefly disconnect from the drone to contact Sweet Mask and the other two. I'll be back shortly." Metal Knight informed them before his drone's optics went dark, a sign of deactivation.
Now, only Saitama remained. But that wouldn't last long. Still, he slowly lowered his head onto the table during this temporary pause. There was an indescribable flavor of dread overflowing within him.
"...I...need to stop thinking...only punch..." Saitama muttered. One day. Just. One. Normal. Day. Please.
Meanwhile, At The House of Evolution...
When Kombu Infinity was tossed onto land, this was what they expected. Even in their battered state, their mind still considered the surface dweller's reaction. Horror. Screams. Fleeing masses. Typical monster stuff.
Yet, what was unfolding was slightly different. Instead of scared faces, they were intrigued. Rather than screams, there was silent contemplation. Oh, and the biggest detail of them all. The people staring at Kombu Infinity weren't humans. Well, not entirely.
A mosquito, beetle, mantis, gorilla, lion, frog, slug, and mole all looked at the Seafolk. You'd think Kombu Infinity had just gone through the zoo. Nope. These were the House of Evolution's residents. Side note: Kombu Infinity learned the facility's name while talking with Mosquito Girl.
They were a colorful cast of characters. However, Kombu Infinity did notice a slight difference between them. To an extent, Mosquito Girl, the beetle, and the lion were the most human-esque. The gorilla, mantis, mole, frog, and slug were far more beast-like. Although, in the gorilla's case, apes were the ancestors of humans. Maybe he was the closest based on science?
Mosquito Girl needed no description. After all, Kombu Infinity spent a lovely breakfast chatting with her. The gorilla's most notable feature was his clothes. They were gray and consisted of a pair of sweatpants, a hoodie, and sneakers.
Following the gorilla was the lion. He had a gladiatorial-looking attire. Not much else to say. A similar statement could be said about the mantis and mole. That's it. That's all there was. No accessories or clothes, not that there was anything wrong with that.
The beetle is where things got interesting. The guy wore a black tanktop and denim jeans. An...interesting ensemble. However, given his musculature, it made sense. The guy was BUILT. An absolute UNIT. Kombu Infinity also got the vibe that he might be a little "off" somehow. He couldn't explain why.
Next was the frog. He was blue with black speckling. His build was on the slender side, suggesting nimbleness. At a casual glance, his attire was a simple shirt, pair of pants, and a cloak. Yet, with a keener sight, you could tell that light armor was beneath the clothing. But you'd be forgiven for having your eyes wander to the hilted sword at his side. All-in-all, the frog came across as someone knowledgeable in combat.
Lastly, there was the slug. Admittedly, Kombu Infinity felt a little excited upon seeing him. He was identical to a type of Nudibranch known as the "Spanish Shawl". His body was a bright purple, and he had vibrant orange cerata on his backside. The major difference between him and his animal counterpart was the size and height. Other than that, he came across as a Seafolk, except, you know, friendly.
But let not these descriptions and introductions distract you. All of these individuals are currently staring at Kombu Infinity. Why? Were they sizing them up? Trying to make sense of what they are? What was their reason?
"...Alright. I give up." The beetle said before pointing at them. "How old are you, kid?" He asked.
"Kid?" Kombu Infinity questioned. "I'm not a kid! I'm an adult!" They exclaimed.
"Nah. Not buying that." The lion replied as he folded his arms.
"It's true! I. Am. An. Adult!" Kombu Infinity insisted. Unbelievable! THAT'S why they were staring after Mosquito Girl introduced them? They were trying to deduce the Seafolk's age?!
"Oh yeah? How old are you then?" The beetle challenged.
"Six years!" Kombu Infinity proudly proclaimed while putting their hands on their hips.
...
...
"...Why are you staring at me again?" Kombu Infinity questioned. They all had odd looks on their faces.
"You're...six years old?..." The mantis questioned.
"Uh, yeah? Why?" Kombu Infinity asked in return.
"...Wait." The gorilla spoke up. "Do Seafolk mature differently?" He inquired.
"I...guess?" Kombu Infinity responded with a shrug. "I know NOTHING about surface dwellers or other monsters. But the Seafolk mature VERY quickly. You have to when you live in an environment where everything's trying to eat you." They explained.
"Ah. Now it makes sense." The gorilla said with a smile. "Alright. So, what's six years there in Seafolk culture? To be clear, I'm asking how you're perceived. Ignoring the part when you were used as a source of food." He asked.
"Uh..." Kombu Infinity hummed, giving it some thought. "All the Seafolk who weren't jerks to me always talked to me in a weird way compared to others. Very cute-like." They answered.
"Could you give us some examples?" The frog requested.
"Aww, look at you! You've got such a funny face! Hey there, little guy, how's it going? Stuff like that." Kombu Infinity recalled.
...
...
"You're not helping your case, kid." The beetle told him.
"Look! For the last time, I am not a kid!" Kombu Infinity declared, getting sick of this. "I mean, I'm taller than some of you! Are you saying I'm a kid because of my height?!" They questioned.
"No, but that is a good point." The lion said. "Say, what's the average size and height of a fully-grown adult Seafolk?" He asked.
"..." Kombu Infinity was quiet. They didn't dare open their mouth.
"There it is. The final nail." The beetle said.
"I'M DIFFERENT, ALRIGHT?!" Kombu Infinity shouted, finally at their limit. "I'M A PLANT! I'M NOT SOME BIG SHARK GUY OR SOMETHING! GEEZ!" They yelled.
"Okay. So, are there any other plant Seafolk you could be compared to? Ones that have been alive a lot longer?" The mole inquired.
"..." Kombu Infinity didn't say anything again. Instead, they turned on their heels and tried to leave.
"Hey! There's no reason to be so upset!" Mosquito Girl exclaimed as she quickly prevented them from leaving. "So what if you're younger than us? It's not like we'll suddenly start treating you like a baby." She said, hoping to make them feel better.
In response, Kombu Infinity immediately pointed at the beetle.
"Don't mind, Kabuto. He's an ass." The lion commented.
"Ha! Rich coming from the self-proclaimed Beast King." Kabuto countered.
"The doctor gave me that name." Beast King said in his defense.
"You didn't reject it," Kabuto argued.
"Would the old married couple please take their fighting elsewhere?" The mantis requested.
CLAP
That came from Mosquito Girl. This introduction, which she hoped would be pleasant, was devolving rapidly into chaos.
"Before you start your usual squabbling, could you PLEASE tell Kombu who you are? It's the reason I brought them to see you guys." Mosquito Girl requested.
"I don't see the point." The mole chimed in. "We're getting new names soon. What we'll give the kid will be our new hero names. The same applies to you, Mosquito Girl." He said.
"So? Kombu still needs to call us something proper before then! You want just to be called mole?" Mosquito Girl challenged.
"Oh no. A mole. The thing I am. How horrible." The mole mockingly replied.
"Hold on." Kombu Infinity interjected, getting the attention back on them. "Did...you say you were becoming heroes? Aren't those the humans who dress differently from the rest? Sort of like One Punch Man?" They asked.
"Spot on, kid," Kabuto answered. "We're going to be the first non-human heroes. It's a pretty big deal." He explained, being ever so humble about it.
"It's One Punch Man's idea. He wants us to be accepted rather than be run out of town." The frog told him.
"So...Saitama wants you to be heroes..." Kombu Infinity muttered as they looked down at themselves. "I wonder...if I could be a hero, too?" They pondered aloud.
"Yes! Absolutely!" Mosquito Girl quickly exclaimed with an excited grin. "You could even join our team!" She added.
"As what? The mascot?" Kabuto inquired.
SMACK
Beast King delivered a proper wallop to the back of Kabuto's head. Yet, Kabuto would let it slide. Even he could take a hint when he was being a bit TOO much. But if Beast King did that again, he'd keep the hand.
"I don't know. I don't have much to offer, just my hair." Kombu Infinity said as they raised the seaweed on their head.
"Don't worry! We'll help you figure out ways you can use that!" Mosquito Girl promised. "Right, guys?" She asked as she looked back at the others.
Suddenly, the others were all inflicted with an irresistible urge to look at the ceiling.
"...Guys..." Mosquito Girl repeated with a furrowed brow and an unamused tone.
"Oh, don't even." The mole said, being the one to look at her. "We're ALL going to be busy with training! Or have you forgotten about that?" He asked.
"...Training..." Mosquito Girl muttered as the gears in her head turned.
"Uh...yeah...that's what I said..." The mole responded, confused by her reaction.
Like the others and their unexpected fixation on the ceiling, Mosquito Girl suddenly grabbed Kombu Infinity's wrist and ran away with him.
"WHOA!" Kombu Infinity shouted in surprise. "Mosquito Girl! Where are we going?!" They questioned.
"Back to my room! Ground Dragon gave me a GREAT idea!" Mosquito Girl exclaimed as another grin appeared on her face. "Lucky for us, I have a wish that needs granting~" She said, only worsening the poor Seafolk's confusion.
