(Marvel, DC, images, manhwas, and every anime that will be mentioned and used in this story are not mine. They all belong to their respective owners. The main character "Karito Josue Valdez" and the story are mine)
No Pov
Amidst the flickering static, an antiquated television set became the vessel for an enigmatic transmission. Gradually, the chaotic interference gave way to the visual allure of a bygone era, akin to a vintage film reel. Yet, it bore an aura of melancholy, as if preserved by the passage of time. The enigmatic figure on the screen, adorned with an owl pendant reminiscent of Chisato's own, was engulfed in tears, concealing their visage with a profound sorrow.
(???) "The Alan Institute is a mysterious support organization that has expanded globally. It's uncertain whether it's actually an individual or a group. But they seek out geniuses suffering from poverty or other obstacles and provide free assistance. It ranges from sports, literature, entertainment, medicine, and technology."
Presenting himself as an enigmatic virtuoso of the digital realm, the individual who proudly boasts his cyberprowess is none other than Robota. Veiling his identity beneath an elaborate helmet, evoking the charming visage of a toy robot, the enigmatic hacker crafts an intriguing façade. The helmet, a study in gray with its large, blue eyes, a red, triangular nose, and a light gray rectangular mouth, shrouds Robota's countenance with whimsy and mystery. Twin radar-like objects in vibrant orange, akin to symbolic ears, flank the sides of the helmet, imbuing it with a touch of futurism.
However, the extravagance of the helmet's design contrasts with the simplicity of Robota's exposed skin, an ethereal pallor that remains unconcealed. His sartorial choices continue to intrigue, donning a long-sleeved, obsidian top, accentuated by a puffer vest boasting shades of lime green and purple, lending a subtle playfulness to his ensemble. Complementing the ensemble, cropped trousers in neutral beige and vibrant pink and black sneakers add a touch of bold flair to his hacker persona.
In the ethereal realm of virtual communication, Robota finds himself engaged in a cryptic discourse with the ostensibly deceased Walnut. The enigmatic hacker, enveloped in a digital cloak of mystery, seeks to unravel the enigma of who has stumbled upon their meticulously crafted "faux" whereabouts. Amidst the vast expanse of cyberspace, the two figures exchange encrypted words, shrouding their true identities behind veils of data and elusive avatars.
(Walnut) "I didn't come here to listen to something that even a child would know."
(Robota) "In other words, they're not a group that would kill."
(Walnut) "It's a fact that they tried to get rid of me. The question is, how did they identify the location of my condo?"
(Robota) Eyes glow blue and display Walnut's condo exploding "Ka-Boom!" Laughs
(Walnut) "I'm surprised you were able to record it."
(Robota) "Right~? I got myself a new drone just for this. That current location of yours isn't a dummy, is it, Walnut?"
(Walnut) "So it was you. You sold me off to those guys."
(Robota) Falls on his back with his chair and laughs "I got it! The time for someone else to take over the top hacker in this country has come! Farewell, old geezer!"
(Walnut) "There's a possibility of someone even better than me in hacking..."
(Robota) "Stop joking! There's no one else and I'll be the best!"
(Walnut) "Be careful that you don't agitate the Spider too much..." Disconnects
(Robota) "The hell is that old geezer talking about? Did he go more insane? Pfff, whatever! HAHAHA HAHAHA!!"
In the wake of the enigmatic virtual rendezvous, Walnut swiftly took action, orchestrating a clandestine communication in the form of an encrypted email. Within the confines of this digital missive lay urgent information, destined for the keen eyes of a trusted confidante - none other than Mizuki, a figure of profound significance in Walnut's intricate web of connections.
(Mizuki) Sees the message from the computer Karito helped set up "Hm?"
(Karito) "Everything alright there?"
(Mizuki) "Yeah, everything is fine. Now feed me!"
(Karito) "Ask me again why am I spoiling you with ice cream?"
(Mizuki) "Because my hands are busy and you are currently free, so~?"
(Karito) "..." Sigh
(Mizuki) "You got a problem feeding a sexy woman like me?!"
(Karito) "I need an adult."
(Mizuki) "I am an adult!"
(Karito) "A competent one."
(Mizuki) "HOW DARE YOU!"
(Karito) Shoves another piece of cake into her mouth with a spoon "Stop it you sound like a girl with menopause."
(Mizuki) Whines
Chisato Pov
It's so nice to watch movies all night and pass out on the couch. It's so comfy~. Maybe I should invite Karito and Takina over for a sleepover. Will Karito mind coming over and sleeping? Nah he went. He's so easygoing for that. I should hand over the bags that I've prepared for Takina with my "Hand-Picked" recommendations.
Ugh... The sunlight is hitting my face. Is it morning already? That wasn't enough. Wait... What time is it?
I see the clock and it shows 7:24 PM... Wait...
(Chisato) Starts running all around her apartment "Oh no! I fell asleep!" Gets into her Lycoris uniform "Oh, Crap! No, no, no, no!" Grabs Takinas bag and her backpack "Um, this one! And this!" Starts running to the café
Small Time-Skip
Finally! I made it!
Upon swiftly opening the door, my senses are met with the sight of Mika engrossed in conversation with none other than Shinji. The subtle intermingling scents lingering in the air hint at the presence of Karito, undoubtedly adding to the intriguing scenario before me.
(Chisato) "I'm sorry for being late! Chisato's here! Oh, Mr. Yoshi. Welcome!"
(Karito) Snorts from all the way to the kitchen "Yoshi..."
(Chisato) Runs towards Shinji "You haven't been here in almost a month."
(Shinji) "You remembered me?"
(Karito) Delivers pancakes and a coffee for Shinji "Well, someone with Yoshi in their name isn't hard to forget."
(Chisato) "Well, this café used to not have that many patrons... until we found Karito and everything changed."
(Karito) Rest his elbows on the counter "Hehe, of course. I made this place sparkle in a literal sense." Pokes Chisatos nose "Pluss now you are considered the cute girl of this place."
(Chisato) "Hehe~. Thank you, Karito."
(Karito) "Pluss, Shinji. You were Takina's first customer, it was an adorable sight when she was so serious during work."
(Chisato) "Where did you go this time? The United States? Europe? I know! China, right?"
(Karito) "Can you let the dude talk?" Gently Karate chops her head
(Chisato) Pouts
No Pov
Amidst the ongoing exchange of words between Karito, Chisato, and Shinji, Mika gracefully excused himself, retreating to the kitchen. Meanwhile, within the confines of the café's closet, Takina discreetly adorned herself with her Lycoris attire, preparing for her role in this enigmatic equation.
(Shinji) Chuckles "It's alright, Karito. I was in Russia. Here's a souvenir."
(Chisato) "Huh~? What is this?" Looks at the souvenir for a moment and continues talking "You met Teach in Russia, too?"
Mika screams at Chisato from another room.
(Mika) "Chisato, hurry up and get ready."
(Chisato) "Awe~ come on, can't you tell me?"
(Karito) "Damn did you just ignore, Mika?"
(Chisato) "Yup~!"
(Shinji) Laughs "You two are something else. We'll talk about that some other day." Stands up and gets ready to leave "I'll excuse myself now, then."
Just as Shinji reached for the door, Takina materialized before him, opening the kitchen entrance with a graceful bow. Her demeanor exuded courtesy and professionalism as she bid him farewell. Shinji responded with a warm smile, reciprocating the respectful gesture, and proceeded to depart from the café premises.
(Chisato) Waves around her souvenir "Thank you for the souvenir!"
(Karito) Thoughts "I have a bad vibe around him..."
(Mika) He appears with a small package "Karito, can you help me with a virus? I accidentally got my computer corrupted while working."
(Karito) "I told you to stop looking at porn."
(Chisato) Snorts
(Mika) "I told you that isn't why! Help me, please!"
(Karito) Sigh "Be right there." Enters the guest room
Once Mika didn't see Karito anymore he went back to business.
(Chisato) "So? How urgent is this?" Loads a magazine with fake bullets
(Mika) Opens the package revealing it to be a gun "A group of armed assailants is currently chasing the target."
(Karito) Listening thanks to Toxin
(Chisato) "That's a big deal. Takina, have you heard the details about the job?"
(Takina) "Yes, roughly."
(Chisato) "Okay~. Oh, you know the goods I talked about yesterday? I left it over there so you should take it when you're heading out."
(Takina) Looks at the bag "Oh."
(Chisato) "Wait, where's Mizuki?"
(Mika) "She's already securing the gateway route."
(Karito) Thoughts "Sike, I know what ya'll are doing already. Toxin, cover for me while I'm gone kay?"
(Toxin) "Goddamn it..."
(Chisato) Finishes setting up her gun "She's unusually enthusiastic." Puts the gun in her bag
(Mika) "The reward was triple market price, paid in full and in advance."
(Chisato) Chuckles "No wonder."
(Mika) "It just means this is a critical situation. The enemy count is five to ten. Amateurs that are almost pro-level."
(Karito) Setting up his web cartridges "So, easy mode..." Still listening while pretending to fix Mika's computer
(Mika) "I've confirmed they have rifles, too. Be careful."
(Chisato) "Roger that. Let's go! Hey, Karito! Did you make me the sandwich?!"
(Karito) Stiffens up "Uhhhh, yeah?"
(Chisato) Looks in the fridge and grabs it "Thanks~!"
(Karito) Sweating because he forgot but sighs in relief once knowing there was only 1 leftover
Chisato leaves with Takina as they make their way.
(Chisato) Starts eating the sandwich "Oh~, I was hungry. Thank god for Karito."
(Takina) "I already ate earlier. He made me eggs with bacon and hash browns. I have no idea how he can make something so simple taste better than a 5-star meal."
(Chisato) "I gotta ask him how he does it."
(Takina) "We should hurry, we don't have much time."
With a sense of urgency, they hastened towards their destination. While Mika was momentarily preoccupied, Karito skillfully slipped away through the guest room's window, donning his Spider-Man Miles Morales suit. It appeared that poor Toxin would have to cover for Karito once more, shouldering the burden of concealing his absence.
Small time skip
Amidst the city's hustle, the two girls deftly embarked on the express train, their chosen vessel to hasten their journey towards the intended destination. Meanwhile, Spider-Man perched upon the train's roof, relishing the gentle caress of the breeze against his masked face. Inside the train, amidst its swift traverse, Chisato indulged in the delectable sweets thoughtfully prepared by Karito, their flavors harmoniously intertwining with the animated conversation she shared with Takina.
(Takina) Looks at her phone "That will be the gateway route. After we get past the gates at Haneda, we will swap with Mizuki." Looks at Chisato "Um, are you listening?"
(Chisato) "Sorry, I was falling in love with Karito's cooking again. The client is an amazing hacker, right? I wonder what kind of person they are." Takes a bite of her sweets and talks with her mouth full "Mawybe shomthin wike a twin, shwot man with gwasses." Swallows "Click, clack, TAP!" Starts being loud
(Takina) "You've been watching too many movies." She starts drinking something
(Chisato) "Takina, what is that?"
(Takina) "A jelly drink."
(Chisato) "No, no, Miss Takina." Starts slumping over her seat "Do you understand our current situation?"
(Takina) "We are on a limited express train to meet up with our client."
(Chisato) "Right! We have to eat lunch before that!"
(Takina) "I am doing so right now."
(Chisato) "Huh~? That's your lunch? You could've just asked Karito to make you a lunch box. He's awesome at it!" Offers her lunchbox to Takina "You want some?"
(Takina) "No thank you."
(Chisato) "Oh, don't say that! Karito made me flavored boiled eggs and it's delicious! He even gave me a honey bun! Thank the gods for Karito." Grabs a boiled it and puts it in front of Takina with her chopsticks "Here. Say, "aah"."
(Takina) Takes a bite and covers her mouth while blushing
(Chisato) "It's yummy, right~?"
(Takina) "I really ask myself how he makes such good food."
(Chisato) "I know, right?! It's crazy, he hasn't failed once in making good food!"
The train makes a quick announcement in the speakers.
(Announcer) "Thank you for boarding this train. We will arrive momentarily at Kitasenju. Next stop, Kitasenju."
(Takina) "We're getting off."
(Chisato) "Huuhhh~?"
As the train gracefully glided to a halt at the station, the two girls alighted with an air of swift determination, navigating the bustling platform with a purposeful poise. Unbeknownst to the passersby, a spectral figure veiled in camouflage seamlessly moved along with them, Spider-Man blending effortlessly into the surroundings.
(Spider-Man) Thoughts "I really am chasing these girls for a job... this is my new police radio..." Le sigh
(Takina) "We're switching trains in less than 10 minutes. That's why I chose the jelly."
(Chisato) "Is that so? Don't underestimate Karito's cooking!"
(Takina) "You weren't listening after all."
(Annoucer) "For Tokyo Metro Hibiya Lina bound for Ueno, Ginza, and Nakameguro."
Location change
DA
(Kusunoki) "Walnut is dead?"
(Miki) "That's the rumor on the Dark Web. However, he has died multiple times in the past 30 years."
(Kusunoki) "He's an enigmatic figure. Can disappear and appear just like Spider-Man. It would help us a lot if he disappeared with all the intel he drew out from us. But I can't rest easy from geeks' rumors."
(Miki) "Also, we have analysis results from that photo submitted to us from LycoReco. It was indeed about three hours before we commenced the operation."
(Kusunoki) "So we were given a false time for the deal. We really have lost our touch." Looks at the background of Saori's and her boyfriend's picture "It's rather blurry. Can you get any details?"
(Miki) "It will take a bit more time, but we will make sure to."
Location Change
Back with Chisato and Takina
(Chisato) "Hey, Takina. After we met up with this hacker named Walnut, how are we going to get to Haneda?"
(Takina) "You really weren't listening to anything at all. Did Karito's behavior start to rub off on you?"
(Chisato) "Huh~? I'm sorry! Can you tell me again, Lady Takina!"
(Takina) "Our manager arranged a car for us in the parking lot."
(Chisato) "What?! Seriously?! Yes, yes, yes! I'll drive!"
(Takina) "No, I will."
(Chisato) Pouts "Huh? Why~? Takina, can you actually drive a car?"
(Takina) "You can't become a Lycoris if you couldn't."
(Spider-Man) Camouflage "Damn, what do they make ya'll do to become a Lycoris? Shit."
After a minute of walking, they arrive at the parking lot.
(Takina) "This is it."
(Chisato) Spots a red supercar "WOAH! IT'S A SUPERCAR! WOW! AMAZING!" Starts to almost break the fence
(Spider-Man) Thoughts "You get used to it once you live with Tony Stark." Continues watching
(Takina) "That really stands out."
(Chisato) Starts getting even more aggressive "I'm going to drive it after all!"
Suddenly a white car jumps to the streets, seemingly out of nowhere.
(Spider-Man) Thoughts "Pretty sure that's a ticket right there."
(Chisato) "Wow, what was that?!"
A pristine white automobile glided to a halt before the two young women, catching their attention as a peculiar figure emerged from within. Donning a costume resembling a squirrel, the enigmatic individual lowered the window with an air of intrigue, adding a dash of whimsy to the otherwise ordinary scene.
(Spider-Man) "What the fu-"
(Walnut) "Wal?"
(Takina) "...Nut."
(Spider-Man) Thoughts "Got 'em! PFFFF!" Almost exposes himself "Shit. That's what I get for doing lame jokes."
(Walnut) "Hurry up and get in. Pursuers are coming!"
(Chisato) "What? Was that a codeword? That was so tacky?" Sees Takina get in the car "Huh? Hey! Wait! What about that supercar?" Gets dragged into the car "I WANNA GO IN THE SUPERCAR!"
(Spider-Man) "Jesus, she's something else." Starts web-swinging
(Chisato) "Why is the target to protect so gallantly showing up in a car? It's the other way around, isn't it" Starts whining again "Oh man~. The supercar."
(Takina) "It stands out, so this is better."
(Walnut) "Sorry things are different from the plan. I'm Walnut."
(Chisato) "Yeah, okay. I'm Chisato... and she's Takina. You're quite different from the Mr. Hacker that I had imagined."
(Spider-Man) Listening from the Spider-Bot that he placed in the car "Bruh..."
(Walnut) "You thought I would be some malicious, thin, four-eyed boy? If so, you've seen too many movies."
(Spider-Man) Talking to himself "Kinda hoped you were some loli so I could make fun of you."
(Takina) "See, I knew it."
(Chisato) "No, no no. But in any case, nobody would imagine a character costume."
(Spider-Man) "Welcome to anime."
(Walnut) "Simply put, hackers live longer by hiding their faces. A high school girl assassin is more abnormal than me, Lycoris."
(Spider-Man) "Oof! Emotional Damage!"
(Takina) "It's more rational than a bear hacker."
(Spider-Man) Thoughts "Stop with the cap! HAHAHAHA!"
(Chisato) "Takina, that's a dog." Snickers
(Walnut) "It's a squirrel."
A few minutes later
(Walnut) "How is it rational?"
(Chisato) "In other words, this outfit is the least alarming in Japan."
(Spider-Man) Still web-swinging "I dunno, Chisa. I can see those clothes from Mount Fuji and still know it's you."
(Walnut) "So a girl's high school uniform is urban camo, so to say."
(Takina) Looks at the yellow bag in the passenger seat "What's this big thing?"
(Walnut) "My life belongings."
(Spider-Man) Sniff sniff "You smell that, Spider-bot? Smells like bullshit."
(Walnut) "It's better to travel light if you're fleeing out of the country, no?"
(Chisato) "But you sure don't look lightly dressed. But I'm jealous. I want to travel overseas, too."
(Spider-Man) "..."
(Walnut) "Wanna come with me?"
(Chisato) "We don't have entries in family registries, so we can't get passports." Looks at the back window
(Spider-Man) Sighs "I'm too nice for my own good." Puts it on his agenda
(Takina) "They're not coming."
(Spider-Man) "It was about time ya'll notice the bad guys."
(Chisato) "Right. It doesn't look like anyone is coming after us. Should we just head straight to Haneda?"
(Spider-Man) Mumbles "The drone... Ya'll seriously don't notice it?"
(Takina) "No, we're told to change cars."
(Spider-Man) "They'll notice eventually... right?"
(Takina) Shows her phone to Walnut "Mr. Walnut, please head to this location."
(Walnut) "Got it."
Unbeknownst to the assembled group, excluding the vigilant Spider-Man, their every move was meticulously monitored by the astute Robota. Engaged in a covert operation, he labored on behalf of an elusive entity, whose motives remained veiled in shadow.
(Robota) In his secret location "Let's see. He got two chicks in the car. If they get in the way, you can kill them."
(Mercenary) On the Phone "Sorry. They shook us off around the park."
(Robota) Scoffs "So useless. At least work as much as you're paid." Hangs up
(Mercenary) "What a nasty guy."
As the girls and the enigmatic hacker cotninued their drive, a sense of unease gradually settled upon them. They couldn't help but perceive an unexpected deviation from their intended route, as the expressway that should have led them to their destination seemed to elude their grasp.
(Takina) "Huh? Aren't you going on the expressway?"
(Spider-Man) "Hmmm~?"
(Walnut) "What's going on?"
(Chisato) "No, that's our line." Her face was all over the window
(Walnut) Let's go of the car handle and notices that the enemy has hacked their car. "They took over the car."
(Chisato) Almost launches herself to the front seat "EEHHHH~?! Hold on a second, now!" Suddenly the car starts speeding and she falls back to the back seats
(Spider-Man) "Well, here we go." Starts to approach the white car
(Walnut) "Must be robota. He's gotten good."
(Chisato) "Where are we headed?" Struggling to sit straight
(Walnut) "We're accelerating. We are currently passing 90 mph." Looks at the GPS "He's planning to plunge us straight into the ocean."
Abruptly, an unmistakable thud resonated from the roof of the vehicle, capturing the attention of the three occupants within. Their eyes widened in astonishment as Spider-Man, seemingly defying gravity, made his presence known by peering in through the window.
(Spider-Man) "Well holy shit, if someone was playing GTA 5 it would be you guys."
(Chisato) "Spider-Man!"
(Walnut) "What are you doing here?"
(Takina) "..."
(Spider-Man) "Well, from what I can see your car got hacked right?"
(Walnut) "How do you know?"
(Spider-Man) "I'm kind of a hacker myself, you know?" Makes one of his lenses wink "Also, I'm gonna need you to make me a favor real quick." Looks at Takina
(Takina) "Is it about the drone that I just spotted?"
(Spider-Man) "Good girl~. Now can you shoot it down while I disconnect this from the internet?"
(Chisato) "So that's the one." Looks at the drone
(Takina) "If he catches on, it will get away."
(Spider-Man) "Girl with the long hair, can you like shoot it? Please?"
(Takina) "You're not my boss."
(Spider-Man) "Girl, I don't give a fuck. Just hurry and take it down, please!"
(Chisato) "Wow, you sounded like a good friend of mine for a moment."
(Spider-Man) "That's just a coincidence." Pokes the GPS "Alright, taking control. 3... 2... 1... NOW!"
In a remarkable display of dexterity and swift thinking, Spider-Man executed a seamless hack on the car's control system, severing its ties with Robota's influence. Simultaneously, Chisato showcased her marksmanship by expertly shattering the window, granting Takina a clear line of sight to neutralize the pursuing drone with precision.
As the vehicle teetered perilously close to the precipice, Spider-Man's lightning-fast reflexes came into play. With a forceful gesture, he ripped open the car door, deftly using it as an improvised surfboard. Employing his web-slinging prowess, he deployed two strategic spider webs, firmly anchoring the car to the ground while preventing its descent into the sea.
The crimson-clad hero's feat saved the vehicle from a potentially disastrous plunge. Gracefully releasing his grip, he approached the astonished occupants within, his enigmatic aura adding an air of mystique to his arrival.
(Spider-Man) "You guys alright?"
(Chisato) "THAT WAS AWESOME! HOW DID YOU DO THAT?!"
(Spider-Man) "A lot of bench pressing."
(Takina) "That strength is not normal."
(Walnut) "I can agree, you defy all laws of logic."
(Spider-Man) "I know, this level of swagger can't compare."
(Chisato) Snorts
(Spider-Man) Looks at the highway and sees the mercenaries get into a white van after watching them "I think it's time to change ya'll's location."
(Walnut) "You're going to help us? Why?"
(Spider-Man) "Because why not? You guys look like you're in trouble, though I'm sure these cuties can handle themselves, an additional hand won't hurt, right?"
(Chisato) "Hehehe... Spider-Man called me cute.."
(Takina) "Well... I don't trust you but if you're really gonna help us... then..."
(Chisato) "Come on, let's go!"
With an acute sense of awareness, the astute squad members catch sight of an abandoned supermarket, a providential refuge that could afford them the precious respite they urgently sought. Swiftly and silently, they maneuvered into the deserted establishment, concealing themselves in its shadows, just moments before the mercenaries reached the vicinity with palpable determination.
(Robota) Calls the mercenary and picks up "Spider-Man is in the scene! I repeat, Spider-Man is here. Don't screw up as many times as you had already, got that?"
(Mercenary) Hangs up "Tch..." Looks back at the rest of his comrades "The situation has worsened, besides the bodyguards, we have to be careful with Spider-Man. Let's proceed with caution." His team nods in response "Let's go!"
Amidst the desolate ambiance of the forsaken supermarket, a tableau of focused composure unfolded. Chisato, with discerning eyes, meticulously tracked the intricate dance of the adversaries, her observations serving as a beacon of insight for the team. Takina, with an air of professionalism, relayed the unfolding events, her voice laced with unwavering resolve, detailing the enemy's maneuvers and strategies.
Meanwhile, Walnut, the astute hacker, lent his expertise to the ensemble, meticulously documenting their progress, chronicling every twist and turn in their arduous journey. And there, gracefully suspended in a web hammock, like a vigilant sentinel, Spider-Man exuded an air of ease and confidence, ever-prepared to spring into action should the need arise.
(Takina) On the phone "Yes. We've evacuated into that supermarket. No obvious wounds on any of us."
(Mika) "All right. Be careful when you're moving around."
In the periphery of the abandoned supermarket, Robota, had once again deployed his surreptitious tools to maintain a watchful eye on the intrepid squad within.
(Robota) Watching the drone's camera "I see through it all, you know."
(Spider-Man) Waves his hand and makes the drone explode
(Robota) "What the hell?! What destroyed my drone?! You guys have to go in blind. Shit."
As the eerie silence of the abandoned supermarket enveloped the surroundings, the four resolute mercenaries, undeterred by the absence of Robota's watchful gaze, resolved to advance into the shadowy domain.
(Chisato) "Please follow me." Is in a crouching position
The two of them follow her orders but... Spider-Man just walked around nonchalantly.
(Walnut) Whispers "Are you trying to get us killed?!"
(Chisato) "Spider-Man, please! This is not the time to mess around."
(Spider-Man) "I'm always messing around what do you mean?" Hears a footstep and looks to his left
As Spider-Man's perceptive gaze scanned the scene before him, a fraction of a second felt like an eternity as he witnessed the imminent danger lurking towards Takina. Her widened eyes reflected the gravity of the situation, and in that crucial moment, her instincts propelled her to take refuge behind an unlikely yet fortuitous shield—the bulletproof bag belonging to the enigmatic hacker, Walnut.
(Spider-Man) "Huh, who would've thought?"
(Mercenary) "I found them! They're armed!" Continues shooting Takina who's currently taking cover
(Spider-Man) Looks at Chisato "Shoot at the guy on the right. I'll take care of the left one."
(Chisato) "Right."
Chisato, ever the vigilant observer, saw Spider-Man's elegant maneuver, gracefully lifting her by the neck of her school uniform with an almost ethereal strength, propelling her into the air with the fluidity of a choreographed dance. Her sights honed on her target, she exhibited her remarkable marksmanship, the precise non-lethal bullets finding their mark, incapacitating the mercenary's comrade with an air of precision and control.
The enigmatic hero, garbed in the crimson and black that defined his persona, moved with an uncanny swiftness and agility, a maestro conducting the symphony of this entangled conflict. With every step, he seemed to evade the barrage of bullets with a finesse that bordered on the impossible.
Takina, in her steadfast vigilance, seized the opportune moment and trained her aim on the mercenary, preparing to neutralize the threat. Her finger delicately squeezed the trigger, the bullet soaring forth like a guided note in an orchestral symphony. Yet, amidst the flurry of motion and rapidity, Spider-Man, attuned to the ebb and flow of the ever-changing melody, plucked the trajectory of the shot from the air, a feat of dexterity and control that rendered the bullet harmless.
(Spider-Man) "That's a lethal bullet, no can do." Keeps dodging
In an elegant display of ingenuity and tactical finesse, Spider-Man's agile mind worked in tandem with his remarkable web-shooting skills. As the hostile mercenary took aim with his formidable weapon, the arachnid hero's keen reflexes came into play, deploying a deftly spun web that swiftly ensnared the gun's mechanism, rendering it jammed and inoperative. he once formidable weapon now betrayed its possessor, leaving him no choice but to retreat to the embrace of temporary sanctuary.
(Mercenary) "That Spider-Man is something else, it's like he's messing with us." Rubs his hands
(Comrade) "I have never seen someone just dodge bullets and catch one so easily before." Gets out of cover and continues shooting
Spider-Man deftly whisked Takina away from the line of fire, guiding her with an assured touch to the shelter of a nearby alcove.
(Takina) "Stop getting in my way!"
(Spider-Man) "I wouldn't if you didn't have actual bullets."
(Walnut) "Oh, God, oh no! Don't use the bag as a shield next time! I told you that was something valuable, didn't I?!"
(Spider-Man) Sighs
(Mercenary) "Enough! Get back!" The two start retreating
Chisato nimbly evaded the hail of bullets as she maneuvered towards the back of the Supermarket. Her movements exuded a balletic grace, each step calculated and deliberate, as she sought refuge from the mercenary's relentless assault.
Undeterred by the imminent threat, the mercenary prepared a deadly grenade, seeking to amplify the peril that already hung in the air. With keen perception and a lightning-quick response, Chisato surged forward, a blur of determination and finesse, swatting the grenade away with a well-timed strike.
In the blink of an eye, her actions executed with practiced precision, she delivered a decisive elbow to the mercenary's chest, disrupting his equilibrium and leaving him momentarily bewildered.
However, just as the situation teetered on a precarious edge, Spider-Man arrived like a guardian angel descending from above. His arrival was marked by a stunning front-kick, a feat of acrobatic agility that propelled the mercenary into a wall, effectively neutralizing the immediate threat.
(Chisato) "Spider-Man, the grena-"
In a mesmerizing display of swift and calculated ingenuity, Spider-Man sprung into action as Chisato's words seemed to linger in the air. With a deft and practiced hand, he wove an intricate web shield, akin to an artisan crafting a delicate tapestry. Placing it atop the menacing grenade with a precise touch. As the grenade erupted in a blinding flash of light and force, the web shield stood resolute, bearing the brunt of the explosion with unwavering fortitude.
(Chisato) "...Holy crap, did you just do that?"
(Spider-Man) "Yup."
Takina hastened to join the duo, her senses attuned to the threat lurking in their blind spot. A surge of determination coursed through her veins, propelling her forward with both urgency and caution. Safeguarding her ally, Walnut, she pushed her gently back, cognizant of the unfolding danger that demanded her undivided attention.
With poised precision, the mercenary emerged, brazenly brandishing a storm of bullets that seemed destined to breach their defenses. Yet, in a breathtaking display of almost supernatural acuity, both Spider-Man and Chisato demonstrated an almost preternatural grace. The barrage of projectiles seemed as though moving in slow motion, deftly eluding their intended targets by the slimmest of margins.
Takina's heart swelled with both admiration and trepidation as she bore witness to the ballet of evasion. Their movements were choreographed with an ethereal elegance.
(Mercenary 3) "What the?! I can't hit them!"
With an instinctual response, Spider-Man, seized the opportune moment to strike with a masterful stroke. His web, an ethereal filament woven from acumen and dexterity, homing in on the mercenary's visage. In a mesmerizing display of tactical finesse, the web ensnared the surprised assailant's face, cocooning it in a veiled shroud.
(Spider-Man) "Knock him out."
(Chisato) "Hai Hai~."
Chisato's keen marksmanship was accentuated by the measured cadence of her non-lethal shots, each round delivered with calculated restraint to incapacitate her adversaries without causing lasting harm.
Takina, her eyes the windows to a universe of incredulity, could scarcely believe what transpired before her. Her thoughts tumbled through a maelstrom of bewilderment, pondering the enigma of these two scarlet-clad luminaries, each adorned with extraordinary abilities that defied the boundaries of human capability.
Spider-Man's vision, discerned the mercenary leader's presence with an uncanny prescience. With a deft flick of his wrist, a web was dispatched with unerring accuracy, shrouding the leader's sight and rendering him momentarily bereft of vision.
As Chisato's bullets found their target with surgical precision and Spider-Man's web ensnared the leader's senses.
(Spider-Man) "We make a pretty good team, don't we?"
(Chisato) "It's awesome having someone who can dodge bullets as good as me!"
(Spider-Man) "You were totally badass right there. For a moment I was like "Is this the cute girl I meet that night?" had to think about it for a second there."
(Chisato) "Aww please~, you're such a tease." Chuckles "You are exactly like a friend of mine."
(Spider-Man) "Maybe I'm his role model?" Shrugs
(Takina) "You two, stop flirting! Let's escape before enemy backup arrives."
(Chisato) "The one with the red bandana has burn marks. Hold on a bit."
(Spider-Man) "It's fine, I'll take care of it."
(Chisato) "You sure?"
(Spider-Man) "Positive" Summons a healing potion
(Chisato) Looks in confusion but goes with Takina
Spider-Man deftly shattered the vial atop the fallen mercenary, unleashing its potent elixir upon him. The alchemical concoction, a brew of esoteric origin, began its work with an enigmatic potency that defied conventional understanding.
(Walnut) "The enemy isn't watching the gateway route yet." Looks at the Ipad "We can still make it."
(Spider-Man) "I'll be right behind you guys."
(Chisato) Smiles at what Spider-Man is doing
(Takina) "Let's go." Starts walking away
The mercenary wakes up and he feels rejuvenated, he feels completely new.
(Mercenary) "What's the meaning of this?"
(Spider-Man) "Well, I just healed you. You won't have second-degree burn marks on your hand now so you'll be fine."
(Mercenary) "Why? Are you mocking me?"
(Spider-Man) "I'm always mocking people but I'm not going to senselessly kill everyone. Do you want me to kill you?" A stinger appears out of his forearm
(Mercenary) Gulps "S-Stop that."
(Spider-Man) Retracts the stinger "After this, will you be eating somewhere? Chilling? Probably get laid?"
(Mercenary) "... I'm going to eat with my family."
(Spider-Man) "That's why I'm not gonna kill you. Congrats you found out why I don't kill." Thoughts "Only exception is the Darks though..."
The subdued mercenary, who had been rendered unconscious by the combined efforts of Spider-Man and Chisato, began to stir with a muted groan, a subtle sign of life returning to his battered form.
(Mercenary) "What?"
(Spider-Man) "The hamster face girl didn't kill anyone, she uses non-lethal bullets. So the guys she shot will be fine."
(Mercenary) "Rubber bullets, huh?" Decides to tell him about his plan "Hurry up and go. Your friends are about to get ambushed."
(Spider-Man) "What?"
(Mercenary) "There waiting for you. They didn't know where you'll exit so they placed shooters on both sides."
(Spider-Man) "FUCK! YOU TELL ME THAT SHIT NOW?!" Sarts sprinted toward the trio
Having traversed the labyrinthine passages of the abandoned supermarket, the trio of Chisato, Walnut, and Takina finally reached the threshold of their enigmatic sanctuary. In a calculated display of consideration, Walnut, ever mindful of her companions, gracefully took the lead, turning the door's handle with a gentle yet resolute touch. The door creaked open, yielding to her subtle command, and in a graceful motion, she emerged into the outside world.
(Chisato) "Wait, something doesn't feel right!"
(Spider-Man) "DON'T GO OUT!"
In a tragic turn of events, Walnut's life was cut short by a hail of bullets as she stepped outside the supermarket. Takina and Spider-Man could only watch in shock and grief as their comrade fell, leaving them to grapple with the harsh reality of mortality.
(Mercenary sharpshooter ) "All right! I landed at least 10 shots! What now? Should I get those bodyguards girls too? Maybe Spider-Man?"
(Mercenary) "No need. Let's go eat something."
With a calculated retreat, the mercenaries savored their perceived triumph, departing from the scene, leaving behind the shattered remnants of what was supposed to be a protected mission. The Lycoris and the valiant hero, Spider-Man, found themselves grappling with the painful weight of failure, a bitter taste that lingered in the air as they mourned their inability to shield their intended target.
(Takina) Presses her earpiece "We failed. The escort target has died."
(Mika) "An emergency vehicle will arrive very soon. Gather up the corpse and the luggage, and get away from there."
(Takina) "Roger that."
In the wake of the harrowing aftermath, Chisato gracefully emerges from the confines of the abandoned supermarket, her steps weighed down by a profound melancholy that permeates the air. Gazing upon the lifeless form of Walnut, Chisato's countenance becomes a canvas of sorrowful emotions. In the solemn stillness of the moment, Spider-Man joins her, a comforting presence in the face of distress. His masked visage betrays an understanding of her pain, and with a gentle gesture, he tenderly caresses her head, a wordless offering of solace and support.
(Spider-Man) Looks at Walnut's body "..." Looks even more and mumbles to himself "So that's how it is..."
Location
Allan Insitute
(Shinji) Talks to Robota on the computer with sound only "Are those bodyguards that are near him? Even Spider-Man was there."
(Robota) "Should we have killed the two girls? I don't think we could've taken down Spider-Man even if we tried."
(Shinji) "No, you did a fine job. This finally ends all of "my" requests from last month. Thanks for working hard for so long. I'll ask for your services again sometime."
(Robota) Scoffs "Now that I'm the best hacker in Japan, you can ask me anything, anytime! See you!" Hangs up
(Shinji) "A bird does not foul the nest that it is about to leave. That's what's so good about you, Robota. Just like a tool."
In the midst of an eerie stillness, the room descends into darkness, engulfed by an ominous shroud that conceals the figure sitting at the chair. Swiftly rising to his feet, he adopts a posture of deference, prepared to meet his enigmatic superior. Emerging from an obscure portal, a mysterious creature materializes, its ebony form adorned with ethereal white markings adorning its chest. The presence of this enigmatic being pervades the atmosphere, commanding respect and perhaps a hint of trepidation.
(???) "Well, how are you doing, Shinji? It's been a minute."
(Shinji) Bows "It's good to see you again, Sir."
(???) "Have you heard of the rumor?"
(Shinji) "Yes, Sir. The Spider resides in this dimension."
(???) Hisses "Good~, remember our deal? I will help you achieve what you want with Chisato and I'll send some subordinates to deal with the SPIDER!"
(Shinji) "Yes, Sir. When does the mission start?"
(???) "Any time soon now Shinji, just wait for a bit. The timing has to be right."
(Shinji) "Yes, Sir. I understand. What should we do?"
(???) "I'll give you as many symbiotes as I can provide for you and spread pods around the city to slowly infect the people. I'll keep them in control."
(Shinji) "Yes, Sir. Mission "Web Of Shadows" shall start operating on a low profile."
(???) "Good, Shinji, and once this world knows chaos WE will call it. Planet VENOM!"
Amidst Venom's haunting laughter, an unsettling air fills the room, thick with the malevolent energy he exudes. With a sinister grin, he manipulates reality itself, conjuring an enigmatic portal that seemingly leads to the depths of his dark dimension. As the portal beckons, Venom's eerie silhouette vanishes within its swirling abyss, leaving behind a sense of foreboding and apprehension. Shinji, now alone, witnesses a few enigmatic black stones left in Venom's wake, their significance shrouded in mystery.
(Shinji) "...Yes, Sir. Leave everything to me... You don't have to intervene at all."
Location change
Emergency Vehicle
In the aftermath of their unsuccessful mission, the two girls bore somber countenances, their spirits weighed down by the burden of failure. Sensing their despondency, Spider-Man, with a compassionate gesture, resolved to stand by their side, offering his steadfast presence as a solace amid their distress. As they navigated the aftermath of their harrowing encounter, the trio found themselves engrossed in a disheartening silence, broken only by the occasional glances exchanged between them, each laden with unspoken emotions.
Takina, feeling the unease that permeated the atmosphere, endeavored to bridge the gap with small talk, an attempt to soothe the palpable tension that lingered in the air.
(Takina) "I'm sorry..."
(Chisato) "It's not your fault, Takina. No ones to blame."
(Spider-Man) Sighs in frustration "Hey, you in the costume I think it's time to stop faking your death, you can roam free without people thinking you're alive now."
(Walnut) "Damn, you knew this entire time?"
(Chisato & Takina) "Huh?"
In a spellbinding turn of events, as the lifeless form of Walnut seemed to regain a semblance of animation, a shroud of mystique enveloped the scene. With a deliberate and enigmatic flourish, the figure removed the mask that obscured their true identity, and behold, it was none other than Mizuki.
(Mizuki) "So hot! Give me a beer!" Waves her hand for some air
(Spider-Man) Passes her some beer and grabs one for himself
(Mizuki) "Thanks, cutie~. Also thanks for carrying me like a princess I was blushing the entire time." Opens her beer
(Spider-Man) "So your that type of girl, huh? Kinky." Opens his as well "Cheers." Thoughts "It really doesn't matter if it's underage drinking because... I can't get drunk so why would it even matter?"
(Chisato) Surprised "Mizuki?! Huh? Wh-What? How? Spider-Man you knew?! Also, you drink?! How old are you?!"
(Spider-Man) "17... also I have an ability that doesn't allow me to get drunk."
(Mizuki) "What?! You're 17?! Why are you drinking?!"
(Spider-Man) "Why would it matter?! I can't get drunk so that logic doesn't apply to me!"
(Mika) Reveals himself to be the driver "Calm down, everyone. Also, thank you Spider-Man for noticing what was going on."
(Spider-Man) "It's all with experience."
(Chisato) "Huh?! Teach?"
(Mizuki) Drinks and sighs in glee "Oh, this is bulletproof. The secret is that it makes a flashy bloodbath."
(Spider-Man) "I'm aware."
(Mizuki) "Yeah because you literally checked yourself! You cupped a fell or two! Perv..."
(Spider-Man) "Hey, I had to confirm if you were actually dead because your heat signature didn't drop because of the costume so I had to confirm."
(Mizuki) "Enjoyed your time, hmph?"
(Spider-Man) "Honestly? Yes." Starts walking over to the yellow bag
(Mizuki) "WHA?!" Blushing intensifies
(Takina) "Um, what about the actual Mr. Walnut?"
(Chisato) "That's right! Where did he go?"
(Spider-Man) "I'm guessing they are very small to fit in this bag... I swear if they are a loli..." Opens the bag
(Walnut) "Thank you, Spider-Man. The best way to fully escape from pursuers is to make them think you died." Slowly exits the bag as SHE faces Spider-Man with a VR headset "Then they won't inquire any further." She can't see because of the headset "Huh? It's pitch black..." Touches Spider-Man's shoulder "Woah, these are rock hard."
(Spider-Man) What the fuck meme plays in his head
Before their astonished gazes stood a diminutive, yet captivating, young girl adorned with long, lustrous locks of blonde hair, elegantly restrained with a dainty black ribbon. Her azure eyes seemed to hold a myriad of untold secrets, inviting intrigue and fascination in equal measure.
Gone was the facade that masqueraded as Walnut, replaced instead by the genuine essence of the young girl, who now stood as a captivating enigma before the trio. In a subtle fashion statement, she draped herself in an oversized hoodie, a canvas of white and yellow hues that bore the avatar of Walnut, a symbol of the mysterious persona she had taken on.
(Spider-Man) Takes off Walnut's headset "Don't touch me, I don't want to go to jail because of a misunderstanding."
(Walnut) "Huh?! What is that supposed to mean?!"
(Takina) "Then you were shot on purpose?
(Walnut) "It was his idea."
(Mika) Highlights himself
(Mizuki) "Oh man~, I totally had a Hollywood-class gigantic explosion all ready, but I guess it'll go to waste."
(Spider-Man) "Who do you think you are? Michael Bay?"
(Mizuki) "Maybe~?"
(Mika) "It's a good thing this all ended so quickly."
(Walnut) "You properly handled an unexpected turn of events. You did well. I'm mostly impressed by Spider-Man, you saw through the whole thing."
(Spider-Man) "Again, experience."
(Chisato) "W-Wait a minute! I have so many things to ask! So, in other words, everything went as planned, and nobody is dead?"
(Spider-Man) "No shit Sherlock."
(Mizuki) "Damn, his attitude reminds me of Karito."
(Chisato) "I thought I was the only one."
(Mizuki) "Anyways, that's right."
(Chisato) "Oh, I'm so glad everyone is all right!"
(Spider-Man) "Indeed."
(Mizuki) "She's really good about paying up, so I put my life on the line for this!"
(Spider-Man) Gently places his hand on Mizuki's cheek and checks her face
(Mizuki) "U-Uhhh, Spider-Man?" Blushing
(Spider-Man) "Just checking that your pretty face didn't get ruined."
(Mizuki) Smoke comes out of her ears
(Spider-Man) "Well everyone seems to be fine like you said, Chisato."
(Chisato) "Sheesh! I thought I had let him die for a second there. I can't believe it. I'm so glad!"
(Spider-Man) "Your fine hamster."
(Chisato) "Hamster?"
(Spider-Man) Thoughts "FUCK! I'm acting like how I was when I was 17!" Speaks "Don't like the nickname?"
(Chisato) "No, a friend of mine calls me that as well." Tilts her head
(Spider-Man) "Damn, that's crazy~."
(Chisato) Attacks Walnut with snuggles "I'm really glad you were all right. Really!"
Small time-skip
As the minutes ticked by, they finally reached CaféReco. Each member of the group donned their respective working attire, ready to embrace their roles within the establishment. Spider-Man, aware of Toxin's discreet presence masquerading as Karito, allowed himself to unwind and blend seamlessly into the ambiance of the café.
(Mika) "Why don't you get out of your foul mood already?"
(Toxin Karito) Gets out of the kitchen "What's her problem? Does she have cramps or something?'
(Chisato) "You're so mean..."
(Toxin Karito) "I'm gonna go home now, see you guys tomorrow."
The final rays of daylight bid farewell to the faux Karito as he gracefully exited the café, prompting gentle waves and smiles from the remaining team members. Yet, concealed from prying eyes, Toxin smoothly relinquished his humanoid guise, transforming back into the striking crimson liquid that defined his essence. With an almost ethereal fluidity, he seeped silently into the very foundation of the café, imperceptibly navigating through the floorboards and reuniting with Spider-Man. Their symbiotic bond, a fusion of consciousness and purpose, was reestablished, seamlessly integrating Toxin back into the web-slinging hero's form as they became one once more.
(Spider-Man) Thoughts "It feels so damn weird every time you enter my bloodstream."
(Toxin) "Sorry, not much I can do about that."
(Spider-Man) Sighs
(Chisato) "You could have told me about it beforehand, don't you think?"
(Mizuki) "But you're such a terrible actor."
(Mika) "Is no one gonna ask why Karito was so chill about seeing Spider-Man in the café?"
(Takina) "Glad to know I wasn't the only one who noticed."
(Chisato) "Now that I think about it... That's true, why was he so chill?"
(Spider-Man) Thoughts "This is probably a good chance to get into the game." Speaks "Well, I have seen him before."
(Chisato) "What do you mean?"
(Spider-Man) "I mean that I've been into a few battles alongside him."
(Everyone) "What?!"
(Spider-Man) "Guy's, how did you even find him?"
(Chisato) "I found him on an alleyway, with burn marks, and looked pretty worn out."
(Spider-Man) "Oh, I think that was the time he and I survived a Volcanic explosion."
Everyone stayed silent.
(Takina) "Stop joking, it's impossible to survive a volcano."
(Spider-Man) "And your talking to someone who has superpowers. What else do you want me to debunk?"
(Mika) "He's not wrong."
(Mizuki) "But, who is Karito? What are you two?"
(Spider-Man) "Well, I have no right to tell someone's story. You just have to hope he's comfortable enough to share his past with you. And like him, I don't like being pestered about being asked of my own backstory, it irritates me."
(Chisato) "Oh... sorry..."
(Spider-Man) "It's fine, all I'm gonna say is... let him into your... little group, he's gonna be a huge help and not just a background character. Trust me, if you think Chisato is good, he's better by light years."
(Takina) "That's impossible."
(Spider-Man) "He can basically do everything I do, minus the electric, invisibility, webs, stingers, heat, and wall-crawling. He's a legit super soldier."
(Mika) "That's... hard to believe."
(Takina) "I'll prove his worth myself once we see him."
(Spider-Man) "Don't. You'll regret it. I'm sure he even knows what you guys actually do."
(Mizuki) "How... can you know?"
(Spider-Man) "Because I trained with him, we learned martial arts, infiltration, manipulation, technology, science, and other stuff."
(Chisato) "...What... kind of lives did you two have."
(Spider-Man) "One full of despair. It's better not to ask... I... really hate those memories."
A hushed reverence settled upon the room as his words reverberated in the air, casting a momentary stillness upon the gathering. The enigmatic figure clad in his arachnid guise, known to the world as Spider-Man, shifted his gaze, addressing the room with an inscrutable expression. With a deliberate motion, he gracefully turned towards the exit. The door swung open, inviting him to depart from the scene.
(Spider-Man) "As I said, let karito in. He's someone you can trust because despite his asshole attitude... he's someone that cares... a little too much for his own good." Leaves and web swings to his house
A pervasive silence enveloped the café, and an air of intrigue and reflection settled upon its occupants in the aftermath of the unusual occurrence. Each individual took to the task of reorganizing the space, their minds preoccupied by the enigmatic revelation that had transpired. Among the crowd, a young girl, dressed in striking red attire, found herself burdened with the weight of newfound information.
In the midst of the ensuing minutes, Chisato and Takina, seeking a moment of respite, retreated to the guest room with the intention of tidying up. As Takina innocently opened the closet to stow away a few items, she unwittingly failed to notice the presence of Walnut, the enigmatic figure who had earlier revealed her true identity. Concealed within the closet, Walnut appeared to be engaged in a casual repose, immersed in her own world of technology and information.
With a fleeting glimpse of Walnut, Chisato's sharp intuition registered the peculiar sight before Takina inadvertently closed the closet door.
(Chisato) "Huh?"
A few seconds later Chisato was trying to pull open the closet.
(Chisato) "There was something in here just now!" Keeps trying to open it and finally was successful but she bumps her forehead on the corner
(Mizuki) "She's asked us to shelter her for a bit. Don't make too much of a mess!"
Mika and Mizuki who were relaxing saw the door open as Shinji decided to drop by.
(Mika) "Oh~, welcome."
(Chisato) Still speaking loudly in the guest room "I thought she was a zashiki-warashi or something!"
(Shinji) "It's quite festive here." Sits down
(Mika) "You sure drop by often lately."
(Shinji) "Well, Karito is the best cook I know so, of course, I'll drop by just to eat his food. His coffee is otherworldly, I'm sure I don't have to tell you how good it is."
(Mika) "It took me 10 years to get good at making coffee and then Karito comes by and takes the spotlight without trying. Aren't you busy?"
(Shinji) "One of my jobs finally settled down. I had some trouble cleaning up. I was dealing with someone as nimble as a squirrel and another as dangerous as a spider." Chuckles
In the seclusion of the closet, Walnut, was absorbed in the examination of compelling images captured during the recent encounter with the mercenaries. As she delved into the visual records of their formidable foes, each frame held an untold story of danger and strife.
Outside the closet, Chisato, sensing the presence of the enigmatic hacker, found herself drawn to initiate a conversation with the elusive figure. With a sense of measured curiosity, she gently broached the subject.
(Chisato) "So are you going to be living here?"
(Walnut) "On the condition that I help you guys out with your work. Just so you know, I'm doing this at a huge discount."
(Chisato) "If that's the case, can you find the guy in this photo?" Shows the photo of the arms deal "Oh, not the guy in the front, but the tiny guy in the back."
(Shinji) Calls out "Little Chisato!"
(Chisato) "Hm?" Takes a look "Oh, Mr. Yoshi, welcome! I'm a little busy right now, so I'll talk to you later!" Goes back to work
(Shinji) "Oh..." Chuckles "She's quite the lady now."
(Mika) "That thing?"
(Shinji) "Mika."
(Shinji) "So you and Chisato here... What kind of work do you two do?" Smug face
(Mika) "..."
(Shinji) Thoughts "Too bad, Karito isn't here... Oh, Guardian of the Multiverse..."
Within the quiet confines of the closet, Walnut's digital expertise unraveled the mysteries concealed within the captured images, granting a higher level of clarity and comprehension to the unfolding events. Chisato, with a keen eye, observed the transformation with fascination, as the alliance of technology and human perception harmonized in their pursuit of truth.
(Walnut) "I was able to interpolate the image resolution."
(Chisato) "You're one of us now. What's your name?"
(Walnut) "Wal..."
(Chisato) "Whoa, whoa! That's a dead guy, right? Now tell us your real name."
(Kurumi) Sighs "My names, Kurumi."
(Chisato) Hugs her and laughs "You just translated the word into Japanese! But that name suits you a lot better! Nice to meet you, Kurumi."
(Kurumi) "Nice to meet you, Chisato."
(Chisato) "Come on out. Let's eat some Dango together."
(Takina) Grabs her hair tie and aims it at Chisato to confirm a suspicion
(Chisato) "You too, Takina." Dodges the hair tie and hits Kurumi
(Kurumi) Flinches "Ow! Ouch!" Grabs her forehead
(Chisato) "Eh?"
(Takina) "Eh?"
Following Takina's elucidation, a sense of composure settled among the girls, underpinned by the knowledge that Chisato's seemingly improbable ability to evade bullets was not a mere chance occurrence but a tangible display of her remarkable prowess. Even amidst the lightheartedness, a touch of playful sass surfaced from Kurumi, lightly teasing about being hit in the process.
Small time skip
Karito Pov
I was in my apartment... just doing nothing. I had all the lights off just because, I could see fine. I just... feel miserable. I tell myself that I'm fine but... I really am not... I tell others I'm fine and while I'm just breaking down.
I... should just be over it but... I can't. I would never get over what has happened to me. It's a part of my conscience. The dark moments of people's lives will always linger in your memory, all one can do is just live with it...
I guess this is the saying of "Playing a superhero isn't a game. It's fate. We choose to do good. Chose to do bad. We had a choice". I guess I did have a choice to choose to be a hero or not but I so idealized the life of a hero that I went straight ahead whiteout even think of how much of a shit hole my life will turn out to be.
How many people have I watched die because of my actions? I've seen friends die right before my eyes and seen them almost die. Is everything in life just a cycle of misfortunes and fortune? The lucky and unlucky one? No matter how hard I try people still die. I save 5 and 10 pass away...
Hahaha... Life is a series of near misses. And missed opportunities...
Sniff
Goddamn it... it's so hard to pretend that I'm fine... I'm exactly like the funny kid... when he's in public nobody can think that he's having a hard time but once he returns he faces the world known as reality.
Too many regrets have pilled into my mind and I don't know how much a person can carry before completely losing his mind.
Hahaha... fuck why am I laughing at my own pain? Is my own misery so laughable that even I myself laugh at how shit it is?
How many times I've complained about life itself? How many times have said I don't wanna do this anymore but still do?
I guess this is some sort of coping mechanism for me. Because honestly, the people of this world may only understand me to a certain degree. No one here lives the life of a superhero. Super soldier? Hitman? Each world has its own version of a hero I guess.
I don't know how long it'll take for me to reach prestige master so I can finally have Master Level Hacking. Then maybe the consequences won't be so severe. I at least hope it doesn't affect my emotional and psychological state... which it is doing right now. I teleported so many times that my head is a complete wreck.
I'm not myself right now. Before I would try to avoid girls who tried to flirt with me and now I sound like a womanizer. I feel disgusted. But it's not like I can't help it, the teleportation really messed me up in the head that I do it automatically. Good thing that my battle experiences are still there.
Anyways, I think that's enough reflecting for tonight. I put myself on the spot when I told them to involve me in their missions and made up a whole fake story.
I really have become a liar, huh? It comes so naturally.
Maybe I'm secretly looking for some thrill...
If that's really true then... I really have fallen so low.
I don't even recognize myself anymore. The kid who used to nerd out about everything superhero and was actually happy... Is now just a hypocritical sack of petty shit...
Hahaha...
...
I guess it's easy to laugh in the face of danger when you don't take anything too seriously... I have Peter to thank for that...
...
Sigh
Goddamn it...
Ding dong
Who the hell is in my home at this hour? Fuck... I can't even have some alone time.
As I walk towards the door and open it I saw a saddened Chisato standing in front of my doorstep.
(Chisato) "Can I... come in?"
(Karito) "...Sure, go ahead."
She enters my home and makes herself comfortable, turning all the lights in the living room and sitting on my couch.
I went to the kitchen and made some mango slices and placed them on the table near the sofa.
...
Awkward silence has consumed the mood...
(Chisato) "Karito?"
(Karito) "Yeah?"
(Chisato) "Can... you tell me who you really are?"
(Karito) "Did... Spider-Man told you?"
(Chisato) "He basically said that you're more than meets the eye."
(Karito) "...So you know that I've been tricking you guys."
(Chisato) "No, you weren't tricking us, you just... didn't say anything about yourself."
(Karito) "Well... when you put it that way, that's true."
(Chisato) "I also heard that you had a bad life before coming here."
(Karito) "You wouldn't believe me even if I told you."
(Chisato) "Try me."
(Karito) "You won't believe me."
(Chisato) "Why?! Why are you pushing me away?! I wanna help you, Karito! Do you know how I felt when Spider-Man told me that you've just been putting on a "happy face" the entire time you were with us?!"
(Karito) "I am happy when I'm with you guys."
(Chisato) "Then why are you not telling me what's wrong with you?!"
(Karito) "Because you wouldn't understand."
(Chisato) "THEN TELL ME! HELP ME UNDERSTAND!"
(Karito) Breaks the table "BECAUSE I'M FUCKING MISERABLE!"
(Chisato) "..."
(Karito) "FUCK! Everyone and everything has been on my fucking shoulders since day one! Since the day I was chosen for this fucking job! I thought it was gonna be all fun and adventures but it's been nothing but SHIT! Do you know how it feels to watch millions of civilians die before your eyes?! Do you know how it feels to have your fucking lungs collapse as you are being tortured?! Do you know how it feels to be burned alive!? Do you know how it feels TO FUCKING DIE AND RETURN TO LIFE?! I WAS BURIED! SHOT! TORTURED! BURNED! SMASHED! HATED! FUCKING EVERYTHING! Everyone back home hates me because they are scared of me! A WHOLE EVIL ORGANISATION IS AFTER ME AND I ALWAYS HAVE TO LOOK MY BACK LIKE A PARANOID PERSON! Falls on his knees "I fucking killed... so... so many... I didn't mean it... I was tricked... I ruined thousands of families... I ruined millions of lives... this guilt of the dead following me suffocates me like I was thousands of feet underwater. The stress of meeting everyone's expectations! ALMOST DYING OVER AND OVER AND OVER AGAIN!"
I cried... the tears won't stop... my outburst made me break down. The emotions I kept collecting have finally fallen.
This... is depressing...
My heart feels broken, and my mind is overloaded with emotions.
This... is gonna happen a lot isn't it?
These emotional breakdowns...
People wonder why autistic kids can't handle emotions very well... I'm gonna give you an answer which is pretty obvious.
I often lost control of my emotions when they get too intense which causes me to have a breakdown. Throwing tantrums like a child...
There are times that I lack empathy and stay as a hollowed emotionelss body... that fails to comprehend what emotion I should be feeling during good or bad moments.
My brain process is severely slower than anybody else... Which in that case I was called a r*ta** because I couldn't keep up with anyone else... which again makes me go on an outburst.
People would often lose their patience with me... because I didn't understand...
Stupid... incompetent... why can't I do better... why are you like this... your creepy... avoid him because he's the weird kid...
If someone is crying? Oh, that's just Karito and his stupid tantrums.
If I can't understand? Try better! Don't be stupid!
TRY AGAIN! STOP CRYING! BE BETTER! YOUR STUPID! GET UP! FIGHT BACK! DO SOMETHING! CRY!
FUCKING FEEL SOMETHING!
...
It took years of therapy for me to be who I am today... to understand.
For almost my entire childhood... was I treated like the weird kid.
After therapy...
Well... as unbelievable as it sounds... this was one of my "friends" comments.
"You're now slightly less stupid."
...
After so much struggle in my past life, I was able to finally be accepted... Took all the way to high school... to finally be treated as a normal person...
Normal...
That's funny...
I was never normal in the first place...
If I was, so many of my friends wouldn't have abandoned me.
I guess that was for the best, the only people that actually matter are the ones who actually give a shit about you.
It's better to have a few loyal friends than many who are just parasites.
(Chisato) "..." Wraps her arms around Karito "It's fine... you don't have to cry alone... not anymore."
(Karito) "You would still accept me... even after what I said?" Tears roll down my cheek endlessly
(Chisato) "Of course, because you are my friend. And no one is gonna change that. I care for you and will always do. You aren't a mistake, remember that you're absolutely unique. Just like everybody else."
(Karito) "..."
(Chisato) "Just remember that if you ever have a hard time, please don't hesitate to look for me. I'll always catch you before you fall. My special friend."
(Karito) "Can I?... Can I actually rely on you..."
(Chisato) "Always. With a smile and open arms, I will help you because that's what friends are for, right?"
(Karito) "..."
(Chisato) "We all have bad moments, but what's important is not be alone. So I'll be your light today. Cry... let it all out. It's just the two of us here." Smiles
That damn smile of hers...
It's intoxicating. It feels like an angel is smiling at me while embracing me during my dark moments.
But like this... I wanna stay like this for a few minutes...
Small time-skip
Chisato Pov
I lost track of time on. I don't know what time it is but I don't care. What matters is Karito right now, all the things he told me sound crazy like he said but those emotions tell otherwise.
He's always so chill or making jokes here and there. There are times when he's angry by the silliest of things which were fun to watch. It's always a fun time when Karito is around. So that's why seeing him so vulnerable right now just makes my heart sink...
I wonder how long he's been carrying this burden for... this looks like years of pain.
I wished I meet you earlier so I could help you sooner but... life isn't so magical now is it?
I'm sorry Karito... for not noticing your pain earlier. You must be pretty good at lying for me not to pick it up.
From today onwards you'll be with all of us... 100%. No keeping secrets, because if you still have more secrets I'll wait for you to tell me... I'll try to be patient.
(Karito) Still hugging Chisato "Hey, Chisa?" Sniff
(Chisato) "Yes, Kari?"
(Karito) "Can you tell me... about yourself?"
(Chisato) "Of course." Smiles "I'll be truthfull to you. I'm actually a Lycoris from the DA, my job is to maintain peace in Japan."
(Karito) "Cool..."
(Chisato) "I feel like you already knew that, right?"
(Karito) "I know what everyone in the café does..."
(Chisato) "You sneaky and cunning, huh?"
(Karito) "Yeah, took me a while to figure it out though. A month or so because I was busy cooking for everyone."
(Chisato) "Do you... hate us for not telling you?"
(Karito) "No I don't, knowing you I'm sure you did it to protect me... and I was doing the same so."
(Chisato) "What are you protecting us from?"
(Karito) "You'll be fine... I won't let anything happen. You'll all be safe."
(Chisato) "Karito, don't do it alone. Please, ask me for help."
(Karito) "...Okay."
(Chisato) "Good."
(Karito) "Hey..."
(Chisato) "Hm?"
(Karito) "What happened to your heart?"
(Chisato) "..."
(Karito) "It's hard not to notice when I'm laying on your chest."
(Chisato) Sighs "Maybe laying down on the sofa was a bad idea."
(Karito) "Indeed, now. What's wrong?"
(Chisato) "A long time ago, 10 or so years ago. I was on top of my class in the DA. I used to ace all the tests. I was considered the best Lycoris. Until the accident in the Radio Tower happened and an explosion hit me and something had damaged my heart. I don't know what it was, it felt like a sting. If I was there any longer I would've died but Spider-Man saved me and brought me to safety where I quickly made it to the hospital and barely survived. My heart after that was severely damaged and my performance got worse and worse. I was gonna die because my heart was weak. I was saddened by the news and got sad. I had only a few months to survive. But despite such an unfortunate event I chose to smile even knowing that I was gonna die. Luckily as time passed someone came to my rescue with an artificial heart. I wished I remembered him so that I could thank him, just like how I could thank Spider-Man for saving my life. Sadly I didn't see him again and I can't remember his face. But thanks to him, my second savior I vowed to be like him and help people. I won't take a life but instead, give them a good one. After getting my artificial heart my performance get better and became the best once again. Ultimately, I decided to move out of DA to help people instead of taking lives. That's why Sensei and the others are there with me as well. To help."
(Karito) "That's pretty cool, Chisa. It's a very admirable thing to do."
(Chisato) "Thanks, Karito. It means a lot."
(Karito) "No problem, I know someone who you'll like a lot."
(Chisato) "Really? If it's a new friend then I'm all ears."
(Karito) "Peter Parker."
(Chisato) "Who is he?"
(Karito) "The one who inspired me to become a hero. He also has a no-kill rule, but suffers a lot."
(Chisato) "Life is like that."
(Karito) "You can say that again."
(Chisato) "Hey, Kari?"
(Karito) "Hm?"
(Chisato) "Thank you for telling me."
(Karito) "You would somehow find a way to make me tell you in the end."
(Chisato) "Well~, ... That's true, I wouldn't give up until you have told me."
(Karito) Sigh "You're something else."
(Chisato) "Of course I am." Chuckles
As we both continued to embrace each other, looking out the window, seeing the stars just feeling comfortable in each other's company... this feels nice. It was a comfortable silence. I'm glad that I was able to talk things out with Karito.
(Karito) "Hey, Chisa?"
(Chisato) "Hm?"
(Karito) "I'm gonna pass out now." Does exactly that
...
He just passed out while using me as a bed. Sneaky bastard.
Sigh
Well... I don't mind if it's him. Today has been a long day.
So... today we'll sleep under the stars.
(Chisato) "Goodnight, Karito." Sleeps
Location
Dark Multiverse
No Pov
Amidst the boundless expanse of the void, a realm known only to a select few, the Darks were thrown into disarray by the momentous news. The epic confrontation between Karito and Scorpion resonated beyond the confines of their individual worlds, as their clash occurred within a unique nexus connecting multiple omniverses. This peculiar space, seldom traversed, remained the domain of beings possessing 12th-dimensional and higher faculties, capable of navigating a realm where nothingness veiled the path to profound existence.
The repercussions of their battle reverberated across countless omniverses, precipitating a cascade of chaos, though some realms merely felt the tremors without succumbing to destruction. As the saga unfolded, the entirety of fictional Darks convened in a meticulously orchestrated assembly under the guiding hand of their divine sovereigns.
(???) "I know you are all confused, even I didn't expect something like THAT to happen and I'm omnipresent. And that concerns me... a lot. This new Guardian has proved to be very problematic. He isn't particularly strong but has a knack to be in the wrong place at the right time. For a Spider-Man build Guardian... he's been more annoying than the cosmic one we had to deal with."
??? sighs as he pinches the bridge of his nose.
(???) "Unfortunately I'm still shackled by "The Creator" so can't deal with this... anomaly myself. I suggest that the Marvel Omniverse deals with this subject as they've proposed before. If this subject proves to be an actual problem then other omniverses can intervene and eliminate the threat."
Darkside walks beside ??? and gives him a document that contains the damages that the clash in "The Bridge" has caused.
(???) "I was already expecting it to be a very high number but because the clash had blinded me temporarily I couldn't count exactly how much it affected us."
He starts to read the contents of the document.
(???) "... Wow this is gonna be a pain, these are all the casualties we suffered throughout all of fiction?"
(Dark Darkside) "Yes sir. Many of our worlds were fine."
(???) "Well fuck me. Here are the soldiers we have lost on our side and the civilians under our control."
(???) "Casualties on Dark Soldiers reach the decillions. And the civilians under us, Darks reach 50.9 googols on casualties."
The entirety of the Dark multiverse was enraged at the number of casualties a single fight with a guardian had caused.
(???) "HEY! Calm down! That's honestly not as bad as you think. If you think about it, that is less than half of fiction. That's just 0.1/10 of casualties. While it does piss me off that a great number of us have died that's... like was .0000000000000000000000005 of our army? We get new members every minute So relax everyone, it isn't as bad as you think."
After listening to their God they've all calmed down. But ??? snaps his fingers and stops everything.
(???) Sighs "You know, Y/N. Talking to these fictional characters get's kinda boring from time to time that I just continuously break the fourth wall because I can. There's no flex tape to cover this shit up."
Starts walking around the white/black pages of Wattpad and Webnovel.
(???) Cracks neck "Let me tell you about a myth that happened before the beginning of time itself. You can say even before God created everything, around a billion years before the occurrence of the big bang."
Snaps fingers and a book appears on his hand.
(???) "This is supposed to be later content for future seasons but I don't particularly follow the Authors rules, so I... "borrowed" what he had in store for the future, well more like story time." Coughs twice "Anyway, before God had his four original sons there used to exist one more, which is the oldest brother. Nobody knew his name or how he looks... he was only known by the title "The Guardian"."
??? kicks his legs up to the table
(???) "Now I know what you're thinking, but aren't the Guardians a whole organization that keeps all of fiction in check? Well, that's the case NOW. In the beginning "The Guardian" was tasked by God to make life and so "The First Big Bang" occurred. The Guardian had created a utopia for many mortals known as "The High-Humans", you can consider them like "High-Elves" in this matter being extremely more powerful than original mortals."
Summons a sprite and takes a sip.
(???) "At first this civilization lived on an Earth called, "Earth-Prime". It was prosperous, beautiful, and advanced beyond comprehension. Now... this is where it starts getting interesting. The Guardian had chosen a couple of High-Humans for special titles, and guess what that title is?"
Waits for a response.
(???) "Mhm, it was the title of "Guardian Of The Multiverse". 10 were chosen for such power and were placed across different omniverses, but as a saying goes "Absolute power... corrupts absolutely" and 1 of the GOTM (Guardian Of The Multiverse in short) was turned... into realities first Dark."
Raised his finger
(???) "Oh~? Interesting development now is it? The enemy that started it all was my own people. Karito wasn't so far off on his conclusion while he was thinking inside of "The Bridge". He's pretty cunning for someone who only started his job for a few years."
Starts to laugh.
(???) "Well, what can you expect... when he's a lost soul... that's been wondering since the beginning of time. Amnesia is a bitch ain't it?"
Covers his mouth.
(???) "Oop, sorry those are spoilers." Snickers "You'll have to wait a VERY long time to find out what I'm actually talking about because shit gets wild here."
He sighs and starts entering back into the story.
(???) "That's enough stealing from the Author. I'm gonna leave you guys with a cliffhanger because... Wow, will this revelation change everything? Anyways, Good morning or afternoon or night, Whichever timezone it is I don't care. Here's your "To be continued".
Snaps fingers
To be continued...
Don't believe him...
He's a liar...