/simu/ - >Date: February 20th, 2017>Location: Sanctuary City - Downtown>Time: 12:00 PM>A dozen or so cars barrel down the streets of Sanctuary City's highway, loose change and dollar bills flying from the open windows. Casings of metal bullets litter the ro

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[Event] - "Mean Reversion" Event 01/31/22 (Mon) 17:18:43 No.144

>Date: February 20th, 2017
>Location: Sanctuary City - Downtown
>Time: 12:00 PM

>A dozen or so cars barrel down the streets of Sanctuary City's highway, loose change and dollar bills flying from the open windows. Casings of metal bullets litter the road - in the wake of the various cars, while MRD Hovercraft vehicles chase after them. The city's downtown region is barricaded, with various major streets blocked off to passers by - as well as segmented off to civilians.

>The lead MRD Hovercraft then activates its speakers, the voice of the platoon speaking through:

["Brigadiers! You are violating Sanctuary City law through armed robbery and attempted retreat! Pull over or we'll be forced to open fire on your vehicles!"]

>The Brigadiers in the cars seemingly respond by firing more bullets into the air - attempting to divert the MRD from their path.

>Inside of one of the Brigadier cars, a Brigadier Meta-Human turns their hooded head towards the backseat - looking at the cash piles in the back.

"Man, Phobos is gonna kick our asses for this!"

>The Brigadier next to their companion speaks - still steering the car wheel like a madman - attempting to avoid oncoming traffic from the highway overspill.

"Man can you just shut the fuck up and let me drive?! If they catch us, we're going to the Spire! Phobos can worry about that shit later when we've got the money and got the fuck out of here!"

>As the Brigadiers continue firing at the MRD hovercraft, the MRD platoon leader turns to his partner in the cockpit and says:

"They're getting erratic. Movements are becoming more unpredictable. Jitters are probably getting to them now."

>The MRD trooper in the driver's seat then says:

"Any ideas then?"

>The MRD platoon leader nods.

"We're getting closer to the Hydroponics district. From what I remember in the intel briefings, Phobos has the remainder of the Brigadiers piled up there. Might be better to let them lead us to-"

>Then suddenly, a resounding thud noise ripples from the side of the MRD hovercraft window as the MRD platoon leader does a double take.

Event 01/31/22 (Mon) 17:34:50 No.145

File: 1643650490578-0.jpg (16.63 KB, 277x678, Gradient.jpg)

File: 1643650490578-1.jpg (62.49 KB, 1200x571, Hovercraft.jpg)

File: 1643650490578-2.png (232.53 KB, 300x631, MRD - 10.png)

>>144
"….Mosaic?"

>The vigilante waves with his gloved hand, his mask obscuring his features and distorting his voice with a mechanical cadence.

"Hey there tin heads. I saw the big chase from a mile away and I figured I'd help you stop the property damage, you know?"

>The MRD platoon leader immediately draws his blaster weapon, aiming it directly at Mosaic's face behind the glass window.

"You're a much bigger problem than those wannabe supervillains I'd say."

>Mosaic turns his head slightly, giving a faux disappointed sigh.

"And here I thought we making progress with the team bonding exercises. Oh well, you get points for trying to be tough."

>The MRD platoon leader continues aiming the blaster at Mosaic, stating:

"You're too much of a wild card to trust. For all we know you could be opposition planning - working for the Helixers as a faux 'hero'."

>Mosaic narrows his eye lenses.

"Really? So you honestly think that I'd let them get murdered as part of an alleged 'undercover operation'? I don't know about you, but I don't see how going undercover helps a team - if that team ends up dead as part of the cover. But who knows? Maybe I'm imagining things here."

>Tapping on the window on the side of the MRD hovercraft, Mosaic then says:

"Be seeing you again pal."

>He then jumps off of the side of the MRD hovercraft - diving rapidly towards the ground and the Brigadier getaway cars below.

>Staring down at Mosaic from his side of the MRD hovercraft, the MRD platoon leader sighs and holsters his weapon.

>His colleague then says:

"….You know he has a point. If he really wanted to cause trouble, he wouldn't have waited this long to do it-"

"Just keep flying this vehicle, soldier. Platoon leader orders."

Event 01/31/22 (Mon) 17:45:43 No.146

File: 1643651142840-0.jpg (74.51 KB, 700x707, Gradient - 2.jpg)

File: 1643651142840-1.jpg (508.33 KB, 1168x630, Brigadiers - 2.jpg)

File: 1643651142840-2.jpg (463.63 KB, 1735x1152, Damaged Car.jpg)

File: 1643651142840-3.png (84.12 KB, 267x200, Gadget - 13.png)

File: 1643651142840-4.jpg (62.49 KB, 1200x571, Hovercraft.jpg)

>>145
>As Mosaic barrels down into the highway below, he lands directly on top of one of the getaway vehicles, causing the vehicles in front of him to immediately begin swerving. Panicked voices from the Brigadiers begin to shout over the collective roaring of the engines as the realization kicks in for the escaping criminals.

"Fuck! It's Mosaic! He's here!"

"I don't wanna go back again! They just got me out!"

"Fuuuuuuuuuck!"

"Just shoot at him! Get him off the car!"

>Some of the Brigadiers immediately begin shooting at Mosaic, who immediately flips backwards - hanging onto the rear of the car. Looking at the exhaust he then says:

"Would you look at that. Old combustion model. I haven't seen one of these relics since Burnout tried to cover the city in fumes. When was that again? A year ago?"

>Mosaic continues reminiscing until he sees a stray bullet fired at the side of his right glove - narrowly missing him. Looking up at the Brigadiers driving right beside him with their guns aimed at him, he then says:

"Oh right. Getaway in progress. Gonna put a pin on that then."

>Holding out his right hand, he then fires a nanite-composite grapple line, hooking directly into the axle of the tire. Tugging at the grapple line with his superhuman strength, Mosaic immediately causes the vehicle to capsize - spinning on its side as it comes to a halt.

"One down. Four to go."

>In that moment, he then vaults back up with a front flip, landing on the hood of the car and punching through the glass on the side. Grabbing a screaming Brigadier with ease, he examines the criminal for a moment before saying:

"Oh don't be such a wuss. I'm not gonna throw you across the overpass."

>Mosaic then throws the Brigadier with supernatural precision right back up at the MRD hovercraft - firing a secondary capsule at the Brigadier as well. The capsule makes contact with the Brigadier - expanding into a large mass of artificial red adhesive material - that sticks the Brigadier to the side of the hovercraft - obscuring the MRD platoon leader's view from the side.

>Waving at him, Mosaic then says:

"See? We're a good team aren't we! I do the heroics, and you do the clean up! Great synergy there!"

>Mosaic then fires a set of vibro discs at the rubber of the Brigadier vehicle tires - causing that vehicle to capsize as well.

Event 01/31/22 (Mon) 18:01:53 No.147

File: 1643652112845-0.jpg (74.51 KB, 700x707, Gradient - 2.jpg)

File: 1643652112845-1.jpg (75.76 KB, 1000x640, Brigadiers.jpg)

File: 1643652112845-2.jpg (3.8 KB, 350x209, Flame Bullet.jpg)

File: 1643652112845-3.png (75.38 KB, 267x200, Gadget - 10.png)

File: 1643652112845-4.gif (496.72 KB, 500x268, Explosion - 2.gif)

>>146
>Mosaic then jumps into the air, taking a moment to find his bearings as he fires more vibro discs with precision speed at the remaining cars - causing them all to capsize as well.

>Landing on the ground, right at the edge of the nearest exit on the highway, he watches as the Brigadiers all either jump from their vehicles onto the open road - or slowly roll out of the vehicles after they've capsized and crashed into the ground. On one knee, he looks around and does a head count of the Brigadiers - around 10 of them as he expected.

{"Decent sized group for a robbery on their part. They must have felt confident about this."}

>Speaking to the Brigadiers as they slowly find their footing and get their bearings, he then says:

"You know this has got to be tiring for all of you. Doing low level crimes to get cash. Not being able to keep the cash because my fist usually connects with your phase after enough time."

>Holding his gloved hands out in an exasperated gesture of tiredness and sarcastic flair, Mosaic then says:

"I mean, it's fun for me, getting some practice in on you walking piñatas. But I've got to imagine that it sucks being the butt of the joke. Seriously, the 'Brigadiers'. Do you guys even know what that term means? Because the only brigade I'm seeing here are the thousands of people who are laughing at you right now on local TV."

>Enraged, the Brigadiers take out their handguns and begin firing the remainder of their shots at Mosaic - clearly missing as Mosaic quickly moves out of the way. Vaulting onto a nearby abandoned car, Mosaic lands behind it, waiting for the Brigaiders to run out of ammo. After a few seconds, he gets his cue.

"Right. So now that the tantrum's finished - any of you guys having second thoughts about this? Because I could not punch you this time. No?"

>Making a gesture with his hand to pick between Brigadiers, Mosaic then says:

"No takers? Alright then."

>Mosaic then immediately grapples onto the chest jacket of a Brigadier - zipping towards them with pneumatically propelled force. As he reaches the Brigadier - he punches them clean in the face, knocking them out as he flips off of them - just in time to avoid a blast of explosive energy and light from a nearby Brigadier.

"Oh right, combustion. I keep forgetting you guys are walking candle lighters. I'm sure you'd be great at social functions."

>Double tapping his fingers, Mosaic dispenses a device from his hand as a small thin shard. At the press of his fingers against the sides of the shard, it rapidly expands - folding out to reveal shard red blades contrasting with the deep black center - his standard vibro disc.

>With his trademark precision and speed, Mosaic throws the disc - arcing it with a carefully planned trajectory that slices through the handguns being held by the Brigadiers - causing them to explode in miniature plumes of heat and force.

Event 01/31/22 (Mon) 18:14:50 No.148

File: 1643652889750-0.jpg (74.51 KB, 700x707, Gradient - 2.jpg)

File: 1643652889750-1.jpg (75.76 KB, 1000x640, Brigadiers.jpg)

File: 1643652889750-2.jpg (103.85 KB, 335x503, Shirai.jpg)

File: 1643652889750-3.png (27.33 KB, 267x200, Gadget - 29.png)

File: 1643652889750-4.jpg (39.65 KB, 1280x720, Aurora - 4.jpg)

>>147
>Mosaic then moves to disarm the remainder of the Brigadiers, performing a combination of strikes with the palms of his fists and other gadgets like weighted bolas. After binding up the rest of the Brigadiers, he then looks around and says:

"Well, that was fun. Hope we can do it again sometime guys. Not that you'll ever really succeed while I'm around."

>Sighing, the Brigadiers look around in their carbon nanite restraints, unable to use their powers due to their specific bindings.

"Hey, don't feel too bad. You guys gave it your best shot. It's not like you could-"

>As his supernatural danger sense, an ability mimicked from another Meta-Human, goes off - Mosaic instinctively holds his hand out, catching a pair of shuriken in his hands.

>Looking at them carefully, he then says:

"You really picked a bad time to try this 'deadly ninja' shtick again."

>Mosaic then slowly turns around to see Shirai, both swords fastened behind his back, while still maintaining his traditional silver ninja outfit - complete with hood and bandage wraps.

"I am not here for casual conversation, Mosaic. I am here for the fight I promised you."

>Drawing his sword, Shirai then prepares a combat stance as Mosaic stares - seemingly uninterested. Crossing his arms behind his back, he then says:

"You really mean that? Seriously? When you could just, I don't know, not try to kill people as part of your traditions?"

>Mosaic slowly presses a button on the back of his utility belt, as a faint red light pulses out of view for a few seconds - sending a silent radio signal as he continues talking.

"I mean, explanations are courteous you know. Make for good trust building exercises."

>Shirai narrows his eyes behind his mask, stating:

"I am not required to justify my actions to you, buffoon."

>Mosaic then taps his foot and then shrugs, saying:

"Hey I get it. That's totally fine. I just needed you not paying attention."

>Confused, Shirai says:

"Not paying attention to what-"

>Shirai is then rammed at high speeds by an aerial vehicle - sleek and black with slight red accents. As Shirai is sent flying into the sky, the hovercraft comes to a stop before Mosaic. He then sarcastically pats the side of the hovercraft vehicle, saying:

"Good advanced hovercraft. Good boy."

Event 01/31/22 (Mon) 19:23:27 No.149

File: 1643657007145-0.jpg (74.51 KB, 700x707, Gradient - 2.jpg)

File: 1643657007145-1.jpg (39.65 KB, 1280x720, Aurora - 4.jpg)

File: 1643657007145-2.png (69.04 KB, 900x506, Aurora - 9.png)

File: 1643657007145-3.jpeg (109.89 KB, 1280x718, Hyperia - 7.jpeg)

File: 1643657007145-4.gif (897.59 KB, 500x215, Flight.gif)

>>148
>Mosaic then taps a button on his utility belt - causing the top of the hovercraft to slowly open up - revealing a nanite controlled hood on top. As a glowing red light seeps through the top of the hovercraft, Mosaic jumps into the vehicle from that top hatch opening - landing inside.

>As Mosaic falls inside the hovercraft, he presses a few buttons on the top of the interior area - powering up the central dashboard screen. As it glows with red light, it then showcases a black background with red text, images of data schematics and diagrams.

>A word pops up on the dashboard screen, saying:

["AURORA HOVERCRAFT OPERATING SYSTEM - VER. 1.54121"]

>As Mosaic presses other buttons on the front of the Aurora's dashboard, the hovercraft then roars to life as it slowly rises up from the ground. Being propelled entirely by advanced pneumatic technology and no external generators - the futuristic hovercraft then immediately begins flying away from the scene - in a trail of glowing red light from its exhaust port on the back of the vehicle.

>While flying the Aurora carefully around the city, Mosaic then contacts another person using the Aurora dashboard and the internal communication systems of the machine. As he makes contact with Hyperia on the other end of the line, he sees a live feed of her masked face hovering in the sky - likely thousands of miles away halfway across the world.

"Hey Phoebe, it's me, Aiden. I'm just calling to let you know that Shirai's back. So it's about time that we spring the trap on him."

>Blinking while hovering in the air, Hyperia says:

"You sure about that Aiden? I remember what you said about him the last time you fought him. His chakra or whatever it is, it's supernatural and it bypasses durability. I can get to Sanctuary City in a few minutes - just helping to stop a localized earthquake here in Central Africa."

>Mosaic shakes his head, saying:

"It's fine Phoebe. You, Jonah and Orion don't need to get involved with this. I'm his target, so it's my responsibility. I just needed to let you know to trigger the contingency just in case he gets a leg up on me here in a bit."

>Hyperia nods through the dashboard screen communicator, saying:

"No problem Aiden. Also, tell Orion to behave this time when I get back, or he's not getting any desert cooked for him."

>Mosaic laughs and says:

"Yeah. No problem Phoebe. Thanks. Gotta go now, and I'll see you soon after this is done."

>Mosaic then ends the call as he continues flying the Aurora around Sanctuary City, finding the proper place to bring Shirai to - in order to enact his plan.

Event 02/01/22 (Tue) 16:12:26 No.150

File: 1643731945348-0.jpg (302.64 KB, 1920x1200, Hydroponics District.jpg)

File: 1643731945348-1.jpg (1017.83 KB, 6362x2938, Aurora - 5.jpg)

File: 1643731945348-2.jpg (16.63 KB, 277x678, Gradient.jpg)

File: 1643731945348-3.png (59.61 KB, 267x200, Gadget - 20.png)

File: 1643731945348-4.jpg (352.51 KB, 800x1236, Shirai - 2.jpg)

>>149
>After a few minutes, Mosaic steers the Aurora directly above the main greenhouse building in the Hydroponics district. Exiting the Aurora through a hatch at the bottom of the hovercraft, he then lightly glides to the ground - landing with a soft thud.

"………."

>There's a brief moment of silence in the air as Mosaic looks between the periphery of his vision - his lenses scanning the environment for any abnormalities.

{"Picking up nothing on thermal or infrared. Guess he's pretty good at this chakra masking thing."}

>Immediately, a sword materializes out of thin air - slashing down at Mosaic's left side. Using his supernatural reflexes - Mosaic barely moves out of the way, as the sword grazes his skin - completely destroying the film of nanite material covering his left shoulder and left leg.

"Ack!"

>Mosaic skids to the side, spinning as he regains his balance. As the nanite material slowly begins to repair itself across his black undersuit - Mosaic then says:

"I guess you're not just party tricks after all. Nice blade. Guessing that's coated in your fancy chakra?"

>Shirai stares at Mosaic, spinning the drawn sword in his hand - fast enough to double as a makeshift fan.

"Potentially the last display of my power you will see."

"Uh huh. Sure about that."

>Mosaic then aims his right hand at Shirai - dispersing a set of small marble spheres that connect with Shirai's chest - generating a large smokescreen of gas.

"Tch. Yet I am the one reduced to theatrics?"

>Shirai slashes the gas away - tracking Mosaic's movements with his supernatural chakra eyes.

"I am aware of your diversion tactics, vigilante. They will not help you avoid our confrontation."

Event 02/01/22 (Tue) 16:25:06 No.151

File: 1643732706225-0.jpg (74.51 KB, 700x707, Gradient - 2.jpg)

File: 1643732706225-1.png (75.38 KB, 267x200, Gadget - 10.png)

File: 1643732706225-2.gif (1.95 MB, 448x252, Blue Light Explosion.gif)

File: 1643732706225-3.jpg (103.85 KB, 335x503, Shirai.jpg)

File: 1643732706225-4.png (80.38 KB, 267x200, Gadget - 5.png)

>>150
>Shirai then tosses more shuriken at Mosaic - who deflects them with a drawn and thrown vibro disc of his own. The resulting rupturing of the clash creates a small ripple of force - sliding both Mosaic and Shirai back a few feet.

"And I'm not exactly thrilled with your idea of 'direct confrontation' - it's usually not this literal."

>Mosaic then rushes towards Shirai, causing the latter to brace up in preparation of an attack - only for Mosaic to divert his movement in a perpendicular direction using his super speed - dropping a small device on the floor as he does so.

>Confused, Shirai looks down at the blinking device as it begins glowing with a red light.

"What-"

>The device then bursts with a bright red and white light - a modified flashbang effect. The heightened saturation and colors overloards Shirai's chakra eyes, causing him to shout in pain and stagger backwards.

>Seeing his opportunity, Mosaic then pulls out a large strand of carbon nanoweave rope from his gloved hands - snaring Shirai into a bind and knocking him to the ground. Now bound, Shirai struggles against the binds while his eyesight still struggles to recover.

"You done yet?"

>Mosaic says, slowly walking up beside Shirai. Watching as the shinobi continues to struggle against his binds, the man then states:

"I will never relent. Not until both you, and Grayson have paid for your disgraceful actions!"

>Lowering down on both knees, Mosaic then says:

"So what exactly did both of us do? We're not exactly similar as you can imagine."

>Shirai uses his recovering eyesight to stare at Mosaic's lenses - aware that his situation has changed.

"…..You both brought dishonor to the Hoyokazi name, and nothing more. That is all that I will say."

>Shaking his head, Mosaic then stands up - walking past Shirai.

"If that's your opinion? Fine. I'm not going to argue the contrary point. But I will say…."

>Mosaic looks behind him at Shirai.

"You weren't that difficult of a fight."

Event 02/01/22 (Tue) 16:37:57 No.152

File: 1643733476487-0.jpg (74.51 KB, 700x707, Gradient - 2.jpg)

File: 1643733476487-1.jpg (130.02 KB, 600x776, Shirai - 3.jpg)

File: 1643733476487-2.png (28.62 KB, 300x300, Replicant Wheel Eye.png)

File: 1643733476487-3.gif (950.26 KB, 500x281, Combat - 8.gif)

File: 1643733476487-4.gif (1.97 MB, 500x375, Combat.gif)

>>151
>Shirai, clearly angered by the remark, focuses inwards and begins generating a tremendous amount of chakra. The air pressure around the Hydroponics rooftop begins to shift rapidly, as Mosaic begins to sense the changes.

"Well, looks like I spoke too soon!"

>As he turns around, Mosaic catches a sword strike from Shirai in his hands - the nanites that form his gloves barely managing to reform themselves as quickly as the chakra erodes them away.

"…..I guess…you weren't kidding…."

>Mosaic says, straining against the force of Shirai's sword swing.

"After all!"

>Mosaic then jumps quickly and kicks Shirai in the chest with both of his feet - sending him scrambling across the rooftop. As Shirai regains his footing, Mosaic then shakes his hands - waiting for the nanites to replicate and reform his gloves.

"You're really tenacious, I can give you that much."

>As the nanites reform his gloves, Mosaic then rushes Shirai again, beginning to engage in hand to hand combat with him once more. Much like before, their strikes and guards nearly anticipate the other's with precision speed. However, Shirai begins to slowly perform more and more autonomously - slowly gaining a lead on Mosaic.

"Your chakra eyes right? They're letting you anticipate my moves. Well, two can play that game."

>Mosaic then begins performing the same level of autonomous combat as Shirai - matching his nearly machine-like precision and power.

"What?!"

>Mosaic then begins moving faster than Shirai, every guard, every strike and every feint moving with even more speed - until he finally lands a series of palm strikes on Shirai - sending him flying backwards.

>Landing on the ground, Shirai generates even more chakra from his body - regaining his strength, but beginning to weaken due to the strikes that Mosaic had made.

{"Pressure points. Of course he knows them….But that movement. Has he….copied my chakra eyes? Impossible! No Meta-Human can replicate abilities without physical contact!"}

>Shirai then takes out his swords, both of them - spinning them around briefly before beginning to run towards Mosaic once more….

??? 02/01/22 (Tue) 18:01:40 No.153

File: 1643738500143-0.png (390.6 KB, 457x837, figure.png)

File: 1643738500143-1.gif (3.72 MB, 500x208, Nightcrawlerteleport.gif)

File: 1643738500143-2.gif (1.6 MB, 600x338, Pommel_hit.gif)

>>152
>On roof over, a figure wearing full combat armour from head to toe, any identifying features for them obscured by their equipment, carefully runs one of their hands along a long, curved, katana. All across the sheathe, various markings indicate that this weapon is of some importance, being entirely decorative rather than functional. Despite their hands being occupied, however, the figure seems to be watching the between Mosaic and Shirai attentively from their perch.

>As Shirai lands on the ground away from Mosaic, the figure tilts their head, then shrugs, slipping off the edge of the roof, several wisps of what looks like smoke following them.

>As they get further and further down, the wisps increase in density, eventually engulfing their body and then fading, with the figure themselves being gone. . .

———————————————
>Just behind and to the side of Shirai, the figure reappears in the air, still holding the sword their hands.

>Hitting the ground softly and silently, they jump forward with an unnatural agility, swinging the sword around and strikes Shirai on the side - right in a pressure point.

>Not waiting to see if the strike landed true, the figure then jumps up in the air, landing in front of their apparent target and brings the katana down, positioning themselves between Shirai and Mosaic, hand near the hilt, ready to draw it if necessary.

>The angle of the pose places the sheath in clear view of Shirai, as if the figure is showing it to him for some deeper meaning.

Event 02/01/22 (Tue) 18:12:43 No.154

File: 1643739163318-0.jpg (16.63 KB, 277x678, Gradient.jpg)

File: 1643739163318-1.jpg (352.51 KB, 800x1236, Shirai - 2.jpg)

>>153
>Shirai immediately stops moving - both due to the pressure point strike and also the recognition of the blade being stowed by the mysterious assailant. Narrowing his eyes beneath his mask, he then points his sword at the figure, stating:

"That sword….You cannot be…."

>Lowering his sword, he then continues speaking out loud.

"Impossible. That sword is Hoyokazi property!"

>Feeling his muscles continue to weaken due to the combined forces of Mosaic and the assailant's attacks - the pressure point fatigue begins to take hold of Shirai.

"Damn it……"

>Shirai then loses the grip on his sword as he slowly falls to the ground - unconscious.

>Confused, Mosaic looks up at the figure, stating:

"….He said Hoyokazi? I'm guessing you're reconciliatory crew instead. If so, your guy over here has a big chip on his shoulder."

??? 02/01/22 (Tue) 18:19:08 No.155

File: 1643739547911.png (390.6 KB, 457x837, figure.png)

>>154
>The figure looks at Mosaic for a second, tilting their head slightly, even without seeing their eyes, it's clear to the vigilante that they're looking him up and down.

>Then, without saying anything, they shift to a more relaxed stance and stand up straight, looking over at Shirai and looking at his unconscious body.

>After a few seconds of looking at him, their entire body slumps as they make an exagerrated sigh - once again, not hear or seen, but still obvious despite that.

>Walking over to Shirai, they attach the katana to their belt and kneel down next to him, placing two fingers on his neck.

>As they wait for. . . something, the figure looks at Mosaic again, but this time the feeling of them looking him over feels different. . . deeper, even, as if looking inside of him rather than at him.

Event 02/01/22 (Tue) 18:24:20 No.156

File: 1643739859913.png (788.33 KB, 1024x643, Gradient - 5.png)

>>155
>Mosaic then blinks and places one hand on his hip - trying to think of what to say next.

"I mean. I'm gonna guess that you're either mute or taking a vow. Or both. Either way, I'm grateful that you stopped the guy - and if you are Hoyokazi, I've gotta say this."

>Mosaic points at the figure, stating:

"Both Aiden Grayson and I have been targeted by this guy. Whatever he calls himself. I'm obviously fine, and I'm not gonna do anything - but I'd expect that the Grayson guy is gonna want answers."

>Nodding at Shirai's knocked out body, he continues:

"Since your guy over here was dumb enough to say that he's Hoyokazi to me - I'd imagine that Grayson can put the pieces together."

>Mosaic keeps crossing his arms as he speaks.

"Just a thought there. That's all really."

??? 02/01/22 (Tue) 18:36:54 No.157

File: 1643740613622-0.png (390.6 KB, 457x837, figure.png)

File: 1643740613622-1.gif (3.19 MB, 333x250, SarcasticMellowHog-size_re….gif)

File: 1643740613622-2.jpg (578.04 KB, 1024x683, Abandoned_Lobby.jpg)

File: 1643740613622-3.gif (3.72 MB, 500x208, Nightcrawlerteleport.gif)

>>156
>The figure shrugs at the comments, and then takes a small capsule from their belt.

>Giving Mosaic a little wave, they press a button on the capsule and casually throw it in his path, sending up a smokescreen.

>Once the smoke has cleared, the figure is gone, having taken Shirai with them.

———————————————

>Across the city.

>The figure reppears in an empty warehouse, the tell-tale smoke from their teleportation indicating their arrival. Keeping a knee on Shirai's shoulder, they carefully move his arm into a lock.

>Satisified with their hold, they carefully turn around so that Shirai is facing a chair, the occupant half-covered with shadow, obscuring their features.

>Looking up at the seated person, the figure nudges Shirai, earning a tired sounding response in Japanese.

"Then wake him up."

>Shrugging, the figure presses down on another pressure point, sending a jolt of energy into Shirai to help him quickly creep back to consciousness.

Event 02/01/22 (Tue) 19:42:22 No.158

File: 1643744542384.jpg (103.85 KB, 335x503, Shirai.jpg)

>>157
>Coming to his senses, Shirai shakes his head slowly, mumbling in Japanese as he regains his composure. Noticing the bind that he is in, he then tries to move against the restraints but cannot - still weak from the pressure point strikes.

>Annoyed, he begins shouting in Japanese:

["Indignant attack dog! Remove your restraints from me!"]

>Turning towards the figure sitting in the chair and partially obscured by the shadows, Shirai continues his tirade:

["You. What business do you have with the Hoyokazis and why have you stolen our sacred sword?! It is the ultimate familiar heirloom, and its theft is beyond mere reproach!"]

??? 02/01/22 (Tue) 20:09:18 No.159

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>>158
>With a now audible sigh, the armoured figure shifts their weight and pulls on Shirai's arm, pulling until a "pop" can be heard as it (temporarily) leaves its socket. Then, still keeping enough weight on the man to keep him pressed down, they pull out the sword and stab it in to the ground with a considerable amount of force just in front of Shirai's face, letting him look at his reflection in the blade.

"[Enough.]"

>The woman in the chair calls out, freezing the figure in their tracks.

"[Tell me, Ryozo, do you believe Hoyokazi to be weak?]"

>The voice is icy, cool, and controlled, demanding authority but also hiding a thinly veiled layer of anger at the man.

Event 02/01/22 (Tue) 20:15:58 No.160

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>>159
>Shirai groans in pain, gritting his teeth as he resists the urge to shout. His discipline guiding him as he begins slowly generating chakra inside of his body. For a moment, he instinctively activates his chakra eyes - and uses their supernatural sight to view the person covered in shadow more clearly.

>Now staring at the ground, he then starts laughing as the realization kicks in.

["Oh of course. I've upset the matriarch of our clan."]

>Looking up directly at the shadowy figure, he then speaks, with clear venom in his voice.

["Yet you do nothing to fight back against this stain on our honor - Hiyuki."]

>Feeling his body begin to rapidly heal, he then speaks to the figure binding him in place.

["If you want to continue being your sister's attack dog, Kaiyo, you may. But I will not hesitate to fight you - in order to maintain our family's honor."]

>The chakra eyes that Shirai manifested begin spinning rapidly, seemingly analyzing the area much more carefully as he speaks.

??? 02/01/22 (Tue) 20:46:38 No.161

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>>160
>The woman on the chair, Hiyuki, sighs.

"[The only stain I see here is you, Ryozo. Attacking one of our rivals openly, and in a way that forces an apology. Then, after failing to do so, trying to do so again.]"

"[That is not our way, Ryozo. We keep to our shadows, we seek information, and we survive no matter what.]"

>With a wave of her hand, Hiyuki sends an order to Kaiyo, who shifts her weight and picks up the sword, bringing it against Ryozo's neck.

"[Such has been our way since the days of Hoyokazi himself, and is such is our ways now - or have you forgotten our ways?]"

>Standing up, Hiyuki begins slowly and carefully making her way over to Shirai.

"[Perhaps a lesson is in order, are you aware of the three traditional punishments for transgressions such as yours. . .]"

>Just before she reachs Shirai, Hiyuki turns, taking a different path.

"[For insulting Hoyokazi, banishment. For bringing unwarranted injury upon another member of the family, branding. . .]"

>Kaiyo shifts her weight slightly at the second comment.

"[And for bringing dishonor to the clan, death.]"

>With the final one, Hiyuki returns to in front of Shirai, nodding to Kaiyo, who digs the blade ever so slightly further in.

"[That said, I am a more merciful leader. . . one who is willing to see past actions alone, to see intent.]"

>With this, the blade is pulled away, and Hiyuki brings herself down towards Shirai's level.

"[While all of your actions would forfeit your life in older days, I do recognise that you did them for the good of our family, and as such, I am willing to forgive you for the expense you have forced on us in your recklessness - should you return home with the understanding that, until I resolve the situation, Aiden Grayson is off limits, as is this vigilante Mosaic. And that you are to remain in Japan for this period. If not. . .]"

>Hiyuki stands back up.

"[I will be left with little choice, we cannot afford loose cannons among the Hoyokazi.]"

"[The choice is yours, Ryozo.]"

Event 02/01/22 (Tue) 20:52:56 No.162

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>>161
>Scoffing, Shirai moves his arm, feeling the residual pain from the shoulder dislocation that Kaiyo gave him. Looking directly at Hiyuki, he then says:

["Fine. I'll humor you. But this responsibility is in your hands now, Hiyuki."]

>Checking his wrists and the bandage wraps of his hands, he then states:

["The Grayson man is not my personal concern - but he is related to the Mosaic vigilante, that much is certain given the circumstances. Hoyokazi Tower was attacked, and the perpetrator is likely related to the vigilantes and their city's crime issues."]

>Shirai turns around and begins walking away, stating:

["As you stated, this is in your hands now, Hiyuki. That is all we can hope for. I will leave back for Japan, and I will yield to your orders."]

>Shirai then walks away, out of the room.

Event 02/01/22 (Tue) 20:59:25 No.163

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>>162
>Date: February 21st, 2017
>Location: Sanctuary City - Archeon Complex
>Time: 12:00 PM

"I'm on my way, thanks for telling me Samantha."

>Aiden hands up the phone at his desk and then sighs. Rubbing his eyelids for a moment, he then thinks to himself:

{"I still don't understand why the Hoyokazis went after Mosaic….or me. We have nothing to do with them and their family. Do they think we were involved in the attack on their tower? That's a problem then, and I'll have to come up with a solution to that."}

>Looking at the notes on his desktop computer, he says:

{"It has to do with Chiral. I need to learn more about this guy - and fast."}

>Hearing a knock on the door, Aiden then says:

"Door's open, you can walk in."

>He says, internally sighing in preparation for the meeting.

??? 02/01/22 (Tue) 21:18:10 No.164

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>>163
"A very informal approach, I suppose they really do have a different method of handling matters here in America."

>A Japanese woman steps in to the room, long black hair flowing from her head. Wearing a suit that mixes more traditional aesthetics with a business formal look, a ring with a distinctive emblem on it is on one of her fingers. Behind some glasses, a pair of grey eyes scan the room, taking in every detail possible.

>Walking in behind her, another Japanese woman, the similarities with the first one betraying a clear family relation, enters the room. Dressed much more functionally, she makes no effort to address Aiden, instead silently keeping watch behind the first one.

"But I hope that difference does not exclude the possibility of forgiveness."

>With a formal bow, the woman continues.

"On behalf of the Hoyokazi family, I, Hiyuki Hoyokazi, wish to apologize for the events of yesterday, and the events of the 30th of January, I wish to assure you that the perpetrator has been apprehended, and has likewise been punished for his actions. I am also willing to provide financial recompense for any distress suffered you, or the vigilante known as Mosaic, have suffered because of these events."

>Hiyuki lifts her head, adjusting her glasses.

"I assure you, Hoyokazi does not endorse such attacks, and we will endeavor to ensure that this will not be repeated."

Event 02/01/22 (Tue) 21:23:53 No.165

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>>164
>Aiden blinks and looks up at Hiyuki for a moment. Looking at Kaiyo for another moment, he then looks back at Hiyuki, and is taken aback somewhat. In his mind, he thinks:

{"Wow. She is really something else. I figured she'd look professional as a businesswoman, but I didn't think she'd look so…."}

>Out loud, Aiden then says:

"The apology's noted and I accept it. I also appreciate the actions you took from what you've said."

>Thinking for a moment, Aiden then continues to speak:

"And no, I don't really need any compensation. It's not about the money, with me. I just wanted to see what would be done about the perpetrator. Speaking of which."

>Aiden looks Hiyuki directly in the eye and says:

"If I may make a request? Don't harm him. He likely had a reason for doing what he did, but I won't condone any harm - even if the person did attempt what they did on me."

>Looking at the wall, Aiden ruminates for another moment.

"….I'm not going to let someone else pay a price for being involved with me - and he's my responsibility now as far as I'm concerned."

>Aiden then looks back at Hiyuki, clear resolve in his blue eyes.

Hoyokazis 02/01/22 (Tue) 21:34:54 No.166

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>>165
"He will not be harmed for his actions over the past month."

>Hiyuki maintains eyes contact.

"His case is, however, an internal Hoyokazi matter now, so any and all responsibility you had is gone, I would simply recommend that you forget about the man for the time being - he is nothing more than a shadow."

>Behind Hiyuki, the other woman scoffs, which earns her a harsh side look from Hiyuki.

"It appears I must also apologise for our manners, as well, and clarify that we are not making light of this situation."

>The other woman looks at Aiden and shrugs, clearly not worried about her own protocol.

Event 02/01/22 (Tue) 21:47:08 No.167

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>>166
>Aiden keeps staring at Hiyuki, but then eases up on his gaze, stating:

"He's a member of your family then isn't he? I still can't act like I'm not responsible in some way or another."

>Sighing, he then stands up and says:

"Alright then. I understand what you're saying. I will say this though."

>Looking at Hiyuki, then at Kaiyo for a moment, his mind then works, generating a series of hypothetical situations with his psychic powers.

>Considering his odds, he then makes a decision.

{"Might as well. I already know who she is, and the situation is too problematic to avoid it any longer."}

>Reaching into his jacket, Aiden presses a ruby red button - generating a swarm of black red nanites that begin to cover his body. As it does so - a familiar black and red costume appears - outlined with silver metallic frames.

>Mosaic then stands behind the desk, speaking in an altered and mechanical cadence:

"I figured it was you, Kaiyo. Though I'll admit, I wasn't able to read your mind - which is a first for me. Took psychometry for me to confirm it."

>Phasing through his desk and walking towards Hiyuki, he then states:

"Your cousin's defenses weren't that remarkable either, so I got the information out of him - right after he tried to kill me. That's why I say you shouldn't punish him severely. I think he was tricked by the same man who orchestrated the attack on your building."

>Mosaic then crosses his arms - as he telekinetically closes and locks the door behind the Hoyokazies for security.

"All I have is a name - Chiral. He's the one who's been leading one of the Meta-Human criminal gangs in this city. And from what I could gather, he's the one who nearly destroyed your tower - and my complex here. I'm gonna need your help."

>Elaborating, he then states:

"He's also likely the one who convinced Ryozo that I was responsible for said attack - he's already got a known record of manipulating Meta-Humans to do his bidding."

Hoyokazis 02/03/22 (Thu) 21:35:35 No.168

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>>167
"I see. . ."

>Hiyuki adjusts her glasses.

"Thank you for the information, it shall hopefully prove to be helpful, but we should likely be leaving, seeing as we have no further business."

>With a small bow, Hiyuki turns to leave, Kaiyo moving to flank her.

"When both parties can agree to mutual benefit, these dealings end up going much more smoothly, don't you think? I am pleased that you were willing to work with us in this matter. . ."

"But we will no longer require your services, any future collaboration will be purely incidental."

Event 02/03/22 (Thu) 21:44:39 No.169

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>>168
>Mosaic scratches the bottom of his mask as he sighs, shaking his head.

"If you want my advice, you should take the first plane out of the city. Now that you're actually here, you're even more of a target for this guy."

>Mosaic then points at Kaiyo, saying:

"I know exactly what you're thinking. Well, not exactly since I don't just read minds without permission. But you get my point."

>Silent for moment, he then states:

"I've been trying to find the guy for weeks now, but he's masking his presence. Even I can't find him - and I can find basically anyone in this city without too much effort. So what does that tell you?"

>Mosaic stares directly at Hiyuki, with a level of seriousness not seen before.

Hoyokazis 02/03/22 (Thu) 22:19:36 No.170

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>>169
"It tells me that you don't have a method of tracking him, Mr Grayson, and while I am sure that you are perfectly competent. . ."

>Hiyuki looks over her shoulder at Mosaic.

"You are not omniscient. So I will note your advice, and continue down my own path."

>With that, Hiyuki begins walking out of the room.

Event 02/03/22 (Thu) 22:38:41 No.171

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>>170
>As Hiyuki and Kaiyo leave the room, Mosaic shakes his head and sighs.

{"Yeah she's gonna be in trouble if she stays here. I need to find out what Chiral's up to - and fast."}

>Mosaic then jumps up - phasing through the ceiling of the office and flies towards the top of the Archeon Complex.

>After he reaches the top, Mosaic phases through the floor and lands on the ground, tapping the side of his mask to activate his comms unit.

"Arachnid. Meet me here in a few minutes. Top of the Archeon building."

>After a few minutes - a series of web strands wrap around the top of the Archeon Complex - as a figure in a black and red bodysuit, jacket and futuristic outfit lands on the rooftop behind Mosaic - in the middle of his talk.

"…..Alright Jonah. I'll see what I can do about the activity in Haven City for you."

>Ending the call, Mosaic then remains perched on the edge of the building.

"Hey boss. Got your message."

>Arachnid then walks towards the edge of the Complex's rooftop and sits down beside Mosaic.

"What's up?"

>Mosaic is silent for a moment before saying:

"…..Hiyuki Hoyokazi's come to Sanctuary City - and she's going to try and investigate what happened to Hoyokazi Tower."

>Mosaic can sense Arachnid's eyes widening behind his mask.

"Wait what? Her? Does she know what she's doing?!"

"Apparently she thinks so. But we're going to have to get ahead of this. Did you get the information from the MRD's database?"

>Arachnid takes a small USB type drive from his jacket and hands it to Mosaic.

"Encrypted obviously, but the software that Scalar made actually worked. Really is a smart guy - your brother."

>Mosaic nods slowly as he takes the USB drive in his hand.

"I know. Trust me. I'll sift through the information and see if I can pick up a lead on Chiral's identity. We need to figure this out before he tries another city wide attack."

Event 02/03/22 (Thu) 22:45:55 No.172

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>>171
>Mosaic then looks around for a moment before saying:

"So, how's your friend doing? Bella."

>Arachnid stares at Mosaic for a moment, his digital lenses on his mask narrowing.

"She's barely my friend. More like my second boss - given how much she asks. But I guess she's alright. We stopped a Meta-Human who tried to steal money using illusion powers. So that was neat."

>Mosaic nods again slowly in approval.

"You're doing a good job. Just remember, if she tries doing anything out of the ordinary, you might need to let me know."

>Arachnid shrugs then says:

"Sure. Totally."

>In the distance, fires break out over in the Financial District - as a series of cars quickly drive away from MRD Hovercraft vehicles. Looking directly at each other, Mosaic asks Arachnid:

"Ready to go stop them? I've been wanting to know if you've improved with your reaction times."

"Hey, I'm fast enough."

"Sure you are. Let's see then."

>Mosaic then vaults off of the rooftop - beginning to glide with his cape. Arachnid then follows suit, jumping hundreds of meters into the air after Mosaic - and using his jacket's pneumatic capabilities to begin gliding after him.

[To Be Continued]