Esper Story: Mateo

*Pant*Pant*... Are these... the massive... Miramon attacks they mentioned?

... No, these are just some random Miramon that have been separated from the pack.

Let's take a break. You won't be able to deal with the Miramon later if you're tired.

O-Okay...

This isn't bad. The more Miramon we eliminate, the safer the hunters will be when they go out.

......

Are you suggesting that I am meddling in affairs that are not my concern?

It's nothing, really. You just reminded me of one of my former subordinates.

Hahaha, is that so? Guess I should be honored. After all, someone like me is...

Someone like you?

... Did you not read my profile before accepting me to your team?

I only took a brief glance to learn about your Esper powers and origin.

Speaking of which, I haven't asked about your past before. We both come from this area, though. What motivated you to join the Shadow Decree?

I was born in Raine Tundra, and I was raised by my grandfather.

Ever since the Miracles appeared, the area became dangerous for people, so we relocated to Utgard.

We barely managed to make a living by selling handicrafts. I even ended up joining a small gang.

You lived... near Raine's Wall?

Correct.

Were you forced to relocate again due to the construction of the Divine Walls project?

No... Actually, it's ironic...

Street gangs were never held in high regard by the authorities. During their crackdown, my grandfather suffered an unfortunate accident.

He met a tragic end in the streets, and it took a great effort for me to escape...

I've been on a mission to track down the person who sold us out. Following the clues, they led me to someone I never expected.

?

It was Alexa who exposed us. She gave information about small gangs in the area to the Union. It was a sort of her gift to them.

After all, any gangs with Esper members posed a threat to her...

... Alexa.

You know her?

We only met a few times. That woman is complicated.

Upon discovering her alliance with Abigail, I started questioning the circumstances of my departure and realized that things didn't quite add up.

But that's all just the past to me...

Well, to me, it's something I won't ever forget...

I... joined the Shadow Decree to get my revenge against her...

......

I see.

A lot of people joined the organization for the same reason, but what surprises me is seeing that you joined us.

There's no particular reason. It's just that the Shadow Decree is willing to work in gray areas which better suits my goals.

I want to challenge the strong opponents and address fundamental issues in the world.

Which issues?

The Miracles.

I see.

Have you... thought of going back to Utgard?

No.

You seem to be... quite certain about it.

One should never hesitate when making a decision. Even if I were to return to Utgard, there would be no turning back for me, right?

Yes.

Let's get going. I've rested enough.

Very well, let's move on.

Yes, sir!

I didn't expect you to agree to have dinner with me. You look stunning in that dress today.

Thank you, Commander Mateo. The atmosphere here is great.

You have better taste than most men I've met.

You're welcome, but I'm just doing what a good host should do. I heard you're from the south, yes?

Yes, I'm from an island in the middle of nowhere. At night, the sea lights up like a sky full of stars, pushing away the darkness.

Sounds like Utgard. People say it's the city that never sleeps. Everyone comes to this city of gold to realize their dreams.

Indeed, it is even more breathtaking to witness it firsthand. My journey has been completely worthwhile. It's also given me the opportunity to meet you.

I've heard you're one of the sponsors of the science exhibit.

The sole sponsor actually. Please don't think I'm being pretentious, but I was the only person willing to provide funds for this current exhibit.

I think you sound like someone who enjoys being in control, much like myself.

We're both fond of being in charge.

So tell me... what's it like being the commander of Raine's Wall?

For me, it's not just a job. It's a part of my life.

I hope I'll get the chance to see the vast snowy landscape around here.

Certainly... If you come with me, I can arrange that.

Oh, I can't wait.

Are you serious? She's just a sponsor. It's very risky to venture into the snowfields so late at night.

She'll be safe with me by her side.

... I'm just giving you a friendly reminder. Never go out alone with a woman you just met.

After all, you never know what their intentions are.

I believe embracing the mysterious and the unknown is a better outlook on life.

That's how you got fooled last time.

You don't understand. It's different this time.

It's so breathtaking and tranquil, just as the tales described.

I feel honored for the chance to set foot on these snowfields. Most people are nervous just passing through here.

I knew you would enjoy it, and there's no need to worry about Miramon. You're safe with me.

We should celebrate this beautiful moment... the breathtaking view...

You're right.

A toast to the snowfields.

A toast to the city of gold.

A toast to the guest from afar.

A toast to the protector of Raine's Wall!

It's my first time finding a woman who can match me when it comes to drinking.

A toast... to you... and... Zzzz.

......

... Am I dreaming? Or did something bad happen last night?

She's just vanished. How fascinating.

Did you have a great time last night?

Of course. We had a very enjoyable evening. She's truly a mysterious lady.

Did you walk back? Where's your car?

That's not important. What's important is that...

...fate has brought us together. She left me a message, expressing that a temporary separation is a test of our love.

Sounds like you got fooled by the same trick again.

No, I do not believe that!

I have a feeling that we'll meet again!

This training session has now concluded. You are dismissed. Remember, no one can afford mistakes on the battlefield!

That's our commander. He makes everything look so easy.

I'm curious, though. Everyone has a weakness...

What do you think our commander's weakness is?

I've heard it's that he tends to indulge himself at high-end places.

That's a weakness? I've heard that he always pays for everyone's drinks whenever he goes out. I guess his weakness could be that he likes to drink.

I remember him saying that taking some time to unwind can make us better soldiers, but if we relax too much, we might lose our fighting spirit.

Has anyone actually seen him depressed?

I think it's got to be women.

He always gets tricked by women. Just two months ago, he even lost his car because of some lady.

Especially beautiful women. He's been tricked more than once. He doesn't seem to mind, though. In fact, I think he enjoys it.

I agree. I'm certain Commander Mateo is enjoying himself.

What if we think about it from another perspective? Since his power is fire, it's possible that he could be weak to water, right?

Just think about it. The commander is always using his powers and burning things up. If we pushed him into a pond...

...there could be an unexpected outcome.

That sounds absurd... but somehow, it also makes sense.

I'm not gonna be the one to push him in. I want to live to enjoy my retirement.

Shhh... If we let the commander hear what we're talking about, he'll beat the crap out of us!

Ahhh, Commander...!

You were all dismissed. Why aren't you going back to rest? What are you all talking about?

Commander, we have something crazy we want to test out, and we need your help.

Let me apologize in advance.

?

!!!

Commander!

Wow... the water evaporated. I understand now.

I guess I was wrong.

...?

What the hell is wrong with you?!

Commander, we were talking about you earlier. You always seem so... invincible.

We were wondering what your weakness was. We were trying to figure out how to better protect you. We didn't mean any harm.

(You made that up fast...)

Are you all stupid or something?!

*Cough*

We were simply following your instructions. We analyzed our opponent's possible weak points and carefully tested our hypothesis.

Since it seems that you didn't notice what I intended to do when I nudged you, it appears that my plan was successful.

......

T-This is bad...

We're done for...

You're a bunch of idiots!

Do you think you're all so clever? Go run 30 laps around the training grounds!

(Thank goodness that pond wasn't deep. I don't know how to swim.)

(Then again, it wouldn't be an issue for someone like me. Even if it was deep...)

(I'd just evaporate the water as I did just now.)

You sure you want to do this? Don't you think it's a little... too flashy?

Why not? It's my day off. I'm in a great mood. It'll be fine.

Besides, there's no doubt in my mind that I'll be the winner in the end. I just hope the guy I face in the first round ain't a pushover.

Fine... I'll be cheering for you in the crowd.

Whoa! Biondina is one of the fighters in the first round? She hasn't lost a single match!

I heard her opponent is new to the boxing stadium. Biondina is definitely going to win!

Biondina, is it? Your name has a nice ring to it.

You look strong. I didn't expect to face someone like you in the first round.

......

Not bad. You've got decent speed and power.

Your boxing technique is good too.

... Are you always this talkative in a fight?

Or are you just trying to distract me?

(Biondina blocks Mateo's straight jab and throws a counterpunch.)

That was so close! I can't believe he was able to block Biondina's attack! He even went on the offensive!

Looks like we fight the same. After all, the best defense is a good offense.

Wanna end this quick? I was thinking the same thing.

You shouldn't be too overconfident in a fight, "Commander."

Hahaha, I haven't lost yet.

Are you sure that guy is new? I feel like I've seen him somewhere before...

I heard he was just passing by and signed up on the spot... Man, this guy is strong.

I haven't had this much fun during a match in a while.

Is that so?

How about we go another round when you have time?

I don't have time for you.

Now hold on...

I know who you are, Commander. I have no interest in you.

I've got other business to attend to. Goodbye.

That woman is something else...

We've all bet on you to win before, and you've also made a lot of money with us. How about you lose to that new guy and make more money?

You'll get a 10% cut of what we win. What do you think?

I don't want anything to do with you or your dirty business.

You turnin' us down? Better reconsider your choices, Biondina.

Is that supposed to be a threat or something?

No matter how tough you think you are, ain't no way you're comin' out on top against our whole crew.

Oh? Is there gonna be a fight? I'm in.

?

Hey, new guy. Stay out of this for your own good.

... I heard the bullshit you were saying earlier.

You want me to thank you for trying to get my opponent to take a dive?

You got a problem or something? This is good for you too.

... Hold on. This is none of your business.

Hey, don't underestimate me. That's something I will not tolerate.

That was easy.

We make a good team.

You're not quite like the rumors say...

I heard that you're a cocky playboy who loves power and women.

Media outlets like reporting fake news that appeals to their audience.

Anyway, thanks for your help. Sorry for the misunderstanding earlier.

I'm always thrilled to meet strong individuals, especially those who don't back down. I hope you won't disappoint me in our upcoming match.

I'll win, of course.

I wouldn't bet on it.

......

What is it, Commander?

There is a cockroach in my coffee.

Let me go get some alcohol and sanitize the area.

...Uh-huh.

Commander, are you afraid of cockroaches? Do you need me to dispose of that coffee for you?

No, that won't be necessary... It's just funny. This reminds me of the past.

What I'm looking for are objective opinions, not baseless accusations.

Commander, I believe that if the target has resources, we should avoid adopting a nonnegotiable stance.

Especially as they have control over the resources we need, they've got the potential to be of assistance in the future.

They're bluffing. I've met loads of people like them.

I think we should be cautious. Anything could happen.

You're being overly cautious. Some opportunities only present themselves once... never miss that window.

The negotiation was a success, wasn't it?

But...

Enough, Xuan Pin. Go and focus on your own tasks.

Yes, sir.

Why is there a dead cockroach in my cup?

Let me make you a fresh cup of coffee. It could be because of the damp weather lately.

I don't care how it got in there. It just means our office needs cleaning.

Round up a team. Get some pesticides and disinfectants. Let's eliminate these bugs.

Understood. It's just that we can't get rid of all the cockroaches by just spraying chemicals.

Why not?

Divide your team into three groups and get a regular rotation going on. Disinfect twice a day.

The sewage system at Raine's Wall is complicated... We need to consider...

I don't care. Just get it done.

Yes, sir.

Very good. No signs of cockroaches for a whole week already.

......

What the...? Another cockroach?!

We've been disinfecting the area routinely... But, like I said before, the situation at Raine's Wall is complicated.

......

Disinfection methods that work for ordinary households aren't effective at Raine's Wall. Our walls here have numerous cracks caused by the constant waves of Miramon attacks.

It's not possible to spray chemicals into every corner under these circumstances.

So what do you suggest?

What're those? Mashed potato balls?

This boric acid was made into the shape of mothballs. Simply place them here. No cockroach can survive the effects of boric acid.

It's a traditional method that has been passed down. When large-scale disinfection is ineffective, this simple method is easier to implement.

Really?

I was born in a poor area and learned these techniques as a child. Just try it and see the results.

Okay.

So, in the end, there were no more cockroaches?

Of course! Doesn't everyone know this method?

Okay...

I don't know what happened in the past, but as his subordinate, I have absolute faith in him. I hope the Commander is doing well.

I'm worried about him. He lacks common sense. I wonder how he's doing and where he is right now.

Yeah, where is he...?