Tatyana's Apartment - 12:02 P.M.:
With her dreads tied back in a ponytail and adorning her usual black bra and underwear, Master Raven entered the living room to find Raven in only a pair of shorts while reading a book on the couch.
Raven glanced in her direction. "You slept a little later than usual."
She shrugged. "Rest was needed, at least for one of us."
"I couldn't watch you sleep all day."
Master Raven snickered before opening the fridge. "You hungry?"
Silence. Raven was too immersed in the book to hear her question. Master Raven shook her head before plucking a grape from the bottom left compartment, aiming ever so slightly at her intended target. The fruit bounced off the bridge of Raven's nose as he closed his book and held the grape between his fingers.
"Starting a food war?"
Master Raven merely smirked. "Any suggestions for brunch?"
"Something light, I suppose."
"Omelets it is, then."
She grabbed a carton of eggs, shredded cheese, and several other items from the fridge.
Raven tossed the grape upward as it landed in his mouth. "About this date..."
"I was thinking about it when I woke up," Master Raven began, cracking two eggs into a mixing bowl. "I want to go dancing."
Her boyfriend's expression became confused. "Never painted you as one to dance."
"Why not? You could show me since you're good at it. However, you'll need a suit."
"Taty—"
She displayed a child-like pout. "Please..."
Raven shook his head. "Alright, I'll find something. Be prepared to learn a few things. Anything else you have in mind?"
"Stargazing. Like back when we were still in training."
"Don't remind me. I still can't believe I followed you out there twice. That wasn't worth getting in trouble."
"To you, it wasn't." Master Raven flipped over the first omelet. "Sneaking out of the training facility was fun."
"But out of Chevalier Palace? I'll give you that the stars were nice out. Still, it wasn't worth the trouble," Raven added.
She laughed. "Oh, come on. I heard you gasp when you saw the moon."
He settled back onto the couch. "To be fair, full moons are always a wonder. I couldn't tell if Victor was annoyed or impressed that we managed to sneak out to the top of the Eiffel Tower."
"He was impressed with you. Me, on the other hand... not so much."
"So you did get in trouble. I thought Victor left you with a warning since you were sharper than usual in our sparring match afterward. What was the punishment then?"
"A thousand sit-ups hanging off one of the beams," Master Raven recalled with a shrug. "Had to start over completely if I stopped. I did that seven times."
Raven winced inwardly. "Sounds challenging. I would've passed out around seven hundred. It makes me realize how much of a bad influence you are."
She narrowed her eyes. "I will flick another grape at you."
He smirked. "Try me."
Another grape landed in his left eye.
"Ah!"
Parking Lot - 7:14 P.M.:
Raven leaned against the hood of his girlfriend's car, hands inside his pockets as he waited for Tatyana so they could finally have some fun. Despite how calm everything was between them now, that didn't settle his anxiousness.
'What if my nerves mess up the dance? What if I slip? What if—'
"Raven..."
His head shot up from the ground below his black Oxfords as he turned around. Again, Raven's breath froze in his lungs.
Tatyana was in that stunning black halter—golden cuffs around both wrists, silver bar earrings, and closed-toe strapped stilettos. The crescent moon's light amid the sea of stars highlighted the natural glow of her flawless skin. She remained as stunning as ever, and it appeared as if nighttime was the only way Raven could admire her beauty without the sun's glare or the sounds of heavy traffic interrupting his trance.
A smirk found its way onto Raven's face. "Sure you don't want to cancel last minute?"
"And miss what you have in store for me?" Tatyana returned his smirk. "Not a chance."
"You're not making it any easier talking like that."
"I use it only when needed."
Raven raised an eyebrow. "I don't believe you, though I'll probably find out sooner or later." He opened her car door and bowed dramatically. "Madame."
Tatyana laughed at the overdone but kind gesture as she sat in the passenger seat. Raven ensured her dress was inside before closing its door and entered the driver's side. Getting in and starting the car, he couldn't help but steal another glance over at her before pulling out of the parking lot.
"I hope you aren't this distracted when we start dancing."
"No promises."
Downtown Manhattan - 7:45 P.M:
They arrived at one of the fanciest restaurants in Neo City, a high-class place named Night Spade, where only the most notable socialites converse, show off to their friends, or pick up any woman willing to jump into their arms. Valet parking, live music, and an outside VIP section were only a sample of this establishment's many perks.
Arms intertwined, the Ravens walked toward the host in his uniform: a black dress shirt with each sleeve rolled to his elbows, a magenta tie, black suit pants, and dress shoes. He was slightly shorter than Raven, with slicked-back black hair, green eyes, and tanned skin—an Italian.
"Ah, Raven," the man greeted. "Nice to have you back again. I saved the best seat in the house for you and your lady."
Raven chuckled. "No special treatment tonight, Bastian. I'm just like every other customer that walks in here."
"Nonsense," Bastian's head shook before eyeing his date. "Can you believe this guy? He turns down privileges like it'll kill him."
His remark made Tatyana laugh as Bastian emphasized his point with a playful eye roll and sigh.
"Not another word," Bastian said before Raven could offer a retort and grabbed two black leather menus from his stand. "Follow me, please."
They traversed through the expansive restaurant with walls decorated in silver trimming and intricate details along dark velvet. Each table was adorned with pure white tablecloths, polished glasses, and tableware. Black and white marble flooring and low lighting set a relaxed, elegant tone. The patrons sitting inside were well-dressed but had their attention diverted by the new guests, especially Master Raven. No other woman had dared to wear such a bold dress with natural diamonds and eye-catching hair. Raven couldn't help chuckling to himself that didn't go unnoticed.
"What's so funny now?" Tatyana quipped.
"They always look at what they don't have."
"You always this arrogant, or is it just the suit?"
Raven shrugged. "It's probably the dress."
Tatyana's eyes rolled despite another laugh escaping her. They finally stopped at a wide circular elevator with a golden cabin, glass walls, and sliding doors. Following Bastian inside, the elevator rose to an overlooking lounge with a single table and plenty of dancing space to keep an intimate mood, with open glass doors at the back leading to a balcony view of the city. Near the room's entrance was a polished wooden guardrail that granted a full glimpse of the dance floor and the band, which had yet to arrive - only a single piano player was on stage. He played soft, simple, but jazzy melodies on the ivory keys.
"I hope you'll find this seating to your liking, sir," Bastian added, placing the menus on each side of the table.
Raven nodded. "This isn't gonna cost extra, right?"
The Italian laughed. "This guy. Shall I get you two started with wine? Champagne, perhaps?"
"Have any raspberry wine?"
"A fine choice. Coming right up, sir."
Once Bastian had left, Master Raven raised an eyebrow. "Special treatment?"
Raven sighed before pulling the chair out for her. "I came here with Victor once to help him corner a criminal for intel on a gang of arms dealers who were getting too comfortable using this place as a cover-up for their HQ. He also happened to be friends with the owner."
Tatyana sat. "This is a regular thing for you here?"
"It's one of the reasons I don't come here often, but this place would be best for the dancing part of our night.
"Come here often?"
Once again, Raven shrugged as he sat down. "Sometimes. I usually just read and keep it simple with a square of their tiramisu or pannacotta."
"Noted. Any suggestions?"
The couple began skimming their menus. Though unintended, Raven did so to keep his gaze from wandering too long. He had no reason to wander anymore, with Tatyana being his alone. Yet it didn't stop his mind racing because that teasing dress clouded his focus.
Raven tapped against his chin. "The Vitello Tonnato and Chou Farci are good, but I have yet to compare their Ratatouille to Victor's."
Tatyana looked up. "Seriously?"
"What? I like to experience different ways a dish can be made."
"Who knew one of his favorite movies would be about rats aiding a chef?"
"Considering one of his many talents is cooking, it's unsurprising. I still can't believe he made us train the day after that movie feast."
"Is that regret I hear?"
"No, but I'll remember that next time he wants to watch a movie with cooking in it."
Soon, Bastian returned with their bottle of raspberry wine and poured it into Tatyana's glass first, then Raven's afterward. "Now that I've been relieved of being a host for tonight, I will take your orders."
"I'll have the roasted vegetable terrine," Master Raven said.
Bastian nodded quickly, writing it down in his notepad before looking at Raven. "Ratatouille."
Tatyana laughed again. 'I'll have to ask Victor about that.'
He nodded before scribbling it down. "Any plans for dessert?"
They shared a look before Raven leaned back in his chair. "We'll think about it."
"Very well. I'll ensure the chefs put extra care into your dishes."
"Bastian... Fine. Does the band know any song worthy of a tango?"
Their waiter rubbed his chin. "I think so, but I'll ask to be sure."
"Thank you."
The younger guy nodded before leaving for the elevator.
Raven smirked. "No dessert?"
Master Raven shrugged. "Never was a fan of sweets."
"Here's hoping I can change your mind. You got to try the tiramisu."
"Again, not my thing, Raven."
"Maybe, but I don't plan to back down without a fight." Raven rose from his chair. "Since we have time..." He held out a hand. "May I have the honor of teaching you how to dance?"
She stood and accepted his offering. "Try not to get too distracted. Where do we start?"
"Okay," Raven breathed, a slight nervousness he hoped she didn't pick up on. "Our hands intertwine. Your other hand goes on my shoulder. And my hand goes here..." His hand landed at her waist. "The hard part is movement, but it gets easier once you get the hang of it. For now, you're just mirroring me. We'll go back and forth."
Tatyana nodded, focusing on Raven's words as thoughts of stealing a kiss filled her mind, her eyes wandering slightly.
"Back."
He stepped back while observing her feet. She followed with a forward step using her corresponding foot.
"And forth."
He stepped forward; she stepped back. They continued the pattern several times.
"You're getting it. Stepping becomes easier but harder when you add something extra."
Tatyana's expression was wracked with confusion, to which he smiled. "We're playing off each other. Thinking on your feet with dance is almost like fighting."
She nodded.
"If I were to spin you, like so..." Raven held her hands to perform a spin, each arm fully extended to create a new distance with their hands still intertwined. "Then I spin you back to me."
Tatyana spun and ended up against his chest, his hand holding her waist while the other stayed locked in hers. She felt his steady heartbeat amid a warm embrace.
"This is where it turns into a slow sway before I spin you a final time; leaning afterward is for show and for people who can pull it off."
They separated as Tatyana cleared her throat. "Seems easy enough."
"But the real challenge is doing this to actual music."
She gradually blinked, her voice a lustful invite. "Don't tell me you're underestimating me, Raven."
He swallowed hard. "N-No. I don't want you to get ahead of yourself."
"Surely my years of training and fighting account for something."
"I'm one instant from ripping that dress off you."
Tatyana smirked. "Good."
Raven loosened his tie. "Let's test your balance on the dance floor, shall we?"
"Only if I can lead."
He cleared his throat. "You like torturing me, don't you?"
Tatyana's gaze narrowed with sensual intentions as her teasing smirk persisted. She knew her influence over him would make the night more enjoyable if Raven could call it such or torture.
She winked. "Just a little to see you squirm."
He rolled his eyes. 'At least the dancing and food will distract me.' "I don't know what I expected. It's not as good as Victor's, but it's a close attempt."
Tatyana shook her head, her glass of wine in hand as she swiveled it. She'd quickly finished her terrine since Raven spent most of the conversation playing food critic with his dish, watching the dark alcohol wave inside the glass.
"You're a food critic now?"
"Victor's cooking might have spoiled me. Now I can taste the differences between the spices they use."
"Exaggerating much?"
"I like to think my tastes are mature."
Tatyana took a sip of her wine. "That would explain one thing."
Raven pointed his fork at her. "To be fair, neither of us act our age."
"If I had a scar for every time I heard that..."
"Paper cuts everywhere."
Tatyana's attention turned to the dance floor as her ears picked up the familiar sounds of soft guitar strings and drums - a small smile forming as she placed her glass down. Soon, a soft female voice echoed.
Don't you notice how,
I get quiet when there's no one else around
You and I have an awkward silence
Don't you dare look at me that way
Raven smirked and took one last bite of his Ratatouille, fixing his tie at her side before extending a hand. "May I have the pleasure of having this dance with you?"
She took his hand. "Of course."
On the dance floor, they swayed to the music. Raven could see (and feel) his girlfriend's nervousness despite the song's calm but up-tempo beat. She had stiffness and kept her attention on her feet to ensure she didn't step on his.
'I hope I don't regret this,' Raven thought, his hand sliding from her back to her waist.
Tatyana looked up, noticing the change in his hand's position. He spun her around, and she mimicked as if by habit. She held his hand before their arms extended. Raven pulled her back to him and resumed position number one.
"Raven!" she said quietly enough for only him to hear, her startled tone amusing.
Oh, how I wish you'd wake up one day
Run to me, confess your love, at least just let me say
He whispered in her ear. "It was only to loosen you up. Your eyes haven't left your toes since we started."
Tatyana's facial expression turned into annoyance and slight disappointment.
"But, you didn't look down in that small spin and reset."
Below, their steps were synchronized, going back and forth with ease.
"No looking down," Raven continued before tipping her chin upward. "Eyes here."
The tension in her shoulders eased slightly. "Okay."
"It comes naturally when you're not thinking about it or focusing on missteps. Like so..." Raven spun Tatyana around, followed by a slight dip.
She laughed. "Okay, I get it."
"Found that amusing?"
"A little."
They continued their intricate dance of steps. Tatyana's footsteps looked seamlessly in tune with her boyfriend to the untrained eyes of the couples around them. Her apprehension vanished as she repeated the familiar pattern, and several laughs were shared between them until the hint of the next song began.
Raven raised an eyebrow. "A sped-up version of Sway... You up for giving the people a show?"
Tatyana's voice reverted to her hypnotizing tone. "Take me, Raven."
He inhaled sharply, his hand finding her waist again. Their free hands intertwined as a new set of couples joined them, and a new male singer in a suit took the microphone.
When marimba rhythms began playing, Raven firmly held his girlfriend's waist as their steps synced. His free hand glided over her waist during their smooth spin. Each stepped out and in again to remain in lockstep on tempo. They swayed, each sliding a foot along the floor. Raven spun around with his hand extended to allow Tatyana to grasp it. He smirked, turning her again and dipping slightly before quickly standing again. The other couples quickly cleared the dance floor for the two and watched them dance. The Ravens were too enraptured to notice everyone observe as they swayed and swiveled, becoming lost in the music. Raven's feet twisted as he smoothly merengued toward his partner and spun before taking her hand and leading her back to their first position while dancing behind her. Tracing her steps like a mirror, his hands trailed down her form until they again held her waist.
Their steps mirrored each other without a single flaw in sight - at least to untrained eyes. Tatyana seemed to catch on with each step taken. Raven held his composure as they extended out, inhaling sharply. She swayed her hips while sauntering toward him. Their hands intertwined again, and Raven returned to leading their steps again. He spun her again, and this time, Tatyana extended out. Slipping from his grasp, she strolled around him with a hand trailing his chest until it gripped his tie. He began to salsa toward her, closing the distance as she pulled him toward her. Biting his lip, Raven's hand trailed her waist before turning her around, their steps falling back into sync with her back to his chest. Raven held one hand to the front of her waist while his other intertwined with hers. Their bodies stayed close and executed a mini salsa dance with their feet. Raven mirrored her steps again with a smirk on his face. He slipped his hand from her waist, shifting around as the violins began to sing - sharp sounds of hypnotizing sultry. His hand traced her sharp collarbone, and his other hand intertwined with hers as they stepped. He turned her around, letting Master Raven spin out with a smirk. Raven grinned as they walked in a small circle before their hands finally met. They were mirroring steps again before falling back into their up-tempo rhythm. Master Raven's hand glided towards his shoulder and looped around his neck. Raven's hand was positioned at her waist to keep each other's gaze. She took two steps forward, he two steps back.
A sharp pause of silence ensued.
Their feet glided and stepped in unison, even as they were impossibly close. Master Raven's hand met his again with a raised eyebrow. He chuckled, his hand trailing her arm.
"Should I go for it?" Raven asked, whispering in her ear.
Her silky tone tempted him once more. "Don't hold back when you do."
He spun her around once, and they both extended out. They were leaning back with their stance extended out once more. Raven pulled her back to him for another graceful spin. The dress ruffled in the air and swirled around her. The diamonds braided into the dress's body caught the light perfectly. A final spin and dip, Raven's hand loped around her waist while holding her leg.
Silence emerged, the world on pause as they held each other's gaze. Both breathed slowly with content smiles. A round of applause began around them, the shock setting in as they stood, chuckling nervously as they bowed. The applause died down before everyone retreated to their seats.
With visible sweat on his brow, Raven loosened his tie. "I... need to use the bathroom. I'll be right back."
"Okay."
Raven took a deep breath in the restroom, staring pensively at the mirror. He took slow, deep breaths and felt his heart practically jumping out of his chest. The ovation from the observing couples was still fresh in his mind, and Raven presumed he looked like the wrong date for leaving her so quickly.
"Was it that good?" he questioned, eyes narrowing at his reflection.
'Did it look like we were that close?'
"Yeah," the guy next to him remarked.
He was a short, pale guy with dark brown eyes wearing a dark red suit and short brown hair combed into a faux hawk. The guy began to re-tie his silver bow around his neck.
"That was quite the show you put on with your wife out there."
"Uh..."
The guy laughed. "No need to be modest. I'd show off too if I had a connection with a woman the way you do."
"Thanks," Raven replied, nervously clearing his throat. "You're married?"
He shook his head. "Recently divorced. The wife turned into a selfish whore and ran off with some French guy... But I'm good so long as I get to keep my two sons. Enough about me, though. You're a lucky man."
Raven nodded. "In more ways than one."
"Be sure to love and treasure her. And don't let her go 'cause I might slip in and take her."
They shared a brief laugh. "I'll be tipping my glass to that. It's nice to see strong couples like you and your wife still around. It gives me hope for this war-torn world, y'know?"
Raven shrugged. "Yeah."
"But don't let me keep you. I'm sure your prize is waiting."
The agent fixed his tie, almost smirking at his reflection. Walking out of the bathroom, the two went their separate ways.
'My... wife?'
Raven returned to the overlooking VIP section and found Tatyana waiting for him at their table. She rose from her seat but noticed his jaw clenching occasionally in thought while glancing back towards the dance floor.
"Something bothering you?"
"Just... thinking about if I should order dessert or not."
Tatyana raised an eyebrow, able to tell it was more than that, but would wait to question him later. "Okay."
"Do you wanna get out of here or have one last dance?"
"Brooklyn Bridge can wait a bit longer."
He nodded. "That's a first, but I guess there's no excitement in high places with no chance of getting caught anymore."
"Mr. Goody Too Shoes would say that."
"Hey, I know how to follow orders. Your persuasion was too good, unfortunately."
"True. Then again, you could've teleported back inside the facility."
"Touche."
Raven and Master Raven made their way through the empty dance floor, arms intertwined as they walked. In the agent's other hand was a to-go box containing a slice of tiramisu. He looked off the side, the guy from the bathroom sitting alone as he raised his champagne glass, nodding at Raven.
"Be sure to love and treasure her..."
Jaw clenched, Raven turned around. 'Neither of us is wearing a ring...'
Neither ninja uttered a word, even as they reached the car - a comfortable silence but still tense due to Raven's thoughtful quietness. Not even as they entered the vehicle was a word spoken as he began driving. It continued despite the trek through the nearly empty streets. Raven went with one hand, his other creeping towards his girlfriend's. The warmth of her slender hand and the feel of her dark, smooth skin calmed his mind. However, it did nothing to stop the thoughts of his conversation earlier.
Tatyana averted her eyes from the window, noticing the newly defined wrinkles in his suit where his biceps sat. 'It's probably nothing.'
She resumed watching the city pass by, hoping he would reveal his thoughts soon. After all, they had promised to be more open with each other. They finally stopped at a space near the Brooklyn Bridge.
They exited the car; Raven narrowed his eyes. "Middle one, right?"
Tatyana only smirked.
Poof.
"Careful," Raven remarked as his hand snaked around her waist.
Tatyana leaned back into him as he stood behind her. The couple stood at the edge of the bridge's middle tower on the left side. A calm wind blew in the warm night as they admired the scenery. The stars glowed in the pitch-black sky, pairing well with the dark sea and city lights. Only the sounds of the distant traffic, the calm wind, an occasional plane flying overhead, and their heartbeats occurred. Tatyana closed her eyes, tuning out the world around them as her ears picked up the deep sounds of their heartbeats harmonizing.
"This is way better than the times at Chevalier Palace," Tatyana broke the silence while staring upward at the stars.
"Why's that?" Raven questioned.
"It's pretty self-explanatory, but... I can't even believe we did that."
"I figured we could put on a show, though I thought you'd need more time to catch on. But you're a fast learner, so it makes sense. The crowd watching was entertained."
"Glad I wasn't the only one caught off guard. I had fun, though. It was beyond breathtaking."
"Dancing with you was..."
"That was quite the show you put on with your wife out there."
She noticed his pause. "Hmm?"
"Was quite the experience," he finished, one of his hands moving from her waist.
Tatyana craned her head. "Is something bothering you, Raven?"
"No, I'm just thinking."
"Already about the next mission?"
"Kinda. I don't want to return to the field after a night like this."
"You and I both, but at least we don't have to worry about seeing Chaolan soon."
"Something I won't complain about at all."
A comfortable silence sat between them as the Ravens admired the stars and reveled in each other's embrace. However, the conversation from the bathroom remained at the back of Raven's mind.
'Could it go that far between us with our roles in the unit?'
Tatyana's Apartment - 10:09 P.M.:
Click.
Raven closed the door behind him and turned the lock before spinning Master Raven around as she laughed. "I know you can be a bit of a show-off, but I find it hard to believe you won't admit it on the dance floor."
She chuckled. "I'm serious; I was winging it."
"Calling me a liar?"
"No..." Master Raven smiled. "We just work well together."
"True, but," Raven kissed her cheek. "We've never worked that well before."
She leaned her head back into his chest. "To be fair, we've never done that before."
Reluctantly, Raven pulled away from his lady to retrieve the paper box and a spoon. The couple conversed into the late hour, and Raven wanted to change his girlfriend's mind about sweets. She resided on the couch wearing lounge clothes: an oversized T-shirt and cotton shorts. Raven was still in his suit pants but without his shirt on as he walked over with the box already open in his hand.
Master Raven raised an eyebrow. "You were serious about that?"
"A hundred percent."
"Raven—"
"Let me stop you before you change your mind. You may not like typical cakes, but you haven't lived until you've tried tiramisu." He held out a spoonful. "Here."
Shaking her head, Master Raven opened her mouth. Raven held a metal spoon with some dessert and fed her, waiting for her reaction as the utensil gently slipped it from her lips. The woman's eyebrows furrowed in a pause to savor the mild but bold sweetness of the mascarpone cream. Surprisingly, it paired well with the coffee-dipped ladyfingers.
"It's good," she admitted. "But again, I'm not a sweet person."
Raven gave a defeated smile. "It was worth a try."
"So..." Master Raven's head tilted slightly. "What's been bothering you?"
He sighed, which hung slightly. "You noticed?"
"You didn't need to say anything for me to tell something was on your mind."
"Right."
After sticking the spoon into the tiramisu and placing it on the coffee table beside the couch, Raven rubbed the back of his neck. "After the dance, I conversed with a guy in the restroom, and he thought we were... married."
Both Master Raven's eyebrows raised, not expecting that.
Raven's eyes closed. "What he said has been in my mind, and I couldn't stop thinking about it since. His exact words were, 'I'll be tipping my glass to that. It's nice to see strong couples like you and your wife are still around. It gives me hope for this war-torn world.' Since then..."
He paused, shoulders sinking with a deepening feeling of uncertainty.
"I couldn't stop thinking about what would happen to the world, the Unit..." Raven glanced at her. "And us. Would we even fit back into the world of normalcy again? I know I'm probably getting ahead of myself, and you think I'm crazy."
A hand ran over his blonde mane. "Would we even fit back into society as citizens?"
Master Raven stood from the couch, pacing slowly. "The clan is mostly all we've ever known - no more missions or training. I understand what you mean, but we can't fear the future."
"True," Raven agreed. "I know once this is over, my dad will call me to tell me the good news." 'Should I even call it that?'
"That will be quite the conversation."
He turned with his gaze on the floor with both elbows on his legs. "But that's not what I'm worried about. It's what happens between you and me."
The woman stayed quiet, unsure how to answer or comprehend his question. "It's... a lot to consider. I will only suggest we not get too worked up about it. I don't plan on leaving without good reason. Even a world of peace needs a few shadows to keep it that way."
"Dark but reassuring."
Neo City; UN HQ Underground Conference Room; 7:03 A.M.:
Victor turned to face his two agents as they walked in. Dwight was sitting in a nearby chair at a desk with a folder of files and a badge in front of him.
"Agents," Dwight acknowledged.
They nodded before Victor spoke. "As you both know, the tournament is entering the second round of the semi-finals. Dwight and I decided to enter Raven in it. Being inside could help us gather intel on Heihachi's next move and keep an eye on Kazuya."
Dwight stood up and tossed the badge in Raven's direction. Catching it, the agent looked over the information below: a picture of himself in his current uniform.
Raven "Shadown Agent" [Late Entrant]
Ninjutsu
Unknown Origin
"You're competing as a late entrant, but you'll need to be on guard since Heihachi will recognize you from your previous entries."
"With that being said..." Dwight eyed Raven, still amazed at his recovery from the botched operation several months back. "Be on your toes, agent. Once you're done, disappear and find no intel on Kazuya's next move or Heihachi's plans. Do I make myself clear?"
Raven nodded wordlessly.
"Tatyana, you will watch and assist Raven if and when the situation becomes critical. Outside that, search for any intel on Sergei Dragunov and Lee Chaolan—at least what the latter's willing to tell you. And steer clear of Nina and Anna Williams. Nobody can know you're there. Any known allies caught trespassing during tournament hours will disqualify anyone connected to them."
Victor raised an eyebrow at his agents, whose shoulders tensed at the mention of the flamboyant tycoon. He supposed it couldn't be helped after his theatrics during their mission earlier in the week. Luckily, Dwight didn't notice.
"Your first match is tonight at 8:30 and will be held at the Arena in Tokyo. I will be watching from my office while Victor will observe from our HQ in Kobe. Understood?"
"Affirmative, sir," the woman answered.
"Good. The stealth jet should arrive in a few minutes. Your bags are waiting for you there."
Aboard the UN Stealth Jet - 8:48 A.M.:
Master Raven's visible annoyance was apparent. "Do we have to deal with Chaolan again?"
Victor kept looking out the window while sensing both agents' displeasure. "It's only for a short period. The tournament is our only way in without raising immediate suspicion."
"Fight, observe, and stay hidden," Raven stated. "Got it."
"Not a single word if he tries anything more than our last encounter."
"Do what you must, Tatyana," Victor relented.
Kobe, Japan - 3:21 P.M.:
Raven gazed out the window of the armored limousine, his eyes landing on another projection screen on a building that advertised him as a new, late-arriving fighter in the King of Iron Fist Tournament. He rolled his eyes under his red shades.
"That's the third one in the past hour. Doesn't everyone in Japan know about this tournament by now?"
Master Raven couldn't help but smile. "Anxious to fight?"
"Just tired of seeing my face everywhere."
Victor smirked, stroking his beard. "The limelight isn't for everyone, but enjoy it. It could give you a leg up."
"On what? I'm sure the spoiled rich girl wouldn't care if I didn't give her a hard time in front of the cameras. It's... unsettling."
"Good thing it's only temporary," Master Raven interjected. "At least put on a show."
An annoyed expression plastered onto his face at her knowing but playful look. "What? Like you did?"
She cocked an eyebrow. "Fighting Dragunov is child's play, Raven."
"Alright, you two," Victor began, his expression turning serious. "We all have our objectives to complete for the time being. I presume you each will prepare for the task ahead without any distractions."
Both agents nodded in unison.
"Understood. At least attempt to make a few friends, Raven."
The agent groaned before teleporting to the rooftop. Raven stood tall, his shoulders relaxed, and his eyes opened as a cool breeze wafted. He only wore black sweatbands on both arms, jeans, a belt that held his sheathed blades to his back, and a pair of armored Tim's. He stood with his arms crossed and blinked before backflipping off the rail just as a kick from his master's clone missed him.
He landed in a low crouch. "Going to fight me in your suit?"
Master Raven approached and stood before him. "If it were a fight, I wouldn't have missed it."
"First to three or five?"
Her slender hand shifted the braced hilt of her chokutō blade. "I was thinking we up the ante this time. How's the arm?"
Raven took up his stance. "Good enough to make this interesting."
She gripped the blade's hilt as it slid from its metal sheath, branding the weapon before pointing the tip at her subordinate. "Your move."
He sprinted toward her. Master Raven stepped back, eyes catching his hand as it went for one of the blades at his back. She weaved back as he sprung into a series of backhand springs. Master Raven backflipped. Raven inhaled sharply and leaned back from her extended toe. He hesitated, her sharp heel narrowly missing him as she landed. He grabbed his other blade and aimed for her feet. Master Raven placed a hand on the ground and executed a sideways corkscrew over his blades. She landed and pulled off 'Quicksand' to send her subordinate airborne as her clone shot forward for her to follow behind. The clone swiped its blade at Raven as he twisted to avoid the swipe. He gripped the clone's shoulder to push himself off towards his master. Her jaw clenched before she slid, pulling off a no-hands cartwheel before recovering.
Shing!
A clash of blades sparked, and Master Raven blocked without facing him. Raven jumped back just as her heel nearly grazed his nose.
"If I didn't know any better, I'd say you're having too much fun," Master Raven remarked.
He shrugged. "I could say the same about you."
"Don't hold back."
"Noted."
Raven dashed forward, sliding as he did the nine Kuji-In hand signs. Weaving back, a clone appeared. She blocked its kick, ducking away from a bladed swipe. Clones surrounded her at every angle. But she kept up easily, dodging, blocking, and soon making the clones disappear with a simple hit. Raven saw his opportunity to strike. She landed an uppercut to a clone. He landed 'Stinging Low' against her knee, forcing Master Raven to stumble while his middle kick pushed her back further. Raven sprinted as Master Raven waited after recovering. He executed 'Alternating Smash,' but she blocked and countered with a high kick. Raven smirked, but she missed him as he appeared before her to land a 'Sudden Strike.' Hit upward, Master Raven couldn't brace herself as another clone of Raven's slammed its shoulder into her back.
"Seyya!"
Raven gripped her tie and threw Master Raven overhead, watching her land on the ground. Smirking, Raven sheathed both blades before his eyes widened underneath his shades. Two Master Raven clones met him with a double-palm strike to the chest.
"Agh!"
He flew off the roof and landed next to Master Raven as she gave a soft laugh.
"Always with the last hit." Raven got up and dusted himself off.
She smirked. "Call it even?"
"Sure."
Poof.
Master Raven slid to a stop on the roof of another building shorter than the UN building before loosening her tie. "Underhanded but clever move. How long were you waiting to pull that off?"
Raven stood from his low crouch and shrugged. "A while. I know grabbing the hair is strictly off-limits."
She couldn't help but chuckle nervously, rubbing the back of her neck with her left hand. "Yeah..."
The two remembered the incident well.
Raven was seventeen, Tatyana sixteen at the time.
The woman's dreadlocks were already several inches past her shoulders. They'd finally reached the level of being able to spar with small weapons without supervision a week prior. They couldn't stab each other - a single cut marked a loss, while a win only occurred when one pinned the other with their blade at the throat, head, or heart. So far, Raven had won with two to zero and wanted a quick victory. The two Jōnin shinobi walked in a small circle. Each ninja smirked with Raven's kunai blade held in a reverse blade and Tatyana holding her kunai in her right hand.
"Come on," Raven goaded. "I wanna make sure I have a long victory dance."
"Your way of having fun was doing this?" Tatyana pointed to a tiny, uneven x-cut just below her left eye.
He shrugged. "Maybe, but you can keep talking. Either way, you're going to lose."
They both took their stance, each focused on the duel.
"Come on," Raven breathed.
"Uh!"
Tatyana sprinted in his direction. Raven skipped back and avoided her quick kick, weaving forward to evade another missed kick before landing an elbow into the middle of her chest. He stepped back, taking hold of one of the dreadlocks hanging from her ponytail and pulling hard enough before he kicked her feet from under her.
Thud.
"Hah! Three to zero, I wi—"
SMACK!
The rigid heel of her sneaker met his jaw. Raven stumbled back and blinked in utter shock. He saw his sparring partner's face, stone cold, and focused brown eyes glowing bright gold—the first time he'd seen it.
"Taty—"
She nailed her knee into his stomach before kicking his leg. He inhaled sharply, blocking another kick.
"What are you—Ak!"
Tatyana tackled Raven to the ground, spinning the blade in hand. Raven held his breath with widened eyes in fear and shock as she brought her hand down to his throat. The point of her kunai grazed his skin, and soon, he could feel the sting of its tip as it poked into his skin. He blocked, holding her back even as she seemed to gain a sudden burst of strength from losing.
"T-Tatyana…" Raven strained through his teeth.
The cold point of her kunai slowly inched towards his neck.
"Hey!"
An older agent pulled Tatyana from Raven, who scrambled to his feet as Victor separated the two with surprise and concern evident in his features. "What happened?"
The young girl kept her focus on her sparring partner with a vicious glare. "He grabbed my hair."
Victor and the older Raven agent glanced at each other in confusion. They had never dealt with a situation like this before.
The silver-haired man sighed. "Alright. Let's take a break. To your dorm room, Raven."
Raven did as he was told and ran past them in what seemed to be fear.
"My office. Now."
Livid, Tatyana launched her kunai as the blade speared into the wooden floor to its base.
"Fine."
Victor's eyebrows raised at the blade, impressed and taken aback after pulling it from the ground. 'There's more to her skill.'
Victor sat in his chair with the agitated girl before him, fists clenched at her sides with shoulders falling and rising slowly.
Tatyana's tone was sharp. "How come he's not the one in trouble?"
"I never said his actions would go unpunished, Ms. Summers," Victor corrected. "But what you did in reaction must be taken care of first."
Her jaw clenched, but she stayed quiet.
"I know I will never truly understand the true meaning of your hair to the extent you do. But you have to understand having long hair leaves an opportunity for an enemy to take advantage. With Raven,"
"He's never once grabbed it, and now—"
"You two are close, but he cannot read your mind, Tatyana," Victor said, his light blue eyes narrowing. "I suggest you use the next hour to meditate and have a conversation with Raven to set some boundaries."
"I couldn't help it. I don't let anyone outside my family touch it, and I'm not about to ease up just because we were sparring."
Victor nodded slowly. "So termination was the best course of action in return for his actions?"
"I wasn't going to kill him. I-I don't know..." Tatyana's fists relaxed and unclenched. "I wasn't going to kill him. Something snapped, and I just wanted... It's the first step to being violated, the last thing I want from friend or foe."
A slight grin formed on the man's face. "I hope you remember that as your hair grows, especially if you face an enemy who employs dirty tactics."
"Yes, sir."
"But..." Victor rose, placing a gloved hand on the polished wooden desk. "I do expect you to stop holding back. At your worst, you revealed how much you can do. Consider your training doubled for the next two weeks."
"Understood."
"Dismissed."
With that, Tatyana left his office, a new weight of guilt settling on her shoulders while the sting of regret lingered. 'He must be terrified out of his mind because of me.'
She hung her head low, walking down the facility's vast hall. Tatyana stopped at the sliding door with the letters T & R on the left side. She stepped forward, and Raven's head shot up as she entered. He jumped from the bed and instinctively stepped back, thinking another attack would happen. Despite staring at him, she noticed his slight movements. The weight worsened.
"I deserve that."
"Look, I'm sorry that I—"
"Don't," Tatyana began, leaning against the doorway with crossed arms. "It's not your fault—not entirely, at least."
"What!? I—"
"You didn't know, and I didn't tell you. I can't expect you to know certain things when I don't say anything."
His eyebrows raised in surprise, easing out of his defensive stance.
"I wasn't gonna kill you for that."
His eyebrows furrowed. "I find that hard to believe."
"Okay... I deserved that, too. I snapped and... I'm sorry. You don't have to forgive me, but you at least need to know that."
Raven allowed himself to relax. "Forgiven... But you hit harder than you let on. I promise never to grab your hair again, and I'm sorry for doing it in the first place. That means more to girls than to guys, I guess."
"A lot more."
"Victor didn't want to talk to me?"
Tatyana shrugged. "I don't know, but you're not getting off easy either."
"I thought as much..."
Since then, Raven has been extra careful about where he grabs and slices when sparring and is sure to miss if he comes too close. Tatyana might kill him if he touched her hair again or not even see the afterlife if he accidentally cut one of her dreads. It was a learning experience for both ninjas as Raven learned how dangerous his superior could be. Tatyana knew from that incident to set boundaries and stop holding back.
Neither liked talking or mentioning the incident in a mutual understanding, especially Master Raven. Sure, she showed off her deadlier side when not restraining herself, but it wasn't worth it. The look of fear on her eventual boyfriend's face was burned into her memory. Even now, she always noticed the extra shift in his foot and purposefully missed attacks.
"Shall we go again?" Tatyana challenged with a smirk.
He took up his stance. "First to five. Your move this time."
She grinned before sliding her chokutō blade back into the sheath at her back, the blade singing with a quick but high-pitched ring before the tsuba met the scabbard. Master Raven took up her stance as well. Raven could see a new focused edge in her stare, an instantaneous shift unnoticeable to the untrained eye.
He counted in his head. 'One; Two; Thre—'
"Gah."
Raven stumbled back as the toe of her leather heel missed him by inches. Inhaling sharply, he blocked another kick before the opposite knee landed in his gut, prompting a grimace. He caught sight of her next attack.
Smack!
Agile, Raven caught Master Raven's fist and pinned her arm behind her back before caressing her waist.
"Raven..." She murmured with playful suspicion.
"You started it." Raven inched toward her ear. "How about we do something different instead?"
She laughed before maneuvering out of his grasp. "You heard Vic. No distractions."
"All work and no play. That makes it one to zero."
Master Raven nodded. "Shouldn't be that hard to win."
"Prove it."
Tokyo; Iron Fist Arena - 8:12 P.M.:
Donning her mission suit, Master Raven stood atop a building's roof in observance as her subordinate climbed a flight of stairs to the arena. The flags attached to her back waved in the warm night's calm wind.
"Remember, Raven," Victor's voice emitted from the armored covering on his right ear. "You don't need to win. Just stay in long enough to find any valuable intel. Be on your guard; Heihachi will do anything to put on a show for the public if it benefits him."
"Understood," Raven replied.
The security guards in dark suits didn't bother stopping Raven or asking for his fighter pass before a guy in a red and black dress shirt, jeans, and dress shoes walked over to him. He had pale skin, slim hazel eyes, and thick brown eyebrows to match his mustache and anchor beard. Over his short brown hair was a mic headset. In his hand was a tablet with a watch covering his left wrist. A silver chain hung around his neck, and a thicker one hung from the belt loops on the right side of his pants. A black band was fastened around his arm with a Mishima Zaibatsu symbol and the words 'Match Coordinator' underneath, the emblem and words made of gold stitching.
"You're early," he said, looking at his watch. "You know your match isn't until eight thirty, right?"
"I don't do last minute. I like to know who I'm facing," Raven stated.
The guy nodded. "Follow me."
Taking the lead, the agent took a few short seconds to scan the central area as they walked. Neon lights, giant holograms of the fighters inside the glass ring. Segmented pools of crowds cheering on each fighter between the stage and walkways to the ring. Several armed Tekken Force soldiers stood near the exits, entrance, and ring. All the while, Heihachi oversaw everything from a balcony at the arena's forefront, sitting in a golden throne chair with several Tekken Force soldiers standing behind him and Nina at his side.
"So," the match coordinator began. "We didn't have time to give you a separate room. I suggest you sign up earlier next time if you don't like having roommates. That being said..."
They traversed a long metal hall lined with bright lights. Five sliding doors on each side had emblems engraved for each fighter inside, and two soldiers guarded each door. Raven tensed slightly, sensing some soldiers' eyes following him. They continued walking before reaching a door with a golden lion's head above it.
Lars.
"Until we find a room for you, you'll be temporary roommates with Lars Alexandersson."
The door slid open, revealing the rebellion leader making a call on his phone with a towel draped around his neck. His white jacket and shirt lay on his bed while in his pants and boots.
Seeing the two, Lars spoke through the phone. "I'll call you back."
"Weirdo. Can't bother to put on a shirt when I open the door," the Match Coordinator grumbled before clearing his throat. "A soldier will arrive at your door when your turn to fight arrives. Four of them will escort you to the arena. Once the announcer or Heihachi calls your name, make an entrance and give them a show."
"Who am I going against?" Raven questioned.
The shorter guy looked down at his tablet. "You're supposed to be fighting Paul, but Heihachi said he could be an ally or placeholder."
Loading page...
Raven didn't respond and left the room, walking toward the arena entrance.
"From the darkness of the unknown, the Shadow Agent! RRAVEN!"
He landed on a low knee in the ring, lifting his head towards the drone camera. "Resist," he started, rising from his knees with fisted hands at his sides. "And be eliminated."
"Their opponent tonight, the Cold-Blooded Oppressor! KAZUYAAAAAA MISHIMAAAA!"
Kazuya strolled into the arena, wearing his usual white pants and gloves, and eyed Raven and Paul maliciously. The former was familiar with Heihachi's biological son, having crossed paths and fists in the fifth tournament.
"It's one of the defining matches of the tournament!" the female announcer continued. "Should any fighter be left standing, they can advance to the finals! If Kazuya wins, he goes to the finals! They will advance if Raven or Paul are left after taking down Kazuya. Fighters, are you ready?"
Paul smiled at Raven, holding his hand out for a handshake. "Looking forward to fighting with you, partner."
Raven kept his eyes on Kazuya. "Focus on the fight and stay out of my way."
The blonde American chuckled nervously. "Okay, pal."
Master Raven crouched on the metal railing with keen interest. "This should be interesting."
Kazuya cracked his knuckles, his right eye glowing vibrant red.
"Ready?"
Raven and Paul took up their stances.
"Fight!"
Kazuya eyed Raven and Paul, focusing on the ninja while knowing the latter needed to be kept at a distance.
Paul looked over at Raven. "So... do we just rush him or—"
Raven rolled his eyes, sprinting for the Mishima as Kazuya waited.
"Seya!"
Raven grunted, aiming a flying spin kick at the Mishima. Kazuya ducked, aiming an uppercut of his own at the ninja. Raven entered 'Haze,' landing behind the taller man. Kazuya skipped back as the ninja missed a flurry of low and mid-kicks. Paul saw his chance, running toward the two. The Mishima blocked a punch from the ninja, glancing back.
"Hah!"
Paul grunted, landing a 'Gunba' on Kazuya's feet. He flew in the air. Raven shot forward, landing a backflip kick to the Mishima's chin.
Master Raven smirked from her vantage. 'Finally decided to use that move. Took you long enough.'
Kazuya quickly recovered, blocking a heavy half-step 'Phoenix Smasher' from Paul before weaving away from Raven's 'Sudden Strike,' countering with a flying kick to the agent's back.
"Yah!"
Paul grunted, aiming a hard right hook for the Mishima. He blocked, and the impact alone sent Kazuya sliding back.
Smack!
Kazuya's back slammed into the wall before he glared at the two men and then looked to where Heihachi stood. The older man grinned and soon laughed. He knew Paul would give him an actual fight, but with Raven, this match was more of a loss waiting to happen.
"I won't lose," Kazuya growled.
With that, he ran for the ninja, meeting him halfway. Executing 'Oni Front Kick,' Raven acted quickly, countering with 'Chronos Lathe.' The sole of his boot landed squarely in his gut.
Thud.
"Ah!"
Kazuya grunted, stumbling back. He didn't have time to counter Paul's uppercut.
SMACK!
Recovering quickly, Kazuya slammed his head into Paul's before he connected a spinning back fist to Raven's head. The ninja stumbled back, leaving him open.
"Hphm!" Kazuya grinned and landed 'Lighting Screw Uppercut.'
"Gah!"
Raven was sent flying. Kazuya shoved Paul away, sending the agent to the wall with 'Hell Lancer.'
Crack!
Raven landed on the ground, and the glass wall behind him cracked heavily from the impact of his body. His arms shook as the new heavy pain of the Mishima's hits finally set in.
Master Raven straightened from leaning on the beam. "What's his status, Victor?"
"Two more hits like that will put Raven in critical condition. Agent, make a final move to put Kazuya on edge."
Raven inhaled sharply, slowly lifting himself off the ground before channeling his Ki. The damage from Kazuya's attacks almost wholly disappeared. He entered 'Soul Zone,' and a clone shot forward. Raven followed closely behind. Kazuya ducked under Paul's fist, catching sight of the ninja coming behind him with a demented smirk.
"Dorya!"
The blow sent the blonde fighter back with a simple palm strike. Paul ran back in. Kazuya weaved back from the clone's kick and ducked Raven's fist before a punch connected against his jaw.
Thud.
"Seya!"
Raven grunted, stepping into a complex right hook, only for Kazuya to catch his formed fist.
"Dorya!"
He landed 'Roundhouse' on Raven's head and finished with 'Soul Thrust.' Raven landed harshly on the ground, inhaling pained breaths through clenched teeth as blood dripped from his mouth. His vision blurred to a slow halt before Kazuya's kick to his temple. Paul foolishly rushed in, hoping to take the last attack. Master Raven looked over at Kazuya, catching the sight of his third eye atop his forehead glowing brightly with rage. She dived toward the arena just as Raven slowly stood on his feet and looked up.
"Uuh!"
Master Raven tackled him to the ground as a powerful laser tore through the arena. They rolled on the ground before recovering, each landing in a low crouch. The arena was rendered silently fearful.
Heihachi rose out of his chair. "Kazuya Mishima reveals his true colors as a devil! Shoot him down!"
The Tekken Force soldiers aimed their guns as the crowd erupted in screams before flooding the doors to vacate the chaotic scene. Kazuya flew through the rain of bullets, going straight for Heihachi on the overlooking balcony. Heihachi tore his chair from the ground and tossed it in Kazuya's direction just as a laser shot in his direction.
BOOM!
The chair exploded into ash, hurling Devil Kazuya backward as his wings flapped to keep him suspended in the air.
"This isn't over, Heihachi!" Kazuya roared.
He shot through the circular opening in the arena's ceiling, disappearing into the night. By then, Paul had gone with the crowd in a panic, not wanting to risk the chance of getting shot. Now, the Tekken Force soldiers and Heihachi's attention was on the two agents standing back to back while surrounded.
Nina removed her shades with narrowed eyes. "She's here."
"Follow me," Heihachi demanded, walking away from the thick metal guardrail.
Master Raven looked around with concern. "Raven—"
"Don't worry about my condition," Raven gritted.
She stayed silent, a hand slowly reaching for the hilt of her blade.
Pow!
A soldier fired off his gun, but the master kunoichi deflected the bullet with a simple twist of her weapon. Heihachi and Nina appeared through the throng of soldiers, only to find one sinking to the ground with a ricocheted bullet in his eye that instantly killed him.
"Remove that body from my sight." Heihachi's attention turned to the UN agents. "It seems you two are causing more than enough trouble..."
Raven crossed his arms. "Heihachi Mishima."
Neither Master Raven nor Nina said a word during the tense standoff, their heated stares enough to melt the stadium.
Heihachi clasped his hands behind his back. "Instead of making this a long, drawn-out conversation of questions..." He eyed Master Raven. "I want to speak privately with your superior. Nina..."
"Sir," the blonde replied.
"Escort Raven to their new quarters and ensure it has enough room for two."
Nina uttered a displeased growl before reluctantly walking in the opposite direction. Raven kept a reasonable distance from behind, knowing a lowered guard in her presence was a grave mistake. He shared a knowing glance with Master Raven, who mirrored his expression.
'Stay calm and vigilant. I doubt Nina tries anything without invoking Baldy's wrath... but it hasn't stopped her before.'
'I'm more concerned with you, Tatyana. As I learned during our first encounter, Heihachi is no ordinary man.'
'Noted. Victor can bail me out in case something goes awry. Scan our room for anything out of the ordinary.'
'Understood. Be safe.'
Cutting off their telepathic conversation, Raven followed Nina through the wall of soldiers, mindful of keeping his guard up in case an ambush occurred.
Master Raven's eyes landed on Heihachi as he gestured with his head. "Follow me."
Fighters' Living Quarters:
"I'm surprised," Raven began. "Thought you'd be the first to fight in the tournament."
They walked to the end of the hall and entered the elevator, with Nina pressing the three-button. The steel door slid closed, and Nina resisted slipping one of her pistols from the holster on her leg. She knew it would be a foolish attempt with an experienced ninja right behind her who could slit her throat without much effort.
"Anyone with a reasonable mind doesn't need to see my skills to fear my name." A humorless laugh escaped her. "You and your girlfriend are both targets waiting to be shot. And I..."
She looked right at him. "Don't miss."
"Your attempt at Kobe says otherwise. You could've easily killed Victor but opted for a 'warning' shot. And we know how that ended."
No other words were said as they reached the third floor and entered through the first door on the left side of the hallway with the number '315' etched in the metal engraving. Nina obtained two key cards from her pocket.
"Enjoy your stay, though you're living on borrowed-"
To her bewilderment, a Raven clone plucked each key out of her grasp and disappeared after handing them to the original.
Raven merely inserted them into his pocket with a bemused expression before opening the door. "Looks like your trigger finger isn't the only aspect growing rusty."
Mishima Zaibatsu; Main Office:
The dim lounge of the arena almost seemed like the perfect setting for the conversation - the odd spacing wedged between the bar and the main TV to view the matches below.
'Almost enough to watch a fight if it breaks out,' Master Raven thought, sitting in a chair behind Heihachi before spotting a silver Desert Eagle next to a glass with ice cubes. 'He's not foolish enough to try and shoot me. Heihachi would rather end someone with his bare hands.'
"Shall I interest you in a glass of whiskey?" Heihachi inquired.
"I—"
"Play the field, agent," Victor reminded from the faceplate's left ear. "You can seize the upper hand later."
"Sure."
Heihachi turned around, two glasses in hand and a glass bottle of whiskey in the other. "For a cold woman, you seem to sit like someone with more power than you realize. Like a queen upon a throne of some sort."
Master Raven couldn't help raising an eyebrow. She sat as usual in a chair, her right leg crossed over her left, arms resting, and back straight while keeping her focus on whoever she was talking to. The oldest living Mishima seemed more partial to the simple things than most suspected.
"You're in my territory, yet sit as if you have anything that could put me in prison," Heihachi deduced before pouring whiskey into each glass.
"Power doesn't always evolve in the form of force. Sometimes, it originates from the shadows to make things appear, disappear, or collapse. Or from doing what breaks us," Master Raven responded.
He nodded before giving her a glass. Master Raven took it and swirled the alcohol inside the transparent surface.
"But let's not pretend here. Business is business." Her expression turned cold as she resumed her queen-like position. "So, talk."
A smug grin spread across Heihachi's face. "Straight to the point, I see. Taking out my satellites was one thing, but don't believe you're out of the woods yet. I still know where each of your hideouts are."
"Yet you didn't send any raids to them. Considering how incompetent your army is, I highly doubt they could even take out my most novice agents. It would take at least twenty Ninas to eliminate half of my subordinates."
"Perhaps, but I'll make this less troublesome for you. Tomorrow night, you will fight me in a match."
She took a small sip of her whiskey. "And if you lose?"
Heihachi laughed boisterously. "If I lose!? You may be a clan leader, but you're no match for a Mishima's deadly fists."
"If you lose?" Master Raven repeated, her voice sharper than when she first asked.
"Nina won't be sent to finish her failed mission."
"Typical of a man of your stature. A draw?"
Heihachi rubbed a hand on his chin. "We'll have to see if you survive that long. Your lateness will cause Nina to pay Raven a visit, and I doubt you'd want to find him dead in your room."
Master Raven bristled before placing her glass on the circular table before the chair. "I'll keep that in mind during our match."
"Good." Heihachi breathed. "Speaking of..."
Suddenly, Master Raven ducked as a fist flew overhead before she met his attack with a palm strike to his chest.
Heihachi slid back from the impact. "Ha ha! You were holding back! What's stopping you from killing me right now?"
"There's more to a fight than who's left standing, Heihachi," Master Raven retorted.
"That hit seemed to say otherwise."
"A fight could be a means to an end, the start of something worse, or the beginning of one's descent into bloodthirst. It's an oddity people like yourself believe is justified, especially surrounding your wife's... disappearance."
He growled at her insolent accusation. "And what does that make you? A righteous killer?"
Master Raven scoffed. "I'm merely a shadow. You can't punish dark whispers in the wind or phantoms of individuals that don't exist. Better be prepared for tomorrow, Heihachi Mishima. Insufficient rest for geysers will lead to complications."
Poof.
Now alone, Heihachi slipped his phone from his pocket and called a contact labeled 'Silent Assassin.'
Nina stood outside the closed metal door of the ninjas' shared room. Before debating a possible retaliation, she had an incoming call and quickly answered.
"Keep an eye on that woman. Don't lose sight of her when she leaves their room tomorrow."
"Understood."
Nina ended the call and looked up from her phone, her gaze meeting the woman in question with a silent ferocity.
Master Raven cast her a cold side glance. "Out of my way."
She brushed past Nina as their shoulders bumped. The assassin's hand hovered over her holstered pistol. She thought better of it and watched the taller woman disappear behind the sliding metal door. Nina began walking back to Heihaci's office before...
'It must be something being Heihachi's stool pigeon,' Tatyana's voice echoed in her mind. 'You'll be dealt with soon enough.'
Nina growled. "Better plan on backing those words."
She reached the elevators and grabbed her phone to view the security cameras inside their room. "Of course..."
The other four cameras were left with static screens as red words flashed at the bottom - NO SIGNAL.