MAke Drama: MAD story · Main story, A New World
Chapter 2: A Fixer's First Steps
My first real steps as a fixer. It's a fresh start for M.A.D.!
12 scenes, 944 lines
1. The Fixer Is Hungry
69 lines*yawn*...
...I'm so damn hungry. Even sleeping through the hunger isn't cutting it anymore... Is this why you guys went around stealing bread?
Ugh... stop stating the obvious... I'm so hungry I can't even think straight...
Ugh... Theta, do you happen to have any bread left over...? Like that giant campagne you brought last time…
We finished the campagne a long time ago... Since we have another mouth to feed, we've been burning through rations much faster…
Hey, I won't deny that we have an extra mouth, but I didn't even touch that campagne!
Two weeks after we declared we were opening a Fixer Office.
I had gotten somewhat used to living here, but... just as I had feared, we were living in extreme poverty.
It didn't help that our portfolio was full of nothing but infamous exploits like conquering Panoticon and breaking out of prison, so all we got were weird jobs...
Even the little money we made from the few jobs we got was all spent making good on a promise I'd impulsively made.
We were somehow surviving on tofu and donuts, but... now we're even out of those... Ahhh...
Who could've known we'd have absolutely zero clients? I at least expected a bakery to hire us to catch a thief.
It is not stealing. It is taste-testing.
However, they have stepped up security lately, making sampling difficult. Today's haul is just some discarded bread crusts, but if you're okay with this...
Why would they need security guards to stop people from eating "samples"...
Ugh, no thanks. Just go out and bring back a client. Unless you want to drink nothing but water for dinner tonight...
...? What? I didn't just imagine that, did I?
Food...! Heaven has finally blessed us with food...!!
Whoa... could it be? A real client, finally...
Seriously, if we starved any longer, my boobs and butt would have shrunk, and I would've had to buy new clothes!
The client is here! What are you guys doing just lounging around?
Theta, hurry up and shove these guys into the next room before the client sees them.
Hey! Where are you going?! Are you ignoring me?! Hey!!!
Geez! Calling us "these guys" is so rude!
I keep telling you, I have a perfectly good name, Freya—!
Exactly, referring to us like that is so mean!
If you're going to call us something that degrading, there are plenty of better words... Like "b*tch," or "sl*t," for instance...
Shut up and just go pour some water for the client. If we lose this one, who knows how long we'll have to starve.
Yeees...
Tch...
(I've completely figured out how to handle you guys by now.)
(Reacting to every little thing you do only drains my energy.)
At first, I was completely lost because I didn't know how this world worked. But now, I'm a resident too. I'm finally getting used to everything...
Anybody home?!!
Holy shit, you scared the crap out of me!!!
H-Hiiik... Y-You can't just break down the door without warning...! ???
Hmm, but that was commonplace where I come from. ???
Aaargh!!! O-Our security deposit, gone again...!!!
What are you going to do about this?! We just got it fixed...!!
I'm so sorry, I'm so sorry, I'm so sorry...!! ???
Midwen Corporation will compensate you somehow for the repairs to the door and entrance...!! ???
M-Midwen Corporation...? Why would a massive conglomerate like that...
W-Well, actually... we came here to offer you a contract...
A-Allow me to introduce myself formally! My name is Hinata, chief secretary of Midwen Corporation!
Ah, yeah, thanks... S-Should we get business cards, too??
We don't have the budget for that. Just wing it.
Hmm, is it time for introductions? It is only proper to announce one's own name. ???
My name is Dan Xi. A warrior of the Fairwinds Association from the Orchid Clan of Four Gentlemen.
I am not yet accustomed to the laws of this city. Please, forgive my forwardness.
Forget the rules. You look more like you came here to challenge the whole place.
I don't care how big and beautiful they are, you can't just destroy other people's property, you know?
Oh? Thank you for the compliment. By the way...
Going around challenging dojos, huh... That could be entertaining too. Wouldn't you agree, Sirius?
■■■■-! Sirius
...Of course, everyone only hears what they want to hear. We don't even have a sign for you to take as a trophy, so take it easy.
Also, pets are not allowed here. You'll have to send that bird outside.
By the way, what are Four Gentlemen and Fairwinds Association? They don't sound like places around here.
Oh, Four Gentlemen is a city located a short distance from Humanitas.
It's a beautiful, joyous city where the festivals never end! And the Fairwinds Association is the organization that runs those festivals!
A city other than Humanitas, huh... If things don't work out here, maybe we can try our Fixer business in another city.
...Okay, I think I get the gist of it, so let's hear what you have to say.
Just don't break anything else. Otherwise, our dumb golden retriever here might lose her mind.
Grrr... Wait, who are you calling a dumb golden retriever?!
Fufufu, I shall be careful.
Ahahaha...
2. Choose Your Contracts Wisely
98 linesMidwen Construction is involved in the Humanitas New City Project. Great! If we can get in on this job, our finances will finally...! ...But seriously, why is this girl crying over a little teasing?!
So, what's the job?
Ah, yes! First, to give you a brief background of the request...
You're aware that the New City Project has been underway recently, overseen by Humanitas City Hall?
No? I occasionally watch the news, but it's boring so I turn it off right away.
Oh, I-I see... Understood. Then I'll explain everything assuming you know nothing.
The New City Project involves some 600 construction companies, led by Midwen Construction and ATP Construction.
The goals are to expand Humanitas' territory and establish new business districts.
Territory expansion? Business districts?
Yes, the aim is to develop part of the wasteland outside the city—specifically, the Outer Belt—and annex it into Humanitas.
If the project succeeds, not only will it bring immense wealth, but we'll also gain rights to some of the new city's real estate.
That's why the major corporations are so eager to jump in.
Okay, I pretty much get that part.
But what is it you want us to do? Help push the New City Project along?
Ah, yes! Actually, there's a certain case we'd like you to investigate...
To be honest... lately, the shipping containers holding our construction materials have been stolen one by one at random intervals.
...? Aren't there any security cameras or guards?
Ah, um... Yes, I'm sorry... Even with every security system at our disposal, all the footage that could have served as evidence had been wiped...
We investigated our entire staff, thinking it might be an inside job or embezzlement, but everyone had an alibi, and we couldn't find a thing...
You literally have zero clues..? Then what do you expect us to do?
W-Well... the only clues are some dirt and grass that shouldn't be in a container warehouse, but there are no footprints or anything...
We've tried various methods, like attaching GPS trackers to the containers, but they've all failed...
What, you want us to find clues that even a massive corporation couldn't?
Do you honestly think this request makes any sense?
Ugh... Ah... Um...
...Well, I understand you're trying to investigate by exhausting all options since you're out of ideas.
So, how are you involved in this?
Four Gentlemen—more specifically, the Orchid Clan—happens to be a major shareholder of Midwen Corporation.
Solving this case quickly is of paramount importance to us as well. So you may think of me as your reinforcement.
Hmm... alone?
For now, yes. Another may join us, but that remains to be seen.
Right. As long as they don't break down the door like you did, anyone is fine.
Anyway... the construction materials were stolen container and all? That wouldn't be easy unless they're using heavy machinery.
Is that really so surprising? Anything can happen in this world!
Not too long ago, someone even tried to shrink the Midwen Corporation headquarters with a shrink ray and steal it as a miniature!
Oh, that was quite famous... Was it the attempted landmark theft incident...?
What is this, some cartoon villain plot from a G-rated movie?
Rumor has it that after the thief was caught, Midwen Corporation strapped them to a rocket and launched them off somewhere...
Huh? They weren't imprisoned in the Panoticon?
Who knows? It is only a rumor, after all...
After all, if you catch the culprit before the police do, vigilante justice is always an option!
Man, mega-corporations are terrifying. Who'd want to work with one when they're this scary?
W-We did no such thing!!
Well, if you say so. Anyway, what's the payout for this job?
...The payment will be 100% in Credits, transferred directly to your account.
We are offering this much as a basic retainer...
Let me see... Ohhh! With this, we might actually be able to pay off all our back rent in one go...!
Hehehe, I can finally collect all those toys and undergarments I couldn't afford before...!
I can eat all the bread I want for a while... even Mont Blancs... Hehehe...
Don't count your chickens before they hatch, you idiots. We haven't even accepted yet. You always have to be careful with contracts.
Ah, and that's just the basic retainer! Depending on how successfully you complete the job, we'll also pay the remaining balance plus bonuses...!
..!!!! Just give me your orders, Boss!
...Huh? Boss...?
Anyone with money is the boss.
Yes? What is it...?
What about the police? Shouldn't they be the ones handling this?
The police... Well, I think everyone knows...
You know how it is... they're completely useless...
Yeah, what can we expect from cops who get themselves kidnapped by us?
...Excuse me?
Ah, it's nothing. Putting the police aside...
Why bring this to a rookie Fixer Office like ours? Surely there are private investigators or more professional personnel out there.
Ah... Well, you see... we did approach a few other places... but they all turned us down when they heard it involved Midwen...
So, out of all the places recommended to us, the only candidate left was... this place...
...I'll pretend I didn't hear that last part.
I don't know who recommended us, but thanks anyway!
But why did the other places turn you down?
Um, well, uh, y-you see...
Lumina, explain. Three-line summary.
Ah, this actually connects to the story about the attempted landmark theft earlier...
Simply put, Midwen Corporation doesn't have the best reputation. There are rumors of them operating in the shadows, associating with underworld bosses, and so on...
That's why those rumors about strapping someone to a rocket and launching them to the moon started spreading...
T-Those rumors are completely baseless nonsense!!
While it's true that, while expanding our company in the past, we physically took down groups that were illegally involved in related businesses...
Since then, Midwen Corporation has never been involved with the underworld of Humanitas!!
What, does the CEO fight crime as a side hustle?
Is she a fan of bats? Or high-tech armor suits?
Hahaha... Miyo of the past... No, the CEO of Midwen was quite famous.
She beat down dozens of rampaging monsters with her bare hands... and shattered solid boulders with nothing but her fists...
Dan Xi, saying things like that will only make the misunderstandings worse...!!
...Okay, this is getting seriously scary. Maybe we should actually reject this request.
Just kidding, just kidding.
Ugh... Uuu... Huuu...
...? I said it was a joke...
Waaaaah!!!!!!
Whoa, what the heck?!
Y-You have no idea how much I've suffered because of this case... *sniff*...
There's no sign of the culprit being caught, and the security department is barely working, assuming the insurance will cover it...
I'm working my fingers to the bone, but no one will help me, so my overtime hours just keep piling up...!!
Oh? To make your opponent lose the will to fight with just a few words.
Are you a master of Verbal Arts? You are far more impressive than I thought.
How many times do I have to tell you it was just a joke?! I didn't mean to make her cry!
Boo! Scumbag!
Boo, what a jerk!
Shall I sort this burnable trash for disposal?
S-Shut up! Just help me calm her down already!!
3. Back Alleys and Stray Cats
96 linesAfter enjoying a delicious meal on Hinata's dime, I began investigating the back alleys to earn my keep. ...But why on earth are these punks targeting Hinata's underwear?
After barely managing to calm Hinata down, I accepted the request and went out to investigate.
...Of course, only after grabbing some food first.
Ugh, it's been ages since I've actually felt full.
Anyway, where should we even start investigating...? I don't have a clue.
Since you mentioned Midwen Corporation washed its hands of the underworld a long time ago... perhaps we should start our search there.
By "there," you mean...
The back alleys are the standard starting point for any underworld investigation.
If we round up a few local thugs and interrogate them, we might get a lead.
...Is it just me, or did she get smarter after eating?
My information processing efficiency has increased, but my intelligence level has not changed.
I have always been intelligent. Please correct your statement.
Geez, it was just a figure of speech.
Ah! I actually know a few places where thugs tend to hang out!
The only catch is, I'm not sure if those guys will have the info we need.
Haha, but they should still know more about underworld rumors than we do!
I'm almost completely in the dark when it comes to rumors from that side...
Life is tough... If we had enough money, we could just hire subcontractors to do all the grunt work.
Must be nice to be Midwen Corporation... They can just throw money at problems and have people suffer for them.
Um, excuse me... I'm still right here...?
And we haven't even started the investigation yet... All we've done is eat...
You can't expect us to work on an empty stomach. Do you have any idea how much we were starving?
Tsk, tsk. This is why people with money are the worst.
Y-You said you couldn't even get started without food, so I bought you lunch with my personal card, and I haven't even been able to go back to the office yet...!!
You already received the retainer anyway, so you could have easily bought it yourselves... *sniff*...
Well, you could have just said no. Unlike you, working for a g-i-a-n-t conglomerate, we're broke and need to pinch every penny.
U-Uuu...
...Hey, you're not going to cry right here on the street, are you?
I was just joking, seriously. It was just a little banter to ease the tension, okay?
The more I watch, the more impressive your Verbal Arts are. Twisting logic and finding any crack to squeeze through...
It truly reminds me of the merchants from my clan.
I can't tell if that's a compliment or an insult, but squeezing into tight holes is my specialty.
S-Squeezing into tight... Fufu, fufufu...
Holes... Donuts. Bagels. Pretzels. Baumkuchen...
Ooh, that sounds delicious...
We literally just ate! How are you already talking about bread?!
Anyway... Dan Xi, what's your plan? Are you investigating with us, or going solo?
Fufu, I believe it would be more efficient to assist you rather than search alone.
We do not know the number of culprits or their strength. In such a situation, having extra help can only be a benefit.
Or... am I not enough?
Um, no. Not at all. In fact, you're more than enough.
I'll gladly let you stay right by my side. You can even get closer.
Very well. Do not worry about me, and simply focus on your investigation.
You may think of me as... yes. Something of a bodyguard.
Now that's a reassuring bodyguard.
Alright! Let's go bust some thugs. Freya, lead the way.
Alright! Just follow me!
Um, why did you stop me from going back and bring me all the way here...?
I-I won't be of any help at all if we end up in a fight...
Since we're working together now, we might as well stick together. Plus, you look like a prime target for thugs, making you the perfect bait...
...Excuse me?
Ahem, nothing.
More importantly, Freya, where are those guys?
What's with these marks on the ground? They look like cat paws...
Oh, this? It's nothing.
It's basically a territory marker for the local thugs.
If you see this, it means they're loitering nearby.
Oh, here they come.
Who the hell are you guys? Who gave you permission to wander around our turf?
Hey, since it’s come to this, empty your pockets. I’ll count it as one hit per unit of Credits.
Like hell we will, you idiots. Why don't you hand over everything you've got instead?
What did you say? Wow, you've got some nerve!!
Hey, get out here, everyone! Let's beat these guys to a pulp!
Huh? What the... why is it just you guys?
Dunno, maybe they found some other prey.
Tsk, useless jerks...
Hey, by the way... that girl in the back looks loaded, doesn't she? The pink-haired one who's shaking like a leaf.
Her underwear must be a luxury brand too, right...?
Nice, let's strip her clean!!
H-Hiiik! Why are you targeting my underwear?!
The thugs weren't as tough as expected. Now, spill the info. Or pay with your bodies! And while we're at it, hand over your clothes, money, and underwear too...
Hmm, how dull. To think it would end so easily.
S-Stop! Stop! We're sorry! We picked the wrong people to mess with!!
We'll never do bad things again! No more mugging! No more stealing underwear! We'll live peacefully, we swear!!
Just an apology? Come on, that's not going to cut it.
Hand over everything you have. Your underwear too.
Wh-What... Please, have mercy on my underwear...
Y-Yeah, we have no money, and we barely have any underwear to spare...
Oh, is that so? Well then, I guess we have no choice but to find another way.
That's right... Like paying with your bodies instead...
Exactly, paying with your bod—
...Um, the investigation...?
...Oh, right.
Hey, answer just one question honestly, and I'll let you off.
*Gasp*! O-Of course..! Just ask us anything!
Do you know anything about who's been stealing the construction materials from Midwen Corporation?
Since they've been taking entire containers, there's no way rumors haven't been circulating.
Uh, w-well...
Tsk, you're really dragging this out. Want me to take everything you're wearing, along with all your belongings?
And then, I'll "interrogate" you so thoroughly and ruthlessly that you won't even be able to breathe.
Hiiik...!
I'll tell you everything I know! Just please, not that...
Too late.
Wait, what— Kyaaah?!
4. Panties and Stockings
64 linesIt would be hard to expect high-level intel from street thugs anyway. But I had enough fun, and managed to find a clue to continue the investigation. Now, the next target is the Fit Angels.
Heeeek... I've told you everything... Please stop...
I already told you everything, so why are you still bullying me... Hnyaaa...!
Huh... You're right. Why am I?
It's just that seeing those cat ears makes me really want to keep petting them.
What do cat ears have to do with this...?! And this isn't petting, it's...
Hiiik!!! That spot is sensitive...!
Right, time to wrap things up.
H-Hieee...!
...Yeah, Laila was definitely the weird one.
There's no way there's anyone else immune to my tickling...
I could swear you were doing a lot more than just tickling them... or was I mistaken?
It's just your imagination. Think of it as insurance in case the tickling doesn't work.
Anyway, did the other guys find anything? This one didn't really know much either.
At most, just that the Fit Angels have been acting a bit strange lately?
Apparently they've been straying beyond their usual activity range, and they've bulked up so much that they're harder to deal with.
Other than that, the maids have tightened security in the back alleys around Panoticon, making smuggling quite difficult...
...Smuggling? Could it be construction materials?
Ah, knockoff designer underwear smuggling has been quite popular for a while...
What, it wasn't construction materials but... knockoff designer underwear?!
Seriously, it's not even designer handbags. At this rate, we'll be having underwear auctions.
...That's ridiculous. Is high-end underwear really that hard to get?
Oh, you have no idea. Some underwear brands cost as much as an entire building!
Brands by certain exclusive designers aren't even released to the general public.
And knockoffs of those pieces are what end up on the black market.
...Do they even wear them? If they cost that much, I wouldn't think they'd wear them.
Sigh, why do they buy things like that? I really don't understand rich people.
It appears to be the same pattern as those who purchase and collect fine art.
As long as there is demand, there will be supply.
Oh, come to think of it, the Head Maid is super rich too, right? I wonder how many auctions she's been to.
Perhaps... If you ask me, there's a high chance that the smuggled underwear belonged to the Head Maid!
After all, there'd be no point in making knockoffs of ordinary maids' underwear!
That must be why they targeted Hinata's underwear too. Because it smelled of luxury...
Hiiik, I don't smell!!
A-And why are you looking at me like that! D-Don't tell me... , you're after my underwear too...?
Oh, come on. I don't even know where the auction is, so how could I?
W-Which means, if you only knew where the auction was...!
...I can't deny that.
Please deny it!!!
She really is so much fun to tease.
...If I'd known, I would've stolen the Head Maid's underwear when we took over Panoticon. Never thought it'd be treated like fine art.
I wonder how many loaves of bread one pair of the Head Maid's underwear could buy. *Drool*...
Are you going to calculate the value of everything in the world in loaves of bread?
...Fufu.
Why are you blushing now? Every time you do that, it makes me nervous about what you're going to say next.
Oh, it's nothing major... Actually, when I went into the Head Maid's room, I did swipe a pair of her stockings...
They were so pretty that I tried them on a few times, then hid them in my room!
You should've told me sooner. I could've sold them.
Aw, you're so mean!
Stockings are not cost-effective. The moment they get a run or rip, their value plummets.
You don't know anything, Theta. There are some stockings that actually become more valuable when they're ripped just right.
...?
Well, you don't need to know right now. It's not that important anyway.
Ugh... Boss, this place is weird... I want to go back to the office...
No way, we haven't even properly started the request yet. We need to make sure we get your support.
...Then where are we going next?
Let's nail down the underwear smuggling route first! ...Is what I'd like to say, but that's probably unrelated to this request.
First, let's investigate the Fit Angels, since they seemed suspicious.
Then let's head to the "Fitness Building" in the center of town!
...Dan Xi?
5. The Cat and the Butterfly
Side story · 42 linesKouchou of the Fairwinds Association, on a certain mission, and Shizuku of Midwen Corporation. The city is still a place full of secrets.
...
Phew, I made sure to conceal my presence.
To see through a disguise... Your companion has sharp instincts.
...From the same clan, the same organization. Though our specialties differ.
Your instincts are as sharp as ever, Shizuku.
...I knew by the scent. I saw the butterflies, too.
It's fine. I have no intention of fighting, so no need to be on guard.
Right now, I am...
...I know. The past is just the past.
So, from Miyo... I mean, what is the mission you received from Midwen?
...Infiltrating the Humanitas Esper Archives.
What about you? Weren't you dispatched to Humanitas on a separate mission? I doubt your mission was to thin out the street punks approaching.
As soon as you let your guard down, you get chatty as always...
I just saw a familiar face and helped out... I have a lead on the target, but it's not enough yet.
...I see. In any case, now I should report to my boss and start the next mission...
Ah, butterflies.
...Is it starting again? Oh dear...
...Yes. I should.
Shizuku?
Yes, ma'am.
I see, did you find all the necessary materials?
Yes. I will upload the data to the cloud as soon as I find an access port.
I have also discovered an individual with a unique information gathering ability... Since they seem highly useful, I plan to recruit and deploy them immediately.
Excellent. And what is the status of our new partner?
An investigation is underway, but we have not yet found any solid clues.
However, their next destination is expected to be the Fit Angels' gym.
The hideout of those muscle brains? Hmm... I see...
Ah, according to Hinata's report, there seems to have been a battle near your current location.
...Yes. Our paths crossed while I was passing through, so I was standing by in case they needed backup.
...The situation we feared didn't happen, so I didn't take any action and just observed.
I see. In your opinion, Shizuku, how is their combat prowess?
They are reckless, but their combat skills are all roughly on the same level.
But... that's only how they appear right now. I still haven't seen the full extent of what they're capable of.
If you say so, Shizuku, then it must be accurate. Good. Keep up the good work.
...Right.
6. Hip Up, Bust Up
106 linesThe two were arguing over whether the upper or lower body was better. I used the excuse of rendering a verdict to feel them up a bit... And honestly, I couldn't decide. I like them both!
No, that's why I'm telling you squats are a mandatory part of the routine!
The hamstrings are the ultimate muscles! Just look at Black Angel's hamstrings and you'll understand!!
Nonsense! Are you completely blind to Black Angel's massive barbell?!
The upper body is obviously the priority! Building up your triceps tones your bust line too!
...What is going on now? Seriously, there isn't a single quiet day in this city.
They are arguing while striking poses that emphasize specific muscles. I believe the technical term is "posing."
They appear to be fighting over which takes priority: the upper body or the lower body.
Hmm, but honestly, legs are way more important!
Speed is everything in this world! Strong legs are what make you fast!
I suppose the right workout is different for everyone depending on their body type and preferences...?
I've never really worked out anything except my waist myself... Fufufu...
I don't care whether it's upper body or lower body... I just don't want to do any unwanted workouts.
When the Head Maid shut off the power last time and made us take the stairs... Ugh.
Big Boss, you passed out back then, didn't you! Maybe you really should exercise a bit more.
That was because Panoticon had way too many floors!! How am I supposed to hit the gym when I don't even have enough money to eat proper meals?
From my perspective, you guys are the ones with freaky stamina.
Hahaha! We're already this strong, but imagine how much stronger we'd get if we actually worked out!
I am a cyborg, so there is no need for me to exercise. However, I think Lumina could use some exercise.
She has too much unnecessary fat on her body.
Oh, come on, this fat is absolutely necessary to bring out the natural beauty of the female form!
Sigh, it's my fault for expecting anything from you guys.
...By the way, where did Dan Xi and Hinata go?
Huh? Oh, Hinata said she had to use the restroom, so they went into the building next door.
She asked us to wait a bit.
Wait? Standing out on the street for too long rarely leads to anything good...
Gasp! Gasp! We're not getting anywhere... If we keep this up, we'll be late for the meeting.
We can't let that happen... We already made a wasted trip because we missed the announcement. We can't be even later.
In that case! We have no choice but to settle this here and now!!!
Hey, you there!!!
...Huh? Me?
Yeah, you!
Are you team lower body?
Or team upper body!
Hey, putting me on the spot like that...
...Ah.
Ah?
Hmm, I think I'd be able to tell better if I felt them myself...
Whether it's a solid, heavy lower body...
Or a firm, well-balanced upper body...
Oh, you actually know your stuff!! Are you some kind of muscle sommelier?!
Fine, feel free to touch all you want! Just let us know your decision when you're done!!
Hehe, don't mind if I do...
Mmm...
The firmness of the muscle, and the softness of the fat layer wrapping around it...
Mmm, what a spectacular peach of a butt. Beautiful. Amazing. Truly a masterpiece of hard work.
Mmm... Ah...
Your touch is... strangely sensual... You're checking my muscles, right...?
Oh, of course.
Now for...
From the trapezius to the pectorals... They're firmly supporting the chest.
Even when I poke them like this, or lift them up and let go, they have such a stable bounce! Bravo!
Ngh... Ah...
Rather than checking my muscles... it feels more like a massage...
S-So... what's your verdict?
Yeah, tell us quickly.
...Hmm.
Hooo...
*Sigh*...
...?
You idiots. How should I know?
If you have time to argue over something like that, go do another set of your favorite workout.
Phew, finding a restroom to borrow around here was no easy task.
Hm? Did we just crash into something?
Ugh... What was that...
I felt like I got hit by a truck...
Hey, what took you guys so long?
Ah, well, to use the restroom, we got trapped in a room where we had to complete a weird mission...
It was a game called... Twister? Our chests kept bumping and getting squished together, making it quite hard to move.
Ahaha, but aside from that, it was a fairly amusing game!
D-Dan Xi...!!!
What? I want to see too! No, let me join in too.
I-If there's a next time... Ahem. Did anything happen to the rest of you?
Nothing major, but these girls here were asking whether upper or lower body workouts were better...
Does it truly matter whether it is the upper or lower body?
The overall balance of your strength will be thrown off if you don't train your whole body evenly.
By the way, is it really okay to leave them like this...?
The Fitness Building is close by, and standing around like this is bound to cause a misunderstanding...
Our comrade has been defeated again!!
You enemies of muscle!! We'll catch you and force you to do squats!!
Hiiik!!
Oh, are they new challengers?
Oh, come on!!
We beat up all the punks who suddenly ambushed us. Dan Xi turned out to be incredibly strong... I'd better not mess with her if I don't want to get folded in half. Anyway, please tell me we don't have to take the stairs for this building too.
I know two of their friends got knocked out, but why did they attack us out of nowhere?! And what did they mean by "defeated again"?
Hmm, was there not mention of previous clashes with those street ruffians?
It seems we may find ourselves dragged into fights quite often lately.
Sigh... I'm already exhausted, and we haven't even properly started the investigation.
But with this many people, didn't everyone inside the building just come out? Besides, they're all knocked out, so I can't even ask them any questions.
Well, we'll find a way even without anyone around! But more importantly...
Heheh, you can't be tired already, can you? What are you going to do if this building doesn't have electricity either?
Then you can just piggyback me again.
Ugh, why me again?!
We have to complete the request, don't we?
Ughhh... No way...
Worry not about that. If worse comes to worst, I can simply carry you up in my arms.
Oh, let's do that then!! Because I definitely don't want to do it!!
Not a piggyback, but carrying me in your arms?
Hm? Oh, does being carried in such a manner make you feel uneasy?
Mmm... No, it's not that...
(No, wait. Does that mean... I'm going to be between them...?)
Do you dislike it? If so, a piggyback is also fine. Though I originally planned to carry Hinata up.
Ahahaha... Maybe I should just head back to the office now...
No way you're getting off easy.
Since we're already here, let's see this through to the end!
Ughhh... I have a mountain of work to do...
7. The Room You Can't Leave Unless You XX
76 lines*Pant*... *pant*... *pant*...
Damn it, I got baited because they said "an elevator you can't leave unless you XX (4P)"...!!
Ugh... Why did nobody tell me XX meant "exercise"...
Aaargh... S-Save me... I think I'm getting a cramp in my leg...
Why on earth did they make the elevator run on cycling...? And making it go down the moment you stop pedaling is just too cruel..!!
Ugh... B-But it still seemed better than the super-high-speed reverse escalator...
Even if this is the Fit Angels' headquarters, this is a bit much...
...It seems going down won't be easy either.
Even the stairs have some strange device... And calling the elevator from upstairs requires a workout.
If I'd known this, I should've let Dan Xi carry me when she said she'd take the stepmill escalator...
No way you're getting off easy all by yourself, Big Boss!
If that was the case, Dan Xi should've taken the elevator instead! So more people could've had it easy!
Then what about me?!
I don't care!!
Phew. That was a fine workout.
I-I'm sorry... Thank you...
It wasn't easy on our end either with the manual elevator, but now I'm curious about the Stairway to Heaven.
Stairway to Heaven? Quite a curious name.
Ah, I heard it got that name because it makes you feel like you're going to die while working out. Not sure if it's true, though.
Hmm... It was a bit challenging, but not terribly difficult. Even carrying Hinata up, it only gave my thighs a slight burn.
However, halfway up, there was a mission to climb while doing rabbit hops. I took it as a challenge to my thighs and passed it with ease.
You did what while carrying another person?! What on earth is your body made of?
Ahahaha... So does that mean I'm heavy... or light...?
Fufufu, you are of a perfectly reasonable weight, so you need not worry.
There are many mountains around Four Gentlemen. It brings back memories of the days when I often went mountain climbing.
Those were the times I trained by carrying a massive boulder up and down...
C-Comparing me to a boulder...
...If this was how it was going to be, why did those Fit Angels girls even fight over upper body versus lower body downstairs?
Isn't lower-body strength basically a necessity if you want to get up this building?
Just in case, I searched the building management rules on Quartz earlier...
It looks like they use some special technology that changes the configuration of the stairs and elevators every day.
On some days, bench press equipment is generated, and depending on the weight and number of repetitions...
What kind of ridiculously bizarre technology turns this place into some random punishment game?
It seems to be a technology that only replaces the equipment or facilities in a specific space at specific times...
Ah, this is derived from Space Expansion and Customization Technology. It's a patented, high-end technology.
...So Humanitas has many buildings where you have to do something like this to achieve your goal.
I feel like I climbed a building that made me exercise once before too... The building I used the restroom in earlier required playing a game of Twister, too...
Will you take me with you next time? Even if it's just to watch.
Ugh... That's so creepy... I'm just not going to high-rise buildings anymore...
If we see a device like this next time, I can just wait on the first floor, right?
Not a chance. Misery must be shared!
With that in mind, we're all going in together!
..?!
What is this? It's one thing that there's no one here, but why is everything trashed?
Scattered weights in disarray. Smashed floors and walls here and there. Even broken windows letting in a chilly draft.
It looked as if a massive storm had swept through.
Hmm... I don't see any CCTV. It'll be hard to figure out what happened without any witnesses...
Well... The Fit Angels I knew were pretty free-spirited, but things were never so chaotic that they'd fight among themselves...
Even the Angels who came down earlier might have seemed intimidating, but there was no sign of infighting... I wonder what's going on...
Maybe I should've tied those girls up somewhere. Just to do some more "investigating".
At that point, isn't tickling people just your hobby?
...Well, I won't deny it. It's fun.
Heh, then I am safe.
As my body is mechanically augmented, I should not be susceptible to tickling.
...Shall we test that theory?
Why are you backing away? This is an important experiment, you know.
, it's because you have a devious look on your face.
...Regardless, staying here any longer doesn't seem likely to yield any results. A swift departure would be the most rational choice.
I will secure any remaining protein bars. Securing rations, securing rations...
Tch... Even if we want to leave quickly, we still have to exercise again.
Hey, Hinata. Can't you hack that elevator or something?
W-Well, I-I don't know... I'm not even a hacker to begin with...
There must be at least one way to go down in an emergency. In that case—
Oh my! Here you are! Hello there! ??? ???
...Huh? What? Who the hell are you?
Ah! I'm Reanna from Channel New Money! ??? ???
I followed you here because I wanted to ask the famous Fixer a few questions... Would you mind a quick interview?
New... Money? Isn't that the channel that analyzes stock and cryptocurrency charts?
A-And whenever they get the chance, they make up claims that Midwen Corporation is a monopoly...!
No, that's not true! There are perfectly valid reasons for that...!
...Well, that's none of my business. I guess I could do a quick interview, but...
More importantly, there's one thing I want to ask.
Oh? Yes, what is it?
You aren't sweating a single drop, and you don't even look out of breath... how did you get up here?
8. Serenade of 0 and 1
75 linesA woman named Reanna introduced herself. Hmm, she was quite big... Ah, of course, I meant her height. Her height. A special ability to communicate with electronic devices... That could be useful for the investigation.
Spit it out. How did you get all the way up here?
Don't tell me you're hiding the city's greatest muscles under those clothes...?
Oh, come on, that's not it at all! I'm not even that physically strong!
...But what in the world happened here?? For it to be destroyed like this...
No idea, it was like this when we got here.
But why did you climb all the way up here? If you were planning to sign up for a gym membership, I think you're a bit too late.
...Huh? Me?
Escaping from the Panoticon, and even breaking back in to conquer it!
You are literally writing a new legend, after all!
What? Just how far did the news of my jailbreak spread?
The general public shouldn't even know about conquering the Panoticon..?
Ahahaha, when you run around gathering news, you end up finding out a lot of things!
...Something is fishy. Why is she beating around the bush?
And she didn't even answer my question properly.
Ah, um... Well...
Of course, interviewing the Fixer was something I really wanted to do, but...
Suspicious, very suspicious!
Maybe I should do a little investigating on you, too...
...No point in dragging this out any longer. ??? ???
?!
What the—?! Where did you come from?!
Oh, Shizuku...? Why are you here...? Weren't you on another assignment by the CEO's orders...?
...That assignment is finished. Recruiting Reanna here and meeting up with everyone is my next mission.
A broadcaster from the channel that constantly bashes our company...?
...There is someone else who writes the scripts over there. She is just the face of the channel... and a reporter.
Anyway, I put a little pressure on the person in charge and borrowed her.
By pressure... what do you mean?
I suspect that's a euphemism for "threatening someone."
...Well, you're not wrong.
I told them we wouldn't sue them for the targeted fake news video they posted last time, as long as they took the video down and let us borrow Reanna for a day.
Ahahaha, I've never heard my PD sound that scared before!
...Is it really right for you to laugh when your coworker is trembling?
Really? But it was about time the PD got a taste of her own medicine!
Lately, she's been nagging me so much, saying "you can't do this, you can't do that!" I can't be the only one getting scolded all the time, right?
...They have a complicated relationship here, too.
But why did you bring an internet personality to an investigation site?
...Show them.
Ah, yes! Just a moment..!
...What was that just now?
Ahahaha... It's my ability.
I... can directly communicate with electronic devices.
As long as electricity flows through them, I can ask them anything!
...????
What is it, like hacking...?
Oh, it's nothing like hacking! I just asked the elevator to give me a ride, so it was easy to get up here!
...We're getting off topic. Back to the main point.
Sigh... It's too quiet around here... I finished my workout for today, but... there's no one to teach...
No matter how much I think about it, wasn't building that elevator a mistake? It seems like most people run away once they experience it.
Running away is proof of weakness! They didn't have what it takes to be Fit Angels.
No, I mean, it's great for our training, but... I feel like it's just too hard to get new members...
What are you talking about? Are you saying Black Angel made a mistake??
Of course not. I just think the building design is too harsh for beginners.
We haven't had a single new member for days, and the place is totally dead.
Urrrgh... Well, it's a shame we don't have new members, but...
That's why Black Angel went out to the ATP Construction site herself to do manual labor to make some money.
And it's not the first time the senior members joined in, leaving the place empty while doing manual labor for days.
...I heard a rumor that they only do it because there are lots of heavy things there, making it great for weight training.
...They supposedly give out plenty of protein too. Probably because they have a protein powder manufacturing affiliate.
Didn't they say they set up a temporary gym at Lake Park because it's close to the construction site?
Our current training isn't enough to really build our bodies... Hmm, maybe I should go next time too....
Me too...
...or so they say!
There was no mention of Midwen or building materials, but there was talk about a construction site...
Hey. No matter how I look at this...
The building you mentioned before wasn't just similar to this one... It was this building...
Ah, ahahaha...
Wow, I had completely forgotten about it. I think I visited this place not long after I arrived in this city...
I heard I could have a fun match with the boss here, but it wasn't much of a fight, so I guess I wiped it from my memory...
You... Sigh. Never mind. I shouldn't keep reacting to every little thing...
Seriously, what is it this time?!!!
9. The Muscles Strike Back
89 linesEhehe, that was just like a roller coaster ride!
Waaah... My whole body got banged up, and it hurts...
Just as I thought, you always need a way out in an emergency.
Though I didn't expect the stairs to turn into a giant tube slide...
Ah, now I remember clearly. So that's how those girls I fought last time managed to escape so quickly.
I just assumed they had all jumped out the window. That would be easy enough using qinggong.
...What is this, a wuxia novel?
This is way better than exercising our way down!
So, what on earth—
Whoa, what the hell? I felt like a cannonball just whizzed by.
Ugh... If that had hit us dead-on, we'd really be dead...
I only got knocked over by the shockwave, but my whole body is shaking...!
Looks like it flew from over there—
Are you the bastards who picked on my girls?
How dare you trash our gym and disrespect our muscles!!
Now, get a taste of this shot put!!
What shot put... Wait, what?
Is she... picking up a car... and crushing it right now?
Ho, so she is the true leader of the Fit Angels.
Does that mean the ones we met last time were just small fry? This time, I can finally have a proper match.
Oh my, what incredible brute strength! I don't want to get folded like that, so I think I'll make a run for it!
If you get hit, bone fractures will be unavoidable. You should be prepared to break the bank on hospital bills.
Why are you saying that like it's someone else's problem?! We need to run or fight back!!
It's just that I'm still... a bit dizzy...
Even if you get hit, sleeping on it for a night will fix it. As long as you have the money.
All we have to do is dodge again! Though I can't say the same about the shockwave!
Stop talking nonsense and—
Oh, you blocked that—
You caught that and threw it back? You've got great reflexes and muscles.
As do you.
It seems your body was forged through immense discipline... To possess such brute strength in a human body is truly remarkable.
Of course. 100 push-ups, 100 squats, 100 sit-ups, and a 10km run are the absolute basics every day.
If you combine weight training, CrossFit, and various other exercises, anyone can do this.
Ho, so it is a training method centered on basic external cultivation. Simple, but effective.
And that absurdly heavy-looking weapon isn't something you could wield so easily after handling it only once or twice.
A great achievement earned through sweat and blood. It truly fires up my competitive spirit.
Hah, I'm not the type to back down from a fight.
Come at me if you dare. I'll show you the power of muscles trained to their limit!
This one is my opponent. Go show those small fry in the back the greatness of muscles.
Understood, Black Angel!!
Hey! Who are you calling small fry?!
For someone so slow, you've got some nerve looking down on me!
If we get caught, a full-blown workout hell will begin.
I shall devour the protein bar I secured earlier. Nom nom...
...It's a complete madhouse.
You've barely done a few reps! Are you resting already?!
Fix your squat form!
Feet shoulder-width apart! Straighten your back, lift your chest, and keep your upper body straight!
Engage your core! Push your hips back and bend your knees!
H-Heeek...!!!
Gyaaaah!
Ah, our prospective new member...
What are you doing?
N-No... I was suddenly forced to exercise...
And you actually did it just because they told you to...
You could've just said no and kept running.
B-But...
Don't be too hard on her, that can happen when you get caught.
Of course, I just flat out refused and lay on the ground.
...
Anyway, how long are those two going to keep at it?
Fufufu... It has been far too long since I have had such a satisfying clash of pure brute strength.
Excellent... Let us go all out like this...!!
Hmph, not a chance—!!
It's me. I'm busy right now, so call me back...
Huh? What? ATP prepared something new?
Alright, I'm on my way! I've got to check it out right now!
We're heading back, double-time! A light jog for the first three minutes, then a full sprint after that!! Make sure to drink water beforehand!!
...What? They picked a fight with us, and now they're all leaving?
They're always like that! Even in the middle of a fight, they'll just leave when it's time to work out!
Of course, who knows where they'll bounce off to once their workout is over...
Ugh... I don't want to run around anymore...
My butt and breasts are going to shrink at this rate...
Ah, ahahaha... That really would be a disaster!
In that case, I should probably head back to work...
No way. Where do you think you're going? You have to stay with us until the end.
Waaah!!!
Ah, I'll be going now! Since I've finished the job I was commissioned for!
Fixer, please make sure to let me interview you next time you aren't busy!
Well, goodbye!
...Why is she so fast? Didn't even give me a chance to stop her.
...A rival in speed?!
I think she just didn't want to get caught like Hinata!
As expected, the instincts of a working professional are incredible!
I'd like to get back to my other duties as well. When can I go...?
You are our financial backer, after all. You have to stay with us until the request is finished, right?
*Sniffle*... Now you're just calling me a financial backer straight to my face...
10. Track Down the Angels
62 linesNo one got hurt, even after all that chaos.
Was Hinata the only casualty of that workout?
Ugh, my legs are shaking... and my body feels like it weighs a ton...
...The boss always told you to work out to stay in shape, didn't she?
B-But I have to mentally prepare myself first so it doesn't feel so overwhelming...
Still, for a while, I used to walk around the neighborhood twice after work... It's just that I haven't been able to get off work on time lately...
...I can hear you.
Heh, training is not something that can be forced.
Whether your heart is in it or not makes all the difference.
You need to learn some basic common sense first. And try to cut back on challenging dojos, too.
Oh, hearing the word "common sense" come out of the Big Boss's mouth... It feels like only yesterday you were running around the streets butt-naked!
Truly an earth-shattering event. Especially coming from someone who cannot tell the difference between free samples and stealing.
I agree, that is the most shocking statement I've heard lately! Does this mean you'll stop stealing glances to see if I'm wearing underwear?
...Your arguments are all over the place!! If you're going to roast me, at least be consistent about it!!
There's no way that's happening! It's easier if you just give up, Big Boss!
Yeah, it's my fault for expecting anything from idiots like you.
...But when are we going to get back to the request...?
If you're going to keep me from going back, could you please try to get this done as quickly as possible...?
We are working on it. People are bound to bicker a bit along the way.
*Sigh*...
For now, are we just going to keep chasing the Fit Angels...? I'm not sure if there was anything that could be considered a major clue...
...I keep hearing the name ATP Construction.
Seems like they're involved in a lot of things here and there.
Oh, ATP Construction is a company that hires a large number of the city's day laborers for their projects.
They're a construction subsidiary of a major conglomerate, but... they're different from us in that they rely heavily and exclusively on temporary workers.
We at Midwen hire 100% permanent employees—
Cut the self-promotion and just explain.
Ugh... They're a company that pays less in exchange for more freedom. The benefits are decent, and the terms are fairly flexible.
They have many fitness-related subsidiaries, so they have deep ties with the Fit Angels. I believe the Fitness Building is also owned by ATP Construction.
So that's why it has that bizarre setup... with only a small gym on the top floor, and nothing but trials to overcome on the floors below...
Yes... Oh, but of course, the Fit Angels don't own the building themselves!
I think it was meant to be a huge ATP Group fitness center... but with no tenants, they're renting it to the Fit Angels for next to nothing.
...The boss did say that property values in the area haven't gone up because of that...
...Hold on. I thought those guys were broke. Even if it's dirt cheap, the rent wouldn't be pocket change.
Oh, if I remember correctly, they signed a 10-year contract with ATP Construction.
I think it was 40 hours a week plus overtime at minimum wage... but in exchange, they get indefinite free rent after the contract is completed...
...For 10 years?! That's basically a slave contract!!
I heard they agreed in exchange for unlimited workout equipment. They also have to haul all the heavy materials themselves...
I guess that shows just how serious they are about weight training and working out...?
...A true union of passion and career.
...Well, they can fold a car with their bare hands, so maybe that's easy for them. It makes sense they wouldn't be satisfied with normal gym equipment.
Anyway, the fact that Midwen's competitor keeps getting involved like this is highly suspicious.
Hey, Goldie. Go track them down.
What are you talking about?! Do you seriously think I'm a dog?!
Tsk. Then who... Oh.
Hm?
That bird you sent out to scout earlier... Was its name Sirius?
Can you have it track the Fit Angels?
Fufufu... It seems we were of the same mind.
I asked Sirius to tail them right after the battle, so we should have some results shortly.
Oh... Would you like to join our team instead of Freya?
Hey!!! Are you seriously going to keep doing that?!
About 30 minutes later...
Ah, it seems the Fit Angels have stopped moving.
Since entering Lake Park, they have apparently gone back to lifting heavy things for their workouts.
Actually, there is one more thing I should mention regarding that... A new report came in just now.
They say another container disappeared, leaving behind only dirt and grass. It was a container filled with extremely heavy materials...
For a report like this to come in right after the Fit Angels moved...
This stinks to high heaven. Alright, let's go check it out before they leave the park.
Great...! Finally, we can wrap up this case...
On that note, hail us a cab using the corporate card. We can't run all the way there.
...
11. Judge Them, Angel
115 linesI decided to settle things with Black Angel, the leader of the Fit Angels. It seems Dan Xi plans to show her full power this time, too... Wait, why do they keep talking so weirdly? It's okay if I take it the wrong way, right?
The Walkway is crowded today as well. So crowded you wouldn't even notice someone illegally occupying part of the park.
The police are neglecting their duties again. I can't believe they just leave something like that alone.
The only active police are those from the Donut House... but this isn't something they can handle with only three people...
...The main force of the police has been like that for a long time. They haven't done their jobs properly in ages.
...I'm just now finding out they actually have a main force.
They probably think there's no point since you get thrown into the Panoticon for a day and get let right back out!
...Rather than a punishment for crime, Panoticon is more like welfare for people driven to crime just to get by.
On the other hand, the bigger crimes might just be getting covered up quietly.
Can you really say that after all those trips to Panoticon? It takes a model citizen like me to—
Aren't escaping from prison and occupying Panoticon both pretty serious crimes...?
How many times do I have to tell you, I just walked out?
Wh-What?! It's those guys from earlier!
Trashing our gym, picking on our crew... You guys have some nerve.
I-I'll go gather everyone! I need to spread the word right away—
Hey, hold on.
Y-Yes?
We didn't come here to fight. We just have something to investigate.
As long as you cooperate, you've got nothing to lose.
Hmph! There is absolutely no reason for us to listen to people with such weak muscles— Kyaah!!
H-Hiiik!!!
Nice job, Freya. What made you handle them before I even asked?
Heh, we know the Big Boss better than anyone. This much is easy!
So, do you realize how important I am now?!
...Sure, sure.
Aw, that was so half-hearted!
You're tough to please.
Ugh... You won't get away with this...
Quiet down, will you? We don't have time to waste on you guys. Hurry up and lead us to your base. This is important business.
*Huff*... *huff*...
...Hm? Oh, it's the guys who messed with our crew earlier. I was going to deal with you later, but you saved me the trouble of looking for you.
I'm working out right now, so don't bother me and run along.
Let me just ask you a few things. It'll be quick.
Sigh... Fine. I'll give you one minute. Speak.
Those resources and workout equipment you get from ATP... They're actually just construction materials, aren't they?
That's right. The deal was that we get an unlimited supply of workout equipment in exchange for our labor.
Normal training wasn't enough to build more muscle, so we hauled heavy construction materials to the site as weight training.
Oh! I-I'm Hinata from the Midwen Corporation. By any chance, did the materials you received come in containers?!
Midwen...? That exploitative company infamous for not even letting its employees work out? I don't think I need to tell people like you that much.
W-We're not exploitative! We even offer professional development benefits! Though, of course, I can't leave on time every day, but... wait, that's not the point!
Could you please cooperate with our investigation just a little? Someone might be diverting Midwen's construction materials here—
...Are you saying we stole them?! What a ridiculous accusation—
N-No, that's not what I meant...
What do you mean, "no"? You're at least suspecting them of being involved.
Say what you want to say with confidence, Hinata.
Ah, um... Yes...
You punks barge in here and have the nerve to say that...
Alright, your minute is up. Let me teach you a little lesson...
Hmph. You again?
Fufufu... To encounter a warrior as strong as you once more, today must be my lucky day.
Shall we see, then? Let us push our skills to their absolute limits this time.
I believe I had the upper hand last time. Think you can handle me?
I suppose I'd have to show every ability I have.
Urgh... To think you were hiding such power... I guess my training is still lacking.
Raw strength aside, I have a little more experience when it comes to actual combat.
The outcome seems clear. Do you wish to continue?
Now, you're going to cooperate with our investigation. Unless you want me to torment you until you spit out the information...
Fine, I lost. Do whatever you want.
...Aren't you giving in a little too easily?
What's the point of going back on my word? It's a waste of workout time, so the sooner we wrap this up, the better.
Tsk, I thought we were finally getting a bunch of new members... I was looking forward to it since I've never trained a Yokai Race before.
Fufufu, that is a pity. However, if it is just working out together next time, I am more than willing...
Ugh. Ahaha...
Boss...
We're sorry we were too weak, Boss...
Quiet, you lot. Go over there and crush some more squats. If you're weak, all you have to do is get stronger.
Just so you know, we never went near Midwen's materials. We only go to the ATP site, here, and the Fitness Building.
We just carry what we are given. That is where our job ends.
First, you need to tell me how you receive the materials... I mean, workout equipment, from ATP.
Oh, that? It's nothing special. You know the Position Swap Technology used in our building?
ATP uses that to send the materials over here. Once we receive them, we just carry them to the construction site.
Why don't they just translocate them directly to the construction site...?
Well, carrying them is part of our contract, but... there are probably safety reasons too.
Safety reasons...? Why?
...? Isn't it obvious? Spatial distortion could occur.
If things go wrong, the materials could end up in a quantum state, wedged inside other objects or people at an already chaotic construction site, you know?
Is that supposed to be obvious...?
Look at those blank faces. This is why you shouldn't neglect your studies...
Here, let me explain.
(What felt like)20 light-years later...
...And that is how the spatial translocation and swapping of equipment are made possible.
Logically, if we apply the core principles of this technology to muscle movement, humans could also teleport using explosive physical power...
...None of you seem to understand, do you?
...I grasp the general concept, but it seems everyone else's brains are already fried.
Me where? Who place...?
Ehehehe... Ahahaha...
They're all losing their minds...
Of course, I don't have a clue either.
No, wait. If you're that smart, why are you doing hard labor at construction sites? You should be a researcher or something.
You can't get a workout doing that.
...
You learn a lot when you analyze the correct way to use muscles and power.
But I suppose information that isn't related to that doesn't really stick in my brain...
Who goes all the way to quantum physics just to study muscles... I've got to hand it to you, you're something else.
By the way, where did Shizuku go? Did she run off the moment the lecture started?
Oh, Shizuku left to send the soil sample to the main office.
So, maybe I should also get going...
Not a chance. You're stuck with us until today's work is done.
Anyway, even if the materials are gone... the container must still be around, right? That's our most solid piece of evidence.
Hm? Why the container?
It probably has the company logo or something on it. Don't tell me you didn't even look at it...?
Ah, ahaha... I-I see... Honestly, I just assumed it belonged to ATP, so I didn't even look...
A-And, well... it's going to be hard to find that container.
...???
Well... I wanted new dumbbells, but there wasn't much material around... so I crushed some empty containers by hand and made them into dumbbells...
For some reason, they didn't take the containers back and told me to do whatever with them. So, I just disposed of them as I pleased...
Moved via teleportation, containers crushed to destroy evidence, and materials hauled off for other use...
*Sigh*... The GPS tracker must have broken during the translocation too... No wonder no evidence was left behind...
With that kind of grip strength, couldn't you demolish buildings with your bare hands?
I bet you'd make way more money doing demolition than construction.
Workouts I could do through demolition... Ah.
Crushing building pillars with my thighs does sound like a fun workout. That's a great idea.
You are insane... absolutely insane.
12. The Spreading Spiderweb
Side story · 52 lines...
...Shizuku.
You should have let me know you'd arrived... Why are you hiding, as if by old habit?
...My apologies. It just sort of happened...
It's alright, Shizuku. Please, give me your report first.
The analysis of the soil and grass is complete. They are a 100% match with the traces found in the warehouse.
And on my way back, I intercepted the usage logs of the ATP Group's patented Position Swap Technology. We now have all the necessary evidence.
Good work. Hinata can finally catch her breath now.
...But where is Hinata? She hasn't returned yet, has she?
...She said she was going out for a celebratory dinner because the job went well. She was dragged away by our business partners.
Being unable to say no must be exhausting... She's not paying out of pocket because she thinks she shouldn't use the company card again, is she?
Well, fine. Please check Hinata's Credit transaction history later. I'll transfer her a separate bonus.
Hahaha... I'll just handle it myself. You did well too, Shizuku. You may go.
...Yes.
Hello! This is Rosé! ???
Oh? Is that you, Ms. CEO of Midwen? You're working so hard so late!
Skip the pleasantries, Councilor Rosé. No, I suppose it's Director of New City Construction now.
There's no need to be so formal, CEO of a major corporation! I've merely taken on the New City Project as well.
So, what can I do for you?
As you expected, the culprit was ATP Construction. Now that we have clear evidence, they won't be able to deny it.
But I still don't understand. Why would a conglomerate of that size resort to such a petty method...?
Fufu, that's not too hard to figure out!
First, by sabotaging Midwen's New City Project, they solidify their position as the top corporation in the new city.
Second, getting the Fit Angels kicked out of the Fitness Building after framing them for the theft.
It was the perfect chance to get rid of the Fit Angels keeping property prices down, and strike a blow at that thorn in their side, Midwen!
...For that, the sabotage was sloppy and easy to trace. Midwen alone could've dealt with it in a few days.
We didn't even need to hire a Fixer, so may I ask why you recommended them?
Fuhuhu, who knows? I'm also in a position where I just have to do as I'm told!
It was simply an order from The Higher-Ups. I'm afraid I can't tell you anything more than that.
By "The Higher-Ups"... do you mean the Mayor himself?
Fuhuhu...
...Understood. Regardless, that is all I have to report.
I assume it will not be an issue if Midwen Corporation, as the victim, decides how to handle the ATP Group?
Of course! Just make sure it doesn't escalate into a corporate war.
...Understood. Well then, have a good night.
I only pulled some strings because our plans would be disrupted if the new city development didn't go smoothly...
Tsk... To think they believed a technology advanced enough to get patented would teleport things without even filtering out the soil.
Who did they think left that soil behind? They can't even see the stage I set for them.
The idiots from ATP will get what's coming to them from Midwen, so there's no need to worry...
I need to quickly prepare a replacement for them. We can't afford any more delays in our schedule.
Now then, how much longer until the awakening of the [Sacrifice]...
Fufufu... By the way...
It seems we have a little bug spying on us.
...Tsk. Did they dodge at the last second? Perhaps I held back too much.
Lucky you, little butterfly. Fufufu...