A Playful Exchange
"You're insufferable!" Kikoru Shinomiya trembled with anger but struggled to respond. Being prideful, she often left things unsaid, only to end up frustrated herself.
"What's the matter, Miss Shinomiya?" Drake Myers teased, his grin widening. "I'm just thinking about my survival. What if the Defense Force decides I'm a kaiju and cuts me up for research?"
Drake wasn't genuinely worried. He trusted Mina Ashiro and Soushiro Hoshina wouldn't take such drastic measures. Still, he enjoyed provoking Kikoru.
"Hmph! Like they'd dare!" Kikoru shot back confidently. "Don't worry. The results will be fair. If anyone tries something underhanded, they'll have to deal with me!"
Drake chuckled at her fiery response. Youthful enthusiasm was easy to manipulate, but he wasn't taking advantage. After all, he'd need Kikoru's connections to achieve his goal of forming a new organization.
However, getting Kikoru's father, the Defense Force Commander and once the strongest man alive, on board would be the real challenge. Only with his support could Drake's vision come to fruition.
Unspoken Struggles
Drake understood Kikoru more than she realized. Though wealthy and talented, she lacked parental affection and worked tirelessly to prove herself. Her defiance wasn't rebellion—it was a plea for acknowledgment.
Spending the day with her had deepened their mutual respect. But Drake knew he couldn't rely solely on her influence. Innovation, especially on his scale, required more than ambition; it demanded proof of worth.
A Curious Butler
Soon, Kikoru's butler, Seiha Suda, arrived with breakfast. He had already reported everything about Drake to Kikoru's father. This young man was extraordinary, exhibiting abilities far beyond normal humans.
Though initial tests confirmed Drake was human, his physical parameters were extraordinary. More detailed examinations would take a week, but for now, Drake remained a mystery.
Fortunately, Drake wasn't aware of these secret investigations. Otherwise, the scrutiny might've driven him mad. Being the first of his kind inevitably drew attention and endless doubts.
A Strange Meal
Kikoru opened the food container, revealing a steaming bowl of chicken soup. While typical patients received bland diets, Drake's resilience allowed for richer meals.
Feigning weakness, Drake played the role of a recovering patient, waiting for the Defense Force's final judgment. He insisted on an apology—not out of personal grievance but to uphold fairness. Suspicions should never outweigh justice.
After finishing the soup, Drake sighed. "No meat? How am I supposed to recover? Get me some ingredients—I'll cook myself! Oh, and this hospital stay—it's on the Defense Force's tab, right?"
His loud remarks drew awkward glances from the Defense Force members outside his room. Though difficult to deal with, Drake's strength left them in awe.
Seiha smiled diplomatically. "Don't worry, Mr. Myers. All expenses are covered. We'll also be honoring you as a hero for your bravery."
Drake smirked. "Not worried you're praising a kaiju in disguise?"
His words broke the mood, prompting Kikoru to put down her utensils. Rising calmly, she declared, "If you ever betray humanity, I'll personally ensure you're dealt with."
A Visitor Arrives
Just then, a familiar voice called from outside the room. "Is Drake Myers here? I'm his supervisor, Kafka Hibino. I'm here to check on him."
Drake's hospital stay was far from restful, but the weight of his actions—and the secrets he carried—continued to ripple through the Defense Force. While trust and suspicion wavered, Drake knew his journey was only beginning.
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