Chapter 14
Roaming the corridors of the Heroes Association headquarters, I couldn't help but chuckle at the memory of Amai Mask's palpable fear.
His unease had been all too evident, making me appreciate the power of my mysterious aura. With amusement coursing through me, I slid open the door to the room where the second hero awaited.
A young boy sat engrossed in frenzied typing, his brown hair bobbing with each keystroke, and a backpack resting on his back.
His attention was so consumed by the computer screen that he remained oblivious to my presence. Beside him stood a bespectacled man with brown hair, scrutinizing the lines of code that scrolled across the monitor.
This must be Child Emperor, a prominent figure in the S-Class known for his innovative gadgets and strategic brilliance.
Despite his youthful appearance, he possessed more than adequate physical prowess, surpassing even the A-Rank heroes by Fubuki's side.
'Bored and nothing better to do, might as well stick around.'
As I approached, I took in the intricate lines of programming code displayed on the screen. To my surprise, I comprehended every command with ease, thanks to my unique skill, 'Gift of Tongues,' which allowed me to understand any mortal language.
'Programming languages are just another form of communication, it seems.'
With my enhanced understanding, I pointed out a flaw in the code that referenced the maximum limits of the device, Okame-chan.
I noted that the code used the term 'undefined' for every hero's power within its range
Child Emperor raised his hands in exasperation, rocking back in his chair. "The A.I. base for Okame-chan is nearly complete! Once it's operational, I'll be able to scan heroes and quantify their powers accurately."
"That's impressive," I acknowledged with a nod. "However, this particular line of code needs adjustment."
I indicated the section that dealt with the device's limitations. Child Emperor's expression shifted to deep contemplation as he examined the code more closely.
"You're right," he finally admitted, a touch of surprise in his voice. He glanced over his shoulder. "And who might you be? An idol associated with the Heroes Association? A friend of Amai Mask, perhaps?"
The bespectacled man, Jinzuren, turned his attention to me as well. "I recognize you. You're Kai, the individual who stirred discussions among the higher-ups. I'm Jinzuren, and it's a pleasure to meet you face-to-face."
"Kai? That doesn't ring a bell."
Child Emperor, however, remained oblivious to my identity, prompting Jinzuren to provide a brief overview.
"You defeated a Dragon-level disaster," Child Emperor remarked, an undertone of astonishment in his voice. He unwrapped a lollipop and popped it into his mouth. "I don't intend to be outdone by them either."
Returning to the matter at hand, I continued, "Now, let's talk about this project of yours."
His curiosity piqued, Child Emperor asked, "What would you like to discuss?"
Jinzuren's eyes widened slightly, surprised by Child Emperor's willingness to engage with my input. Normally, he was renowned for his self-sufficiency in research, his skills rivaling even those of the Metal Emperor.
"You're overlooking a significant flaw," I stated bluntly. "Recording someone's fighting abilities in a single numerical value is inadequate. Numerous factors come into play, such as compatibility, experience, and composure during battles. Furthermore, quantifying psychic abilities like telekinesis is near impossible."
My experiences within the system had taught me the limitations of such rigid measurements.
Child Emperor acknowledged my points, conceding, "You make valid arguments. Okame-chan will offer a general overview of someone's abilities rather than a comprehensive assessment."
Despite his youthful appearance, Child Emperor's intellect shone brightly.
At that moment, Sekingar entered the room, handing me a piece of paper. My attention was drawn to the bold letters that read 'S-Class Rank 17.'
With a sense of accomplishment, I had achieved my initial goal in this world within a remarkably short span of time.
Child Emperor hopped off his chair, a toothless grin forming on his face. "Looks like a resourceful hero has joined our ranks. Welcome to the club."
I chuckled in response. "Haha, thank you, Child Emperor."
The elation of receiving my desired S-Class certificate and forming a somewhat friendly connection with the prodigious Child Emperor was short-lived. The calm was shattered when a disheveled figure with pale blue hair appeared at the doorway. It was none other than Amai Mask, and his disconcerted appearance hinted at turmoil.
I greeted him with a wave and a friendly smile, intentionally playing dumb. "Amai Mask, you seem a bit off. What's the matter?"
Amai Mask's response was a sight to behold – veins protruded from his neck, teeth clenched, and his gaze burned with an intensity reminiscent of a hound whose tail had been accidentally stepped on.
Child Emperor's accompanying colleague, Jinzuren, wisely decided to exit the room, leaving the scene to avoid confronting an agitated Amai Mask. Meanwhile, Child Emperor casually spun in his chair, absorbed in his lollipop.
"Why the fierce anger?" I asked, feigning innocence.
"Get lost, Kid."
Amai Mask's response held a venomous edge, revealing his underlying agitation. He paid no heed to Child Emperor's S-Class status, driven solely by his determination to prevent me from exposing his secret. Whether he had actually witnessed my interaction with Astraea or not remained unclear. Regardless, the potential risk was too significant – the world must remain oblivious to his true, violent nature
His resolve was unwavering – he needed to conceal this dark aspect of himself at all costs.
Child Emperor's eyes widened at the acidic retort before he lowered his head, crestfallen. His consistent efforts to contribute positively to the world often went unnoticed, overshadowed by others. Even though he held the title of an S-Class Hero due to his abilities, people's condescension toward him persisted.
Addressing Amai Mask, the young boy, not much older than ten, delivered a biting quip with a dark smirk. "Sweet Mask, you seem upset because kai-san is handsomer than you."
Amusement tugged at my lips in response to Child Emperor's sharp comeback. "Easy there, Child Emperor. Let's not state the obvious too directly – we wouldn't want anyone's feelings to be hurt." I ruffled Child Emperor's hair affectionately. Turning to Amai Mask, I continued, "As for you, it's intriguing that you're more concerned about your appearance than your hero duties. But remember, Kid here saves lives while you entertain your adoring fans. He's not doing it for the spotlight."
Despite my lack of knowledge about manga, I sensed a complex, twisted nature beneath Amai Mask's handsome facade. Beneath the surface, elements of goodness and a warped sense of justice coexisted, suggesting a multifaceted personality.
'Hold on. This could be an opportunity to tarnish the reputation and trust of the Hero Association.'
The Hero Association relied heavily on the goodwill and funding provided by various organizations seeking to build a positive public image.
While Child Emperor admired me, Amai Mask froze, his hand covering his face. Memories from his past played like a broken record. He once possessed an unsightly visage but a heart filled with purity, an inner beauty that he held dear. However, with the Hero Association's rise, he had donned a mask and embarked on a heroic path.
Inexplicably, he had transformed into a handsome hero, fueled by his abhorrence for ugliness, evolving his body into a form he considered the epitome of beauty.
A monster, capable of shifting between human and monstrous forms, driven by an intense aversion to ugliness and evil. A creature serving as an upper-level advisor within an organization designed to combat monsters.
"ARGH!"
Amai Mask's clenched fists lashed out, his knuckles striking the air as if he was venting his frustration on an unseen foe. His actions betrayed his inner turmoil, a turmoil I sensed beneath his rage.
A punch came hurtling toward me, yet before it could land, Child Emperor's instincts kicked in. Robotic arms burst from his backpack, whisking me out of harm's way.
Utilizing my telekinesis, I extricated myself from the robotic embrace and landed gracefully. "Impressive reflexes, Isamu."
Child Emperor's astonishment was palpable. His name should have been confidential information restricted to those within the Hero Association.
Undeterred by my display, Amai Mask kicked off the ground, his hand transformed into a knife-edge strike. The sheer force generated by his blow had decimated numerous adversaries. Yet, I caught his hand between my fingers, thwarting his attack effortlessly.
"Some manners are in order, don't you think?"
I smirked as my palm met Amai Mask's face in a resounding slap. Amai Mask, ranked among the top A-Class heroes, stood just below the Vaccine Man in terms of power. Even when he transformed, he could rival the Vaccine Man's strength.
Yet, my slap exceeded his expectations, sending a shockwave through him. The initial sting subsided, leaving a wave of unexpected calm in its wake.
As my energy infused his being, Amai Mask's seething anger gave way to an uncharacteristic tranquility. Something seemed to quell his fiery ire.
"Amai Mask, why are you attacking us?" Child Emperor's voice rang out, laced with bewilderment. "What's gotten into you?"
Known for his typically composed demeanor, Child Emperor struggled to comprehend Amai Mask's inexplicable betrayal.
With the calming energy withdrawn, I brushed dust from Amai Mask's shoulder. "It's alright, nothing to be concerned about."
Now wasn't the time to engage with Amai Mask further. My heightened senses detected the approach of two individuals, indicating that new developments were on the horizon.
The intensity of the moment had briefly reached its peak as Amai Mask struggled with his inner demons. "What am I doing? No, I can't lose like this," he murmured, his voice filled with desperation.
His hands clenched, and he pressed his forehead against the wall in a futile attempt to steady his racing thoughts. "All evil must be eradicated for beauty to shine. But they are heroes."
Amai Mask, renowned as one of the strongest individuals except for the enigmatic Top S-Class Hero Blast, refused to let anger tarnish his reputation. The specter of defeat loomed large, threatening to disgrace his adoring fans.
Pointing a trembling finger at me, Amai Mask spoke as he retreated toward the door. "I'll be watching—"