Thank you all for returning. I hope you have been enjoying this because we got more coming! In this chapter, Haise reports to Arima for his handling of the Quinxes after their failure to exterminate Torso. As well as Arima checking on Haise's wellbeing after said day. No time to waste.

Chapter 3 – adjust: The next step

(GCB Main Headquarters, 1st ward)

Haise stood before Arima to talk to him about his decision to make Shirazu squad leader. As well as other matters. All while sparing with each other.

"So, Shirazu…what happened with Urie?"

Arima threw a pen at Haise, but Haise dodged it in time.

"I recognize his talent and skills. Fast learner and a good eye for investigation. In some ways, he reminds me of myself when I first started here."

Haise went for the attack. Both stood on the table to continue their sparing.

"But he lacks a certain kind of empathy needed for a team. Something Shirazu has in spades. And although he doesn't look it, he is actually aware of what's around him."

Haise delivered a flurry of punches, but Arima dodged each of them.

"Somehow, I expected you to make that call.

"Hopefully Urie will learn to be a team player. Not to mention Shirazu needs this push to be a capable investigator in his own right- OOF!"

Arima gave a powerful kick to Haise's gut, causing him to fly off the table. Arima then took out another pen from his right pocket, jumped off the table, landed over Haise, and attempted to strike Haise with said pen. Haise immediately says,

"I concede!"

Arima stopped. Haise sees the pen inches away from his face as Arima withdrew it.

"Impressive…but you still could've done better. Next time, close the gap between the upper and lower halves of your body."

"R-Right…"

Haise got himself up before resuming the conversation.

"In all honesty, I thought you wanted to talk to me about losing both Torso and Orochi. I mean, after all the work the Quinx squad put into ID'ing him, I thought you'd be disappointed."

Arima went to a chair where he placed a book upon it, and gave it to Haise.

"It's the book you lent me. Though it was short, Kafka's sense of humor made the story engaging."

Haise held the book Arima gave him before replying,

"Agreed."

"…You did what you thought was necessary for the survival of your squad. Let's leave it at that."

Haise possessed a sullen look on his face.

"Just keep pushing your limits."

Arima then looked at Haise and sees the expression.

"Let me guess…that voice spoke to you…"

Haise briefly expressed surprise before being honest.

"…yes. Every time my back is against the wall, I hear him tempting me to be angry. And when I am, he takes over…"

"Could it be…him?"

"I honestly don't know. Even when I finished my memory treatments, I still can't recall who it is."

Arima placed his hand on Haise's shoulder.

"From what I recall, memories are a lot more complex than people imagine. Every story I have read involving memories share a common point: they are interconnected. If you remember one thing, it's really the beginning of a chain."

"I want to believe that. But there's something else I want."

"Hmm?"

"I want to be of use to you and everyone else in my life. True, this job isn't easy…but if means the people I help live to see tomorrow, then I believe it's worth it."

Arima was impressed by Haise's dedication.

"Even though I'm new to this leadership position, I want the Quinxes to become capable investigators in their own right. Maybe it's weird for me to say…but I'm quite happy."

Arima now felt a little bemused by Haise's attitude.

"Is the past really that unnecessary to you?"

"Not at all. It's just…the present feels a lot more right to me."

"Well then…I suppose I'll leave it at that. By the way, I'd like to borrow another book. So, I'll stop by the chateau sometime today."

Haise was shocked by this.

"You don't have to! I'll just bring some to you."

Arima softly laughed before saying,

"We should clean up right now."

"Right. Last thing we want is the Director finding out about what we did."

As they cleaned, Haise was in thought about what he said before.

" It's fine…I know what I really am…but I'm still willing to fight…if I lose control again, I know Arima will be there for me. Because of him, I have a family…even if it's a make-up one…

xxxxxx

Later on, Haise met with Investigator Madou to discuss the Torso case.

"The squad has done a lot…"

"Well we made sure not to disappoint you."

"I can tell. Based on this intel, we can restrict his movements considerably. Can't believe Shimoguchi held out this much."

"Really?"

Asked Haise in a semi-sarcastic tone.

"All right, maybe not that much. I just thought he wasn't that petty about-"

Haise expressed disbelief with his face, which Akira instantly understood.

"Anyways…with this, we can pretty much boss him around. Even after the scene where you got taken by Yukio, I doubt he'll have the right to complain."

"With you there."

"What's more, because of this, we found where Torso lives."

"What did you find?"

"Currently, Shimoguchi squad is still searching the place…but from what I hear, torsos far as the mind could handle."

Haise felt a little uncomfortable at the idea Akira gave.

"Even though it's a ghoul's den, it's still pretty disturbing, I'll admit."

Just then, Akira's phone rang.

"Madou here."

Akira received a call that shocked her. Which concerned Haise.

"Investigator Madou what is it?"

"It's Shimoguchi squad. They've been under attack…by the Rabbit."

The two immediately grabbed their coats, and power walked their way to the elevator. As soon as the elevator made it to the lobby, both Akira and Haise made it outside. However, Akira spotted somebody both unexpected and unpleasant for her to meet.

"Haise!"

It was Yukio near a black sedan. Akira had a sour look on her face and asked Haise,

"What the hell is she doing here?"

"She just offered me a ride here. That's it."

"So why did she wait here?"

"It was a choice."

Akira still looked at Yukio with hostility.

"If it makes you feel any better, Haise didn't tell me anything. I just wanted to help I can. Nothing more."

Akira gave a steady sigh before speaking to Haise.

"I'll see you at the hospital."

Haise was confused as to what Akira was talking about.

"Investigator Madou?"

"I'm taking a cab. Taxi!"

"Akira, I already have-"

"I SAID I'M TAKING A CAB!"

Haise reacted to Akira's outburst comically.

"Okay. You do what you want."

"Thank you!"

A cab eventually arrived. Akira entered before the cab drove away. As Haise went to Yukio, he asked her,

"Any idea about that?"

"She dislikes me."

"What?"

Asked in a tone of voice that expressed both surprise and disbelief.

"It is what it is."

"Well, that's just crazy because I find you likeable."

Yukio smiled before replying,

"Thank you."

As Haise entered the back seat of the car, he sees Harada driving the car. He asked,

"Where to?"

xxxxxx

Haise waited outside the hospital where Investigator Shimoguchi currently stayed. After half an hour passed, the taxi Akira was on finally arrived. As Akira got out, Haise asked her,

"What took you so long?"

"There was traffic on the route my cab took."

"You know I had a-"

"Save it."

Haise immediately shut up. Akira then says,

"Let's go in."

Both Investigators made their way to Shimoguchi, who laid on his hospital bed with a dejected look on his face. Akira says to him,

"Investigator Shimoguchi…I'm sorry about your squad."

Shimoguchi stayed silent before replying,

"Thank you…leave your gift on the table over there."

"Unfortunately, this isn't a visit. I know you've been through a lot…but we need what happened at the Torso residence."

After another pause of silence, Shimoguchi spoke about how his squad was wiped out.

"…the Rabbit arrived."

Both Investigators were shocked to hear those words.

"One of Aogiri's ghouls. SS-rated…"

Said Akira, to which Haise asked,

"Isn't the S2 squad after him?"

"Yes…"

Akira bowed to Shimoguchi, with Haise following after.

"Thank you. Please excuse us."

Akira was the first to leave, but Haise stayed. Much to Shimoguchi's chagrin.

"The hell you want, Yashida?"

"I'm…gonna be honest with you. I didn't like you when we first met."

Shimoguchi gave Haise an antagonistic look.

"And your actions afterward only proved me right. You're a jerk who only thinks on how to improve your standing, no matter what or who you have to step over."

This angered Shimoguchi, much to the point of Akira feeling that she had to intervene.

"Haise!"

"However…I don't wish this on anyone. I'm speaking from the heart when I call you an annoying bastard. But what you went through…you didn't deserve this. This is from my heart as well."

Haise bowed and walked toward the door where Akira waited. It was then that Shimoguchi spoke with Haise one last time.

"Yashida…thank you for your honesty."

"Anytime…"

Replied Haise. As the two Investigators left, Shimoguchi was by himself. It was when he was alone, he started to cry.

xxxxxx

Both Akira and Haise headed back to Main Headquarters. How they were getting there was a matter that Akira was uncomfortable with. Haise could feel it and says,

"You know this is easier on all of us present."

"I know…"

Akira gave a sour look to Yukio. To which she says,

"Perhaps you two would like a little…privacy."

A button was heard as a sliding window appeared. It was fully closed, allowing the two Investigators to talk about the arrival of the Rabbit.

"Well, back to what I was saying earlier. Although we believe he's relatively young, his appearance three years ago made a hell of an impression. Killing an Investigator at the 20th ward, then an Assistant Special Investigator at the 7th. Needless to say, he's a ghoul not to be taken lightly. And…"

"And what?"

Asked Haise.

"My old partner once mentioned Rabbit possibly being a witness to the death of my father, Kureo."

Haise twinged as he felt a little pain when Akira said the word Kureo. Which got the notice of not only Akira, but Yukio as well.

"Haise?"

Asked Akira with a tone of concern. The pain Haise felt subsided.

"Apologies, Investigator. Please continue."

"…Alright...at this point, it's safe to say both ghouls are now part of Aogiri. Since the cab company Torso worked for has USB recording as part of their policy, we've also discovered that Torso had taken the audio of all conversations he's had in in his cab and hid them in his residence."

"Why though?"

"That's what we're trying to figure out. My best bet, Aogiri used him as an information hound. I'm even willing to wager that Aogiri have ghouls like him that can fit in society without our notice. And like Torso, if they've been discovered to be ghouls, Aogiri can then bring them into their fold, adding to their strength."

"Karao Saeki has been missing for more than a week…"

Said Haise.

"Which further verifies my theory…Since D'Ken's invasion, Aogiri has gotten bolder. The threat has now gone to the general public. If Torso is under Aogiri's protection, Squads S1, S2 or S3 will take over the case."

"Which takes us back to square one."

Said Haise in a semi-dejected tone of voice.

"I'm sorry, Haise. I know you wanted this win to prove the Quinx squad is a capable one. At least you're in a better state than Shimoguchi."

"Right…you think he'll recover?"

"He may be alive, but he's lost all his men…even the most battle hardened of us would feel pity for him. Which only hurts his pride more so."

Haise noticed Akira's tone of voice gradually becoming weary.

"It's not an easy thing, losing the people you've spent time with…you spend so much so that by the time you realize it, a part of you is gone…forever…"

Haise took the words to heart due to Akira displaying a rare moment of vulnerability.

xxxxxx

(GCB Main Headquarters)

Urie went to the Quinxes usual physician for a personal request.

"You want me to so strengthen your kagune?"

"Yes Dr. Shiba. I wish to, level up, if you understand."

"Hmm…Squad leader Urie…"

"It's just Urie right now. Shirazu is squad leader now."

"My apologies."

" He did that on purpose."

"As I was saying…do you remember the orientation you and the rest of the Quinxes went through before the procedure?"

"Most of it."

"Then answer the following questions I'm going to give you."

"Alright."

"What is the official designation of the Quinx plan?"

"Its full name is the Kakuhou Implantation Method."

"Correct. Who invented the method?"

"Someone by the name of Koitsu Chigyo. He got the idea from Akihiro Kanou, a now wanted fugitive by the GCB, as well as SHIELD."

"Precisely. And why is he a wanted fugitive?"

"He attempted to fuse mutant and ghoul attributes to create human weapons for the…"

"Weapon X program."

"Yes."

"And you know who used to be part of it?"

"…Haise Yashida, when he was under a different name."

"Indeed. However, there's a significant difference between what Kanou attempted to do and the procedure we performed on you and your comrades."

"And what's that?"

"To put it simply, it is what surrounds the kakuhou. There are five micro layers of quinque steel. Five frames, if you will. They are placed upon the kakuhou, making it possible to adjust the rate of operation. As well as observe progress with significantly less risk."

"Okay…based on what you've told me, it is possible to increase the strength of my kagune?"

"Yes, but I wouldn't recommend it."

Urie thought to him,

" Yeah right. Don't act like you care. You want this just as much as I do. So why not do it? I'm willing to do what it takes to achieve my goals."

"I want it just the same."

Moments later, Urie had a form paper in his right jacket pocket and headed his way to the Director's office. Along the way, he met 2nd-class Investigator Takeomi Kuroiwa, the son of Special Investigator Kuroiwa.

"Urie."

"Kuroiwa."

"I've heard about what happened with Investigator Yashida."

"Wait. How did you-?"

"Well, someone close to Shirazu overheard something involving Yashida Industries. And well…Yashida Industries is something of a rumor mill here."

"I see…"

" Seriously? That's news to me."

"In any case, he's fine."

"That's good to know. Despite how everyone is acting, all of my squad mates are worried about Yashida."

" Well, la-de-dah motherf*er."

"Unfortunately, I don't know his schedule."

In Urie's mind, he was filled with nothing but pure, unfiltered animosity toward Takeomi. However, the true source of his unrelenting rage was Takeomi's father. Of all the people Urie hated, Iwao Kuroiwa was the one man whose blood he wanted to spill.

" It's not fair…your old man is alive because mine had to die! It's not fair! This dumb asshole will never know what it's like to have to bury your father in pieces!"

"You know a little bit about Yashida?"

"I know he's a mutant, and that he's the great grandson of the founder of Yashida Industries. But that's it."

"Do you know what his mutation is?"

" Stop trying to make this a guessing game, you muscular prick!"

"Metal claws?"

Takeomi snapped his fingers before speaking.

"That's right. Some people within the building are a little uncomfortable with the fact that Yashida got ahead in the organization because of his powers, but, for me, I think he's amazing."

"I'm sure he'd like that."

" Kissass…"

"Listen, I got to be somewhere."

"I understand. Please excuse me."

Takeomi left on his eye while Urie continued on his.

xxxxxx

In another part of Tokyo, Torso was by himself for a while. He sat with his back against a wall, lamenting the life he lost thanks to the Quinxes.

"My cover's blown…no matter where I go, people will know what I am…"

"No shit, Sherlock."

At that moment, Torso heard a familiar voice.

"Ayato…"

"If you need sanctuary, I can get you to it. Word of advice though. The brass are not a forgiving kind. So…to sweeten the deal of you joining our ranks, I need you to tell me about a certain member of the Qs."

"…which one?"

"…The one called Yashida."

xxxxxx

(The next day)

Haise met up with Shirazu and Mutsuki to take on a case assigned to them. The only ones absent were Urie and Yonebayashi. Shirazu arrived wearing a pair of glasses.

"So, Mr. Yas…what's the mission today?"

"Our new target is Nutcracker. Rate unknown."

As Haise went on about the case, he yanked the glasses from Shirazu and threw them unto the street. The glasses then were crushed to pieces by a passing car. Shirazu yelled,

"I ONLY WORE THOSE TO LOOK THE PART!"

"Focus."

Shirazu grumbled to himself while Mutsuki asked,

"What's a Nutcracker?"

"Usually, it's a tool for cracking nuts. But for this ghoul, it's her call sign for a reason."

"What reason is that?"

Asked Shirazu.

"Her occupation is a dominatrix. Wealthy perverts hire her for recreational scolding. It's during the scolding that her true nature as a ghoul reveals itself. In the moments where the client is at her mercy, Nutcracker crushes their testicles."

When Haise said that last word, both Mutsuki and Shirazu winched in pain when they imagined a ghoul doing such a thing. Haise noticed this and says to the both of them,

"I know how the two of you feel. Quite frankly, the top brass feel the same way."

"Seriously?"

Asked Mutsuki.

"You should've seen Marude's reaction. Honestly, I wished I recorded the whole thing."

Haise chuckled a little afterwards. Shirazu asked,

"But what about Torso?"

" …I'm sorry but we've been taken off it."

This slightly upset the two as Mutsuki asked,

"Was it because we failed?"

"Not at all. Torso's trail went cold, that's all. So, we'll be taking on Nutcracker alongside Suzuya squad."

"Suzuya?"

Asked Shirazu, to which Haise elaborated,

"He's an Investigator who's skilled with bladed weapons. You can learn a lot from him, Mutsuki."

"R-Right…"

Shirazu asked further.

"So what's he like?"

"A but strange…but fun to be around. He showed me this video of him alongside a street performer. It was good."

"Sounds nice."

What Haise left out was the fact that the street performer in the video was him. He believed that his squad did not need to know that fact.

After walking for the four hours, the team was tired. Haise acknowledged this, and says to Mutsuki and Shirazu,

"Let's take a break."

Shirazu spoke up first.

"Thank you!"

His excessive approval made both Haise and Mutsuki jump a little. Haise then laughed it off before saying,

"Back when I worked on my own, locating excellent cafés was a hobby of mine. Just follow my lead."

After another 10 minutes of walking, Haise eventually found a café he could take his team to. Shirazu sees a sign next to the café. He attempted to read it.

"R…e…how do you pronounce it?"

"Maybe like Rey?"

Mutsuki suggested. Haise made one of his own.

"Maybe it's like Ri…anyhow, let's head inside."

The team entered inside. To their amazement, the café looked terrific. It looked like a European café. Specifically, French. Haise says to the duo,

"My nose never fails me. This café serves quality coffee. Let's take a seat."

As the team took their seats, they waited for service to arrive. Shirazu looked around the café to see an older barista cleaning a coffee cup. Shirazu whispered,

"I think he's ignoring us. Probably because we're first-timers."

Mutsuki whispered back,

"But how are we supposed to get our coffee?"

The older barista noticed Haise. He looked at him with a shocked expression. At that time, someone lightly scolded him for not greeting the customers.

"Not again! How many times do I have to remind you?"

(play Cayendo – Frank Ocean)

Haise saw who it was talking to the older barista. It turned out to be a young woman, about Haise's age. Haise was awestruck by her. She seemed to be the same as well as she saw him. For one moment, time seemed to have stopped and it was only the two of them. She eventually snapped herself out of it and said,

"Welcome. I'm the manager of this café."

"Thanks."

Said Shirazu. The young manager asked the three,

"What can I get you?"

"…three coffees, please."

Said Haise.

"Coming right up."

As she went to make the coffee, Shirazu remarked on the young manager.

"She's cute as hell."

"I don't know about that…but the coffee she's making smells so good. Right sensei?"

Mutsuki sees Haise staring at the manager with a certain kind of intense stare. For Mutsuki, he was fascinated by how much attention he gave her. Mutsuki also noticed the older barista staring at Haise. Shirazu noticed as well and was disturbed by it.

"That old guy won't stop looking at us…"

"He's not old…"

Said Haise to Shirazu's confusion. The manager soon arrived with three coffees on a tray. The team soon drank them as soon as they received them. All of them instantly loved the coffee.

"Holy shit, this is good!"

Exclaimed Shirazu with Mutsuki agreeing.

"I know. Sensei do you-?"

(skip to 1:41)

Mutsuki was stunned to see Haise crying. Seeing tears streaming from his face was a sight to behold for him. He whispered,

"Sensei?"

The manager handed Haise a handkerchief.

"T-Thank you."

Haise wiped off the tears from his face as he internally remarked about her.

" She's so beautiful…but the way she's smiling…it looks so sad…"

"How's the coffee?"

Asked the manager.

"…it's excellent. Thank you."

Haise then wiped what was left of his tears.

"I honestly don't know why I reacted this way…"

The manager replied,

"Maybe this is just you being honest."

"Honest?"

"…yeah. Maybe the coffee is just that good."

Haise sat, wondering why he was feeling this way. Mutsuki then look at the manager, and notices her as if she were holding back her tears.

" What the hell is going on?"

This was a strange, yet emotional night for the leader of the Quinx squad.

(end music)

The team soon left the café, to varying states of mind. Shirazu was feeling satisfied as he left the café. Mutsuki felt a little off. For Haise, a great melancholy and sadness filled his heart. Shirazu asked Haise about the agenda for tomorrow.

"Mr. Yas."

Haise seemed to be out of it for a moment. So much so, it concerned him.

"Hey~! Mr. Yas~!"

Haise snapped back to reality.

"Sorry…what is it?"

"I wanted to know about tomorrow."

"Right…we'll be meeting with Suzuya squad. So, be ready before 7:30 am."

"Right."

Said Shirazu with Mutsuki softly responding,

"Right…"

xxxxxx

As the Quinxes returned to the Chateau, Urie was sitting on the couch, reading a newspaper.

"Welcome back."

Shirazu was the first to speak to him.

"Yo Urie. We got a-"

"Meeting with Suzuya squad tomorrow."

Shirazu was speechless at how Urie knew before him.

"I talked with a member of said squad while at the office."

"Hmm…does Saiko know?"

"I don't think so."

"Well, we have to. We gotta step up if we're gonna be taken seriously."

" Too late for that…"

At that moment, Mutsuki was at the staircase.

"I'm with Shirazu on this."

Both Urie and Shirazu looked at where Mutsuki was standing.

"She was a part of the Torso investigation as well. She needs to step up more. Sensei feels the same way."

" Teacher's pet."

"Either way, she needs to pull her own weight."

"Agreed. What's the plan?"

Asked Urie. The three went to Saiko's room, where it was closed. On the other side of it, Saiko was in her pajamas while laying on her bed playing a game on her smartphone. It was at that moment that her enhanced senses heard her comrades approach her room door. Shirazu was the first to speak.

"Saiko, open the door! We gotta talk."

There was no response. Shirazu then said,

"Saiko, if you don't open right, Urie will open it for me."

Once again, there was no response. Shirazu then asked,

"Urie, if you please?"

" Wonder where he got that?"

Urie summoned his kagune to wreck the door, which greatly shocked Haise in his room.

"What the hell are they doing?"

Haise said to himself. Both Shirazu and Urie stood intimidatingly while Mutsuki stood behind them, stunned by his comrade's method. Saiko faced her comrades in a sluggish manner as she still had her blanket on her.

"Why'd you do that?"

"Because you need to step up, that's why!"

Exclaimed Shirazu. Urie added,

"I'm on the same page as him."

" But only because I have to get an edge against the other squads. Even if it means working under this idiot."

"Anyways, you have to join in on this Investigation."

"But Urie…you said we were free to take on the Investigation any way we like."

"Yes, but right now you've done nothing but slack off. That has to stop."

Yonebayashi silently groaned as she was lectured about her lack of work ethic. Shirazu says next,

"Urie is right. And since I'm squad leader-"

"Whoa! You're squad leader?!"

Exclaimed Yonebayashi, much to both Shirazu's and Urie's chagrin.

" Sure, fucking rub it in."

"That isn't the point! The thing to focus on is this. We all need to get off our asses and solve cases as Quinxes. That way…we get paid big-time!"

Urie mentally cringed while Mutsuki focused on the state of the door.

" We're gonna need a new door. Don't think the accountants are gonna like this."

"I'm good with what I'm making."

Said Yonebayashi. Urie responded,

"So that's it…"

Urie took a moment to think about how to better "motivate" Yonebayashi.

"Saiko…"

Yonebayashi paid attention to Urie.

"Investigator Yashida didn't want to say anything…but the higher-ups are considering letting you go."

Yonebayashi was instantly surprised when Urie said that. This also caught Shirazu and Mutsuki by surprise as well.

" Not really."

"I'm afraid so. Investigator Yashida didn't want to tell you, but your lifestyle is supported by the GCB. Specifically, the funds that pays for both this house…and your salary is paid for by Bureau funds."

Yonebayashi expression was that of vacant stupefaction.

"And let me tell you something. That ain't cheap. If the Bureau knows you're just being lazy…let's just say waste gets cut. That's how the world works."

Yonebayashi imaged herself going back to her mother's bar. She now possessed a fearful expression.

" Read the fine print on the contract you signed. We're granted a volunteer pension that stays in effect even if we leave the Bureau… but I need you motivated."

"So, in short, we need you to step up and contribute to the squad."

Urie had different reasons for Yonebayashi to pull her weight.

" She's already proven herself to be useless just by being a shut-in Otaku. Good chances are she's a screw-up who will ruin anything she touches. When she fucks up for too long, it'll cast doubt on Shirazu's leadership. Investigator Yashida will have to reconsider his decision…"

Yonebayashi then stood up on her bed as she proclaimed,

"Okay, I'll work!"

This greatly pleased Shirazu.

"All right! Remember to wake up before 7:30 a.m. We're gonna be meeting with Suzuya squad for a meeting, so I want you to be at your best."

"YES SIR!"

Moments later, the squad members went to their respective room to rest for tomorrow. Before Urie did so, we talked with Shirazu one last time.

"Shirazu, can we talk for a little?"

"Sure. What's up?"

"I've been doing some self-reflection on my actions. I'm going to do what it takes for us to be a better squad."

" Like setting you up for failure in a way that you or everyone else wouldn't notice."

"Great to know that you're taking this seriously."

Shirazu had a great smile on his face.

" Enjoy it for now, dipshit…"

"Well, get some sleep. Don't want to be late. Makes a bad impression and all that."

xxxxxx

(The next morning)

The time to meet with Suzuya squad drew closer. The Quinxes were all ready. All but one, much to Shirazu's anger. He growled before yelling,

"WHERE THE HELL IS SHE?!"

Haise quickly diffused by saying,

"We should get going. We shouldn't be late."

"Agreed."

Said Urie. Both he and Mutsuki went to the company car. Haise was concerned when Shirazu did not and asked,

"Squad leader?"

"Go on ahead, Mr. Yas."

"Huh?"

Shirazu rolled up his sleeves and yelled,

"I'M GONNA WAKE HER UP!"

"You sure about that? Nothing short of an earthquake will wake her up."

"Then I'll…BE LOUDER THAN AN EARTHQUAKE!"

Shirazu ran back to retrieve Yonebayashi. Haise sighed and went to the company car where Mutsuki and Urie waited. As soon as Haise sat on the driver's seat, Mutsuki asked,

"Where's Shirazu?"

"He's going to wake up Saiko."

"But doesn't that mean-?"

"He said to go ahead without us."

Before Haise started the car, he took out his smartphone and made a call. Mutsuki asked,

"Are you calling who I think you're calling?"

"Just want to cover our bases."

xxxxxx

(GCB Main Headquarters, 1st ward)

The Quinx squad finally arrived with two minutes to spare. As they arrived at the conference room for the meeting, the Quinxes met with Juuzo's right-hand, Hanbeh Abara.

"Investigator Yashida, so glad that you and your squad arrived."

"Investigator Abara, likewise. I don't see Juuzo."

"He slept late, so we're going to start without him."

The meeting soon started with Investigator Abara giving out statements of the Nutcracker case.

"Suzuya squad has discovered a connection between Nutcracker and the ongoing Gourmet club…"

As Investigator Abara went on, Haise seemed out of it. Much to Mutsuki's notice. Investigator Abara soon finished.

"And that is the overview of the Nutcracker case. With that finished, Investigator Yashida?"

"Yes?"

"Where is the rest of your squad?"

"Well…"

Before Haise could finish, he would be interrupted by the arrival of Juuzo Suzuya.

"Hi~! I'm here~!"

Each of the members of Suzuya squad stood up, and bowed as they simultaneously said,

"Good morning! Assistant Special Investigator Suzuya!"

"Hey Juuzo."

Said Haise in a cheerful manner. Juuzo saw him and immediately ran towards him as he yelled,

"HAISE!"

What seemed to be the two about to hug, Juuzo instead frisked Haise's body. The Quinxes were confused by this. Investigator Abara explained.

"Once when Investigators Yashida and Suzuya worked on a case, Yashida kept snacks on his person to keep him focused."

Mutsuki looked on with befuddlement at how effective Haise was.

"Now that's the Haise I know!"

"Got them ready last night, just for you."

Investigator Abara soon told Juuzo,

"We've already concluded the meeting."

"Then gimme the short version."

Before Abara could do so, another interruption presented itself as Shirazu barged in with Yonebayashi on his back. He also carried a small bag that possessed a couple of energy drinks. Shirazu took a moment to catch his breath before saying,

"We're here…sorry we're late."

Each of the Quinxes reacted to Shirazu's arrival differently. Haise was relieved. Mutsuki felt astounded seeing Saiko at main headquarters at last. Urie, however, hid his anger as Shirazu actually proved himself to be effective at achieving his goals. Juuzo explained.

"I saw the two of them exiting a really fancy car. But the elevator was out of order."

"That was why I didn't come sooner, Mr. Yas!"

"It's all right. We're just glad you're here. Right, Mutsuki?"

"Right sir! Good to see you make it Shirazu."

"Right back at you, Mutsuki!"

Urie continued to sit on his seat, covering behind his mouth how he grinded his teeth.

"If there are no more interruptions, may I resume the meeting?"

As soon as everyone sat down on their respective seats, Investigator Abara delivered vital facts about Nutcracker.

"What makes Nutcracker stand from the rest of her kind is her feeding habits. She targets only human men. When she kills them, she eats only their testicles."

A silent but visible shudder coursed through Shirazu.

"The bodies she hasn't violated, we assume she delivers to human traffickers. Suppliers of human stock."

"Any leads on where she usually meets?"

Asked Haise. Shirazu took a quick look of Saiko. She dozed off, to his irritation. He shook her and whispered,

"Yonebayashi, pay attention."

"But…"

"But nothing."

Shirazu placed one of the energy drinks he brought in front of Saiko.

"Drink it. It'll help you focus."

Whispered Shirazu. As Saiko drank, Investigator Abara stepped aside to display a map where Nutcracker was regularly seen. Three locations were cafés. Five were nightclubs.

"These places are where she were last seen. What's more…it was rumored that she is working with one of the madams, currently supplying for a major event."

xxxxxx

(The next day)

At a café, the Quinxes staked out at one of Nutcracker's regular spots. Each of them dressed like regular civilians to blend in. After an hour passed, Nutcracker finally arrived. Haise was the first to notice. He notified his subordinates via earpiece.

"Target has arrived."

Mutsuki, Urie, and Shirazu each responded simultaneously,

"Copy that."

Saiko was the last to respond. To which Shirazu chided her for.

"Saiko!"

She yelped before finally replying,

"Copy that."

The Quinx squad continued to observe Nutcracker as she met with a bald individual who wore black jeans and a sweater to match. He also donned a pair of sunglasses, possibly to hide his kakugan. The Quinxes continued their stake out while sitting at separate tables. Shirazu sat with Saiko and Mutsuki, while Urie sat with Haise. Haise asked over the radio,

"Anybody hear anything?"

Shirazu responded first.

"No good…my ears ain't up to snuff today."

"Saiko, what about you?"

Saiko concentrated her hearing in an attempt to hear what Nutcracker was talking about.

"I hear…popping sounds…a lot of snapping and crackling…the smell of meat cooking…"

"That's just the burgers cooking in the kitchen! The hell's wrong with you?!"

"Easy Shirazu. She's still new to Investigation."

Said Mutsuki. Urie was in his thoughts during the mission.

" I thought that having Yonebayashi being a part of the Investigation would derail my plans. Maybe it'll help me more than I realize. If she continues to hold back Shirazu in being squad leader, Haise will have no choice but to reconsider his decision. Considering the fact that all that effort he spent waking her up this morning must've dulled his senses. Frustration has to be building up as well."

As Shirazu looked at Nutcracker, anxiety slowly built up inside of him.

"Mr. Yas, can we move in?"

"Just hold on. We can't move in on her. It'll make the target run."

"But she's so close…"

At that moment, Shirazu accidentally bumped his elbow against his glass of water. The glass broke as it fell on the floor. Except for Urie, each of the Quinxes internally panicked. Nutcracker and the individual she was meeting noticed it as well. Nutcracker stood up and headed toward Shirazu. In his mind, Shirazu remembered what Haise taught him.

" I'm just a regular customer. Just gotta remember what Mr. Yas taught me…"

At that moment, Nutcracker grabbed both a glass and a pitcher of ice water. She gave it to Shirazu after pouring water into the glass. She then returned to her table, much to the Quinxes relief.

xxxxxx

(Moments later)

Haise made a call to Juuzo about the state of the stakeout.

"My apologies, Investigator Suzuya. She went home earlier than expected…yes, we believe that she may have caught on to us…I take full responsibility…"

Haise soon hung up and spoke with Shirazu.

"Squad leader, I don't blame you for anything..."

Shirazu sat upon some stone stairs while sulking.

"We'll get her next time…"

"Mr. Yas…I don't think I got what it takes…"

"Don't say that…"

"Sir, you and I both know it. The reason why I blew it today was because I spent too much time getting Yonebayashi off her ass. And if I don't wake her up, then we look bad as a squad. Either way, I suck at this!"

While the squad felt back for Shirazu, Urie internally reveled in seeing his plan slowly complete nothing. Mutsuki sat at Shirazu's side to console him.

"I think you're doing a great job. I mean, you're showing more care than, quite frankly, Urie did."

Urie internally remarked,

" I'll make you pay for that."

"Well, that's what a squad leader is supposed to do."

"That's right!"

Said Mutsuki. Shirazu responded,

"And I wanted to motivate Saiko my way instead of how Urie did it."

"How Urie did it?"

Asked Haise, which alerted Urie.

" Great. More sanctimonious bullshit…"

Shirazu explained.

"I read the contract, Urie. It doesn't say anything about cutting us off."

Now Haise was concerned.

"Urie, what did you do?"

"He told Saiko that if she doesn't pull her own weight, the Bureau will fire her."

Haise was angered by this.

"Why did you do this?!"

"How else can the lazy slob get out of her room?"

Haise slapped Urie once again.

"This is the reason why I fired you from the position in the first place."

Haise walked away with the squad following him home. Urie spat before saying to himself,

"So much for this…"

He stared at a piece of paper in his left pocket.

xxxxxx

Meanwhile, Chie was meeting with a somewhat standoffish individual carrying a black rose.

"So…how is he?"

The individual muttered in another language before replying,

"Do I even have to tell you?"

flashback

"Kanae…what is this?"

"Something I have brought…to…revive you…do you feel anything?"

"I cannot say…my sense of smell is not what it used to be…"

Kanae was a little disheartened.

"However…the scent…it reminds of something…something I have not felt…for quite some time…"

end

"Master Shu…did not feel anything."

"Nothing?"

Asked Chie.

"…just get this out of my sight…"

Chie did so before saying,

"I honestly thought it would help…"

"WELL IT DIDN'T!"

The outburst shocked everyone in the bar. However, Kanae did not care.

"How dare you make present such Müll to my master." ( garbage)

"I didn't make you do anything. You asked me."

Kanae growled before asked,

"In any case…who does the undershirt belong to?"

Chie brought out a picture of Haise.

"Haise Yashida. Grandson of the current CEO and great-grandson of the company founder."

"Wirklich?" ( For real)

"He's also a ghoul investigator."

Kanae took a moment to think before resuming hostilities with Chie. He whispered,

"Do not forget, guinea pig…I can kill you with little effort or conscience. Just because you were his classmate does not erase the fact that you're just a human…prey not worthy of my master's time."

Chie seemed to be unfazed by Kanae's threats.

"If Tsukiyama honestly believed that, he'd do it himself. And if he knew that you did something like that yourself, I think he'd be mad with you."

Kanae swiftly stood up and growled in anger before leaving while saying,

"Don't get carried away, field mouse!"

Some of the bar patrons saw Kanae leaving in a huff. After Kanae exited, one of the customers said to her friend,

"Extra much?"

Chie was by herself, reminiscing about her first encounter with Tsukiyama.

flashback

(Nighttime)

She was searching for another subject to photograph. It was during her search that she found someone who seemed to be attacking another person. As she got closer, Chie discovered that someone pierced their entire arm into a jogger. He seemed to be in the middle of a rant, ignoring everything else around him. This gave Chie an opportunity for her. She quietly got closer until she wading audio range. She heard the rest of the rant.

"…what lengths you go through to keep yourself in shape. I wonder how you smell…"

It was discovered to be someone in a school uniform. A uniform that Chie was most familiar with. The attacker then sniffed the blood on his hands.

"Wonderful. Absolutely wonderful! The aroma alone is enough to make me tremble!"

The attacker now licked the blood on his hands.

"TRES BIEN!!!!!!!!!"

Said the attacker with utter glee, which fascinated Chie to no end.

"The adrenaline adds so much to the flavor that it threatens to tear apart my brain through my taste buds! Fantastic! Absolutely fantastic! To think that such exquisite flavor…"

The attacker grabbed one of the jogger's legs and caressed it with his bloody hands.

"could exist within these lean muscles is nothing short of astounding!"

The attacker then let go of the leg and bowed in submission before his victim.

"I offer my gratitude to you. In your efforts to maintain your health, you've created a meal that I will cherish forever."

The attack now picked up the now corpse by its leg with one hand, displaying strength that Chie found amazing. She readied her camera.

"And now…to partake in, what is most likely to be, a sublime meal."

As the attacker wet his lips, he took a sizable bite unto the corpse's leg. Unfortunately, before the teeth could penetrate the skin, a flash of light suddenly lit before the attacker.

"WHO'S THERE?! SHOW YOURSELF!"

The source of the light was revealed to be a camera flash as Chie jumped out of the bushes, where she hid the entire time.

"Yes! Got the shot!"

As Chie celebrated, the attacker was now in a dour mood.

"You…interrupted my meal…"

The attacker now got angry. The attacker revealed himself to be a ghoul as his eyes slowly became black and red.

"YOU INTERRUPTED MY MEAL!"

Chie took another picture of the ghoul. Of him summoning his kakugan. The ghoul covered his eyes due to the flash.

"I got an amazing showcase! Here, look."

Chie's camera was a digital one as it had a memory system that allowed it to display the pictures that Chie took recently. She showed the one of the ghoul feasting on the corpse, which actually impressed the ghoul.

"A-A-Amazing! You've captured the moment of ecstasy, evoking the pure joy of the moment!"

Chie felt proud of herself as she relished in the praise the ghoul gave her. However, the ghoul remembered the fact that he was exposed.

"Un moment! This is me!"

"Right! You're Shu Tsukiyama, right? I'm Chie Hori. Nice to meet you!"

"N-Nice to meet you as well."

As Tsukiyama shook her hand, he sees that his were still covered in blood.

"Wait! WHY AM I DOING THIS?!"

end

Chie stepped outside of the bar. As she walked, she looked at her camera as she said to herself,

"It's no fun without you, Tsukiyama."

xxxxxx

(The next day)

Both the Quinx squad and Suzuya squad sat on the room, sharing intel both gathered yesterday. Investigator Abara started the meeting.

"Good morning. In front of each of you are files pertaining to individual ghouls discovered at Nutcracker's residence. Please have a look."

Everyone that possessed said files opened them to see a list. Before he did, Shirazu took a look at Saiko as she dozed off yet again.

"Saiko, pay attention."

Whispered Shirazu in a angry tone. He then gave Saiko another energy drink for her to stay awake. Haise noticed something in the file.

"Investigator Abara, I see there's another list in the file."

"Quite right. While the list presented to each of you is of importance, the other in the files demands our immediate attention. The reason why is due to the fact that it's a grocery list."

"Grocery list?"

Asked Mutsuki. Investigator Abara elaborated.

"The fact that this list exists suggests a connection between Nutcracker and a ghoul organization known as the Madames."

"So it goes without saying that a major ghoul event is about to occur."

Said Urie. Mutsuki was a little confused about what event was spoken about. Haise asked,

"So the rumors are true then? About the auctions?"

"If what we discovered are any indication, then it is most likely."

"Excuse me."

Said Saiko.

"I thought auctions are about rich people buying old things like vases and stuff."

Haise elaborated.

"When it comes to affluent individuals, yes. However, this one is different. The Madames are a middleman group that organize major venues for entertainment of affluent ghouls."

"How some of these ghouls are part of the one percent is another matter entirely. The thing to focus is this. Venues like the restaurant arena are one example of the Madames connections they possess. Their wealth comes from the success of said venues where they receive a sizable percentage of the box-office. The more the event sells, the larger their slice of the pie becomes."

Added Urie. To which Haise replied,

"He's pretty much right. The auction is another version of said types of events."

"Except instead of priceless artifacts, this auction sells abducted victims."

Said Investigator Abara, and continued the briefing.

"The auction is held by Big Madame, the chairperson of the restaurant. She is notorious within the Bureau. No matter how close the Bureau got to capturing her, she always escaped."

Juuzo's mind wandered for a bit while the meeting went on.

"So if the Madames and Nutcracker are working together, this may require for every available squad to work together."

Said Haise with Abara adding,

"If necessary…S2."

This made Haise more than uncomfortable. For him, dealing with the S2 squad only delivered a significant amount of distress for him to experience. The group itself never displayed any hostility toward him. That was to be expected, considering that this was the brains of the Bureau. Any Investigator capable of analytical thinking on par with of a genius are assigned there. Most, if not all, of the reason why is due to the person in charge. The meeting soon ended with the Quinxes exiting the building together. As they got to the lobby, Shirazu commented on the seriousness of the upcoming operation.

"This is sounding to be bigger than I thought."

"Yes it is. A joint operation with the S2 squad is less likely to happen than…getting a selfie with Thor."

Saiko laughed at the comment Haise made.

"That's funny."

Saiko laughed a little more while Mutsuki chuckled as well.

"I think she's right."

"Yeah, very funny."

Said Urie as he went in another direction from the squad. Shirazu asked,

"Urie, where you going man?"

"I forgot that I have another matter to attend to. I'll join you later."

Urie headed for the nearest elevator, to the worry of his squadmates. As the Quinxes got to the Bureau parking lot, they see a familiar sedan waiting opposite of where their car parked. Mutsuki and Shirazu recognized them. Mutsuki asked,

"Sensei, are they here for you?"

"Yeah, for two reasons. My memory treatments are today, but before that, I'm heading to Cochlea to speak with our source."

Both Mutsuki and Saiko felt a chill up their spines after their last visit to Cochlea. Haise then gave the car keys to Shirazu.

"Shirazu, get them home."

"Sure, Mr. Yas. Just watch yourself."

"Don't worry. I'm in good hands."

xxxxxx

(GCB Medical Wing)

Urie was on an operating table, ready for a procedure that would strengthen his kagune abilities. Before he would be put under, Urie remembered how he got here.

flashback

Urie went to the office of the Director of the Bureau, Yoshitoki Washuu. The director heard the doors of his office opening and sees Urie entering.

"What can I do for you, Investigator?"

"Your permission, sir?"

Urie then presented the paper that ensured the procedure to further enhance his kagune. Yoshitoki asked,

"Why come to me?"

"Simply because Investigator Yashida and I have developed a…difference in opinion. So much so that Haise may act a little…biased on this matter."

Director Yoshitoki took a moment before replying,

"Putting a request directly to me…that's quite bold, if I may say so…"

"Well, you are in charge of the project. Ultimately, you are the final say in how the project goes forward."

"Perhaps…but why go this far?"

As Urie gave a sound explanation, in his mind, he grew irritated.

" Just stamp the damn paper."

Just then, another knock was heard.

"Come in."

The person who entered was Kisho Arima.

"Arima. A pleasure as always."

"Likewise. I'm here for my replacement Arata."

Urie was in a state of awe of seeing Arima in person.

"Kisho…"

"Yes Director?"

"Investigator Urie wishes to undergo a procedure to enhance his Quinx abilities. What's your opinion on this matter?"

Urie felt being on the spot for Arima's opinion.

" Why the fuck are you asking him? What's he got to do with this?!"

Arima gave an opinion that eased Urie's worries and boosted his ego.

"I think he should go ahead with it. If he's capable of the power, that is."

Arima gave Urie his full attention.

"Do you understand the risks involved?"

Urie replied,

"Yes sir."

"Very well then…Let's go ahead then."

Urie then felt a surge of emotion within him. Only this time, they were positive. Director Yoshitoki then said,

"Investigator Yashida may resent me for this…"

end

As Dr. Shiba got close to the Investigator while carrying an anesthesia mask. Urie asked the doctor,

"Will this make me stronger?"

Doctor Shiba replied,

"More than you realize…"

Shiba gently placed the mask on Urie. As Urie drifted off, his last thoughts were of the squad.

" Stronger than the rest…"

xxxxxx

(Cochlea)

Haise went to Popora once more for info regarding the ghoul underground. He told him about the mission regarding Torso.

"So, he slipped from your grasp?"

"Unfortunately so. Sorry to make what you gave us a waste of your time."

"It's quite all right. I just appreciated the conversation you gave me. Punishment can get tedious sometimes."

"I…honestly wouldn't know…"

"So…you have another case for me?"

"I do, as a matter of fact."

"Before that, I'd like to talk to you about something else…"

Haise was curious as to what Popora could have meant.

"How's your memory?"

Haise was now shocked to hear Popora know about his memory treatments.

"Believe me, it's not like I used my connections or anything like that. It's just observation and deduction."

Unknowingly to Haise, this alerted both Yukio and Harada.

"You're currently undergoing medical treatments related to your mind, treatments meant to recover your memories from your past. However, lately you've been doubting whether or not they've been effective. Somethings you remember one day are gone the next."

Haise felt his chest beginning to cave in on itself.

"You know, before I was captured again, I made it a point to look into what Yashida Industries have been up to."

Popora made a gesture for Haise to lean closer to the glass, as if he wanted to whisper something to the Investigator. Haise did so as Popora whispered,

"Did you know that you're great-grandfather knew your father before?"

This stunned Haise in a way that he never felt before.

"Twice actually. The second time was during a terrorist incident. Look up Moses Magnum. The first time…Nagasaki…"

That last word made Haise's head shake with the force of an earthquake. The next thing Popora said would push Haise past the point of consciousness.

"World War Two."

Haise slowly lost consciousness as memories overwhelmed his mind. It was at that moment that Yukio and Harada arrived too late. Haise was already on the ground with Popora looking at him with a malicious grin on his face. Harada says to Yukio,

"Get Haise!"

Yukio immediately went to Haise and picked him up. Popora continued to grin as he said,

"Tell the fossil that time can only go forward."

Both Yukio and Harada looked at Popora with immense hostility. As Harada picked up Haise, he told Yukio,

"Have you done the necessary changes?"

"I've notified Delta. They're currently underway."

"Then let's get our of here."

As the two exited Cochlea, Popora was by himself for a while. He sat in the dark, thinking to himself,

" Looks like Yashida is making his own plans. Don't believe V is going to like this…"

And finished. Hope this chapter was to your liking. Next chapter is going to leave you in suspense. Don't forget to leave a review and share with any and all friends that may be interested. See you all next time.