Ripping off the bandage. A non-copyrighted version of a popular saying. It means to get something painful over with as fast as possible rather than do it slowly and worsen the experience. However, it is also used when describing a scenario that is merely unpleasant, annoying, or aggravating.

By this point in his life, Saitama had come to hold that phrase in his heart. As the world's most beloved human being and the number one hero, there was a LOT he had to deal with. One such responsibility had been put off for as long as possible due to recent events, but now, it was time to buckle down and deal with it.

"Sensei!" Genos, the recent addition to S-Class, exclaimed while raising his hand. "Is this where you practice your techniques? It's far from any populated area." He asked.

A cyborg and a bald man. Quite the odd couple. This unlikely duo was amid a ravine that had become Saitama's training ground and his get-away from the world when he needed it. Saitama had come here recently with Tatsumaki. Sadly, today wasn't to be spent alongside a friend lying on towels and enjoying a nice lunch.

Instead, it was the start of Genos's hero training. Furthermore, it was also the start of the House of Evolution's training. But there was a LOT more pressure on Genos and Saitama's shoulders, although the blonde-haired cyborg likely didn't realize this.

Ignoring the Seafolk incident and how well its aftermath has been going, the House of Evolution's members still wouldn't have faced as much scrutiny as Genos will. In addition to appearing from nowhere and getting an immediate placement in S-Class, he was the second official disciple under Saitama. The first, of course, being King.

Every single thing Genos does will be observed. Every action. Every interaction. Every public appearance. Every fight. E-V-E-R-Y-T-H-I-N-G.

One might assume that the stress for Saitama came from the fear of embarrassment or shame that Genos could somehow bring. However, this couldn't be farther from the truth. Saitama wasn't a man of ego or one to fret about what everyone else thought about him. He couldn't care less if the world didn't know he existed or even HATED him.

Saitama's worries were all about Genos. The poor guy would constantly be compared to someone whom the majority of people saw as a paragon of perfection. The harshest critics would undoubtedly come from within the Association. All heroes from every rank would assess Genos's performance and progress as time passed. And there were NO harsher critics than S-Class and A-Class.

So, Saitama's training of Genos wouldn't just consist of battle strategies and techniques. He'd tried to mentally prepare the cyborg of justice for what waited for him. Despite being a bit...quirky, Saitama could tell Genos was as sincere as they come. There wasn't a doubt in his mind that Genos, with proper direction, would be a good hero. Maybe even great.

"Yup," Saitama answered as he looked around at the barren landscape. "I try to keep it to the confines of the ravine walls. Although there isn't ANYTHING of note for miles around, it helps to keep me aware of what I'm doing so I don't accidentally send a massive shockwave toward a town or something." He explained.

"Ah. So restrictions help us to improve our control and judgment." Genos stated.

"...Uh...sure..." Saitama replied. Even with only a handful of interactions between them, he got the impression that Genos read too much into everything. For some reason, that seemed familiar to Saitama. "Anyway. The first half of today will be spent in the ravine. Then, for the remainder, we'll go to a city and walk around as if on patrol." He told him.

"Ah. You want to see how well I can spot suspicious behavior. Or perhaps you want to gauge my ability to familiarize myself with an environment so I can better tell when something is amiss." Genos deduced.

"...Yeah..." Saitama responded. Seriously, this was causing a weird sense of Deja Vu. Eh, best not to dwell on it. "Ahem. Now, what we'll do for this first session is measure your effectiveness with your abilities. Before you say anything, I'm aware that you're a cyborg. So, you could have multiple bodies, tools, or upgrades to help you in nearly every situation. What I'm specifically saying is I want you to show me how creatively you can use what you already have. I want to see how much you know about yourself." He said.

"Do you want the detailed schematics for this version of my body? I can have Doctor Kuseno make you several copies." Genos offered.

"...No." Saitama plainly said. "Genos, I can't put it better than how I'm about to. I want you to use the weapons you CURRENTLY have on your person in as many ways as possible. I also want to see your physical moves, like punches or kicks. This ensures that you won't be left helpless when confronted with a problem stacked against you." He explained.

"...I understand." Genos began as he put a hand to his chin. "As an example, Tanktop Master is entirely physical. If confronted by an opponent immune to all forms of physical damage, he'd be vulnerable and of no use to anyone if he didn't have ways to deal with that." He stated.

"Yeah! Now you're getting it!" Saitama praised him with an encouraging smile. "You'd be surprised how many times that happens. Heroes will dedicate themselves to one type of approach. But then, when that approach is useless, so are they. That might sound a bit harsh, but it's the real truth. And since we're in a position where people rely on us, we can't be so easily rendered incapable. In short, it can be summarized with this question. Who saves the heroes if they can't save themselves?" He shared.

For a moment, Genos was in awe. Then, before Saitama could process what was happening, the cyborg produced a notebook and pencil from his back pocket and started writing.

"...Genos," Saitama spoke once he realized what was happening. "What're you doing?" He asked.

"I want to preserve all words of wisdom and guidance you give me so that I may never disappoint or fail you, sensei," Genos answered before proudly displaying the pages of his book. Damn, he legitimately got it all written down in a handful of seconds. It was so clear and well-written, too.

...Okay. That sense of Deja Vu? Even stronger now. What was happening? When did Saitama experience something like this? It was starting to bug him.

"...Alright, let's get going," Saitama said, wanting to move past that.

"Yes, sensei!" Genos exclaimed as he hastily stashed away the notebook and pen. He was ready and then some to show his master everything he had!


Elsewhere, In A Dojo Outside Of City Z...


Silver Fang. The hero name of a renowned martial arts master. His actual name was Bang. Regardless of which you went with, the man sounded cool.

Bang's fighting style was "Water Stream Rock Smashing Fist". Quite the elaborate name, isn't it? However, it perfectly encapsulated the techniques it taught. Your body and movements flowed like the water of a stream, yet, when needed, it impacted with the force of a rushing flow that could destroy rock.

With this established, you'd assume Bang's dojo would overflow with students, no pun intended. Yet, the martial arts master had only one pupil. A young man with a headful of messy orange hair named Charanko. But how could this be? How could such a renowned figure in the martial arts world have only one person learning from him?

...

...

Today was a special day for Bang and Charanko. At last, after so long, there'd be more people to make the spacious training grounds feel less so. However, there WAS something Bang hadn't mentioned about these recruits. He assumed the best way to handle it would be to let it happen.

Unfortunately, this led to a very awkward scenario. Charanko stood motionless with his eyes wide and his mouth agape. The new students were across from him and Bang, who stood beside him. One was a massive lion man, and the other was a tall yet not as bulky mantis man.

The lion and mantis stood there with the same absence of motion as Charanko. They were genuinely nervous about this. They were getting to train under a legendary fighter. They were in his family's home and school. As people who respected the art of combat and any who practiced it like themselves, the lion and mantis didn't want to do anything to disgrace themselves or this place and its master.

"I am sorry, Charanko." Bang apologized with a sigh as he touched the young man's shoulder. "I didn't know how to explain this to you without causing a fuss. At least you're not screaming, right?" He explained, ending with a jestful question.

"..." Charanko made no sound. He might not be on planet Earth anymore.

"...Should...we call this off?..." The mantis inquired. "If it's going to be too problematic, we can-"

"Nonsense." Bang firmly rejected the idea. However, he did so in a calm and comforting tone. "This is going to be an adjustment for all of us. But you have proven to me and many others that your intentions are good. I will not turn you away because you are not human." He told them.

"Thank you, sir." The lion respectfully replied while bowing. "Shall we introduce ourselves to your student? Perhaps that will help to calm his nerves." He suggested.

"Splendid idea," Bang said in approval.

"I am Beast King. Currently, that is my name. However, I and the others in my group, the House of Evolution, are trying to decide on proper names. Beast King shall become my hero name when we are officially revealed to the public." The lion stated.

"I am Kamakyuri. I'm the only one in the House of Evolution with the opposite situation. That IS my name and always has been. I need to figure out a hero name before we debut next month." The mantis stated.

"...Charanko..." The poor orange-haired boy's voice came out as a squeak. His brain was still overwhelmed, yet he managed to introduce himself. Any progress was good progress.

"Wonderful," Bang said with a smile. "Now that you're acquainted, I'll give Beast King and Kamakyuri a tour of the dojo." He stated, mainly speaking to Charanko.

Afterward, Bang, Beast King, and Kamakyuri left the main hall. Charanko remained where he stood, trying to return to planet Earth.


Not Too Far Away, In A Laboratory In City Z...


You'd think there'd be great awkwardness between Armored Gorilla and Child Emperor. One was a prodigy, the other a non-human entity created by one of the smartest men in the world. Then there was the detail that although Child Emperor had existed for more years than Armored Gorilla, the latter was mentally older than the person meant to be his mentor. Surely, it'd be tough for them to establish a comfortable relationship.

But no. Armored Gorilla and Child Emperor were one of only two pairings that hit it off immediately. After the initial introductions and polite conversation, the two quickly found a shared interest in the obvious. Technology.

Armored Gorilla was the smartest member of his group, excluding the Doctor and his clones. This isn't to say the others were idiots, but their intelligence had been designed around different areas. For example, Carnage Kabuto and Beast King were perfectly honed in on a biological level to be combat experts. Despite being alive only for a few years, their ability to understand ANY fighting technique and its teaching was on par with someone like Atomic Samurai or Silver Fang. This didn't make them masters; it only ensured they'd quickly improve themselves and be better fighters.

Then, there was Armored Gorilla. Ignoring the cybernetic enhancements, he was created on a mental level to be the main tactician of the group. He could form strategies and understand the proper use of everyone's talents and capabilities without ANY issues. Furthermore, regardless of its type, his natural receptiveness and knowledge retainment were nearly identical to his creator's.

So, as Child Emperor and Armored Gorilla began to relax and discuss the topics they had shared interests, which were MANY, they near-instantly developed a solid bond with each other. There wouldn't be any nervousness or need for formalities now. They were, in essence, synchronized. Even so, they were still a mentor and a student; they needed to get started.

"Here's the plan." Child Emperor began as he typed away at his main computer's keyboard. "Since you're a cyborg and a capable fighter, I decided to make your training a matter of optimization rather than learning. You got the skills, tools, and weapons you need for success. However, you must be mindful of how it is used in residential areas. You won't always have the favorable situation of a town being evacuated ahead of time for a battle. Luckily, we're in City Z, specifically, Ghost Town. We have plenty of empty streets and buildings to serve as your restrictions. Throughout Ghost Town, I've placed multiple holographic projectors that'll randomly play out different scenarios. They'll play after each other on a timer when I activate them. Your objective for your first day is to arrive at each incident timely, resolve them efficiently, and cause as little collateral damage as possible. You'll also be evaluated on things such as creativity in combat, variety of tactics, and overall performance." He told him before turning around in his chair. "Did you get all that?" He asked.

"Yes, sir. Resolve issues as best and fast as I can." Armored Gorilla answered with a nod.

"Great." Child Emperor replied with a smile. "Head outside. Since we've connected you to my tech, I can stay in contact. Once you're ready, I'll give the go-ahead." He instructed.

Nodding once more, Armored Gorilla left to get into position. As the door to the laboratory closed, and he readied himself, he heard Child Emperor's voice.

"Alright...connection's good..." Child Emperor muttered, doing one last check of everything. "...Okay...in three...two...one...GO!" He exclaimed.

With the clock started, Armored Gorilla set out into Ghost Town. Although Child Emperor hadn't set a strict goal for him, he'd still aim for one. He would do everything he could to impress his mentor and make his creator proud!


Meanwhile, In The Apartment Building Across The Road...


Like the rest of their organization, Ground Dragon and Frog Man weren't easily intimidated. It was difficult to make them feel fear or apprehensiveness. They weren't the strongest nor the most powerful. Yet still, these two could hold their own and were capable in ways that made them unique to their peers. So, in short, they weren't lacking in confidence.

But then these two non-humans sat down across Flashy Flash. This man's unwavering stare of focus and resolve could make the Devil tremble. Even when still as a statue, he had a commanding aura about him. Granted, that statement applied to MOST of S-Class. However, each member's "aura" or "energy" was different from each other.

In the case of Flashy Flash, it was sharp like the blade he carried. You felt as though he could kill you at a moment's notice. Which, in all fairness, was true. The man's speed was matched by few and outclassed by fewer. But beyond his speed, Flashy Flash's combat and weapon skills were truly masterful. No matter how you examined the man, he was a force of nature.

Being in Flashy Flash's presence and becoming his students made the air of the room suffocating for Ground Dragon and Frog Man. He hadn't said a word to either of them yet. He only stared, assessing them as his pupils.

"..." Flashy Flash slowly folded his arms and finally closed his eyes. Amazingly, they weren't dry from how long they hadn't blinked. "...You two are going to be troublesome." He said.

...

...

Ground Dragon and Frog Man didn't know how to react to that. Did Flashy Flash want them to say something? Or were they meant to absorb that statement and continue listening?

"...Sir?..." Frog Man hesitantly responded. One of them needed to prod the waters.

"You have little power between the two of you." Flashy Flash resumed speaking. Phew. Frog Man's gamble was correct. "Ground Dragon is only useful when in the dirt. Frog Man has an impressive ability to create any toxin or chemical that he wants, in addition to possessing total immunity." He continued, re-opening his eyes. "However, this will not be enough. I understand that you desire a stealth-focused approach to your hero careers. I am the best teacher for such a path. However, apart from Frog Man's swordsmanship, you two have a lot of work ahead of you. Even then, Frog Man is likely not close to any notable level. You're fledglings. Utterly helpless. I'll need to guide you through every basic lesson imaginable and have you repeat it until you have it down perfectly. Only then can we move on to the easiest tactics, techniques, and skills I offer. It will be grueling. I will not be merciful. Of every member of the House of Evolution, you two will be taxed the most. Every day will end in exhaustion and soreness. You'll have little respite. In no small way or exaggeration, this will be a living Hell. Are you willing to endure?" He concluded, ending with a question.

"Yes, sir!" Ground Dragon and Frogman responded immediately with vigor. Good, no hesitation, as Flashy Flash hoped for and expected.

"Then, we'll get started." Flashy Flash said as he rose from his seat. "Follow me. We're heading to an isolated location." He told them.

In silence, Ground Dragon and Frog Man followed. The trio made their way out of Flashy Flash's abode and into the nearest elevator. They'd reach the ground floor and proceed to the entrance.

"GO, SUPERALLOY!"

"YOU CAN DO IT! DON'T GIVE UP!"

"COME ON, KABUTO! I'VE GOT SERIOUS MONEY RIDING ON YOU!"

These sudden yells brought the trio to a brief stop. Although an apartment building, the ground floor layout resembled a hotel. So, the dining area was accessible from the lobby. And through its open doors, the trio saw a most peculiar sight.

Carnage Kabuto and Superalloy Darkshine were locked in an arm wrestling competition. No, correction, it was a battle of muscular gods. Their biceps bulged. Their elbows were locked in place. Their hands gripped each other with unprecedented strength. These men among men were deadlocked in a stalemate.

...Also, they'd been like that since a little after breakfast. They very well could be there all day. Hence the crowd of Association employees that had formed and was placing bets.

"That's his training?" Flashy Flash questioned with a scoff. "Ridiculous." He said before resuming his exit.

Ground Dragon and Frog Man, awestruck by the scene, quickly snapped out of it and continued following their mentor. Each wondered if Carnage Kabuto and Superalloy Darkshine would still be there when they returned.


Nearby, In The Blizzard Group's Meeting Room...


Slugerous was the most unique member of the House of Evolution. He opted to have a more beast-like appearance, more so than Beast King or Kamakyuri! There were no human-esque or anthropomorphic traits to be found. As previously described, he was a man-sized Spanish Shawl Sea Slug.

However, this choice wasn't made solely from preference. Slugerous proposed the idea to his creator that trying to balance human traits and physiology with the Esper-related ones and those of a slug made his body needlessly complicated. If they focused more on a single direction for Slugerous's new self, then they'd be able to enhance it better and plan for what they wanted to be in it. Doctor Genus agreed; however, there was one concern.

Even with One Punch Man's endorsement, the House of Evolution would already face scrutiny and hardships for being non-humans. But Slugerous's new appearance would lack ANYTHING familiar to a human. Truthfully, although based on an animal, he'd be perceived as an alien. A strange creature that humanity would be quicker to reject than accept.

Slugerous was well aware of this. He anticipated his form would unsettle the Blizzard Group. He expected its leader, Hellish Blizzard, to be nervous in his presence. She could even reject him and request that One Punch Man reassign him.

Yet, for the past half hour, Slugerous had done nothing but remain still and answer questions. Was the Blizzard Group interrogating him? Did they not trust him? No. The exact opposite. They were fascinated by him.

Non-humans, A.K.A. Monsters, have never been studied by the general public or most heroes. This isn't surprising since the only course of action was extermination when they appeared in the past. They didn't care about interaction, and the heroes weren't tasked with dealing with the remains. So, this was the opportunity of a lifetime for the Blizzard Group, a team of B-Class heroes.

Now, they didn't want Slugerous to be uncomfortable. They asked for permission before beginning their inspection and questions. When granted, their eyes sparkled in amazement at Slugerous's physical characteristics and his ESP. Honestly, Slugerous was overwhelmed by how flattering it was.

CLAP

"Alright, everyone. That's enough." Fubuki, who had remained in her seat at the head of the table, brought her hands together to regain control over the room. "Slugerous isn't here to be ogled like an exhibit." She said.

"But Miss Blizzard, he's okay with it!" One of the members exclaimed.

"Regardless, he's here to join our group and receive training from me. We've put that off for long enough." Fubuki replied before gesturing to the vacant seats. "Now, please, sit down." She told them.

Akin to disappointed children, the Blizzard Group members took their assigned seats.

"Thank you for indulging them," Fubuki said as she focused back on Slugerous.

"Oh. It was no trouble." Slugerous assured. With his newly-enhanced ESP capabilities, Slugerous opted to rely on telepathic communication. "If anything, having all of you be so excited about me eases my worries." He confessed.

"How could we not be? You're so cool!" Another member responded.

"I agree. Your appearance is quite stylish." Fubuki chimed in. "However, I'd like to know its functions. This way, I can better guide you as your mentor." She requested.

"Oh. Of course." Slugerous said. "Well, to start with, the cerata on my backside are used as weapons. With my ESP, I can remove and use them in combat. Yet even if I don't, they protect my backside from attacks. Similar to the other members of the House of Evolution, I have accelerated regeneration. So, even in an extreme scenario where I must use all of my cerata, I can regrow them in less than a minute.

Regarding mobility, although I am based on a slug, I'm no slouch. I am not the fastest member of my organization, but I am swifter than a human of decent physicality. I can cling to any surface and traverse any terrain. My flesh is extremely durable and malleable. To clarify the latter, what I mean is that I can fit into nearly any space and face no discomfort in any environment. So, if a particularly slim criminal or villain were to escape via a route that most couldn't follow, I'd be able to without any issue.

I am comfortable in any temperature, including extreme ones. Although, like my self-healing capabilities, that is something shared among the members of the House of Evolution. Also, I can breathe underwater. An obvious trait to possess, given the creature used as the inspiration for my altered self. And with that, I've shared all the physical traits I can think of. If you need more information, I could get you in contact with my creator." He stated, ending with an offer.

"Thank you. I'd appreciate that." Fubuki accepted with a smile. "One more question before we proceed. What is the extent of your ESP? The reason you were assigned to me is because of that trait. Knowing as much about it as possible is crucial." She inquired.

"First, I need to establish that my cerata are special. I'm unsure if it's because they're a part of me or if it's something else the Doctor didn't specify, but I can wield them without issue. However, nothing will happen if I try to lift and use objects similar to them in height and size. The most I can manage right now would be knives. To be precise, ones large enough to be stored in knife holders you'd put on your kitchen counter. I can levitate but not fly. I cannot lift people yet. Maybe children, but we didn't have a way to test that.

Yet, when it comes to manipulating my power itself, that is where I seem to excel. Barrier creation is incredibly simple to me. The largest I can conjure presently is the width of a normal road. At that size, I can produce and successfully maintain three. I can also use it as a direct attack like you and your sister. Of course, I'm nowhere NEAR your level. Still, if someone tried to fight me up close and personal, I could beat them back with no issue. I may lack arms and legs, but that doesn't mean I'm useless if my opponent closes the distance." Slugerous responded.

In the following moments, everyone waited patiently for Fubuki to say something. She carefully considered what she learned.

"...Alright, then." Fubuki started as another smile appeared. "Slugerous, I believe you can accompany us on patrols." She decided.

"S-Seriously?" Slugerous questioned, amazed by that level of trust.

"Mhm. You already proved your capableness with the Seafolk incident. Yet, from how you describe your physical and psychic traits, you'd be a valuable asset to our team as we deal with threats." Fubuki explained. "However, I do have something I'd like to say. Fair warning, it might offend you." She said.

Whoa. That took everyone by surprise. What could Miss Blizzard have in her mind that could insult or upset Slugerous?

"It may not look like it, but I have thick skin." Slugerous joked, hoping it'd lessen the sudden tension that statement caused.

"Very well." Fubuki began, glad to see that he was willing to listen. "I know you and the other members of the House of Evolution have already had your bodies changed, but would it be possible to consider a different approach to the form you've chosen? I don't ask this because it disturbs or disgusts me. Like my subordinates, I think you look cool. However, the world is a cruel place. Even in this day and age where One Punch Man is trying to make life more comfortable for everyone, including non-humans, there'll be a LOT of hesitation to something as jarring as yourself. Even members such as Beast King or Carnage Kabuto have enough about them that it is somewhat normal that, with time, it'd be easy for people to approach them. I only bring this up because I don't want you to be harassed and potentially attacked." She asked while ensuring her reasoning was understood.

"Yeah, the Doctor brought this up as well..." Slugerous shared with a sigh. "Maybe he and I can try and workshop some different ideas. I like how I look, but I recognize the difficulties it presents. Plus, there is merit in having a form not so reliant on ESP for most interactions. Yet, with all of this said, the main reason why we went with this was for the sake of my ESP abilities. I am meant to be the House of Evolution's psychic member. My original design didn't allow for much innate power. I worry that with more alterations, the state of my abilities could be negatively impacted." He answered.

"I see..." Fubuki muttered, now having more to consider. "Apologies. I didn't mean to overstep if I did." She said.

"No, it's fine, really," Slugerous assured her. "But if I may ask, is there a time limit? Do you think this is something urgent that needs immediate attention?" He inquired.

"Not at all. This isn't an order from me or something I feel is necessary. It was just a concern I felt I needed to express." Fubuki replied before standing up. "But now that it's out of the way, we can wrap things up and head out. Assuming you're ready." She suggested.

"Yes, mam. Raring to go." Slugerous responded with a nod.

And with that, the Blizzard Group's newest member was officially a part of the team. Better yet, he got to go out on patrols with them as part of his training. He couldn't have asked for a better arrangement!


Meanwhile, Several Floors Above Them...


When Mosquito Girl hoped for an office befitting a detective agency, she didn't think she'd be handed Zombieman's apartment. Alas, here they were. Zombieman, Mosquito Girl, and Kombu Infinity. An unlikely trio gathered around a simple round dining room table.

"..." Mosquito Girl rested her head in her palm. Her right arm was propped up and supporting her noggin; the left lay on the table and tapped its surface with its fingers.

"Mosquito Girl, are you okay?" Kombu Infinity asked, noticing her incredible boredom.

"...No..." Mosquito Girl pouted. "This was supposed to be EXCITING. And yet, we are sitting at a table doing nothing." She sighed.

"What're you talking about?" Zombieman questioned with a raised brow. "I made you guys breakfast." He said.

"True. The eggs were delicious." Kombu Infinity complimented the chef. "I am surprised you went to the effort, though." They confessed.

"Well, I talked about it with One Punch Man after I got home yesterday and told him the situation..." Zombieman began as he folded his arms. "He told me that I could continue to mope and complain about it, which would only worsen all our moods, or I could put forward a real effort. Even if we don't become best friends, which will NOT happen, we can still get along and form a trusting relationship. I figured the best place to begin was to ensure you guys wouldn't work on empty stomachs." He explained.

"That's...very sweet." Mosquito Girl said, surprised by his story. "Thank you, Zombieman. Your effort is noticed and appreciated." She told him before sighing again. "However, we're still sitting around doing nothing. Where's the cool noir atmosphere, the smooth jazz playing in the background, or the empty pistol with a loaded magazine resting on a well-worn desk?" She asked.

"...How many detective movies have you seen?" Zombieman inquired. "And from what period?" He added.

"Kombu and I have done extensive research to prepare for our training." Mosquito Girl replied.

"We've been binging detective movies, shows, manga, and anime." Kombu Infinity clarified.

"...Yeah, no, that checks out." Zombieman said, inadvertently mocking Mosquito Girl's "research" methods. "Sorry to say, Mosquito Girl, we don't have a detective agency or office space. Maybe in the future, and that's a STRONG maybe." He told her.

"Ugh, then what's the POINT?" Mosquito Girl questioned before laying her head on the table. "Detectives' lives are meant to be exciting! Full of action, suspense, and the occasional romance! What're we supposed to do?" She whined.

"...You...do know we don't need the office to do detective work, right?" Zombieman asked before standing up from his seat. "If we did, I wouldn't be known for my skills as an investigator." He mentioned.

Watching as their mentor left the table and went to a different room, Mosquito Girl and Kombu Infinity were surprised to see Zombieman return within seconds. Not only that, but he carried a file in his hands.

"Oh...my...gosh..." Mosquito Girl slowly said as she straightened her posture. "Is that...a case? Are we going to work on a REAL case for our training?!" She inquired with an excited grin.

"Sort of. This is something I want you two to try and help me with. If we make any progress, no matter how small, I'll let you decide what we do next." Zombieman explained.

"Oh. We're SO in!" Mosquito Girl exclaimed. "So, what is it? A murderer? A con artist? A man scorned by his past on a path of revenge?" She asked.

"...You know, it's amazing that two of those guesses are correct," Zombieman answered, only worsening her giddiness. "The suspect is a well-known assassin. Furthermore, he was recently humiliated by a well-known figure in the community. As a result, he's likely got his sights set on this person as his next target. The Association is actively searching for him, but they also asked me to lend my skills if I had the time." He told them.

"Whoa. This is awesome!" Kombu Infinity exclaimed, also getting excited. "What kind of assassin are they?" They inquired.

"A ninja," Zombieman replied as he opened the file. Mosquito Girl and Kombu Infinity first saw a picture of a man with black hair and purple markings beneath his eyes. "His name is Speed-O-Sound Sonic. And I believe he will make his move soon. Today, we're going to investigate some leads I've managed to find that could bring us closer to apprehending him." He stated.

"YES! THIS IS WHAT I'M TALKING ABOUT!" Mosquito Girl cheered while throwing her arms into the air. "When do we head out? Do we need to get equipment? Are we going to do a stakeout?" She asked.

"Whenever you're ready. No equipment will be needed. No stakeout." Zombieman answered.

"Alright! Then let's get going!" Mosquito Girl declared before hurrying out of her seat.

Knowing they'd be running after her if they didn't follow immediately, Zombieman and Kombu Infinity stood up and exited the apartment behind an ecstatic Mosquito Girl. Their first official case as a trio was underway!