Hatoru Danzo (Kaoru) sheathed his katana and extended his hand to help Oboro up. After that, Oboro began speaking about Nomad and Edwin Black's involvement in all the misfortunes that had befallen Asuka. She was just about to assist Kaoru with this information, but Kaoru had already taken care of it. Although Kaoru wanted to express his impatience over the delay, he chose to remain calm, not wanting his identity as Kaoru to be revealed.
Oboro gazed at Hatoru Danzo with her mysterious purple eyes behind her mask. "So, that's how it is..."
"For some reason, I pity your story," Kaoru said empathetically. "So, your current body isn't your original one, but rather a perfect body created through advanced biological technology, almost like a homunculus, right? With your ninja arts, in your final moments, you managed to transfer your soul before your body was destroyed by Edwin Black's attack that wiped out the Koukawa family."
"That's right..." Oboro responded, her voice filled with irony. "The child doesn't know that her aunt is still alive, and she's been drowning in vengeance, believing she's always been alone. I never wanted her to live like this, but it's my fault for not telling her I survived."
Kaoru felt a deep sense of sympathy for Asuka, who was now his lover. He hadn't fully learned the background of his girlfriend. He knew the Koukawa family had been slaughtered in one night by Edwin Black, and Asuka's purpose for becoming a Taimanin in the UFC was to avenge that tragedy.
Kaoru now knew more about the supernatural conflict involving Nomad. Nomad was a powerful multinational corporation in the Human World. They had enough resources to influence global policies and profit in various ways, both legal and illegal.
In public, Nomad tried to present itself as a cooperative that cared about humanity and equality, a company involved in many charitable programs. However, behind that mask of benevolence, they exploited technology from the Demon Realm to create chaos and hidden corruption. Nomad didn't just profit from the black market; they also managed illegal fighting arenas and deadly arms trafficking.
Most terrifying of all, their CEO, Edwin Black, was actually the Vampire King from the Demon Realm. With his immense power, he controlled Nomad's business while spreading his influence in the human world.
Officially, because Nomad's criminal activities were well-hidden behind the façade of a legitimate company, the Taimanin couldn't directly attack them. Several factions within the UFS (United Federation of States) even had complex relationships with Nomad—some supported them, others opposed them. Nomad's close ties with America added a layer of complex geopolitical conflict.
"I see," Kaoru said, trying to digest the information he had just received. "So, you've been investigating this just to chase after your evil version and reach Edwin Black? Do you have any allies or other threats to counter this organization? We're talking about the United States here."
Oboro shook her head regretfully. "No, I've tried forming alliances, but I've always been betrayed. All this time, I've survived on my own, even within the UFC's DSO, I don't fully trust anyone. I'm only a part of their fighters to keep an eye on Asuka."
Kaoru observed Oboro's expression, full of empathy and confusion. "So, you feel betrayed by everyone around you, even by the organization that should be supporting you?"
Oboro nodded, looking at Kaoru with a weary gaze. "Yes. I know how dangerous Nomad and Edwin Black are, but I also know how steep the road is that I must travel to fight them. In this world, truly reliable allies are like an oasis in the desert."
Kaoru frowned, thinking about how he could help Oboro. "What if I told you I could help?"
"Huh... You're serious?" Oboro looked at Hatoru (Kaoru) with a gaze full of hope and a bit of confusion.
"Um... But you also need to be honest with Asuka. She could be a valuable asset in fighting Edwin Black," Kaoru said, emphasizing the importance of openness.
Oboro blushed, hearing the sincerity in Kaoru's voice. Though his face was hidden by a mask, she could feel warmth and honesty in Kaoru's red eyes. "I appreciate your offer. But sorry, I don't want to put someone new in danger," she replied, her tone filled with gratitude but also concern.
Kaoru smiled faintly. "Hmm~ That's understandable. So how about this? I'll bring you the evil version of yourself that's still roaming the city. After that, we can discuss our cooperation further."
Oboro furrowed her brow, contemplating for a moment. "The evil version of me that's still roaming? What do you mean?"
Kaoru explained calmly. "There's a chance that this evil version of you could become a major threat if left unchecked. Capturing and confronting her will give us a strategic advantage and clarify our next steps. I believe we can resolve this issue before moving forward with our partnership."
Oboro considered Kaoru's suggestion carefully. "Alright, if that's what needs to be done to ensure Asuka's safety and fight Edwin Black, I agree. I'll wait for your word and be ready to act when necessary."
Kaoru nodded, seemingly satisfied with that decision. "Good, we have a plan. I'll gather information on the whereabouts of your evil version and contact you soon. In the meantime, prepare for what lies ahead."
Oboro nodded, a renewed sense of determination and hope igniting within her. "Thank you, Hatoru. Though we've just met, it seems like you're someone I can rely on."
Kaoru smiled with confidence. "Hehe~ Of course. I do my best to be a reliable ally. We'll face this challenge together."
Oboro felt relieved and more confident after hearing Kaoru's words. "Alright, I'll wait for your message and prepare for the next steps. Hopefully, our collaboration will bring the results we hope for."
Kaoru nodded, looking at Oboro with a sense of camaraderie. "I'm sure we can do it. Until we meet again, and take care."
Oboro smiled softly behind her mask. "You too, Hatoru. See you later."
With renewed spirits and strengthened hope, Kaoru and Oboro parted ways to continue their respective missions.