WebNovels

Chapter 2 - Deathbill core

---

Chapter: Maid for the Job (Continued)

---

Mission in Full Swing:

The luxurious underground gala is buzzing with life. Laughter, clinking glasses, and the low hum of private conversations fill the air. In the midst of it all, Alexier and Yashiro are effortlessly blending in as maids, circulating the crowd. Meanwhile, Kenji and Seiran have taken their place at the coffee station.

Kenji (grinning as he adjusts his apron):

"I'm starting to feel like I belong here. Never thought I'd be in this kind of outfit."

Seiran (looking stoic but clearly amused):

"Just stick to the plan. Focus on the task, Kenji."

Kenji (laughing to himself):

"Right, right. Just gonna make the perfect cup of coffee and avoid flirting with all the rich people."

As Kenji busies himself preparing coffee, he notices a woman walking towards him—one that catches his eye. She's wearing a Miku Hatsune cosplay, but there's a... slight issue. Her outfit is strained, the fabric creaking with each step. The blue-green wig barely stays on her head, and the outfit is tight—maybe a little too tight—and with every movement, you can practically hear the sound of threads protesting.

Kenji blinks for a moment, unsure if he's seeing things clearly.

Kenji (thinking to himself):

"Is she actually trying to cosplay Miku Hatsune? Wait, is that... is that her cosplay or a battle with her clothes?"

The woman approaches the counter with confidence, completely oblivious to the fact that one of the buttons of her outfit has already popped off and is hanging by a thread. As she reaches Kenji, she beams brightly, eyes sparkling with excitement.

Miku Hatsune Fat (in an overly enthusiastic voice):

"Oh my gosh! Are you one of those Obey Me! characters? You look just like one of the anime husbands! Seriously, you're so hot!"

Kenji blinks, surprised by the compliment, but he quickly recovers with his signature smirk.

Kenji (teasing):

"I guess I could be. But let's stick to something more... coffee-related for now. What can I get you?"

She doesn't seem to notice how close she's getting as she practically leans over the counter, her costume straining even more.

Miku Hatsune Fat (giggling, her face flushed):

"I was thinking—since you're so cute—maybe we could go out sometime? I'd love to take you to some anime café!"

She leans forward, her hands suddenly outstretched, her fingers wet from the drink she had been holding. But the cosplay is reaching a breaking point as another button on her costume gives way, flying off and landing on the counter with a soft clink. The fabric now has a noticeable tear.

Kenji (trying to maintain his composure):

"Uhh… I think your outfit might be in trouble there."

He takes a step back, but not without noticing that she's completely oblivious to the disaster unfolding.

Kenji (trying not to laugh):

"You might want to, uh, fix that button... if you want to keep the cosplay intact."

Meanwhile, across the room, Alexier is serving drinks on a nearby table, but he can't help but glance over at Kenji. His eyes widen as he takes in the situation, struggling to hide his amusement. The sight of Kenji being hit on by this eccentric cosplay girl with a wardrobe malfunction is almost too much.

Alexier (chuckling under his breath, trying to stay focused):

"This... this is priceless."

Yashiro (glancing over at Alexier, suppressing a smile):

"Focus, Alexier. Don't make it obvious. We're here for the mission, not for entertainment."

Alexier (trying to contain his laughter):

"It's just... so funny. I can't help it."

Back at the coffee counter, Kenji tries his best to be polite, still trying to avoid awkwardly laughing. But the whole situation is just spiraling into chaos.

Kenji (half-smiling, still trying to stay professional):

"Look, um... Miku, right? Maybe we should stick to just coffee today. How about a latte?"

Miku Hatsune Fat (still oblivious to the wardrobe malfunction, hands waving in the air):

"A latte? Sure! But... hey, you've got such an anime husband vibe, you know? Maybe we can go to that café, and you can be my anime husband for the day?"

Kenji (internally screaming):

"I can't... I can't deal with this right now."

---

The Moment of Chaos:

As Miku Hatsune Fat continues to gush over Kenji, his eyes flicker to the corner where Seiran is pretending to be a normal barista—but even he can't suppress the laughter bubbling in his chest at the unfolding disaster.

Seiran (chuckling to himself):

"Kenji's gonna explode any minute now."

Meanwhile, Alexier, having done his part, manages to recover from his laughter and refocus on the mission. The weirdness of the situation may have cracked his composure, but now, things are starting to get serious.

As the conversation continues, Kenji finally manages to hand Miku her coffee, still trying to maintain a professional front. But his patience is thinning.

Kenji (smiling, but his voice tinged with irritation):

"Here's your latte... Enjoy. And, uh, maybe check your outfit before you run into anyone else. You don't want to get a draft... or worse."

Miku giddily takes the coffee, totally unaware of the wardrobe crisis.

Miku Hatsune Fat (waving cheerfully):

"Thanks, handsome! Maybe next time we can... talk about anime husbands more! I'm sure we'd get along!"

Kenji watches her walk off, the chaos finally settling into a slight silence.

Kenji (letting out a frustrated sigh, rubbing his forehead):

"This mission's gonna be the death of me..."

---

The Tension Grows:

With the chaos momentarily subsided, Kenji catches a glimpse of Seiran, who's still holding it together. Kenji gives him a look that says everything. He's done with the cosplay girl, and it's time to get back to business.

But there's still one last task: locating the hidden room where Vandido's operations are running behind the scenes.

Kenji (in a low voice, to Seiran):

"We need to find that room. This charade has gone long enough. Time to focus."

Seiran (nodding seriously):

"Right. Stick to the plan. The sooner we get to Vandido, the better."

-

A New and... Strange Encounter:

As the mission progresses, the team is carefully scanning the guests, watching for anyone who might be involved in the shady dealings of Vandido Voushuangotte. But as Alexier and Yashiro move through the crowd, there's an unexpected distraction.

Out of nowhere, a new woman approaches Seiran, but this is no ordinary woman. This is someone who seems to have wandered in from a completely different world—possibly one that doesn't exist at all.

She's wearing a Boa Hancock costume, but with a twist. The fabric is stretched so tightly over her muscular frame that the whole outfit looks like it's barely holding on. And as she approaches, the distinct sound of fabric tearing echoes across the room, as though even her costume is struggling to contain her physique.

The muscles on her arms are so prominent, they could probably bench press a car. The costume is almost shredded at the seams, leaving little to the imagination as her vascularity stands out. But what truly catches Seiran's attention is the strange energy radiating from her. She's... well, she's definitely a bit off.

With a powerful stride, she approaches Seiran with an unsettling confidence, her eyes glinting as she takes in the sight of him. Her voice booms across the room in a voice so masculine, it might as well be the voice of a rock star.

Boa Hancock Ripped (smiling devilishly, her voice deep and husky):

"Hey there, pretty boy... I like your style. You look like you could handle a real woman. I'm sure you can... hmph."

As she bites her lip, her costume's top seams seem to creak under the strain, ready to give way at any moment. Her rippling muscles seem to glisten as she leans forward, completely unaware of the sheer chaos she's creating.

Seiran (looking completely deadpan, barely able to keep it together):

"I... um... thanks?"

He's not sure whether to be impressed or horrified. This wasn't the kind of distraction he was prepared for during this mission. He quickly glances over at Kenji, silently asking for help, but Kenji's barely holding it together, his face a mix of disbelief and barely-contained laughter.

Kenji (eyes wide, muttering under his breath):

"What in the world... This is definitely the wrong genre for this mission... How did we end up here?"

Kenji's hand is slowly reaching for his coffee cup as though it's the only thing keeping him from cracking up.

Kenji (laughing under his breath, to himself):

"Man, I thought Miku Hatsune was a handful. But this? This is next level."

As Boa Hancock Ripped continues to lean in closer, clearly enjoying herself, Seiran starts to squirm a little. He's used to danger and close calls, but this is... this is something else. He tries to focus on the mission, but it's hard to do so when this woman's intense presence is trying to overpower him.

Seiran (fighting to keep his cool):

"I appreciate the compliment, but I'm actually... kind of busy right now."

Boa Hancock Ripped (still smirking, seemingly unfazed):

"Oh, I can see that. But you know, maybe we should take a little break from all this work? I'm sure you and I could... have some fun."

Seiran stiffens slightly. His eyes dart to the side, trying to find some escape from this awkward encounter, but all he sees is Kenji, who is now openly laughing into his hand.

Kenji (loudly, unable to hold it in anymore):

"Well, looks like Seiran's got himself a muscle queen for the night! This is way out of my pay grade."

The whole situation is starting to spiral out of control, with the bizarre mix of costumes, characters, and personalities, but at least the awkwardness is being slightly diffused by the sheer absurdity of it all.

Boa Hancock Ripped (not noticing the growing tension):

"Oh, you think you can escape me that easily? I dare you to try, pretty boy."

Seiran starts stepping back, raising an eyebrow. He's definitely not interested in getting tangled up in this mess, but before he can make his exit, Boa Hancock Ripped grabs his arm with a strength that almost makes him flinch.

Seiran (wincing, trying to remain calm):

"Okay, okay, I get it, you're strong. But I really need to get back to... you know... my actual job?"

Kenji (snickering loudly from the side):

"Yeah, Seiran, you're really gonna have to work hard to get out of this one."

The situation is getting dangerously close to getting out of hand, but Seiran finally manages to break free from the awkward encounter, slipping away as smoothly as he can while Boa Hancock Ripped stands there, flexing her muscles and smiling like she's just won some kind of victory.

Seiran (grinning, but clearly relieved):

"Yeah, that was... definitely something."

As he walks past Kenji, who's still laughing uncontrollably, Seiran can't help but feel a strange mix of relief and irritation. His eyes catch Alexier, who's now casually sipping a drink as though none of this nonsense is affecting him, and Seiran just sighs.

Kenji (holding his stomach from laughing):

"I don't know about you, but that was like watching a trainwreck I couldn't look away from."

Seiran (giving him a deadpan look):

"I need a drink... and a vacation."

---

The Disguises Hold... for Now:

As the team gathers their wits after the muscle queen fiasco, they can't help but take a moment to reassess their strategy. Alexier, still in his chic maid outfit, adjusts his wig one more time. He knows the mission needs to stay on track, but there's a tiny part of him that feels the need to almost apologize to the universe for this absurd turn of events.

Kenji (sneering as he straightens his coffee boy uniform):

"I swear, if one more person mistakes me for an anime character tonight, I'm calling it quits and going home. This is too much."

Yashiro (nodding solemnly):

"Honestly, I think I might be a little scarred by all the... attention. This isn't what I had in mind when I joined this gig."

They exchange tired glances, the ridiculousness of their situation weighing heavily on them. But there's no turning back now. Vandido Voushuangotte is still out there, lurking in the shadows. And the only way to take him down is to keep pushing forward.

But the night isn't done with them yet.

---

The Next Disaster Strikes:

Just as the team starts to refocus, the next round of chaos arrives. As Alexier and Yashiro carefully position themselves near the bar area, trying to look as inconspicuous as possible in their maid uniforms, something catches Alexier's eye.

It's a man. No, more like a... creature in a tuxedo. He's massive, towering over everyone else in the room, and his tuxedo is tailored so perfectly that it almost looks like a suit of armor. But what really grabs Alexier's attention isn't his impressive appearance—no, it's the fact that the guy's eyes are locked on him... and they look way too interested.

Alexier (whispering to Yashiro, trying to stay calm):

"I think we have a new problem... And this one looks like he could snap me in half with one hand."

Yashiro (glancing over, then smirking):

"Well, at least this guy's not wearing a ridiculous costume. I think I'll take this one over Miku any day."

Before they can even prepare, the giant man approaches. His gait is slow, deliberate, like he's sizing them up. His deep voice rumbles in the air as he greets them.

Giant Man (grinning, revealing a set of unnaturally sharp teeth):

"Well, well, well... What have we here? A couple of maidens in distress?"

The team freezes. This guy has the kind of energy that screams "I'm not messing around," but there's a glint of amusement in his eyes as he looks Alexier up and down. He leans in close, and Alexier can smell the faintest hint of... cologne? Or maybe it's just a weird mixture of oil and danger.

Giant Man (almost whispering):

"I must say, the outfit... suits you. How about you and I step away from all these crowds? I have... other things I'd like to discuss with you."

Yashiro shoots Alexier a look. It's clear they're in trouble. And fast.

Yashiro (grabbing Alexier's arm):

"I don't think we're gonna talk our way out of this one. Run!"

---

The Great Escape... Sort Of:

In a panic, Alexier and Yashiro sprint through the crowd, ducking behind pillars and weaving through groups of guests, hoping they won't be spotted. The giant man chases them, his massive steps causing the floor to vibrate with each movement.

Just when they think they've lost him, they turn a corner—and there he is. Right in front of them.

Giant Man (grinning even wider):

"Did you really think you could escape me? I know all the exits."

Yashiro (laughing nervously, as he raises a fist):

"I really hate to break it to you, but you're gonna have to be a little quicker than that if you want to catch us."

Before the giant man can react, Yashiro tosses a canister of smoke into the air, and the entire area fills with thick, choking smoke. It's hard to see, but the team uses it to their advantage. They dash through the haze, moving swiftly and silently.

Alexier (whispering, trying not to laugh at the absurdity):

"This is way too much chaos for one night. What's next? A clown car full of assassins?"

---

Kenji and Seiran's Big Moment:

Back at the bar area, Kenji has been playing his part perfectly, still serving coffee with a smile and a sarcastic quip. But, when he sees the situation with Alexier and Yashiro spiraling out of control, he knows he needs to act fast.

Kenji (with a grin, looking toward Seiran):

"Alright, it's time for the 'big gun' to make his move. Let's see what happens when we mix business with a little bit of chaos."

He grabs a tray, loaded with drinks, and makes a beeline for the area where the giant man is about to corner Alexier. With a perfect flip of the wrist, he launches a few drinks directly into the man's face, momentarily stunning him.

Kenji (smirking):

"Oh, you wanted to talk? Let's talk coffee!"

The giant man, now soaked in espresso, stumbles back in surprise. That's all the time Alexier and Yashiro need to make their escape. They rush past Kenji, thankful for the interruption.

Alexier (gasping, as he runs past Kenji):

"I owe you one! Let's never do that again!"

Kenji (shaking his head, laughing):

"Don't worry, I'll make sure you get your big revenge later. But for now, get out of here!"

Chapter: The Beast Approaches

---

The Moment of Truth:

The chaos in the club continues to rise as Kenji and Seiran's distraction has bought them some time. Alexier and Yashiro, still reeling from the earlier madness, think they might finally get a break... but no, of course not. That's when it happens.

Through the haze of smoke, the towering figure of Vandido Voushuangotte emerges from the crowd, the giant gorilla-like man in human form grinning as if he's spotted his next big target. His eyes lock on Alexier and Yashiro—he sees them, and his smile stretches wider than before.

Vandido (grinning, his voice deep like a rumble of thunder):

"Well, well, well... what do we have here? A pair of little birds in the wrong cage?"

Alexier freezes as the massive man, whose muscles seem to ripple beneath his tight-fitting suit, begins his slow, deliberate approach. The sight of his broad shoulders and hands as big as dinner plates makes Alexier feel a chill run down his spine.

Yashiro (muttering, his hand tightening on his weapon):

"I think we've got trouble, and not the usual kind."

Before they can react, Vandido takes one huge step forward, his presence nearly suffocating in its intensity. His face fills with an unnervingly pleased grin as his eyes shift from Yashiro to Alexier, clearly taking his time to assess them. Then, with an unsettling gentleness that doesn't fit his gargantuan frame, Vandido raises one massive hand and brushes it lightly along Alexier's arm, his fingers lingering a little too long.

Vandido (grinning like a predator):

"You've got a beautiful frame, cutie. Such delicate arms... How delightful."

Alexier flinches, but he keeps his composure, fighting the urge to recoil. His brain is screaming to run, to escape, but his feet feel glued to the floor as he stares up at the hulking man before him.

Alexier (trying to keep his voice steady):

"Keep your hands off me, you freak."

Yashiro, ever the quick thinker, steps forward, his expression hardening as he glares at Vandido, ready to intervene. The situation is getting too dangerous, and the mission is slipping out of their control.

Yashiro (snapping):

"You don't want to do this, trust me. The last guy who tried something similar ended up very sorry."

But Vandido just laughs, his chuckles deep and rolling like the sound of boulders crashing together.

Vandido (laughing, shaking his head):

"Oh, you think I'm scared of little threats? I've been taking what I want for years. This is nothing."

Then, the massive man leans closer to Alexier, his voice lowering to a gravelly whisper, his breath hot on Alexier's ear.

Vandido (whispering, with a predatory gleam):

"You know, I could show you how much fun it is to be in my world. You'd be much more... useful to me, little bird."

At this moment, something in Alexier snaps. He's had enough. There's no way he's letting this gorilla of a man get the better of him.

---

The Fight or Flight Moment:

With a sudden motion, Alexier pulls his arm away from Vandido's touch, his pulse racing as he pushes past the feeling of disgust. He shoots Yashiro a glance that says it all: "Time to make our move."

In a split second, Yashiro dives for cover, pulling out his weapon, ready to draw attention away from Alexier. Meanwhile, Alexier spins, his maid outfit twirling as he grabs a stray serving tray off a nearby table and uses it as a makeshift shield. He rushes toward Vandido, the force of his movement catching the massive man off guard for a brief moment.

Alexier (gritting his teeth, voice low but steady):

"You're not touching me again."

The crowd around them is oblivious to the impending violence, unaware of the chaos about to unfold. Yashiro provides cover fire, causing the patrons to scatter, some shrieking as they realize things are about to get real.

Vandido roars with laughter, clearly entertained by the unexpected resistance.

Vandido (grinning widely):

"Such spirit. I like it. Let's see if you can keep it up!"

His massive hand swings toward Alexier with the force of a wrecking ball, but Alexier ducks just in time, his agility surprising even himself as he manages to avoid the blow. He pushes forward, aiming for a weak spot—the giant man's knee. The tray slams into it, sending a shockwave of pain through Vandido's body.

Vandido (growling, backing up slightly):

"You little bastard!"

---

Kenji's Savage Timing:

Meanwhile, outside the fray, Kenji and Seiran have just been watching the whole ordeal unfold with growing disbelief.

Kenji (grinning):

"Well, looks like Alexier's finally earned his crush on the big guy. Never thought he'd go for something so massive."

Seiran (facepalming, exasperated):

"You're impossible. We have to help them now, Kenji, now!"

Kenji steps forward, shaking his head.

Kenji (pulling out a hidden blade with a grin):

"Alright, alright. Let's make things a little more interesting."

---

The Epic Stand:

With Kenji's sudden appearance, the momentum shifts. Seiran quickly joins in, both of them flanking Alexier and Yashiro. The fight intensifies, with each of them landing a blow or deflecting an attack from Vandido. The team, working in sync, makes quick work of dodging the gorilla-like man's massive swings.

---

But the Real Chaos?

As the battle rages on, the sounds of crashing tables, shattering glass, and screams echo throughout the venue. In the middle of it all, Kenji takes a moment to glance at Alexier, who's struggling to keep up with Vandido's size and strength.

Kenji (smirking):

"Hey, I thought you liked a little danger, Alexier. Didn't think you'd be this close to your fan club, though."

Alexier (gritting his teeth, yelling):

"Shut up, Kenji! Focus!"

Kenji laughs under his breath, fully aware that this mission has officially lost all semblance of normalcy.

---

The Ambush:

The scene is chaos incarnate. The club is in full swing, the tension rising, and Alexier, Yashiro, and Vandido locked in their stand-off. The team had just found their rhythm—fighting, dodging, and making their way through the madness when everything shifts in an instant.

Just as Kenji and Seiran are about to make their move to help, the entire room is engulfed by a thick, heavy smoke. It pours from hidden vents in the ceiling, blanketing the floor and cutting visibility to near zero. The sharp scent of the gas fills the air, and within seconds, people around them begin collapsing, falling to the ground like dominoes.

Kenji (gritting his teeth, eyes narrowing as he quickly scans the fog):

"S**. Sleeping gas. Alex! MOVE!"*

He shouts, but the words are almost drowned out by the sounds of people gasping for air, collapsing in slow motion, their bodies swaying like dolls. Kenji tries to make his way through the smoke, eyes wide with panic. He can feel the heat in his chest—they've lost control.

But it's too late.

As the smoke thickens and the club turns into a chaotic mess of unconscious patrons, the figure of Vandido—and worse, Alexier and Yashiro—vanish into the haze.

The smoke begins to settle, and Kenji, unable to see through the fog in time, stumbles forward, but there's no sign of Alexier, no sign of Yashiro. The room is eerily quiet now, save for the soft moans of the unconscious.

Kenji (gritting his teeth, his usual cynicism and sarcasm replaced by a rare note of seriousness):

"Damn it, this isn't good... This isn't good at all. They've pulled a disappearing act on us."

Kenji's heart is pounding as he scans the wreckage of the club. He's been in places like this before, underground clubs that reek of corruption, where people vanish into thin air and no one questions it. He knows the drill. The worst part is, this time… it's personal.

The bastard Vandido knows how to cover his tracks. He's got his own underground network, and no doubt, Alexier and Yashiro are already deep in the heart of it.

---

Meanwhile, Outside the Chaos:

Kenji's heart is still racing when he hears Raven's voice come through his earpiece. Her calm, steady tone cuts through the panic that's building inside him.

Raven (sharp, to the point):

"Kenji, listen to me. No time to waste. Track them. I planted a tracker in Alexier's bowtie. Find them, now."

Kenji swears under his breath. He knows Raven isn't one to waste words, and the urgency in her voice pushes him into action. There's no time to mourn the chaos. He has a mission to complete.

Kenji (coldly, through clenched teeth):

"Got it. I'm on it."

---

The Chase Begins:

Kenji's eyes snap back to the scene around him, his senses heightened. He pulls out his tracker from a hidden pocket and activates it. The small, portable device gives off a faint beep, and a blinking red dot appears on the screen. Alexier's bowtie is still transmitting, but it's faint—fading. They've moved quickly.

Kenji (frustrated, muttering to himself):

"Smart bastard… Vandido, I swear you're making my life harder by the second."

Seiran, equally as calm, steps up beside him, ready to move.

Seiran (his voice calm, but a flicker of concern in his eyes):

"We'll find them, Kenji. Just follow the trail. We can't waste time here."

Kenji nods, sharply, focusing on the blinking dot on his tracker. It's leading them toward a hidden exit—a back alley, far from the public eye. The smoke cloud has made it easier for Vandido and his men to disappear without anyone noticing. The air feels colder now, more menacing.

---

A Chase Through the Shadows:

Kenji and Seiran exit the club quickly, the sounds of their footsteps echoing in the empty alleyway. The tracker is still giving off a faint pulse, leading them deeper into the underground district.

Kenji grits his teeth, feeling the pressure building. If Vandido's got Alexier and Yashiro, they're running out of time. There's no telling what this giant gorilla of a man will do to them in that state—he's dangerous, and Kenji has seen what happens when a man like that has too much control.

Kenji (muttering, eyes narrowed):

"We're getting close. Stay sharp."

---

Back at the Hideout:

Meanwhile, Alexier, still semi-conscious from the sleeping gas, finds himself in an unfamiliar, dimly lit room. His mind is foggy, the remnants of the gas making everything feel unreal. He tries to push himself up, but his arms feel heavy, like lead.

Alexier (dazed, struggling to stay alert):

"What... where...?"

He glances around, his vision blurry. Yashiro lies beside him, still unconscious, but the sound of distant footsteps tells him that they're far from alone.

Vandido (laughing, his voice booming from behind):

"I told you, little bird. You're in my world now."

Alexier's heart skips a beat as Vandido's giant shadow falls over him. The enormous man steps forward, his hands flexing in anticipation, and a sickening smile twists his face. Alexier's mind races as he tries to pull himself together. He has to get Yashiro awake, and they have to get out—now.

---

Kenji and Seiran Closing In:

As Kenji and Seiran round another corner, the tracker begins to beep louder and faster, signaling that they're closing in. Their pace quickens, adrenaline pumping in their veins.

Kenji (gritting his teeth, focusing):

"This ends now."

But what they're about to walk into? No one can predict.

---

Chapter: Smoke, Shadows, and the Gorilla

---

The Showdown Begins:

Kenji and Seiran move like shadows in the night, pushing past alleyways, their footsteps barely audible over the pounding of their hearts. The tracker's beeping grows louder as they near their destination. Kenji's grip tightens around the handle of his weapon, while Seiran stays a few steps ahead, his posture unwavering.

Kenji (smirking despite the situation):

"You know, Seiran, I thought I'd be catching a break today. But nope, just another day chasing the biggest gorilla in town."

Seiran (with a slight grin):

"Maybe you'll be lucky and get to meet him face-to-face."

As they round another corner, the alley opens into a hidden underground garage. The air feels colder here, filled with the distant hum of machinery. The tracker beeps with urgency, directing them to an old, rusted metal door. Behind it, they know Vandido is waiting. No more running.

---

Inside the Hideout:

Alexier stirs as the massive form of Vandido looms over him, a hulking figure that seems more beast than man. His giant arms stretch out like tree trunks, brushing against the cold, grimy walls of the room. Alexier's vision is blurry, but he can feel the weight of the situation. His pulse quickens as Vandido steps closer, his voice a rumbling growl.

Vandido (grinning widely, his teeth gleaming like knives):

"You're a pretty thing, aren't you? I'll enjoy breaking you, little bird."

He reaches out, his massive hand swiping through the air, grabbing Alexier's arm in a vice-like grip. The power in his fingers could snap bone, but Alexier doesn't flinch. He's been through hell before—this is just another fight.

Alexier (grimacing, pulling himself together):

"I've dealt with worse."

With a burst of strength, Alexier drives his elbow into Vandido's ribs. It's not enough to break free, but it's enough to get the giant to stagger back a step. The brief space gives Alexier a moment of clarity—enough to throw himself to the side, grabbing a rusted pipe on the ground.

Alexier (snarling):

"Come on, then. Show me what you've got, gorilla."

Vandido roars, a guttural sound that shakes the walls, and charges at Alexier with the speed of a freight train. The impact is like a sledgehammer as Vandido swings his fist toward Alexier's face. But Alexier's reflexes are sharp, honed by years of survival. He ducks just in time, the massive fist whizzing past him.

---

The Chaos Outside:

Kenji and Seiran have reached the door. Kenji places his hand on the handle, ready to push it open—but before he can, the sound of Vandido's roar echoes through the building, making his blood run cold. They're already fighting.

Kenji (grinning wickedly):

"Let's have some fun, Seiran."

The door crashes open, and they both burst inside. Kenji immediately takes aim, eyes narrowing as he sees the chaos unfolding. Vandido and Alexier are locked in brutal combat, the floor shaking with each blow the giant throws.

But Kenji doesn't hesitate. He pulls out his gun, firing a series of quick shots to disorient Vandido. The bullets strike the wall next to him, creating a diversion.

Kenji (yelling, taunting):

"Hey, big guy! Over here!"

Vandido snarls, his attention momentarily shifting from Alexier to Kenji. Perfect.

---

A Battle of Wits and Muscle:

Vandido barrels toward Kenji, his fists the size of wrecking balls. Kenji leaps to the side, narrowly avoiding a punch that would've crushed him. He rolls on the ground, springing to his feet in one fluid motion.

Meanwhile, Seiran is already on the move, his katana flashing in the dim light. He moves like water, fluid and precise, striking at Vandido's legs with a series of well-placed slashes. The giant growls in pain, his massive hands swiping toward Seiran, but Seiran is already gone, vanishing into the shadows.

Kenji (grinning, voice dripping with sarcasm):

"I thought you were supposed to be tough, Vandido. Come on, keep up!"

Vandido, enraged, charges at Kenji, but Alexier has other plans. He uses the distraction to lunge forward with the rusted pipe, jabbing it into Vandido's side. The giant roars in pain, but it's not enough to stop him. He swings his fist again, but this time, Alexier's quick reflexes save him. He ducks just in time, and the fist slams into the concrete floor with enough force to leave a crater.

---

The Chaos Reaches New Heights:

Seiran, noticing an opening, leaps high into the air, his blade aimed straight for Vandido's neck. It's a perfect strike, but the giant's thick neck muscles absorb most of the blow. However, the cut still draws blood, and Vandido howls in rage.

Vandido (growling, furious):

"You'll regret that, little man!"

Kenji, never one to back down, rushes forward, diving under Vandido's wide swings and delivering a punch to the giant's knee. The sound of cracking bone echoes through the room. The beast falters for a moment, but that moment is enough. Kenji and Seiran both move in, pushing their advantage.

---

The Moment of Victory—But Not Without Chaos:

Alexier, finally regaining his footing, charges forward one last time. He's covered in sweat, his arms trembling from the fight, but the look in his eyes is pure determination. With one final, powerful swing, he cracks the pipe across Vandido's skull.

The giant stumbles backward, his vision swimming. He glares at Alexier, but then he falters, his muscles giving out. With a resounding crash, Vandido falls to the ground, shaking the floor beneath them.

But just as victory seems within reach, the ground beneath them shifts. Vandido isn't out. His massive hand shoots out, grabbing Seiran by the ankle and throwing him across the room with a thunderous crash.

Kenji (shouting, eyes wild):

"Damn it! Stay down, you overgrown ape!"

But even as the battle rages on, the team has made their move. Alexier, bloodied but unbroken, steps forward and delivers the final blow. The pipe cracks over Vandido's skull one last time, and this time, the giant doesn't move.

---

Victory... With a Twist of Chaos:

Breathing heavily, Alexier looks around at the wreckage. Their mission is far from over, but this chapter is closed. They've defeated the beast, and they've gained valuable intel. But as Kenji turns to Seiran, a smirk forms on his lips.

Kenji (chuckling):

"Not bad for a couple of coffee boys, huh?"

Seiran rolls his eyes, shaking his head. "You're insufferable."

Alexier (grinning, exhausted):

"I think I'll stick to less 'gorilla'-like enemies next time, though."

But in the midst of the wreckage, the tension isn't over. Their next move is already unfolding. Whatever they're up against next, the team is ready—if a little bruised and battered.

More Chapters