[Other Fanfic] Prismatic Anecdotes Of Chimera Hollow Investigators

[Palamon]

Hello, and welcome to my Zenless Zone Zero anthology book, Prismatic Anecdotes Of Chimera Hollow Investigators, a collection of my Zenless Zone Zero versions of my chimera ocs, and their lives around New Eridu. And, for once, the proxies do actually exist. But, as usual, this story is primarily about my ocs. The canon characters are merely just side characters.

This will primarily focus on my seven (prismatic) Zenless Zone Zero factions and the anecdotes of their lives.

With that being said, here's the first short story. This will probably be around 22-25 short stories. We'll see.

---

The Flower Silencers Street: Purple Flower

---

"Hello, hello, hello, greetings,
Eh? What, get to the point already?
Lookie here! I
Literally didn't ask!
Okay? So, let's get this straight, I am not your average, run of the mill citizen

Here in New
Eridu! I am literally the top of the town,
Like, I can topple the Hollow Hunting competition!
Lala, no one is ever going to beat my gang!
Our street activity is at the top?

Ha? Just get on with it and introduce myself?
Eh! Fine! Fine, you want to know?
Let's get on with it?
Listen up,
Okay? Cause I'm only going to say this once, aight?

My name is Siorc Ingne!
You got it? That's my

Name, don't wear it out!
Ah, how can someone who's whispering
Make it to the top of a gang, you ask?
Eh! You know nothing!

I don't need words to
Stay at the top,

So don't act like talking
Is required to be a leader
Of a gang! You must be
Really dumb! It's kind of
Cute how stupid you are, it's kind of

Incredible! You're new to new eridu,

Aren't you? I see now! It
Makes sense! You're a newbie!

Are you not used to it?

Haha, you won't last a second here!
You will be dead in New
Eridu super quickly!
Now, let me
Ask you something, dear stranger!

Perhaps you find yourself lost here?
Eh, course you do, you're fresh meat!
Right, since you're fresh meat, I
Should tell you where you should go
Okay, you listening?
Now, here's where you go!

Let us get you somewhere you won't die, kay?
It's a little shop called
Veiled Whisper.
If you haven't seen it, crawl through an alleyway! What,
No way? Kay, don't blame me if you
Get eaten, then! You won't last a day

In New Eridu!
Now, there's more hollows so, you're either going to be eaten, or turned into a monster.

Now, don't say I didn't warn you if you become an
Ether Beast! That's on you!
Well, I warned you, so

Enjoy your stay in
Ridu! Because you'll be swallowed up!
If you want me to help? You have to come
Down to my shop!
Ultimately, it's better to get an ally

In New Eridu! And, if you don't have

Any, then oops!
Might as well give up!

This will be a terrible place for you to stay!
Heh, get wrecked!
Eh, dial it down?

Look, they gotta learn how it works here!
Everyone should just understand by now
All of this is just how the world works
Don't have someone to tackle hollows? You're cooked,
Eh? Not making sense?
Right, of course you don't get it!

Of course you don't get it!
Falalalala, you don't get it!

Aha, you don't get it! You don't

Get it! You don't get it
At all! Do you
Not know anything? I
Guess you're just

That slow! It comes with the territory!
Hmm, so, tell you about my gang?
Eh, ya gotta screw loose, or somethin'? I think you do! Gotta a

Faulty brain in there! Alright,
Look, I'll tell you about
Our gang, aight? So listen up,
Will ya? I am going to tell you
Everything! So don't doze off!
Right, I am going to tell you

So, here ya go!
I'm the top of a gang, the
Leader of The Flower Silencers! And we'll silence you with
Every flower known to man!
Noxious ones!
Cannot take the heat?
Ehe, if you can't take it, you
Really don't belong here!
So, you should leave!

Ah, so you're asking what's the point of my gang?
Nonsensical question!
Don't ask such a stupid question!

We will silence you, got it?
Ehehe, so you don't!

Well, you're new here, so
I guess you don't know anything about New Eridu!
Lalala, lalala, lalala,
Lalala, lalala, lalala, lalala.

Stop singing at your confusion?
I won't! You're dumb, so
Lalala, lalala, lalala!
Even if you figure it all out, I'm
Not holding your hand! Tough
Cookie! You think I will? I am
Especially offended by the prospect my gang would give you a handout!


You should understand that
Our gang is the toughest in town over here
Upon the streets!

What? Did you seriously think
I'd be an easy person
To win over because I am the opposite of
How a hyena behaves: cause I'm silent?

For real, you just don't get it!
Lookie, listen, I ain't easy to win
Over, okay? Okay? I'm glad you get it! You
Wanna die? Cause underestimating us will
Earn you a sweet death! You
Really just don't get it!

Perhaps, you'd understand a little more if you were in New
Eridu for longer!
Take it from me!
An every day resident! What? Why are you
Looking at me like that?
Stop insulting you?

If you think that's

An insult, you're as weak as
My estranged sister! What? What do I

Know?! God, you sure are an annoying little guy aren't ya?!
Now, let me ask you somethin'
Okay? I'm going to ask you now:
Why are you on my corner of the street?
No one who comes onto my corner of the

Alley usually survives! Okay, I'll
Stop being dramatic, because I have never killed anyone.

That'd be a disaster, wouldn't it?
Heh, course I haven't killed anyone. I cannot get myself
Even close to getting caught up with the law!

So, yeah, I haven't killed no one, so,
I will let you off with a
Little warning! Okay? Stay away from the streets.
Especially the alleys. I'm
Not the only gang in
This city! There's many, many,

Others, so if I were you, I'd
Watch out! Or another gang will take you out!
Now, look I said don't say I didn't warn you!
Especially since I already did
Rather a lot!

Okay, at this point if you don't get it, keep on
Fumbling because I

Am not helping you!

Forget it! I have already
Laid it all
Out for you, and you still don't get it, you
Will probably just die out there!
Eh, whatever! That's not my problem,
Really! Of course it ain't.

So, get wrecked if you don't even say I didn't
Heed you with caution
Over how things worked!
Perhaps you'll soon learn what

Might be out there! What might be
Out there that could
Shut you out of
The life you are currently living!

Pahaha, fresh meat, fresh meat!
Eh? Stop making fun
Of you? Well,
Perhaps if you weren't fresh meat, I'd
Likely stop making fun of you!
Especially since you're still new!

Ahahaha, ahahaha, you
Really are just a loser!
Eh, cut it out already?

No! Why should I?
Obviously, you clearly have a lot
To learn about this world!

And, one of these things you
Would need to learn here
Are that the world isn't kind! We're
Really mean around here
Eh? Don't like that?

Oh, well, suck it up!
For, life isn't fair, so

Maybe it's about time you get used to it!
You're pretty weak and all that

So, you really should learn that
Everything is super and
Completely unfair, so get it
Right! Or just get wrecked!
Eh, stop saying
That, I'm an adult, that's childish?

Errr, you should shut your mouth, kay?
I'm just trying to help!
Trying to grill you on
How all of this works!
Eridu is a warzone, it's
Really a world of

Terrifying dangers! So
Here you go! This is the last warning I
Am going to give you!
Time to listen up at the last thing

I'm going to say one last thing!

Get this straight,
Okay? Hear me out

If you want to survive here,
Never, ever go near
The Hollows! Want to survive?
One, don't go near a

Hollow, and you'll survive!
Oh? So, you don't get it?
Looks like you just don't get it
Listen, don't go into a hollow,
Okay? You're a
Weakling, and you're not
Strong enough to fight on your own!

And, you're going to be swallowed whole?
Now, that I have explained everything, get out of my street!
Don't stick around over here!

Don't stay in the alleys,
Ehehe, get wrecked, get destroyed.
Stop? No, no, you're just
Terrible for coming around these parts!
Remove yourself from my presence
Or I will be less savory,
You choose to invade my space,

Even though you have been
Told this is a gang operation.
Ha, well, you truly are clueless
Eh, oh well!
Remove yourself from my presence, or you

Shall see what it really means!
Pahaha, so, what
It's tough to get around here,?
Rahaha, aww, well
Isn't that so cute of you?
Tough luck! You
Shouldn't have come down these streets!

We'll silence you with
Intoxicated flowers!
The poison roses!
Hahaha, well, you

Might as well enjoy your stay while
You can because you are not

Going to last long
Around here! You'll
Never last in a place like this! So, either
Get out, or get wrecked! You'll soon learn your survival is limited! So long, farewell! And always remember, stay out!"

A short, androgynous young adult individual with short purple hair pulled into two spiky ponytails stood in front of the mirror in the washroom. of the home. Hyena ears adorning red, heart shaped earrings dangling from the sides, and a matching hairclip. Adorning a belted collar with the initials S.I., the person adorned a deep fanged smirk. His new garnish would sure scare everyone who dared to come down the alleyway.

Adorning hyena arms, legs, and a tail as well, a pitch black belly shirt with a green flower adorning four pink petals and a zipper highlighted the individual's heterochromatic purple and green eyes brightly. Gigantic hyena spots covering half the face, the person hardly looked out of place in the city streets in this animal eat animal world.

Slipping on a pitch black skirt a green flower creature with four pink petals ran in the room. Bright yellow eyes giving him a cheeky little grin, the chimera pet the creature on its itty bitty head. Waving at it, the individual slapped a piece of tiny paper with a single visible sentence on it. Words upon the paper reading, good morning, Wisty, the creature soon spoke back in its own language.

<Good morning, Siorc> the creature said in its own language which had been translated for any on-looker peeking. But, anyone else, it would sound like Eh-nah-ehn-ne, but why subject the poor audience to such? That would be quite terrible.

Scribbling down on another small sheet of paper, the hyena placed the sheet down into Wisty's palms, message on the paper reading, what you got for me today? The tiny creature titled their head for a moment. Seeing such, the young adult heaved a sigh. Was Wisty clueless again? Flipping the sheet over, the individual soon wrote down, think hard about it, okay? A short silence followed.

<Aigre's got a message for you, she says, he'd better hurry up and open up shop!> The creature cowered for a moment as it went about is gibberish. <She'll turn me into Bangboo Soup if you don't hurry!>

Message received, the hyena let out a sigh. Good old Aigre, she was impatient as always. Who was the leader of this gang again? He was, not her. Since when did she think she got to be the boss around here? Well, oh well, it's not like he was going to say anything about it to her anyway. Exiting his room from the top floor, he had soon reached the bottom floor.

On the first floor of the home had been a beautiful flower shop. All kinds of plants for sale, he could hear a familiar knock on the door that he had definitely been used to hearing by now. Opening the entranceway, he could already hear the shouts coming from the opposite end of the room. Groaning, he could hardly hold in his frustration.

"Siorc, I called you at least six times! Why didn't you pick up?" Aigre asked in an annoyed tone. "You need to pick up the phone when Vidame or I call you!"

Usual complaint coming his way, the hyena rolled his eyes towards the ceiling. Did Aigre just say she called him? She did. How very disappointing of her to go and do that. She should know by now he doesn't pick up phone calls! But, she doesn't listen. No, instead she insists that he answer the phone. Answer the phone. He'll answer that thing if it's the last thing he'd do. Ever heard of texting? She should try it sometime!

Taking out a slip of paper, the hyena wrote down, oops, sorry! My phone wasn't even on! He stuck out his tongue at the eyeless flower audience. Ha, more like he had all phone calls set to automatically be blocked after three rings with the help of a curated A.I. program. Shouts coming from the door frame once more, he soon brought himself out of his head at full speed.

"You're hopeless!" Aigre shouted. "Whatever. Let me in already."

Opening the door fully, a short young woman with long, bright magenta hair pulled back into a ponytail came running into the room at full speed. Her bright pink eyes were full of rage, like they always were. Much to his dismay. Her fancy fuchsia shirt adorned a bright blush ribbon, and a skirt to match. Fighter knives strapped to her side, he could see a bright royal blue guppy tail behind her. He rolled his eyes to such. Little miss guppymaid thought she ruled the world, didn't she? Had she forgotten who ran the joint here?

"Where's Wisty?" Aigre asked.

Pointing at the stairs, he could already see a look of even further anger appear on Aigre's face. Didn't she know how it works by now? Wisty stays upstairs until Vidame arrives. And, if she didn't like that, then tough luck. That's how its mechanical beeps and boops worked. She is so impatient. Why did he invite her to his gang again? Was it because they were childhood friends throughout middle school and high school because of their shared adoration for flowers? Probably, but that's where the similarities between them ended.

Shrugging, the hyena wrote out on a piece of paper, you should know by now Wisty stays upstairs until Vidame comes, he could already see a look of even further annoyance on her face. She is so impatient. Who in the world raised this woman to be such a way? Whatever, it wasn't his business anyway. And, he wasn't about to pry into her life.

"Vidame texted me to say she's going to be late today," Aigre said. "Go get Wisty now!"

Demands coming his gang leader rolled his eyes towards the ceiling. Who did she think she was, ordering him around like that? But, such was how it had been since he started up this flower shop a year or so ago. Always acting like the boss. She was far from being the one in charge here. Well, whatever. He preferred to keep his mouth shut.

Ascending the staircase, Wisty had been walking around the room in a circle. Letting out a reluctant whistle, the Bangboo stood up with a nonexistent look of shock on its face. Creature walking towards him, sticking out their palm, the chimera scribbled down a legion of words he did not wish to write down.

Tiny slip of paper reading, Aigre needs you downstairs, the Bangboo tilted their head. Shrugging, he added an extra line of text, Vidame might be a little late today, Wisty let out its usual sounds of gibberish. Ah, this was beyond its programming, wasn't it? Maybe it was, he didn't quite know. He wasn't a leet hacker, or anything.

<Wisty needs to wait for Vidame,> his Bangoo companion said in its own language. But, his companion soon turned its flower head towards the stairs. <Vidame's here!>

Bangboo dashing down the stairs, the hyena shook his head. No matter how many times Aigre might have demanded, in the end, Wisty danced to their own tune. It may have been his companion Bangboo, but at the end of the day, the mechanic and administrator was someone else. Not like it mattered, anyway. Descending the staircase once more, gibberish ate the room.

Standing at the door had been a short young lady with golden hair split down the middle that went down to about her chest. Two buns circling out the top, large golden flame shaped eyelashes stretched out across her face. Seeing such, the gang leader shook his head. Ah, Vidame wasn't brushing her penguin crests again. What a terrible look for her. Orange eyes like the sun matching her flower print dress, an asymmetrical yellow flower print looked rather out of place on the rest of the outfit. Penguin tail behind her, and brightly colored gloves hiding her flippers, the young adult sent a silent greeting her way.

"Morning, Wisty," Vidame greeted. "Everything operational?"

<Up and running!> Wisty exclaimed, nodding.

"Good, good," Vidame responded, tone of relief in her voice. "Good moring Aigre, Siorc." She then lowered her voice into a whisper. "Someone's coming by to 'buy flowers' in a bit."

Intel coming his way, the hyena headed behind the counter. It had been quite awhile since someone had come around to buy flowers. When was the last time someone did that? Nothing came to mind. It had been a slow past few months in Veiled Whisper. No one was 'buying' anything. He was starting to wonder if someone else had taken over their territory. The would pay for that if they did.

Door bell chiming up a storm, the shop owner placed his hands on the counter. Wisty running towards him, a call card had been placed into their hands. Burly group of men stomping through the door, the hyena rubbed his brows. Great, the Red Fang Gang was here. Didn't they know whose territory this was?

"The Red Fang Gang," Aigre hissed. "Do you need to be reminded whose territory you're in? This is The Flower Silencers territory, got it? Unless ya wanna fight! 'Cause we'll take you on!"

"Little lady, you misunderstand," the red fang gang member hissed back. "We're here to buy some flowers."

"Aigre, they're after the same guy we are," Vidame said, gloves crossed around her waist. "Let's call a truce."

Burly guys walking towards the counter, the gang leader slid a paper around on the counter. Writing down, what 'flowers' do you want? The hyena put on a serious look on his face. Ah, business as usual. Other gangs daring to invade his territory acting like they aligned with his interests. Let's see if they really were after the same guys they were!

"Purple roses," the red fang gang member said with a smile.

Opposing gang offering to buy 'purple flowers' the chimera put on a smirk. Oh, a take out mission? They wanted something big. Whatever it was they wanted to eliminate, he was on board. Writing out, who are these purple flowers for, dear customers? He tried not to giggle. Act professional, he was about to have a mission on his hands!

"Give these flowers to The Cunning Hares," the red fang gang member exclaimed. "They got something we want!"

"Oh? And what might that be?" Aigre asked. She then turned to Vidame. "Vidame, are you keeping secrets from us?"

"Oh, gee, it's almost as if I'm an information broker, Aigre," Vidame responded sarcastically. "But, I forgot, you got a memory of a goldfish! Silly me!"

"You--!" Aigre exclaimed, growling. "I'll have you know I'm a guppymaid! My memory is perfectly fine, thank you!" She then crossed her arms around her waist turning her head off towards the opposite direction, defiant hmph let out. "Information broker, sure, sure, if the money in your basement real, too?" But, their argument had soon been interrupted.

"Chimeras, chimeras, settle down," the red fang gang member interrupted. "All that matters that we're after the same guy."

Noise dying down, the chimera cracked his knuckles, writing out, what are you after, the hyena could hardly hide the smirk on his face. Were they after a big money target? Wonderful, wonderful, The Flower Silencers would be loaded with Dennies after this. He could feel himself ready to swim in the dough!

"They got themselves a Golden Bangboo that was in our territory!" the red fang gang member shouted. "Deliver these purple flowers to them, and we'll give you five-hundred-thousand Dennies."

Six figures presented to him, the hyena licked his lips. Five-hundred-thousand dennies, was he hearing that right? Five-hundred-thousand dennies? Slipping into imagination land, it was raining coins. Excellent, amazing, he could work with that. He would never have to pay rent again with that kind of money! Sign him up!

"You've got a deal," the hyena whispered, voice barely audible. He then extended his paw.

"Look forward to working with you, partner," the red fang gang member said, smirking.

Hand shake exchanged, the hyena turned towards his gang members. Heh, this was going to be the biggest job yet! A Golden Bangboo? He had been hearing a lot about that lately near the arcade in Sixth Street whenever he'd venture out to gather his own information on the hip and happening.

Wisty handing him his two handed sword, Vidame soon handed out the location coordinates. Seeing an alleyway in their own territory listed, he let out a laugh. The Cunning Hares had the nerve to invade their turf? He could hardly wait to give them a nice little purple rose. Dashing through the streets, the little unwanted cockroaches had been with the goods.

Holding one of the golden goods had been a tall woman with long pink hair that went down to about her backside. Part of her hair tied up into two pigtails, her black headband ribbons matched her jacket almost exactly. Low cut shirt exposing her chest, heart shaped necklace, and singular pitch black stocking, a small green Bangboo plushie finished off her outfit.

Standing next to her had been a young woman with short grey hair that went down to about her shoulder. Adorning a green mechanical vest like apparatus, and pitch black skirt, her golden eyes looked pretty much done with this entire ordeal. Had she known whose territory she was in? She'd better have. He wanted to cut off that braid of hers right now, and show her who's the boss around here.

Fallen on his buttocks in the corner had been a masked android with spiky white hair, and a red jacket. Adorning twin pistols, the chimera wanted to turn this man into a bucket of bolts. Ah, yes, this guy, he always saw him at the arcade. What was his name again, Bi---? He didn't stand a chance against him when it came to games.

Staring at the tumbled android had been a short young cat woman with short black hair pulled into a ponytail. Seeing cat ears with red tips, the hyena placed his hand on his chin. This girl, something seemed kind of wormy about her. Red and white outfit with detached sleeves, the gang leader cracked his knuckles. It was time to eliminate these little strays.

"Hello, Cunning Hares," Aigre said in a fake friendly tone. "What are you doing in The Flower Silencer's territory?" A dark look had been on her face. "That golden Bangboo doesn't belong to you, Ni---. Better hand it over."

"Your territory?" Ni--- asked. "Since when?" But, a flower had soon been tossed her way.

"I told you to hand over that Golden Bangboo, Ni---," Aigre demanded, voice booming. "Or does our leader have to use force?"

"Ni---, just hand over the Bangboo," the grey haired girl said. "The back alleys are The Flower Silencer's domain."

"Tch, no way, An--, this Golden Bangboo will give us a lot of Dennies!" Ni--- shouted.

Pesky little rat not giving up the golden Bangboo, the hyena turned to Vidame. Ah, putting up a fight, were they? Who did they think they were? They had the nerve to step into their turf. Taking out the purple flower, a special little present had been sent towards Pinkie. It was time for these trespassers to go boom. Or, so he liked to pretend. Kill another gang? Goodness, no, it was just a little poison.

But, things immediately turned sour. Rainbow sphere appearing out of nowhere, the chimera could feel himself getting sucked in alongside the android man and cat girl. Feeling such, the chimera let out a groan. Oh, great, fantastic, a hollow had appeared now, of all times? Fantastic. Just when he hadn't gotten any jobs to eliminate those for weeks they had to appear now. Closing his eyes, space distorted around him.

Great, fantastic, absolutely brilliant.

A hollow now of all times when he isn't prepared.

***

"Okay, so I wasn't anticipating a
Hollow in the alleyway! You see, I, Vidame, am an information
Broker. People pay me a load of dennies for information, and, in exchange, they give me information about Hollows.
Right, so besides getting rid
Of people who dare
To enter in our turf, people also pay us to enter into
Hollows and clean up some
Ether Monsters. We, the Flower Silencers
Run an illegal Hollow wiping business.

Ah, well, we usually keep this part of our services

Hidden, and you have to say
Our secret password to
Let us know you want us to exterminate monsters in the hollow. The password is,
'Let me hand you a wisteria, my queen!'
Okay, Aigre might be mad if she knows I told someone that, but
We can always just go and change it.

Now, uh, there's more pressing matters to deal with.
Okay, so, Siorc has fallen into a hollow. Since I haven't gotten any intel on a hollow lately,
We are going to need the help of a proxy!

Well, this is always a last resort,
Ever daring to ask a proxy for their help. But, I

Guess we have to.
Oh, god. To be honest,
This is the last
Thing I'd ever want to go
And do, bow down to those legendary proxies on Sixth Street, but

For now, I don't have a choice.
If I had known about this hollow, I'd have
No need for their services. But, unfortunately, I
Do right now.

There is no way I can get Siorc out of that
Hollow by myself, and Aigre can't
Either. Oh, well! Guess we got to go beg the

Proxy for help! Aigre and I
Run toward Six Street, and
Open the door, and say, "hey, Proxy help me!"
Xxxxxxxxxxxxxoiehiwotyu--- a Bangboo said.
I would know, okay? I repair Bangboos in my free time!
Eh, seems like we're not wanted here.
So, I have to make this quick."

Bursting the door open to a video store on Sixth Street known as Random Play, Vidame let out a huff. This was the last place she and Aigre would want to be, but neither of them had a choice. Hollow reports had been rather scarce lately in her information network. What could she possibly do? Barging into a server room in the corner, she was ready to beg, if she needed to.

Standing in the corner had been a tall man with short, spiky silver hair. Blue denim jacket hiding the sleeves of his black t-shirt, his blue haired sister next to him with a hairpin that adorned the word in looked ready to kick Aigre and she out at any given moment. She had to make this quick. They were in enemy territory, after all.

"Vidame?" the blue haired girl asked, arms crossed around her waist. "What are you doing here?"

"Please, proxies, help us!" Vidame shouted, bowing her head. "Siorc fell into a Hollow!" But, such point had been shut down immediately.

"Oh, but I thought you told us last time you didn't need our help," the grey haired man said. "Don't you guys have Wisty to guide you?"

"Wisty isn't with him, you blockhead!" Aigre shouted. "Why didn't you come here, huh?"

"Did you just call my brother a blockhead?" the blue haired girl asked. "I think we've heard enough. You can l--" But, an interruption had come her way.

"B----, Aigre's sorry for calling your brother a blockhead!" Vidame said, bowing her head. "Please, help us! Without Wisty, Siorc is next to useless in a Hollow! They're joined at the hip!"

"Alright, We'll help," B---- reluctantly said. "W---, let's go in."

"On it." The grey haired man had soon sat in his computer chair.

Standing beside him, Vidame prayed to the skies above.

Please, be safe Siorc.

-> -> ->

Finding himself in the heart of a hollow, the hyena rocked back and forth beside the android man. Ah, great, great, he had been sent into a hollow without Wisty. What should he do? How would he ever hope to get through here? He should have brought them with him. He was useless without his partner. Oh, great. He was doomed to become a monster. And, the annoying android wasn't making it much better.

"Oh, great, Ne------, we're trapped in here!" Bi--- shouted. "Doomed!"

"That's quitter talk, nya!" the catgirl shouted.

Lowering his head onto his knees, the gang leader groaned. He was done for. Absolutely done for. How could he hope to navigate this place without Wisty? He shouldn't have left home without them. Was he going to become a monster very soon. He could feel it, the corruption levels here were high. Any second now, and he would be gone.

But, a strange Bangboo with a scarf soon appeared beside the broken wall. Mechanical ally leading the way, the chimera had begun running. Ethereals knocked out along the way with a zapping flower bang, the hollow's exit had soon been reached. Finding himself back in the alleyway, the android man was back on the ground in moments.

Going straight back to business like nothing happened, a lie had been written up about the Golden Bangboo. Writing down, that Golden Bangboo is a fake, it's worth nothing, the territory invaders gave up the contraband like it was hot. The shop owner couldn't help but giggle at such. Heh, works every time! It's a fake, it isn't worth anything. That's what people get for daring to come into his territory.

Returning to Veiled Whisper, the chimera handed over the Golden Bangboo. Given their six figures, the party of three split the Dennies between them thirty-three, thirty-three, thirty-four. Ah, sweet rewards from a territorial dispute, beautiful. Taking a one-percent higher cut, he stored the the money for future expenses.

Closing up shop for the day, the hyena ascended the staircase. Wisty opening the door for him, the gang leader pulled his companion into a mechanical embrace. Bangboo making a lot of garbled noises, the gang leader put them down. Ah, right, don't forget, his pal did not like being touched. Closing the door to his room, the young adult changed into his pajamas. Rolling into his bed, a gigglefest had been upon him as he drifted off into the world of sleep.

Another successful sale.

---

gang leader siorc omfg

 

[Palamon]

The Flower Silencers Street: Wisterias

---

"Hello, hello, greetings, glad to make your acquaintance.
Ehehe, remember me? It's Siorc your
Little gang leader! That's right,
Little! I'm five foot two? Ya gotta problem with that, huh? Huuh?
Okay! So let me tell you

All about what you missed!
Get ready. So, here's what happened
After you left! Business as usual.
It would seem that golden bangboo scheme had
No bearings on anything! Well,

I made bank on
This, so I don't care

I'm richer than I was last week, heh heh.
So, I don't care that this

May as well have been a scam. So, yeah. That's how it goes. And
Even so, sorry no refunds!

So, anyway, allow me to continue,
I haven't been up to much,
Or anything! Just
Removing threats from hollows,
Cause Vidame is

An information broker,
Nine times out of ten, she's the one who guides us through those
Deep, deep hollows.

I don't need dumb proxy, you hear?
That should be pretty obvious by now!

So, yeah, still doing my job as I do
Every day, deliveries 'flowers' to people,
Eliminating threats, pretty
Much, nothing has really changed,
So, there's not much to report.

Well, okay, there's one thing
Eh, it would seem a little rat

Has appeared!
Ah, I see, I see, more
Vile sewage to
Expel from my territory!

Ahaha, beautiful, beautiful.
Now, of course, I don't have an
Ounce of ideas right now who
The rat is! They always act when I
Have gone away!
Entering hollows all that mambo jambo!
Right, so, that's the

Current deal! Some stinky
Little rats think they can just come
Into my territory even though I have a reputation around here of
Eliminating all those who loiter in my streets!
Now, if I find that little
Teeny tiny rat, I'm giving them a black

Tulip! Ehehehe, ah, what
Huh, 'what's a black tulip?'
It's a little sedative, heheh,
Something to knock someone out for

Twenty four whole hours! What,
I'm cruel?! Who asked you!
Maybe you should see things my way.
Everyone should know what happens

If you dare cross the line and do
Not listen to warnings.

Because, I have made it very clear!
Every one of us in the Flower Silencers
Like to silence
Our enemies, that should
Be very clear cut it's in
Our name! The flower Silencers!
Get that through your thick skull!

It's not like anyone's listening though, I guess.
No one heeds our
Dutiful warnings!
Ultimately, I think they
Should know who is
The queen around here! That's
Right, you guessed
It, it's me.
Everyone who hasn't figured that out yet
Should learn things the

Hard way around here!
Either burn like a flame, or take the
Heat! I'll find this

Stupid rat, and give a piece of my mind!
Of course, they only act when I'm not around!

Well, you know what? I just
Have to play
A little game of whack
The mole! Because there's no fair games here!

Yahahaha! So, you have to find
Out who dare think even for a moment what I decree
Upon these streets is law!

We've taken out countless other gangs,
And, honestly, like, if I were you, I'd
Never dare set foot into
The alleyways! They're

Mine! Understand? This is my territory!
Ehehe, mess around and find out, as

They say! It's as
Ordained. I might seem infamous, but

Guess what? That's where you're
Obviously wrong, so here's a fun fact,

Dear newbie, almost no one
Ever learns the truth
About my, ah, 'organization.'
Let's just say I do actually sell real flowers.

What? Did you think
I'm always doing gang business?
That's a boldly stupid assumption you
Have going there! You cleary have no idea

At all how I

Run things around here, do you? Well, do
I have news for you! I have
Very special news for you, newbie!
And you definitely don't want to miss this!
Let's get you up to speed since you're so slow! When there's no

Gangs or hollows to take out I'm just
A normal flower seller!
Normal florist, that's how things
Go! I have weddings

To suggest flowers for, dates to
Hand over my
Advice to, and even arranging
The flowers for big venues!

It's just you know kind of boring to
Show that stuff, ya know?

Absolutely no one is here for
None of that boring nonsense!
This isn't that kind of story
A boring slice of life about
Going around venues and
Offering our flora catalog?
Nah, no one gonna look at that.
I'm not some
Zealous anime schoolgirl!
I know kinda look like one, but
Nope you
Got the wrong hyena! I'm not

An anime schoolgirl, kay?

Come at me with that, and I'll finish you
Off personally!
Now, let me ask you
Something, newbie? Since you're still here,
That what means you want something,
Right? Alright, go on, tell me!
Unless, you're just loitering
Cut that out by
The way, as
I already told you last time
Our alleyways are
Not for weaklings like you.

Alright, well go on, tell me, in what
Regards do you need my services?
Eh, you're just lost
Again? I don't believe this!

Keep coming to my store
Acting like
You're lost, and I'll feed you to

Some ethereals! Got it?
Oh. My. God, newbie,

This is so embarrassing for you!
How many times do I gotta tell you?
At New Eridu,
There's hollows everywhere!

I'm not responsible for you if
Something bad happens to you, newbie!

Bah, weak people like you who know an
Ounce about the rules
Get eaten! They get devoured!
Uhuhu, well, don't
Say I didn't say I didn't warn you if you

Become a beast. I told you
Umpteen times at
This point that

You are pretty weak, and
Our shop isn't for
Useless pieces of trash who don't

Know any better!
Now, I ask you this, newbie, do you value your life?
Oops, wrong question!
Well, actually, let me

Word my question in a way that's not too
Hard to understand!
Are you smart enough to understand
This? Well, I guess,

Maybe not since you came back here to tell me you're lost! So,
I'll ask you this simply, do you care what happens to you? If you do,
Get out of Ridu. You
Have no life here.
There's so many other things

And plenty of other places you can
Stay! Plenty,

Well, for starters, there's Lumina Square.
Everyone is much nicer there!
Listen, just get outta here.
Like, right now. If you fall in a hollow, I'm not having

Vidame guide me through the hollow to get you out!
I'm drawing my line in the
Dirt on this one.
And, I mean it. I
Mean what I say. I'm not saving you.
Even if you beg and plead!

To be honest, New
Eridu is the
Last civilization
Left, though,
So you'll be hard pressed to find a place

Maybe Lumina Square is safer!
Ehehe, I mean those

Stupid cops are there
Oh? What?
Maybe I shouldn't call them stupid?
Egregious! You should know
That cops are the enemies of gangs!
Hahaha, actually, what do you know?
I have already established your brain has gone
Numb! Completely silent in that
Gooey little skull of yours!

Just so you know, I am the
Ultimate know how
In veiled Whisper, so if I
Can't give advice that sticks,
You're gonna die out there! Aren't

I so kind? Wasting my air on you? I'm
So nice, newbie!

Hahaha, you really don't know
Anything, do you?
Perhaps the one that needs a
Purple rose the most out of
Everyone is you!
Not like I'm offering this option to you.
If you don't want to get killed,
Newbie, it's time to
Get out of here, oh and, don't come back

To this store!
How many times are you going to come here
Expecting me to let me come in here? That's
Right! You've run out of
Even number chances,

So bye, bye,
Oh and don't get eaten on your way out.

I'm not responsible for what

Might become of you outside my store. So, anyway, as
It just so happens I have been operating as a normal flower shop lately. Haven't
Gotten any clients lately.
However, as I said,
There's a rat,

And I plan on cornering them
So I can take them out.

We, as in Aigre and I are going to stake out
Every alleyway tonight. That's
Likely when they're most active, this
Little rat we've been trying to eliminate. They

Can run around all they like!
However, this is my territory,
Everyone should know what happens when you
Come down my street unwanted! You should
Know what happens!

I'll give them a special gift: the black
Tulip! And they'll learn

Once and for all what happens
Upon my
Turf. You'll get what's coming,

And take the consequences!
Now, this is probably just the beginning of this
Dumb butt's trespassing, so I

Gotta scare him a little!
It'll do wonders if I'm
Viscous to the
Enemy who dares step on my turf.

I'm the leader of
The Flower Silencers, got it?

And I'm the law in the alleys.

Will the little rat cower?
Hahaha, of course
It will, but the little
Rat's 'bout to fall into my
Little trap! Watch your step!"

It had been a little over a week or so since the Flower Silencers had temporary allegiance with their enemies to obtain a Golden Bangboo. Not much of note had happened since then, no other clients coming in for their services, gang activities had grinded to a halt, for the time being within the alleyways.

However, not all was flowers and rainbows. Quickly finding out that the Golden Bangboos were worth absolutely nothing, the gang leader knew there would be quite the mess to clean up. Not accepting any refunds, the party of three kept their split riches between themselves. Normal customers buying flowers for weddings, dates, and big events, no unusual Hollows had been in sight, as of late.

Despite such normality, little rats had been spotted in the alleyways. New construction workers claiming they're building something, the hyena knew that was a bunch of bogus. This was just someone pretending they were doing work as a cover-up. He knew how this always went, and it was always the same. He would catch this little rodent prowling around his turf if it was the last thing he'd do.

Alarm beeping on his phone, Siorc had arisen from his dinky apartment bed. Fur zapping up a static storm, the hyena groaned. This old mattress was making his paws get all sparked up. He needed to start charging more for certain flowers so he can afford renovations for the entire building. Standing in front of the mirror, the chimera had begun getting ready.

Grabbing the rubber bands, the spiky twintails had soon made their assured return. Adorning a black belly shirt with pink flowers and lightning bolts in the center, the belted collar had soon been on. Hairpins and earrings clicked in afterwards, his ears were naked no more. Skirt slipped over him, as well, Siorc Ingne, the leader of the Flower Silencers was ready for business.

Wisty running into the room in a swift manner, the shop owner reached for his notepad. Stash of papers ripped out and slipped into his pocket, a slip had been scribbled upon. Slapping it down into his Bangboo pal's hands, he pet their head. Words upon the paper reading, good morning, Wisty, the usual greetings had come his way.

<Good morning, Siorc,> the creature said in its own language.

Seeing a few sparks fly as Wisty spoke to him, the chimera reached for his smartphone. Ah, his companion needed maintenance again, didn't they? It had been quite awhile since Wisty and he had navigated a Hollow together, so they had gotten pretty rusty, he supposed. He needed to text Vidame right away to come to the shop early today. Opening his phone, his phone password had been typed out.

<Enter password.>
<*****************************>
<20 missed calls.>
<50 unread messages.>

The chimera put his phone down, for a moment. When would Aigre learn that he doesn't do phone calls? Or any talking for that matter? When would she learn? He should block her number or set it as spam so she can't blow up his phone, that'll teach her. Marking all her messages as read without reading his shoulders were cold.

<Messages>
{Vidame}

{Me}
{Could you come to the shop early today?}

{Vidame}
{Why? Is something wrong? You never normally ask me to come early.}

{Me}
{Wisty needs a tune up.}

{Vidame}
{Are you sure about that? You've been wrong about this before. I come early, and there's nothing to apply maintenance to. So, before I close up shop, I need you to be honest with me. Is this really something that needs my attention? I have a lot of clients coming in paying me from intel. So, if it's not important, please don't message me before my shift.}

Vidame going about her information broker speech again, the chimera stared at Wisty. Mechanical companion sparking up a storm, the gang leader jumped back. Woah, they were lighting up his room like an Ai assistant eating up power grids, that definitely wasn't good. Exiting out of the message system for a moment, the camera app had soon been fired up with nowhere to go.

Aiming the lens at this poor, suffering pal, the hyena opened up the messaging app once more. Attaching the image, he stared at the window. God, his electricity bill is going to shoot the roof for this little incident if Vidame doesn't do something, and fast. It's not like he knew how to fix Wisty! Fingers on the digital keyboard, his fingers were firing their lasers.

{Me}
{Wisty-boutta-explode.jpeg}
{They're about to burst into flames.}

{Vidame}
{They're not going to catch on fire, Siorc. I put a fire proof circuit in there, you know that. You didn't send Wisty outside in the rain, did you? Water and Wisty don't mix. If that's what happened, it can wait until my shift.}

{Me}
{I wouldn't do that. Please come.}

{Vidame}
{Siorc, I was just testing you. I know you wouldn't do something like that to Wisty. Not like they can, anyway. I set its program modules to never step near anything that's wet. I just wanted to see what you'd say in response to that.}

{Me}
{Please, just come. I cannot fix them.}

{Vidame}
{Alright, alright, I'm coming. I'll drive right over, alright? Are you still upstairs?}

{Me}
{Yes.}

{Vidame}
{Alright, then stay upstairs for now. Try not to touch them. And, if Aigre comes by for work, I'll let her into the store, okay? I'm sure she has already called up your phone at least twenty times today by now. I'll be there in ten.}

-This is the most recent message.-

Taking a deep breath, the hyena gazed at his poor sparking pal. If only he had the ability to repair Bangboos, then he wouldn't have to rely on Vidame so much. She may have been an information broker and a good mechanic, but he wished he could just repair Wisty on his own sometimes. Maybe he should try learning how to after he closes up shop later.

Hearing a racket downstairs, the gang leader groaned. How many times is Aigre going to forget her key? Sometimes, he wondered if she was just forgetting it on purpose as means to shout at him for something. Why were they friends again? All they had in common was they were both chimeras, and adored flowers with all their body and soul. Maybe he should have started this gang with her older sisters instead. But, oh well, too late for that.

Penguin feet waddling up the stairs, the shop owner tried to look natural. Act normal, act normal. This was nothing more than a programming error, right? This would definitely be an easy fix, surely. Vidame dashing towards Wisty, the chimera bowed an apology. He had taken her away from her information broker business, after all. How awful of him.

Vidame gazing at Wisty, he could see her shake her head. Ah, no, he knew that head shake. That was the one of disappointment. The one that said, I could be getting intel on Hollows right now head shake. Writing out multiple sorries on a scrap of paper, she refused to take it. Was ten not good enough for her? Maybe he really needed to learn how to repair Wisty himself.

"Strange, this is the seventh Bangboo this week that's sparked spontaneously," Vidame said. As she said such, she reached for her toolkit. "That little rat might have something to do with that." Tapping symbols on a grid with shock proof gloves, she continued. "So, you have no reason to give me any sort of apology."

Vidame hard at work, the chimera cracked his paw knuckles. Oh, great, the little rat again. He ought to catch that group in the act and give them a nice little black tulip because they sure deserved one right about now. Why were they always gone immediately after he went to go look for them to give them the law of the street? It's not like they were ghosts, or anything.

Spark session coming to an end, the chimera scribbled away, piece of paper slap into Wisty's hands, the note read, is everything alright? And a note underneath reading, what happened to you, his Bangboo pal made its usual noises of gibberish. Mechanical flower pal sounding chipper like always, he was ready to put his worried behind him.

<All operational!> Wisty said in it own language.

"Wisty's repaired now, so don't worry too much about it," Vidame said. But, as she said such, her phone rang up a storm. "Yes, hello?" She sighed for a moment, slapping her palm on her forehead. "Aigre, we're upstairs. Please don't call my business phone. Bye." Hanging up, she turned towards Siorc. "Aigre says someone wants to 'buy flowers'."

Bunny fingers spotted, the hyena smirked. Ah, wonderful, wonderful, actual work today. Not some boring, normal every day job. While flowers were his second life, being a gang leader was his first love. Wisty and he barreling downstairs, a very strange customer awaited him. Someone he had never seen before.

Standing in front of the counter with a mildly nervous look on her face had been a short young woman with a fiery belly shirt. She had messy, spiky red hair pulled into two ponytail. Her cowlick had looked like it was on fire. Two long pigtails underneath a mechanical bear headband made her locks look rather ferocious. Yellow eyepatch covering her right eye, her other pupil matched her hair. Saggy white pants looking ready to fall down at any given moment, the chimera groaned. Give this girl a belt.

"Hello, is this veiled whisper?" the redhead asked. "I need to buy some 'flowers'."

"Aren't you that kid from Belobog Heavy Industries?" Aigre asked. "Why do you need help from us?" She then curled her fingers attempting to shoo her away. "Listen, kid, we're dangerous people. Do you know what you're buying?"

"Hey, I'm not a kid!" the redhead pouted.

Girl pouting, the chimera gazed at the short so called lady. He thinks he's seen this girl on television before. What was her name again? Ko---- Belobog? She was the president of Belobog Heavy Industries. What was someone like her doing on these streets? Maybe a Hollow had come into the construction site? She could just ask a proxy to help her with that. He never accepted hollow requests that happened to fall out of his territory.

But, then it hit him like a truck. Hold on, this girl is the president of Belobog Heavy Industries. Someone like her would pay him a lot. Alright, now he's interested, sign him up. Writing out, what kind of flower do you need? The scrap had soon been handed off to Wisty, and then the potential client. Eyes soon on him, he was brimming with anticipation.

"I would like to buy a wisteria, my queen," Ko---- said. Her arm were soon crossed around her waist. "That's the password, right?"

Magical password given, the hyena pointed at Aigre with commando. Ah, excellent, yes, a wisteria. The super secret Hollow investigation password. How she learned of that and from who, who knows? Of course, he would be thrilled to help her! She was loaded, right? Easy dennies. He'd be able to pay off debts twelvefold with her cash.

"Here's your wisteria," Aigre said. "Where's the Hollow?"

"It's a the Construction Site," Ko---- responded. "Gr--- said some of the new employees went in there and are holding her kids hostage, or somethin'."

"Wait, Aigre, hold on, don't give her that just yet," Vidame said to Aigre. "Miss Ko----, you understand that we're not your average Hollow Investigators, right? Shouldn't you ask the Proxy on Sixth Street to help you instead."

"Nope, they're helpin' some group called Maid in Heaven right now or somethin'," Ko---- replied, shaking her head. "They're booked. So, I called up some information broker, and they told me to go to Veiled Whisper and say a password."

Hearing such, the chimera turned towards Vidame. Had Ko--- been one of her clients? He closed the book on such thought. That wasn't his business. Vidame's clients were confidential between her and her network. He shouldn't butt into something that wasn't his business. Shrugging, he wrote down, alright, we will help you. Turning towards Vidame a slab of paper had been placed into her palm reading, it's go time, all hands were on deck.

Vidame speeding off in her car, Aigre, Ko--- and he headed off into the dust bucket. Dingy old vehicle sparking a bit, the hyena sighed. Not the car, too. What's next? The traffic lights sparking? Redhead doing a fixer upper, his friend took the wheel. Preparing himself, the hyena stared at Wisty. It would soon be go time.

It would soon be time to catch a rat.

***

"It's me, Aigre,
The second member of the Flower Silencers.

I know, Siorc probably rags on me all the time, but that's just him not answering my calls like the
Stubborn fool he is! Ugh, look I know he doesn't

Talk, but like, he can
Install an AI or something on his phone to answer calls for him!
Maybe, it's not like I know how to do that, so what do I know!
Eh, why do I stick by him if he can't at least do

The bare minimum? I've been trying to get a new key to the shop for a week
Or two, or three, maybe months now. But, he's ignoring my

Calls and texts, but he'll go
And text up Vidame without a problem!
This kinda peeves me. But,
Could I ever leave this gang?
Ha, of course not, Siorc is useless without me.

After all, without me, he wouldn't have been able to create the 'flower' system at our store.

Rahaha, he'd crumble to his feet if I hadn't help him out when he started Veiled Whisper
Ah, what? That's super egotistical of me?
Tell me, how's that giving me an ego?

Ah, so let me ask you
Something. Do you really think a gang can operate alone?

Siorc started the Flower Silencers with Vidame and
I. Without me, what would he be? A
One chimera street fighter.
Really don't want to imagine what he'd be doing as a single person delinquency, well, had he resorted that I
Couldn't have cared less.

Perhaps, I just put
Up with him, who knows.
That's not completely true, I guess.
Sure, it annoys me that he

Is kind of quiet
To the point of not even answering the phone,

However, that's just how he is. I suppose he's still
My friend. I'm still here with him in
Person, aren't I? I didn't go on and get a normal job. And, I
Haven't left him on his own.

Well, whatever, after this
Hollow mission is over, I'll go
And ask him
To give me a new key.

And then, things will be even

Steven between us. Ugh, what,
That was cringe what I just said?
Ugh, who asked you!
Please don't even go there,
I swear to the wisterias.
Doh, whatever, why am I even

Trying to listen to you. You
Have nothing
Important or interesting to say.
Not like it matters, you're just some
Guest creature looking at

These little diary entries, aren't you?
Oh my god, snooper.

Stop; get out of my business okay?
Ah, you, okay whatever.
You know what? You know

What, after this
Hollow mission, I will
Ask Vidame for more
Tools, too. I swear to the wisteria,
Every little thing likes to pile up
Very high. I guess that's my
Stupid own fault for trying to call these buffoons! Not

Like either of them answers their stupid phones.
Even when I call Vidame,
This is what
She says to me, 'Aigre I have told you to not

Give me calls on my business phone!'
Eeesh, then why did you give me your business phone number, hmm?
That brain of hers is leaking puss! Ah, actually, I

Take that back, that was
Horribly mean of me to say.
It's true though, these two are impossible to have a conversation with over the phone.
So, give me your personal number, then! Alright,

Let's just take a breather,
I have to go into
The hollow and save Gr--'s kids, right?
To be honest, I didn't know Gr--- had children, not
Like I have ever met her, just seen her on television.
Eh, well, it doesn't matter, we'll save her kids. So, the

Rats are behind this, huh?
At least, that's what I think.
There's been fake construction workers

Running around our territory lately
At times where we haven't been around to
Come out and do something about it.
Even so, this time, we finally can.

Guess they're pretending to be construction workers,
Or something. That's pretty rich of them. Honestly,
I can't stand rats as much as Siorc does.
Now, it's time to
Give them a nice little flower let's go."

Reaching the construction site, a bear with a scar on his face stood by the entrance. Furry man extending his paw, the hyena placed his own into the huge palm. He couldn't help but wonder seeing this guy, how much of the heavy lifting did he do? He couldn't imagine working in construction. Must have been a hard life.

"Thank you for coming, Hollow Investigators," the bear man said. "I'm B--."

Redhead guiding the party of two towards two other members of Belobog Heavy industries, a man with a black mohawk with red streaks and a friendly look on his face looked ready to introduce himself. Tall woman with short black haired pulled into a ponytail, orange lens goggles, and an outfit quite unfit for construction, Siorc and Aigre extended their hands once again.

"Sup, bro," the mohawk guy said. "I'm An---."

"I'm Aigre, and this Siorc," Aigre responded. "And, you must be Gr---, right?

"That's right, sweetpea," Gr--- said, affirming such question. "Those new workers took my children."

"Before we go into the Hollow, could you describe your son or daughter to me?" Aigre asked.

"They're machines," Ko---- cut in.

Head of Belobog Heavy Industries proclaiming that Gr---'s child was a machine, the gang leader blinked. Okay, what? She had machines for children? He'd better get paid a nice lump of dennies for this! He should charge extra for this one. Triple his normal rates, even. Well, alright, maybe not that much, that would be robbery, but he deserved a higher rate for taking this mission!

Big bear man guiding Aigre and the hyena to the hollow deep inside the construction sites, the shop owner closed his eyes for a moment. Finding a large corridor with wrenches lying around everywhere, the young adult cracked his paw knuckle. Alright, go get Gr---'s kids from the rats who are trying to steal them? No problem. Easy peasy.

Wisty going on ahead, another flower Bangboo soon joined the party. Mechanical flora creature with eight golden pedals, the chimera waved at the creature. Ah, there they were, Lila, Vidame's Bangboo avatar whenever she served as an illegal proxy. He can't remember the last time she would come into the Hollows alongside Aigre and he. But, that didn't matter right now.

"Siorc, Aigre, Wisty, can you hear me?" Vidame asked through Lila. "I just got some intel. Those little rats did something to the electricity in New Eridu with some remote access trojan in a remote. So, make sure you get that thing and destroy it, okay?"

"Right, guide us through this hollow, then, 'Lila'," Aigre said, lowering herself onto her knees. "We're counting on you!"

"This way." The Bangoo turned around as they said such.

<Siorc, your sword,> Wisty said in their language.

Two handed sword handed to him, the hyena patted Wisty's head. That was his companion. Finding multiple ethereal monsters everywhere, the hyena struck with lightning flowers. This hollow sure was something, wasn't it? But, it was nothing he couldn't handle. This one was just about the same as all the other ones he would enter every now and again.

Aigre slaying multiple ether beasts with style and grace, the chimera tapped himself in. Group of two chaining attacks one after another, the monsters died in a pool of rainbows. Lila guiding them towards the exit, a little rat soon awaited everyone. Tall person with blue hair and a construction hat, they had strapped themselves into the machine in the center of the hollow.

"Ow, get out of me!" the machine said. It had a deep, manly voice.


"No waaaay, I'm gonna sell ya and get lots of dennies!" the 'construction worker shouted. "Click!"

Machine sparking up, the creature's mechanical face soon glowed red. Seeing such, the chimera readied himself for action. So, this little rat was the one responsible for thee sudden malfunctions of technology, huh? How dare he and his crew come through his turf while he was away doing normal people's flower order requests? He wanted to throw a nice black tulip at him now.

"Siorc, Aigre, you okay?" 'Lila' asked. "What was that strong signal just now?"

"This bum just put a trojan in--?" Aigre started to say, tilting her head. "What is this machine's name, anyway?"


"Describe the voice to me." The Bangboo body leaped upon saying such.

"Why does that matter? Don't all her children sound the same?!" Aigre asked. "Whatever, they got a deep voice."

"That's Friday," 'Lila' said. "Gr--- said go easy on her precious baby, okay?"

The hyena cringed upon hearing Vidame say that through Lila. Writing, Vidame don't ever say that again, on a scrap of paper Wisty read the declaration aloud on the sheet of paper. But, unfortunately for him, the chimera had gotten a clapback. Penguin information broker laying down a burn about him talking through paper, he surrendered. Alright, she got him there.

"AAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!" Friday screamed. "Someone help me. The pain, the pain!"

Friday machine creature attacking with all its might, the hyena was ready for action. Ha, it's just a big machine monster! All he had to do was fight it and knock the trojan snot out of it, and the dennies were all his! Well, thirty-four percent of them were his. Letting his two handed sword get in on the action, the chimera let out some grunts.

Energy welling up inside him, an explosive flower had been gifted to the rat and the ailing machine. Trying to remain careful, the chimera did not aim for the heart. Right, gotta be careful. Can't destroy Gr---'s precious machine son! Slapping Aigre's palm, she had soon been tapped into the ring.

"Guppy tail slash!" Aigre shouted.

Guppy tail taking the offensive, the hyena tapped himself back into the ring, electric flower popping of, he could feel his energy reach its maximum clutching his pearls the young adult was ready to let his screams be sent upwards towards the sky. It was time for the Maximum Power Attack. Three thousand decibels, let's go.

"This flower's got your name on it!" Siorc shouted.

Dropping down a huge spiky black tulip, the hyena giggled. Ah sweet, sweet, black tulip. Nighy, night, little rat! Man knocked out cold, Aigre soon informed Lila they were done now. Instructed on how to remove the virus, the zip zapping had gone away. Hollow breaking apart they had soon returned to Belobog Heavy Industries had soon been returned to.

"Thank you so much for saving my baby!" Gr--- exclaimed.

Sticking his paw upward into a thumbs up, the red headed leader handed off the payment. His eyeballs practically fell out of his face when he saw the number. Excuse him, two-hundred thousand Dennies? Mwah, delicious. Splitting the reward thirty-four, thirty-three thirty-three, Aigre drove the dust bucket back home.

"By the way, I lost my key to the store, please make me a new one," Aigre said behind the wheel. "Why do you think I've been ringing up your phone non-stop?!"

Sighing, the hyena mumbled out a fine. That's it? That's all she wanted him to do? She could have just told him that during work! She knew he despised talking. His voice was gross. Dust bucket returned into their turf, the young adult wrote upon the paper scrap in a flurry, we'll go make a copy of my key tomorrow if no one else buys 'flowers', he handed the sheet to his left wing.

"You know, if we keep taking too many hits, P.O.N.E.C. might notice us," Aigre whispered. "Maybe we should... stop or a bit."

Parting ways with Aigre, the hyena stared off at the wall. Ah, P.O.N.E.C. That name, he hadn't heard it in awhile. When was the last time? He couldn't remember. Maybe he could slow down on the Hollow Investigations and giving flowers to territorial invaders for just a little while. That cop department, was <redacted> the head of it now? If they were, he was in trouble. Wisty powering down, the young adult crawled into his bed. Dozing off, one last thought kicked in.

Whatever, he got paid some nice money.

He can take a week or two off some hits.

---

Yes, even though Siorc is like in a hit-man gang sorta thing, he does still run a normal flower shop business on top of that. There's special code words people say when they're buying the hitman/gang jumping services. If these phrases aren't said, then that's someone just buying flowers for an event. But certain flowers (black tulips, purple roses), these are codewords for hits.

Also, P.O.N.E.C. will be important later.

 

[Palamon]

Flower Silencers Street: Magnolia

---

"Hello, hello! It's your local
Ever so bubbly (silent) hit hyena!
Look, lookie here,
Like, I should just admit it
Obviously, I am a

Hitm- hit hyena. I strike other gangs, but I am
Especially dangerous to
Little ethereals.
Like, hello!
Of course, you don't need to understand that, don't worry about it, newbie.

Hello again, newbie.
Eh, so what brings you around these parts again,
Loser? I told you to
Leave this place, didn't I?
Oh, newbie, stupid, stupid little newbie.

It seems you simply don't understand
This! So, let me ask you something,

Is there a reason you keep
Showing up here in

My place of business?
Every time I tell you, if you don't have

Any business here,
Get out of my street!
Are you addicted to rejection?
I just don't understand you.
Not at all! I just don't get why you keep

Stopping by here, go find some one else to bother
I will not service you if you ain't got anything for me to do.
Oh, and just so you know
Recently, we've stopping
Conducting hits. Huh, why?

You know why?
Of course you don't.
Ugh, newbie, you got any braincells left in there? They're all
Rotting out! Straight up just

Rotting and leaking out of your brain!
Ehehe, you're so
Stupid, aren't you?
It's so obvious you're not going to get it, so I'll just
Dump it onto you!
Eh! Whatever, so P.O.N.E.C,
Now, that's pronounced pony, if
They catch wind of my

Hits, they'll come
Into my flower shop and arrest me!
The thing is going into

Hollows isn't,
You know like, fully legal?
Eh! Like you knew that,
Newbie! You're still new here,
After all, you don't know anything.

Wow, my bad, my bad! Aww, did I offend you?
Ehehehe, wimp, newbie is a
Little wimp, aren't they?
Little, little tiny wimp!

Alright, alright, I'll stop, sheesh, but I mean,
Come on, it's
True. So, I am going to
Utter the truth
About you. Alright, so,
Listen, listen, okay?
Listen, up, and use
Your brain!

Are you using it?
So, you know how I mentioned P.O.N.E.C a few minutes ago?

Okay, so! Right, listen up, would you?
For now, it's obvious best to not

Let P.O.N.E.C know
Anything about what I'm up
To! Because, let me just
Ease into what I'm about to say real quick.

No matter what, I can't let even
One of those cops catch me. Yes,
They're cops, what, did you think Public Sec were the only ones? You

Really ought to get your head screwed on right!
Err, so you want to know that
Abbreviation? Alright,
Let me just share it with you
Let's go, alright,
You listening up or

Just nodding to shut me
Up? Ugh, you
So totally are,
Take a moment to realize you're just

Dumb, so dumb it's astounding!
Okay, alright, fine
I'll let you in on the secret
Now, you are so annoying,
God! Alright so, this is what P.O.N.E.C stands for,

And, you won't believe it.

Well, here goes,
Ha! It stands for Police
Officers of New Eridu Corporation, ahahaha
Listen to that ridiculous name!
Everyone, pretend it's the best name you've ever heard!

Lalala, lalala, lalala
Oh, what's that? It's
Terrible? You're so right, newbie!
Terrible name! Super
Awful and stupid

Name! You're so right
On agreeing with me,
This name is just it's exactly
How it's read on the tin!
It's like so, so stupid!
Now, why are they not part of Public Sector?
Get this, they're a more aggressive force

Than them! They'd
Rather use violence to arrest people!
You know, I wouldn't do that
If I were you, but I guess they
Now thrive off that
Good cop bad cop system!

They're, you guessed it!
Our resident bad cops!

Ah, excuse me, did you just laugh newbie? That's
Very annoying!
Oh, I should warn you,
I have a shark brain, sooo
Don't make me angry! You'll

Probably learn the hard way what happens when
One angers me! You'll
Never live it down,
Everyone should be wary of my
Chompers, and of course that includes you.

Look, I may be very quiet
I don't talk, I
Know all that, but my rage?
Ehehe, don't want to be caught in

That, now, do you?
Hehe, remember, not only am I a hit person I'm
Especially a danger to

Pretty much everyone around me when I'm angry!
Let that sink in.
Are you allowing it to
Get inside your mind?
Ugh, alright, you just don't get it
Eh, alright, so a shark is a

Big predator animal,
Even a stupid person should know that,
Come on now!
Ahahaha, yes, sharks are the
Ultimate predator of the ocean,
So, if I get mad, you should watch out!
Eh? What did you just ask me? Am

I related to that girl with the shark tail?

Do I look anything like her?
Of course I don't! Do

Not mix me up with her!
Oh, you've gone and done it
That's going to make me explode!

Well, actually, you know what? I forgive you.
Aren't I so
Nice? I'm forgiving
That stupid question of yours.

Though, say it again and you're
Outta here, do not

Say that ever again, kay?
Ever again, alright?
Eh, so, whatever,

Whatever, so anyway, they're the
Horrible violent cops
On the block.

In any case, I guess I
Should mention this

Cause it doesn't make sense does it? Can't I just go
Undercover, or something,
Right? That's the problem
Right there, you see, some one I don't want to see is at the top,
Eh, or so I've heard.
Now, the person at
The top, she's someone I'd
Like to avoid.
You probably don't understand this

At all, so I'll
Try to break it down,

The person at the top of the
Hill, uh, top of the New
Eridu Police Corporation, she's

The person I want to avoid at all costs.
Of course, a stupid
Person like you won't understand.

Look, I'll try to break
It down for you, alright? I
Know it's too much for your silly pea brain to handle.
Eh, alright, so, I'll

At least explain, so
That you're not staring

At me! At know the person at the top.
Look, I'm not telling you who it is, so,
Like if you got any questions about that, I'm

Not answering a single
One, kay? I don't have to. Huh?
Please get on with
Everything I've been up to since last time?

I! Are you are interviewer, or something? I cannot believe you.

Why are you so attached to me,
And asking me so many questions,
Newbie? Why don't you go somewhere else
To bother someone? I cannot believe

This, you are just the most
Obnoxious person I have ever encountered.

Ah, well, fine, I can give you the
Very boring details
On this subject since
It captives you so much. So, nothing has been
Doing lately. That's

How it's been lately.
Everything has just been normal flower business, I know, boring,
Right? Well, it's not

All that boring, I went out
To go gather more flower,

And almost fell into a hollow, but I didn't.
Lately, things have just been normal, but it
Looks like I might be getting a new hit soon. I

Can feel it, I'm going to get
One asking me to give them a
Silver Marigold, ah what does
That mean? Fine,
Since you want to know

So bad, I'll just tell you, alright?
Okay, so it means an out of town hit.

We've been doing all these
Especially normal

Activities for awhile now, so we're
Ready for real business now.
Even if I gotta be cautious, it's

Just time to get rid of all this
Utter boring nothings.
Since, you know?
That's just what's going on

Lately? Well, alright, so anyway,
I have a feeling we're going to get a hollow extermination at a
Very interesting place today or any day now
I've been hearing lately some
New hot spot where people
Gather to destroy hollows

Labelled with the name Hollow Zero, or at least,
I think that's what it's called.
For now, unless a get asked about it I
Especially cannot venture there by my

Lonesome because it'll rise suspicions.
I guess, anyway, I don't really
Know, as I haven't
Ever been there, but right

Now, bills gotta be paid
Off, so I
Really need to
Make bank, or
At least try to
Let's just say I've heard Hollow Zero is the way to make

Bank. And, I want to be swimming in Dennies!
Uhuhuhu, swimming in the moola? What,
That made me sound like I'm money

Hungry? You are annoying!
Everything you say is
Annoying, newbie. You
Really just don't understand
It all, do you?
Nope, you really just don't
Get it, and for that, you'll be hopping on the wrong side.

Ridiculous, ridiculous, absolutely
Utterly ridiculous.
Maybe it's time I go
Off and give you that
Reminder again, you
Shouldn't make me

Angry, if you do, you will
Become a member
Of my hit list! Got it!
Ugh, you're laughing, newbie!
That's it, I'm done with you! Get out of my store!

How could I let this
One annoying bug into my store? They
Like to ruffle my fur, don't they?
Listen, this is getting
On my nerves now.
Well, alright, it is true, I enjoy

Za moneys, I mean
Everyone needs cash, let me
Remind everyone that's how
Our world operates

It's a money society.

We're all a slave to cash,
And at this point you
Need to know that
Nothing in life is ever free
And someone is always paying something.

That's how it works. Everyone understands that by now, and I'd
Rather not have to explain the obvious to this annoying newbie.
You know, it's really beginning to get on my nerves.

I'm getting extremely annoyed by this stupid little visitor. I'm getting
Too annoyed for words.

Oh, well, I don't owe anyone anything. And that's how it's staying.
Uh, anyway, I am really looking forward
To any mission involving Hollow Zero, come on, hand one over to me!"

It had been a little over a month since the flower silencers had taken a moment to stop doing hollow investigations for the greater good of P.O.N.E.C. not noticing their current order of operations. Not a lot had happened since this halt had been announced. Doing normal flower business for normal people, no one had their eyes on them.

Since the halt, far less dennies had been coming in, but the hyena knew that's just how life worked. Pull out the toy guns, and there will be lackluster rewards. Doing major renovations on his apartment space for the whole thirty days, Siorc had been busy in some ways, lacking in others. Money close to gone, the gang leader had begun denny pinching.

Hearing rumors about a place called Hollow Zero in the Scott Outpost, the hyena's mouth had begun to water a new place to investigate Hollows that fell outside the gaze of that wretched police crew? Count him in. He could smell the money pouring in right as he didn't speak. But, going to such place wasn't happening.

Vidame informing him the only way to go to such a place was to either be invited, or to be scouted to head there personally, heading out to such place had been out of the question. Why go and ruin his image now? If he caused any problems, that accursed police force would go after him! He most certainly didn't have time for that.

Hollows unvisited for quite some time, the chimera could feel rust begin to form. Would he forget all he learned the next mission he were to get? Probably not. He knew it was time once and for all to reopen his real business. Sign on the door that read, out of special flowers removed the other day, he was ready to go back to business as usual.

Alarm beeping on his phone, the hyena tossed and turned in his warm bed. Huh, it was seven o'clock already, how could that be? He didn't want to leave this sweet, soft mattress, can't he have five more minutes? He was the boss of his own life, after all. So long, goodnight, wake him up when seven-o-four ends.

Shaking his head, the young adult departed from his sleeping quarters. No, no, he could not just sit around here in his bed, he had to head off to the secret garden to gather his special flowers today. He was returning to real business today. A lot of clients had slipped away in about thirty days. His bad.

Reaching for his rubber band box, the chimera stood in front of the mirror. Spiky ponytails raring to go, a light purple belly shirt with chains and a small flower in the corner had been slipped over the shop owner's trunk. Matching purple pants connected by the metallic pieces, gloves had soon been slapped on, as well. Collar, and hairpins and earrings clicked in, as well, he let out a groan as he heard something dripping outside.

Heading through the back door for a moment, the gang leader was about ready to pull his hair out. God, what was with every single thing deciding it was time to start leaking? He swore, a hollow had to have been behind this, reaching for a bucket, the young adult placed it beside the apartment gutter. Nope, not today, he's not dealing with this nonsense. He just renovated his apartment! Heading back inside, he could soon hear the familiar mechanical feet run on by.

Wisty running into the room and proceeding to fall flat on their face, the chimera shook his head. His Bangboo pal had been getting a little klutzy lately. Had their balance modules been out of tune? He knew he couldn't bother Vidame about it. She had been quite busy with her Information Broker job, and taking any time away from that would just make her angry.

Picking his pal up, the hyena reached for his scraps notebook, slipping a triple dozen torn out sheets in his pocket, the chimera had been scribbling away, like he usually did. Slapping a sheet down, the usual, good morning, Wisty, had been written down. Mechanical pal making a racket, the chimera bent down to gaze at it. They were quite talkative this morning, weren't they? Something was up, juicy.

<Good morning, Siorc,> Wisty said in their own language. <You're late for the first train to go to the secret garden!>

Hearing such from his pal himself, the chimera broke out into a sweat. Oh, great, he missed the train! Was it because he was dealing with the gutters, because he rolled around in bed for a few extra minutes? He's going to have to wait for the next one. What in the world was he doing, sitting around? Great. How he wished he had an assistant to give him the schedule for the train!

Opening up his phone, the young adult gazed at the train schedule, next one not coming or another twenty minutes, the chimera scribbled on a scrap of paper speedily. Slapping the sheet down on his pal's hand, the words read, we have to leave for the station now! The shop owner huffed. Time to go.

Barreling down the stairs, Wisty in his gloves, Aigre had already been behind the counter hard at work. Normal, boring flower orders being handled for yet another wedding, his adversary glared daggers at him. Glaring back, he waved one of his free paws in the air. He knows, alright? He missed the first train, sue him.

"Siorc, I can't believe you missed the first train!" Aigre exclaimed. "What are you doing up there, sleeping? God, lazy bones."

Tuning her out, the gang leader headed for the door. He didn't have time for her sass, thank you, he had to head for the train station right here, right now, and he had to run. It was a ten minute walk! She could hold her tongue for a bit. Why were they friends again? He could never quite recall why he invited her to become one of his right hand women in the Flower Silencers.

"You'd better hurry back!" Aigre shouted. "Vidame will be coming by with a special client today, so hurry up and go get the flowers!"

Making a run for it, the hyena's feet had erupted into a speedy sprint. Stupid subway system, running on twenty minute intervals. How annoying! He needed to be nimble, quick, and get out of here pronto. Dashing towards platform five, the same ticket as usual had been bought. Seating himself in the last seat possible, the whistle blew.

Reaching the secret garden after one stop, the hyena's eye glowed at his beautiful treasures. The purple roses, the black tulips and silver marigolds, they were all growing so nicely. That mulch he bought was definitely not a mistake. Maybe he should go and buy even more of it in the future. Gathering them up in a careful manner, he could feel he cheeks grow warm. What a perfect day to pick flowers.


But, there had been a strange scent on the air as he had begun to do so. Turning his head towards the right and left, the chimera's eye grew small at the sight before him. Rainbow dome appearing in his garden's exit, his knees had become rotted jelly. A hollow here? A hollow now? He wasn't prepared for this! Opening up his phone, his palms shook as he scrolled over to Aigre's message folder.

{Me}
{Aigre, help, there's a Hollow in our garden!}

{Aigre}
{Then just go in there! Why are you telling me about it for, huh? You're there right now, aren't you?}

{Me}
{I can't go in there! I left my hollow gear at home. What am I supposed to do? I'm useless without all my equipment.}

{Aigre}
{I don't know! Use your hyena claws. For a leader of a gang and hit service, you look so pathetic right now. Wait until I show Vidame these messages.}

The chimera closed his phone for a moment. Yes, he knows, alright? He looks pathetic right now. Silly him, not bringing his hollow gear with him. Hello, how was he supposed to know there was a hollow inside his secret flower garden? He didn't. Wisty attempting to jump in as he thought such, the hyena held them back. Writing down, no, Wisty, we can't go in there, his pal backed up. Opening his phone once more, spam floated down his notification bar all at once.

{Aigre}
{Hello, Siorc? Where did you go?}

{Aigre}
{Geez, I was kidding, alright?}

{Aigre}
{I'm not going to tell Vidame. It's not like you saw a hollow coming. I know that. Sorry, my bad. Since you can't do it, I'm going to link you to an Inter-Knot account that can help you. They seemingly live in the area. This is their account name: <Dryll>.

Scrolling through Inter-Knot, the chimera found the account in question. Writing out a plea filled message to them about the Hollow, a shockingly quick answer had been returned to him. Group saying yes, the chimera could feel the angels singing, his sweet garden, it would remain intact, wonderful. Strange group of people with drills for hands hopping in, the hyena made his way back towards the train station.

Special flowers put away, the early adult huffed a breath. A lot of hollow sure had been creeping up lately. If he wanted to get a mission in Hollow Zero, he had to prove his worth, that's for sure. What was he doing, leaving behind his elimination gear? Mistake number one.

Everything put on their respective flora shelves, the young adult had begun scribbling away. Handing the sheet off to Aigre, the words, where is Vidame had been printed on the ripped off leaflet. Guppy tailed gang member shaking her head, he tried not to groan. He was about to be told, he should have read his text messages, wasn't he?

"If you weren't too busy panicking over a hollow, you'd know that Vidame is running late trying to meet up with a special client right now!" Aigre exclaimed. "Do you ever bother to read your texts?" Shaking her head, she sighed. "I hope you're ready for this one, because, they're probably going to ask for silver marigolds!"

Aigre mentioning silver marigolds, Siorc's eyes practically glowed. Silver marigolds, someone was going to ask him to go on an outsourced Hollow investigation? Count him in! Bring in the money! He could use a hundred-thousand more after that renovation he did recently. His pockets were getting hungry. But, he had quickly been forced back into reality.

"Uh, hello, are you listening to me?!" Aigre shouted. "You're not listening, are you? Ugh. Siorc, do I have to say it again? I hope you're prepared for this mission. If we're going to Hollow Zero, you can't falter. It's not the same as a normal Hollow. So, you'd better get it together! Go get your weapons before Vidame comes."

Groaning, the hyena barreled upstairs. Could Aigre be any more annoying today? Sometimes he wondered if she was just his nagging mother away from home. He didn't need her constantly yelling at him all the time. But, he knew he couldn't say that. His mind had been quite absent today, hadn't it? Most certainly, it was.

Grabbing his Hollow Equipment, he could hear Wisty downstairs making their greeting noises. Vidame was here already? Man, he wasn't prepared for anything today, was he? Not at all. Hopping down the steps, a strange masked client in a black cloak had obscured the penguin information broken from view.

"Hello there, chimeras," the masked person said in a musical tone. "You're selling special flowers again, I see." The hyena swore there was a vicious tone in the man's voice. Business as usual. "I'll just cut to the chase, I'd like to buy some silver marigolds."

Silver marigolds mentioned, the hyena could feel his face glow. Silver marigolds? An outsourced mission beyond his territory? Wonderful, wonderful, absolutely perfect. Pinch him, he must be dreaming! But, the gang leader quickly pulled himself together. He's going to look stupid in front of this client. Writing down, where would you like for us to go? The leaflet had been handed off to the client.

"Scott Outpost, there's a nasty little hollow there," the cloaked man said. "You three seem like you'd stamp out Hollow Zero pretty quickly. If you clear it out with H.A.N.D.S6, I'll give you seven-hundred-thousand Dennies, deal?"

Six figures presented to him, the hyena had stars in his eyes? Seven-hundred-thousand Dennies? This man was loaded! Sweet, sweet, money, of course he had a deal! Who would be crazy enough to reject that much money? He could pay off his rent for the entire year with his thirty-four percent cut!

"I don't think you need an answer from our leader," Vidame said, sweat pouring down her cheek. "He's definitely on board." She then crossed her arms across her waist. "Just so we're clear, your underground proxy will be guiding us, no? As per our deal for buying information from me, you lend us out your proxy."

"Of course, of course, their Bangboo's already waiting for you there!" the black mask man exclaimed. "Here's the address to Scott Outpost. Finish this mission within six hours, and I'll even throw on an extra one-hundred-k!"

Client offering even more dennies, the young adult licked his lips. He'd better hurry it up and complete this mission dutifully! The more Dennies, the better, after all! Heading for the good old dust bucket, the chimera buckled Wisty into their seatbelt. Getting behind the wheel, it was off to the races. Hollow Zero, here he comes. Sweet, delicious Dennies. Tasty, moola.

He's going to be rich, the talk of the town. Loaded.

***

"Hmm, honestly, Siorc has been kind of absent minded lately,
Okay, I must admit
Letting Aigre convince him to stop taking hit missions to evade the police.
Let met just tell you something, listening, something Siorc won't ever say.
Okay, so at the top of P.O.N.E.C is <redacted>. Did you get all that?
Well, I'll say it again, P.ON.E.C. is run by <redacted>, and <redacted>, and of course, <redacted> <redacted> and <redacted>. There's also another group he wants to avoid.

Zaza, zaza, what were they called again, uh? Oh, the Inferno Punishers Society.
Err, if I recall correctly, one of the members of that gang was a childhood friend of Siorc before the incident. Ah, I
Really shouldn't talk about his past.
Okay, signing out of that. So,

Hollow Zero, to be honest, I don't
Even know if Siorc is
Ready for this. We haven't been taking any Hollow missions lately.
Even so, I'm going with him this time, so

It'll be fine. I'm usually the one behind the

Counter, but not today.
Okay, I suppose I
Might be rusty, but I have my gloves, and I have my hammer with flaming flowers,
Everything will be alright.

Yes, of course it'll all go fine.
Especially since I'm here.
Even though I don't
Have as much experience
And all that, I have been guiding Aigre and Siorc through hollows for a
While now. So, I do know

The hollows pretty well through my Bangboo body I insert myself into.
Haha, well, being an
Information Broker and a Hollow Investigator
Sure is something, am I

Right? I have seen both sides
Of the spectrum. I guess I need to start charging
Double for my intel business.
Eh, if I raise my rates, no
One will purchase information from me.

Hmm, alright, well, I am
Especially puzzled by this sudden
Rise in requests about information regarding Hollow Zero.
Everyone's asking for information about it

And I just give them the
Information I am aware of
Now, these requests keep pouring in
There's so many people who want to go there.

Because of that, I want to raise my rates a bit for
Information, so for my most recent client, I made them
Give me their proxy to borrow in

Exchange. I think this is a good deal.
Not like they can refuse.
Our, ahem, my rates are fair.
Uh, anyway, let me
Get myself ready for this deep dive into the
Hollow. To be honest, I still don't think Siorc is ready

For this, when a mission inside Hollow Zero starts we're separated from
One another, and he isn't
Ready for that reality.

Though, I suppose,
He'll be fine,
Especially since, uh, one of the members of H.A.N.D6 will be

There, I think her name is Sou----?
Hmm, yes, that's her name.
Right, the blue imp.
Eh, that's a little rude to her, um, that hungry girl. I should give her some crackers,
Eh, alright, alright.

Onwards to Hollow Zero, Siorc is driving pretty much the speed limit, so
For now, we're almost there.

Uh, give or take, we'll be there
Shortly. I hope he knows what he's getting himself into."

Parking his car, the chimera soon found himself in a weird room inside a low ceiling building. Spotting a huge Hollow in the corner of the area, the hyena blinked. Wow that was a big one, wasn't it? Did he even have what it take to go in there? Now, he really wasn't sure. Seeing a strange weird man with a hood heading for the computer system, the chimera readied to hop right in.

Seeing a young girl with spiky white hair, blue skin, and black horns her white jacket was growling. Hearing such, the chimera scribbled away, handing her a piece of paper that said, hungry? Here, take an energy bar, the gang leader dug through his pocket. Can't have someone starving inside a big hollow like this. They'd be dead weight.

"Oh, really, this is for me?!" the blue horn girl exclaimed. "Thanks, mister! I was really hungry!"

<Vidame says she's always hungry,> Wisty said in its own language.

"Alright, Siorc, it's time to head into the Hollow," Vidame said. "Are you ready?" But, she had soon been interrupted.

"Wait, Vidame, you're not going to guide us through this one?" Aigre asked.

"And let you two do this all by yourself? No, and no," Vidame responded, shaking her head. "Maybe for once, I want to enter a hollow."

"Sheesh, it's not like I'm stopping you, or anything!" Aigre cried. "Alright, let's go in, then!"

Wisty and he walking through the Hollow, a rather strange place awaited him on the other side. Deep corridor full of Etherals he had never seen before, the hyena cursed his decision to not investigate Hollows in the past month. A new obstacle he had never seen before. His fault for taking time away to avoid P.O.N.E.C.

But, such had not been the only issue. Aigre, the blue horned girl and Vidame nowhere to be seen, he could feel ice grow on his shoulder. It was just him, huh? Would he be able to finish this mission in six hours? He sure hoped so, but the prospects were not looking likely in any capacity. Strange Bangboo in the shape of a blue avocado walking by, the mechanical creature soon spoke.

<Hey, you better get a move on!> Blue Avocado Bangboo screamed. <The Etherals in here are pretty rowdy. I'll try to get you back with your companions, aight? So, follow me.>

Blue Avocado running along, the hyena chased after it. So what if he was alone in here? No problem. So what if he was maybe a little rusty? No problem, no problem, he's got this in the bag. Two handed sword slipped into his gloves, he was ready for action. Mechanical beast ready for cleanup, all shouts were on deck.

Bringing his A-game, Wisty and he had begun their electrifying match against the strange mechanical monsters. Projectiles coming his way, the hyena let out a scream. Ah, great, these creatures were ones with far range attacks. He wasn't cut out for this. He wasn't cut out for this at all. But, he knew he had to do it. He had to win. The clock was ticking.

Going on for some time solo, he had soon been accompanied by other Bangboos. Where did this Proxy get those from? He hardly knew anything about the deep dive system. That was Vidame's job, not his. Mechanical beings lending their assistance, the creature of the deep let out a roar. Barrier acquired, the gang leader grit his teeth. Great, he wasn't prepared for this at all, awesome.

Soon hearing the sound of a phone ringing, the chimera could hear Vidame's voice on the other end of the line. Penguin Information broker coming running, her hammer had been ready and waiting. Tagging in, the young adult backed up a smidgeon. Fiery flowers gifted, he had soon been tagged in once more.

"Take this, Voltage Crocus!" Siorc shouted.

Electrifying flower gifted, the young adult let out a battle cry. Defenses kicking back in, he groaned. He really had fallen out of practice with fighting inside these places, for sure. He needed to take more of these missions again. His fault for sleeping on this for so long. Keeping focused, his blade did the talking.

Blue Avocado Bangboo ringing, yet another phone call had soon echoed throughout the area. Hearing Aigre's voice on the other end, the hungry blue horned girl and she had dashed along the way. Horn girl dropping down a huge blade with full force, she let out her own rounds of shouts for everyone to hear.

"Sou----, ready!" the girl shouted.

Creature frozen into a ball of ice, Aigre came achargin. Double blades laying down the law, the hyena swore he could hear the shields begin to die down. This was it, the final countdown. The etheral creature's last stand. Feeling his energy mount to maximum, an explosive flower had been dealt to the enemy. But, he could soon feel a tap on his shoulder.

"Siorc, I want to finish it off," Vidame whispered.

Shrugging, the chimera let Vidame tag herself in. Hammer glowing quite ferociously, the penguin information broker took the leap of faith. Blunt force kicking into overdrive, the Bangboo army let themselves down into the mix with full force. Watching Vidame's hair glow a bright red, she let out a scream at the top of her lungs.

"These magnolias will silence you in the name of fire!" Vidame shouted.

Etheral taken out of the picture in a burning passion, the party of three had soon exited the hollow. Blue horned girl returning to her group, the chimera gazed at Vidame. He supposed he'd let her take the bigger cut for today. Returning to Veiled Whisper, the client clapped his gloves together.

"Only took you four hours, very impressive!" the masked man exclaimed. "Consider the bonus yours!"

Eight-hundred-thousand Dennies awarded, the hyena was practically swimming in the dough. One-third of the money, all his. He was loaded once again! What an excellent feeling. Everyone taking their thirty-three, thirty-three, thirty-four cut, the chimera allowed Vidame take one percent more than everyone else.

"You sure about this?" Vidame asked. "You usually take the higher cut."

Nodding, the chimera scribbled away, writing down, you defeated the enemy, it's only fair, the hyena shrugged. It's not like that was a big difference anyway. Veiled Whispered closed up for the day, the hyena returned to the upstairs floor. Gazing out the balcony, he saw a face he did not wish to see.

Spotting a young woman with short green hair pulled into a ponytail, the gang leader dashed back indoors. Oh, great, <redacted> was in town. Why now? Why was <redacted> here? If she learned of his activities, she would come to his shop and confront him. No, no, no, he could not let her see him.

Rocking back and forth, he could feel a weight drop down on his back. <Redacted> go away, <redacted> get away from here. This is his territory. His alleyway, his streets. Thoughts clumping together one after another, the chimera crawled into his warm bed. Closing his eyes, he drifted off it sleep. Dream world readying to take him away, one last thought kicked in.

<Redacted>, please leave.

<Redacted>, please leave.

---

Honestly time? lol I threw this together in four hours. This is the last part of part 1 of Zenless Zone Zero Siorc, I am moving onto another faction next. Siorc's will be a trilogy. The others? Probably not. One of my factions was hinted at in the last part, Maid In Heaven. So, when I write theirs, it'll take place while Siorc's faction was doing their hired hits.

 

[Palamon]

Maid In Heaven's Hollow Paradise: Carrots + Drills

---

"Sup, bro! Name's Éclater!
Uh, are you new here?
Perchance, are you lost?

Fufufu, of course you are.
Of course you are. I've
Literally never seen you round these parts before, ya
Know?! Not once,
State your business! Right

Now, please!
Are you here for coffee, tea?
My services? Special services?
Ehehe, newbie, do want me to
Serve you in drag?

Eh? So you don't understand this little
Cafe? Okay, so
Lemme explain it!
Ah, so, lemme
Tell ya! This is a theme cafe! I might be called
Eclater, but I also go by Claire! Newbie, you're
Really weird! Hope you know that!

But if you're here for me
Uhuhu, I will serve you. What's
This months theme,

You ask? I'll tell you! Don't freak
Out, okay?
Uh, alright! This months theme is

Cross play! Okay, that's
A common theme here cause
Not many people in New Eridu want to see a man maid.

Could ya blame us for
Assuming lady personas?
Look, I'mma be real with you, we're hollow investigators! And
Like, if you're a cute gal, you

Might get more information!
Eh, that's like, super twisted? You

Bet, but honestly, do
Ya know what happens around here?

Maybe you're just too new here to understand!
Ya know newbie, being new doesn't

Mean you can be
All ignorant, and stuff!
It's kinda pretty
Dumb of you to act all

Noxiously stupid like this!
Anyway, let go and continue
Maybe you might have heard
Everything already since you

Came all this way.
Look, I ain't gotta clue
About you. Never seen ya
I'm pretty hidden from the
Rest of New
Eridu. Well, most peeps

Only know about my little spot.
Right soo, I

Eclair, that's my non drag
Cafe name, by the way my
Little eater character, who
Adores eclairs from the bottom of my soul! That's weird?! Okay, bro,
I don't get you, you're a
Rather odd fellow, newbie.

I just don't get you.

At least pretend like you care,
Maybe? You

Are such a weird dude. Please

Get with the program, kay?
Ugh, so annoying (lol.)
Perhaps you're just
Pointlessly confused
Yeah, that's it. You
Might be just
A little confused.
I get it, aren't we all?
Doesn't this world feel like it's falling

Apart? It really does, doesn't it?
Now, lemme ask you this,
Do you feel powerless?

Of course ya do,
Well, it's like
Not that great that New
Eridu is full of hollows,
Right? Course it ain't!

Oh, but don't you
Fret cause we have a job

To do, and that's destroying
Hollows! All of them!
Eh, what do ya mean I already

Mumbled bout that?
Are you even listening to me?
I think ya ain't! You
Don't understand this at all, do you?

Come on, now!
At least listen when I'm
Flapping my gums!
Eh, so yeah, like I and

My two other employees
Are the dudes to go to
In order to get some
Deets on hollows,

If you need our help, lend us your
Name, and the location of the

Hollow, and us maids shall be at your
Ever beacon
And call! I would
Very much like to serve you,
Even if you're a little
Numb in that brain of yours!

Well, no matter! You may be a
Horribly dumb and all that noise, but
Even so! I'll lend you a
Right fin! Oh, what? You don't
Even know what that means?

I'm a guppymaid! Oh, wait you

Ain't got no clue what that
Might be, do you?

Aight, guess I owe you an explanache.

Bro, what? Talk normally?
Ugh, kay, fun police.
That's your new name by the way,
Little fun police! Alright I owe you an
Explanation! Better, little fun police?
Really picky with words,

Aren't ya? I just don't getya.
Now, lemme just say
Dis. I am what you call a chimera.

I've been told we're

A very rare race. There's
Likely only three hundred of us at most! I'm
So special, huh?
Oh, my god? What do ya mean

Get on with it? I'm explaining it to you
Already, aren't I?
I'm going to just assume you heard
Nothing! You really ain't listening, are you?

Haha, course ya ain't!
Okay, so I really need ya to
Listen, newbie. You're
Like super slow
On the uptake, aren't you?
Well, guess so, you're kinda slow,

It's kinda sad for you.
Now, let me continue
For now, okay?
Okay. You better be listening
Real good, bro.
My race is known
As chimera as I already
Told ya! Well, it's not like
I think you're listening to me.
Okay aaaaanyway, I'm
Not going to say

It anymore cause I'm getting a
Teeny, tiny bit annoyed, newbie.

I'm going to just go ahead and
Say you ain't getting it

And, I am going to just

Dive right into
Our services and where they
Go towards. So, first of all, I

Éclater, am the one who can help you get
All your junk outta
The Hollows. All of it! It's a

Done deal, you ask, we go get. So, try
Our services if you lost someone or something in the
Great hollows, I am here to stop your wallowing pain!

What do you mean that's weird?
Oh, my dear, stupid little
Rookie, you are so embarrassing?
Listen, if you simply
Don't get it, I think you should leave!

Ha, you're so persistent, aren't ya?
Okay, since you ain't leaving,
Well, fine, I guess I'll dumb it down
Even though I don't think I can anymore. I
Very much ain't playing around so
Everything you're about to hear.
Right, so listen. There's something we're

After! You wanna know what it is?
No? Man you're no fun, no fun police!
Don't tell me, you're

Scared, aren't you?
Oooh, you are aren't you? You
Might as well see yourself out. New
Eridu is going
To eat you alive, newbie!
I'mma be honest with you,
Maybe you should go somewhere
Else! You just don't got it takes!
So, you really gotta get outta here.

It's not a safe place for stupid people! So,
Take your tush outta here.

I'll have Peltro escort you out!
So, do me a tiny favor and

Please leave! Oh, man, you're a
Real piece a work, aren't ya?
Eh, fine pal, let me go ahead and
Take a moment
To fill you in on the dangers since
You ain't leaving.

Don't get stuck
Inside a hollow, okay?
For someone like you?
For sure is straight up becoming a monster
In no time flat!
Come on, do you really think an
Ugly newbie
Like you got what it
Takes to withstand the force?

Bet you don't!
Ugh, stop making fun of you?
That ain't happening, bucko!

If you're weak, face my scrutiny.

Domini also ain't going to help you,
Okay? So do

Not ask him to guide you
Outta one! You have
To pay us for that! You

Can't even cover the cost, can ya?
Ah, course ya don't!
Right, so if ya can't pay, I
Éclater will leave you in the

Corridors to rot!
Awww, that's mean?
Uh, tough cookies! That's how our
Services work. You pay us to
Enter hollows for you.

That's how it works
Here in Maid In Heaven!
I'm tired of explaining
So stop bothering about

It, Kay? It's like you know getting
Super annoying?!

Hahaha, wimps like you are bound to die in
Over a day here.
What's most astounding by all this

Is that you have
The galls to walk in

Here with no Dennies! We don't
Allow window shopping here!
So, could you please

Be a doll and
Exit already? Please vacate like, now.
Evacuate my cafe right
Now. I am not going to say it again.

For gods sake, you are blocking
Out what I'm saying, aren't ya?
Roar, you're really starting to make me

Angry bro. I have given you enough chances to
Wander out, but you're still
Here. Please, see yourself out before
I physically throw you out.
Losers like you are
Extremely annoying, you

Should know that! Loitering is
Our biggest no here, so

Come on! Time to get
Out. Do I have to
Mutter again just for you to
Even hear me? Man, you're

One annoying loser, aren't ya?
Now, I am going to say

This one last time
As I'm about to
Kick you out bro, get outta New
Eridu. You're nothing more than

A weak little loser who's going to

Stop being alive the moment you
Enter a Hollow, even if it's by
Accident! And by the way, if
That happens, at all

At any given point, I will
Not be helping you unless you pay me
Dennies, mmk? So, get lost in that

Hollow, and you're on your own.
And, if I were you, I'd learn the rules
Very quickly around here. New
Eridu? This place isn't

Fun and games! It's the last civilization
Upon humanity, animalanity and chimerity.
Not like you know all that!

How could you don't
Even know you're way
Round these parts! New
Eridu is a good eat dog world! Are

You the hunter,
Or are you about to become the hunted?
Ugh, ya know what? You know

What wimp?
I'm done with you? Get out!
Looks like this
Loser is finally gone,

Let's celebrate this
Occasion, bros. Their
Very annoying butt has been
Expelled? Cheers!

I coulda been nicer?
That's not gonna help them! Oh well, aaanyway, getting a new client now, byeee. Scat."

A short, adult male with messy blueish grey hair slapped on a little mascara on his eyelashes. Pink eyes with square pupils immediately sparkling up a storm, he spritz on some tail oil. Bright silver guppy tail swishing from behind him, a loud, goofy laugh penetrated through the walls. Today was going to be a great day.

Brushing his hair, a loose bit of locks draped over his chest. His hair was annoying, as usual! Too bad there wasn't AI for everything, he'd so have artificial intelligence brush his hair for him. Sweet, sweet time saved, the lotta it. Or all of it, rather, 'cause who would ever bother to do anything again if everything was automated?

Black maid dress with green sleeves, apron, and frilly skirt, a cat shaped chest hole had been in the center of his uniform. Maid mode: on! Pitching his voice upward as the fake bottom lashes were put on, he couldn't help but feel the same thrill he always did. Here's to another day of good business here in New Eridu's top maid café, Maid In Heaven.

{Ring, Ring, Master Eclater, you have a new message in the group chat. Would you like for me to read it out loud for you?}

Artificial intelligence screaming out to him, Eclater reached for his sword. This stupid notification fiend! Didn't his phone assistant know he was busy, gettin' ready for business here? Hmph, alright, maybe he didn't need AI for everything. What a stupid thing to even consider! The advent of technology has gone too far.

"I ain't gonna let you read my texts for you!" Eclater cried.

{Initiating reading mode. New message from Domini...}

"Cancel!" Eclater shouted.

{Got it. I will stop reading.}

Groaning, Eclater could feel his mascara begin to run. Redoing it, he opened his phone. Seeing he had twenty unread messages, he could hardly believe what he was witnessing. His employees were quite the talkative buggers today, he sees. Could these two maybe, he doesn't now, slow it down a notch? Too long didn't read, bros.

{Maid in Heaven Group Chat}.

{Domini}
{Mornin'.}

{Peltro}
{Mornin'.}

{Domini}
{You hear the news last night, Pelt?}

{Peltro}
{'Course I did. Pops always got the news on. So, no matter what time of day it is, I gotta listen to that trash, ya know? Like, he's always got that dang tv on. All day long.}

{Domini}
{Yikes. So, like, how's your electric bill doing these days?}

{Peltro}
{Pretty bad, bro. Lemme tell you. Pops came and installed like some AI program recently to change the channel for him 'cause he's lazy and stuff, and now our electric bill costs triple of what it used to!}

{Domini}
{Dang, that's kinda rough, bro. You should kick your pops out.}

{Peltro}
{Don't ya think I've tried that, like multiple times already? Bro and I have been attempting to tell him to get outta our house for ages now! He won't. Goes and say, [how dare you try and kick out your pops. I put you in the world!]

{Domini}
{Playing the we're family card on you, how low.}

{Peltro}
{Tell me bout it. Can't get rid of him.}

{Domini}
{Glad I moved out when I did. My sister and I couldn't stand our folks.}

{Peltro}
{Thought you couldn't stand your sister, either?}

{Domini}
{I did say that, bro. I've said it multiple times already, didn't I? My sister is quite literally the most annoying person here! She's an information broker. And, can you believe how much she charges for her services? It's maddening! Absolutely insane how much she can get away with 'cause she's in some gang or hitman service. People would be willing to pay their lives away just to give and get intel!}

{Peltro}
{Dude, that's crazy.}

{Domini}
{I know, right? Say it louder for the people in the back.}

{Peltro}
{Where's boss, though? He's usually typing away like mad by now.}

{Domini}
{Probably yelling at his AI assistant to not read his texts out loud for him.}

{Peltro}
{You psychic or somethin' bro?}


{Domini}
{Nah. It's a given at this point.}

{Peltro}
{Right. How could I forget something so important? It's always the same every single day! I mean, you've been to his house before, right? He always spends the most time out of the three of us to get ready. Har har.}

{Eclater}
{Good morning, my lovely employees! I see you're saying nice things about me as usual! And, I'll have you know that chit chatting in the work group chat about your family lives is strictly prohibited! This isn't your personal diary!}

{Domini}
{Woah! Hello boss, good morning!}

{Peltro}
{Whoopsie did we break one of the company's rules? Sorry, bro.}

{Eclater}
{Don't call me your bro, I'm your boss. I'm not your pal.}

{Domini}
{Alright, alright, I get it, sheesh. Not your pal, we're your employees. So, anyway, what's this month's theme at the café?}

{Peltro}
{Oh, riiiiiiiiiiight, it's the first of the month, isn't it?}

{Domini}
{Yeah, month rolled over!}

{Peltro}
{Neat. Yeah, boss, give us the deets. What's this month's theme in the café?}

{Eclater}
{Crossplay. Don't you two ever read your calendars or schedule? Crossplay. I don't know why you two never read anything!}

{Peltro!}
{Boss, your handwriting is awful! We can never read that chicken scratch!}

{Domini}
{You should be a doctor instead because your scribbles are fit for them.}

{Eclater}
{Okay! God, enough! Anyway, this month's theme is crossplay again.}

{Domini}
{Ugh, I have to be Dana again? I thought I told you I don't enjoy crossplaying. Girls care so much about things that don't matter. I don't get why I have to dress as one.}

{Peltro}
{I think we should change the name of it to something else. Also, I don't like my gal name, Patricia. I'll have you know that I ain't a dude.}

{Eclater}
{We're not doing that, alright? You know the only way people will give us information about the hollows is to assume the role of ladies. So, stuff your chests with loads of tissues, Dana and Patricia, we have customers to attend to!}

{Domini}
{Fine.}

{Peltro}
{Whatever you say, boss.}

{Eclater}
{See you two at the café.}

-This is the most recent message.-

Closing his phone, Eclater put on a little lip gloss. Hopping into his car, he was off to the races. Today would be yet another day at the Maid in Heaven café. Flooring it, he was in the need for speed. There had been more hollow reports lately, huh? That would mean business is going to be booming! Of course business would be booming. Everyone would be lined up at the door to tell them about a Hollow Warning.

But, as he sped the vehicle up, he could hear a siren coming up behind him. Ah, great, speed limit zone! Where did that stupid thing come from? Who cares how fast he's going, it's not like it matters! Like, hello? This road is empty! Totally and utterly barren of people. This cop can eat a brick for all he cares! Black haired police officer walking towards his window, he pulled the pane down.

"Excuse me, miss! Do you know how fast you were going?" the black haired cop lady asked. "I'm going to need you to slow down."

Cop back seating his driving, Eclater was ready to speed off. But like, who cares how fast he was going? Ain't like anyone was on the road right now! Like, hello? He should give this loser police woman a piece of his mind. He's seen her go like, hundreds when she's on patrol! Time to play the dumb card.

"Oh, I'm sorry, miss Z-- Y---, I left my glasses at home, so I can't read anything!" Eclater said, in a high pitched unfaltering feminine sounding voice. "Could you pwease wet it swide? I'm just a silly bimbo, te hee!"

"I--. What?" the police officer said. "Are you trying to talk your way out of getting a ticket?"

"Miss, it's wike I said!" Claire exclaimed. The eyes were shimmering like a sad puppy as such continued. "I can't read my dashboard, so I can't see how fast I'm going? Pwease can't you forgive a cute lass like me? Pwomise it won't happen again!" But, another stupid cop soon flocked in like a bird.

"Z-- Y---, is this girl giving you trouble?" another cop asked.

Young looking cop with long green hair pulled into twintails, Eclater knew exactly how to deal with her kind. So, like, she was one of those side kick cops, right? He knew how to get rid of her! He should mention there's a crime going on somewhere else, fake explosion sound played, he could see the shocked look on the girl's face.

"Oh, dear, hear that? The street gangs are acting up again, better do something about it!" Claire cried.

"Let's go Qin---!" the black haired cop shouted.

Cops all gone, Eclater sped away at full speed. Operation get rid of the police was a success. They were so dumb, and easy to get rid of. Reaching the back parking lot after about five minutes, he rolled up his sleeves. It's go time. Time to serve the people some tea. Hollow tea. The usual, of course. How it always went.

Business swamped right out the gate, he could hear multiple people crying out for food and attention. Beautiful, amazing. There were quite a lot of people to grind information from, uh, he means, serve them lovely food and drinks! Of course that's the real business here, totally. One hundred fifty percent!

Waiting the tables in the corner had been a short dude with short golden blond hair that went down to about near his chin. Golden penguin crests and orange eyes, his feminine outfit had been with a spiky collar. Biting his lip upon seeing such, he tried to not try and rip it off. He thought he said no neckwear! His employees don't listen, do they?

In the kitchen had been a a short masculine appearing person with medium length blue violet hair that went down to about their chest. Adorning a feminine butler outfit, his eyes twitched. He thought he said this month's theme was crossplay? These two sure loved breaking all the rules, didn't they? But, whatever, he can't do anything without these two.

"Morning, boss," Peltro said.

"Good morning, 'Patricia'," Claire responded. "Anyone have any hollow news amongst the customers?"

"Mmm, I dunno, they said they didn't wanna tell me," Patricia responded, shaking their head. "Told me they won't say nothin' unless Claire serves 'em." As he said such, Domini walked over.

"That's right. They have no intention of telling us anything unless you serve them," Domini said. "They kept on saying. 'Gimme more tea!' And 'Gimme more cookies!' These people aren't interested in us."

Rejections coming his way Claire couldn't help but let out a laugh. Why were these two such failures at getting information? Ah, these two were his idiots, after all. They should be glad he hired them in the first place. Without him, he's sure they both would be swimming in centuries worth of debt! They should be thankful!

"It's because you two don't put any effort into your appearance!" Claire shouted. "So, watch and learn!"

Grabbing the plate of cook food, Claire strolled towards the table in question. People cheering his maid name, he could feel his nose grow twenty times bigger. See? This is what it's like to be popular, boys! No one ever chants either of their names in this café. Not a single person in New Eridu ever does! Amateurs.

"Claire!" his customer shouted. "Pleasure to see you!"

"Pleasure's all mine, te hee," Claire responded, giggling. "So, what can I get for you today! Us princesses here at Maid In Heaven will do our best to help with your request!"

"We'd like to order one of your finest carrots," the customer said out loud.

Secret phrase said, Eclater twiddled his thumbs. Excellent, eggcelent. Someone was requesting his hollow investigation services. Today was already shaping out to be a lovely day! First customer of the day, and he scored big. It usually took two or three or so before he got the juicy deets. Okay, he was intrigued now, time to hit him up.

"Okaaay, one carrot coming up, master, te hee!" Claire giggled. Rummaging through his pocket, he soon lowered his voice into a whisper. "So, tell me, what business ya got with us."

"Someone's after our goods that got lost in the Hollow," the customer said, voice deep. "Could you go in there and take care of the rats trying to take our stuff?"

"Of course, master, the pleasure's ours!" Claire cried. "We'll get right to it!" He then lowered his voice into a whisper. "Patricia, tell everyone the café is closed now."

"Huh? Already?" Peltro asked.

"Yes, already, announce it." There was a serious tone in Eclater's voice.

"We regret to inform you that Maid In Heaven is closed for today!" Peltro shouted.

Customers crying in confusion, everyone petered out. Bangboo turning itself on, everyone jumped into the car. Coordinates given to the general location of the hollow, Eclater floored it, it was time to go contact that legendary proxy before jumping into the rainbow abyss! Going maximum speed, he could soon hear one of his employees shout.

"Eclater, why do you drive so fast?!" Domini cried. "Dude, come on, I've told you to drive the speed limit!"

"Silence!" Eclater shouted. "We don't have time to deal with this! Gotta go fast!"

Zooming faster, he could hear his employees continue to yell. But, Eclater would not back down. Did these two ever think that, for a moment, he was right for speeding here? It's not like anyone was on the road right now! That's right! No one was. He could floor as he wished. Sixth Street coming up fast, he reached maximum speed, but he could hear the protests again.

"Boss, come on, it's not like the proxies are goin' anywhere!" Domini shouted.

"You don't know that! We gotta go fast!" Eclater protested.

"He's right, you know. The proxies are pretty popular around here," Peltro said, eyes closed. "A lot of people beg them for their help."

"See? And that's why we have to go fast!" Eclater exclaimed. "Hang on, I'm going the fastest possible." Maximum car speed reached, the screams continued. But, he didn't care. He didn't care at all.

Business waits for no one.

***

"Are you kidding me? That stupid gang with their stupid drills
Has jumped into the Hollow! How dare they! It's first come, first serve

You know! I set my sights on this hollow first! These
Ethereals are mine! And this is also mine! These
Stupid gang and their itch for defeating stuff. Uh, huh?

My goodness! The heck
You want, newbie? Why are you here again? You

Really know how to annoy a guy, don't you?
I swear to go, I thought I told you to
Vacate the premises!
Are you stalking me and other chimeras?
Literally, what's wrong with you? You're
Such a loser, ya know that?

My god, people like
You, I swear to god, you're all a bunch of leeches.

So, lemme ask you something
That you can't refuse to answer by the way!
Ugh, why are you following me around,
Perchance, are you obsessed with chimeras?
If you are, I got some news for you!
Don't be, kay? Freaking weirdo.

Right, so what do you want, anyway?
I already told you my services do not extent to
Vapid idiots like you,
And if you get lost in the hollow,
Like, I ain't helping you.
So, don't come to me crying for helping.

Don't expect none from me!
Roar, people like you,
I know how you all act. You
Like to cling to the strong
Like a leech and proceed to suck us

Dry. If those are your intentions, I'm going to take this
Opportunity to say,
Zipper it. And don't
Expect us to help you under that pretense. My services are
Rigid! I don't help the completely

Helpless, got it?
Oh, that's horrible of me?
Well, many other people will say the same thing, so

Don't act like this is your first rodeo of rejection!
Ah, what? You mean to say you went to a flower shop and they
Rejected you, too? Listen, newbie!
Everyone here isn't created equal. If

They rejected your requests, too,
Hundreds others will as well! That's life! The
End all be all! Whatever,
You know what? I need

To have a word with Phaethon so, could ya shut up?
Haha. Kay, so here
I gooooooooooo. I'm going to knock.
Now, here I go.
Knock, knock, knock. Phaethon let me iiiiiiiiiiiiiin, it's

The lovely, beautiful, and
Have I mentioned sexy, Claire?
Ehehehe. What, that's the stupidest line you've ever heard?
You know, honestly, you're more of a loser than I thought. We're all told to

Come in, and of course,
As it's me, the leader of Maid an Impact, they greet me
Nicely. So nicely, you have no idea.

'Come in, Claire,
Or are you Eclair today?
Maybe neither of these points
Even matters right now, cause at the moment

I'm just a mere hollow investigator in a
Nice little maid outfit!
The name doesn't matter, now does it?
'Oh, you can just refer to us collectively as Maid An Impact,' I said.

The blue haired girl in the room, I think she's jealous I'm prettier than
Her in drag, or something 'cause she always looks at me like
I'm a loser who shouldn't be awarded business.
So, like, what's up with that,

Huh? Miss Be--- sure is
Obnoxious. She can't even be bothered to
Look nice! Look, if she ain't
Like me, that's her problem.
Okay, so like,
Where was I? Oh, right.

Anyway, that's when I say, 'We
Need your help navigating us through a hollow in this location!' I show them the
Dot on the map. Grey haired dude studies it for a moment,

Then says, 'That's an
Abandoned building. You sure you three aren't being tricked?' I don't
Know what Phaethon is thinking, but that's
Easily the wrongest bull muck I have ever heard.

Maybe we're being tricked, no way Pheathon!
You're simply crazy for thinking that.

That's ridiculous, don't you think?
As if anyone would ever try to trick me into following a fake lead! You
Really had to go and say that
Garbage to me! You are
Especially a loser, ya know
That? A big one for that.

I swear, you two are just a bunch of

Hogwash! You should know by now that
Our service is top rate!
Perhaps you have gotten weird clients who are tricking you, but not I!
Everyone in my café, yes, and I mean every single one of

Them that has hollow business for me, they
Hardly ever lie! So, I'd can it if I were you!
Eck, these morons, I swear,
You know, this is why I've

Been telling Domini to reconcile with his sister,
Even though I now he won't, I
Could use her intel services.
Oh, well, I guess I can just
Make her act as my proxy without telling Domini.
Eh, that's low of me? For the love of?

Every time I hear your voice, newbie, you
Take a moment to annoy me even more!
How does that make you feel? It should make you feel horrible!
Eh, well, anyway, the proxy has agreed to guide us through this hollow,
Right, so here I go! Driving up to the abandoned building! I,
Eclater, am perfect for this job, so everyone, that's right,
Allow me to repeat what I just said, everyone, should worship the ground I walk on!
Like, of course they should, I'm the perfect Hollow Investigator, am I not?
So buckle up, and watch me as I magnificently get back the item the client asked for!"

Reaching the abandoned building, a rainbow dome awaited Maid An Impact. Hopping in, Eclater could feel the blood rush through him. Ah, there it was, like usual, the beautiful hollow. It had been so long since he had tried to delve into these. Well, alright, it was like, what, a week or so? Whatever! That might as well have been forever.

Finding himself in an extremely run down building filled to the brim with suitcases, Eclater let out a loud laugh. Oh? Was someone else in here? He had heard there were some weirdos around these part in some sort of gang trying to wiggle their way into hollows to reap the rewards, or whatever. A bunch of losers leaving decoys around to get the praise and recognition of being a hollow investigator. But, he wouldn't allow losers to impede on his space!

Spotting a young girl with blonde hair a spiky helmet, and a bat, a her sleepy blond partner with dumb little hammer, Eclater couldn't help but feel the blood rush. Oh, what was this? The Sons of Calydon, what were they doing in here? Trying to steal the prize. Haha, what a bunch of losers. He was going to take them out and get the prize before they did!

But, those weren't the only people in his way. He could see a group of faces he wanted nothing to do it. His ex sister's little gang. Those little freaks and losers who thought drills were better than swords. Hmph, buncha freaks. Spiky pink haired loser with gazelle horns, a belly shirt and a sunburn over their tanned skin, their drills for hands looked like garbage. God, could Drill Dozers buzz off? This lot were freaks.

Young woman with short maroon hair pulled into two twintails holding a saw in her left hand, Eclater cracked his knuckles. Ah, yes, his ex-sister, Kali. He thought he had disowned her a million years ago. Matching blue belly shirt with gazelle loser, he huffed. He thought he had been rid of her yet. Yet, here she is! Ruining everything!

Blond man with golden penguin crests, the loser had a braid going through the top parts of his head. Orange belly shirt to match the fashion was a disaster. Bro thinks he's one of the team! Disgusting freckles all over his face, Eclater shielded his eyes. His eyes! Couldn't someone think about his precious eyes?

"Hello, ex-sister of mine," Eclater said, voice cold. "Get out of here, Kali, this is my Hollow! I claimed it first!"

"Not you too, Earl, ex-cousin," Domini said. "Why are you here?"

"Your hollow, former brother of mine?" Kali asked, laughing. "Nope! That's a load of bull. The Sons of Calydon and I found it first! Right, Lu--? Pi---?"

Silence.

"Huh? Yeah, that's right!" Lu-- shouted. "Tell 'em Pi---."

"So sleepy..." Pi--- said.

Group of losers in front of him, Eclater cracked his knuckles. Right, sure they found this Hollow first. That's a load of muck! He ain't buying it. This gang, the Drill Dozers was here to steal the stuff their clients left behind in here, that was it! Of course that was it. He knew how much his own kin despised him, and that goes double his way!

"Stop calling me your ex-cousin," Earl whined. "That is so rude! We're free to explore Hollow as we wish!"

"This is your brother, babe?" the spiky pink haired person asked.

"Ahem, Kerry, my dear Kelebek, ex-brother, I've completely disowned him!" Kali exclaimed. "A-anyway! Drill Dozers are going to get the treasure first. Come on, Lu--, sick em!"

Blonde girl throwing her dumb little toys, Eclater tossed them back like they were baseballs. Oh, she wanted to play hardball, huh? Well, he'd give her hardball. Swiping with all his might, those weak toys were pummeled into the ground one after another. Turning towards Peltro, he could feel his blood boiling high.

"Patricia, show 'em what real drills look like!" Eclater exclaimed.

"You got it, boss!" Peltro exclaimed, revving up their drills. "Hold on, a sec, don't call me Patricia in here!"

"Too bad, already did!" Eclater cried. "Now sick 'em. Show 'em what real drills are made of!"

Peltro revving up their drills, right in the weak spot, the bodies had begun to pile themselves up. Ha, these five called themselves Hollow Investigators? They were no match for Maid An Impact! They were all weak losers, the whole lot of them. Did they really think they stood a match against them? Of course they ain't got none! He was perfect!

Etherals surrounding the treasure, Eclater threw his blade into the mix. There sure were a lot of beasts in here, huh? Ha, amateurs, there's no way they were any match for him, let alone the other maids in his army. Watch out, monsters, they were about to get what was coming to them! Tapping in his energy, he jumped back.

"Dana, now!" Eclater shouted.

"Time to play some hardball!" Domini exclaimed.

Ethereals already looking weak, Eclater had gone achargin it. Heh, these wimpy creatures, they ain't got nothing on him! If he had a level, he'd be at the maximum possible. 'Course he would! After all, he was perfect at everything he ever did. He outmatched everyone, and everything. The ultimate maid. Watch out Victoria Housekeeping. Tapping in his energy again, he readied for the parry.

"Come on, Patricia, give 'em heck!" Eclater cried.

"Drills, drills, drill!" Peltro exclaimed.

Feeling the power of ice within him, Eclater turned towards his backside, guppy tail frozen solid, the enemy had soon been a block of nothing. Blade cut in deep, no enemies stood in his way. Ah, yes, sweet, sweet victory. The beautiful win he deserved. How it always was. Finding the goods, Maid An Impact stormed out the hollow head held strong.

Returning to the café, the goods had been delivered. Paid handsomely, the spoils had been split between the party of three. Another job well done by Maid In Heaven, the only worthy maid café in all of New Eridu! No one would ever match him and his strength. He was the only worthy Hollow Investigator service on the block. Drill Dozers, move over! That stupid flower shop on the other side of the street? Move over!

Closing up shop for the day, Eclater sped on home. But, he couldn't help but feel a pang of rage. His ex-sister, Kali, who did she think she was targeting the same Hollow he had been? How dare she. What a loser. He thought he told her that she needed to stay away from him. Climbing into bed, he was ready to catch the zs.

Next time he sees her, she's going to get it. She was going to get it.

He'll get revenge, sweet sweet revenge.

---

This is the second anecdote saga, featuring Zenless Eclater and his faction, Maid An Impact, they work at a made cafe known as Maid In Heaven or you know, a pun on Maiden...lol. This one is two parts because there isn't much to focus on yet for them. Anyway, wow, a non Siorc anthology. Wild, am I right?

 

[Palamon]

Maid In Heaven's Hollow Paradise: Shiyu Defense

---

"Sup, it's your favorite maid, Éclater,
Uwu! What? Don't make that face?! Oh,
Please, newbie? You ought to know by now,

I'm the owner of a
Theme café! It seems you have completely forgotten!

It's kind of sad, really how
Super dumb and pathetic

You've become! You don't know
Anything pretty much at all, huh, fresh

Meat? You clearly don't have
Anything about New Eridu, honestly,
I can hardly believe you're still alive! Thought you'd have
Died by now at least

Eighteen times over! Oh
Could it be, you found someone powerful to
Leech off of? Oh, pray tell!
Are you in the big wigs now?
That's pretty crazy from a weakling like you!
Even crazier to think you survived! You're
Really weak, newbie!

Ah, stop insulting you? No!
Gag, you say the dumbest things
All the time, huh?
It's not happening sorry! You're
Not up for snuff, and I will say it to

Your face! You're pathetic and weak! And,
Of course trash
Upon trash upon trash! I

Know it's super hard for you to accept, but it's true! What?! It's
Not? Listen you,
Obviously, you really need a clear reminder about
What New Eridu is.

We're in a post apocalyptic world with Hollows, like
Hello! Did you forget
All that, newbie? Is
That head of yours even screwed on properly?

It really isn't, hehe.

Hahaha, uwu, newbie, you
Are such a little pathetic and
Very weak loser! I'm sure
Everyone is laughing at you as we speak!

Because, it's pretty obvious to me how
Especially brainless you are!
Ehehe, oh, what I
Need to stop bullying you?

Ha! First off, no, and second off?
Eh! No. I will continue to go
And do so, since you being here in the first place is
Rather humiliating, wouldn't you say?
It's quite pathetic that you have
Not yet left this place!
Get out of New Eridu,

And go somewhere that'll take you with
Big, open arms!
Oh? What? There's nowhere else to go? There is
Uwu, Lumina Square! Do make me repeat all of
This again! You're making me super angry,

Like, I'm fuming with rage right now!
Ah! What did you just say
To me? That's pathetic?
Eh, who do ya think you are!
Look, here, you stupid newbie!
You stupid, stupid, stupid, stupid

Stupid, stupid, stupid, stupid newbie. I
Hardly care about what
It is someone like
You, the weakest of them all,
Ultimately has to say to me!

Do you understand, loser?
Everything you say holds no value! Absolutely none!
For you have no powers, you ain't got nothing!
Ehehe, see? You've got absolutely
Nothing! Isn't that
So sad for you?
Everything about you is

Oh so pathetic! And, you
Hardly can argue that can you?

Ah! Whatever! Since you're here,
Now, I gotta ask, what do
Do ya want from me?

Ah! So, you have questions for me?
Let me guess, what have I been up to
Since I last saw you?
Oh, so you really want to know?

So, you really want to know, do you!
Okay, so I'll tell you, since you're so interested,
Mmmk? Since you want to know
Everything so bad! I'll tell you!

So, we haven't been up to anything! What?
That's a load of baloney?
Ugh. You suck so much, you know that?
Perhaps I should tell you again!
I ain't been up to nothing, kay? Uwu.
Do I have to keep making myself clear? I'm a character at this café!

For the love of the gods
It's a maid theme café!
Get that through your
Horribly thick skull okay?
That skull of yours is so thick, it's

Creasing! How hasn't it exploded yet? The brain juice, it's about to
Leak out out of your ears.
Uwu, oh, what was that, still
Bullying you? And get on with

It? Who gave you the right to
Speak? Ugh, fine!

Aight, aight, I'll let you in on what's
Really been happening
Over here in Maid In Heaven.
Ugh, you are a super annoying!
Now, let me just tell you so you
Don't keep on asking and

Staying where you're unwanted, okay? Okay!
Everything has been nothing lately. Do I gotta repeat it again?
Eh, our customers have
Not needed us

To enter the
Hollows hardly as much lately
Eh, yeah, business has been
Monumentally slow as of late.

At least, let me clarify this real quick for you, mmk?

Look, right now
Our entire café is in a hollow decline
There's been quite a

Long few weeks! There's been
A rumor about some placed called Shiyu Defense!
That's quite the name isn't it?
Ehe, so alright, so
Let me start by saying, I have
Yet to get any orders for

An investigation on Shiyu Defense, but I
Need it, ya know! So,
Domini and I have been

Trying to get people to
Have us go there?
Ehe, free drinks?
Yes, that's what we're trying! What?! That's low, I

Know, I know, kay?
It's bribery! But it's
Not like others
Don't do this literally
All the time in

All of their businesses! Huh?!
No, they don't?! Huh,
Newbie?! Do you wanna go?!
Okay, I'll take ya on!
You're so stupid,
It's almost astounding! Do I
Need to go ahead and
Get you out of here?

Kneel before me
If you think I am
Not competent! What
Do you know about business? That's right! You don't know
Anything! You don't know anything,

Hahaha, so anyway, let me just say that
Obviously, this approach of giving free drinks hasn't caught on, so
Peltro and I have been coming up with an
Intricate plot to get people to tell us about Shiyu Defense, but
No one has yet!
Guess it might be time to get more aggressive.

So! Any ideas, newbie?
Oh, for crying out loud?
Maybe don't count
Every egg before it hatches?
Obviously people don't want to give me Intel?
Now, you- Watch your tongue! Another
Egregious word from you,

And I'm kicking you out!
So, either give me a better idea, or I'm
Kicking you out right now on the
Spot! Got it? Are we clear here,

Uwu? Oh, what was that, newbie? Just
Say on front door,

That if they know about Shiyu Defense let us know?
Oh, newbie, you are a moron! We

Tried this already! We have tried that
At least six times now! I
Know it ain't going to work!
Egad are you so stupid that it hurts! What? You

Think someone like Drill Dozers
Has taken all our customers?
Eh, you! You are a
Monster for saying this!

Oh, why would you say such an
Ugly line to me?! You're practically begging me
To throw you out at this point,

It's pretty obvious that is what you're after
Now! A quick way to get me angry! Well,

To be honest, it's working! You
Have achieved your goal, congrats!
Err, anyway, yes, there's been a few losers who

Have dared to try to claim
Our spot and steal it.
Like that stupid former sister of mine? She
Likely planned all this, taking
Our future clients! And,
Well, it seems we have another

One at our hands, too! It's
Really getting on my nerves!

So, yeah, guess what,
One group called FYGHT CLOBB
My god is that name
Egreigous and stupid, by the way!
They seem to be run by Domini's cousins.
Horrible, am I right?
I'm losing to a stupid
Nonsensical brutish fight club! I cannot believe these
Garbage people went and stole my people!

How disgusting of them,
Every single one of those people is
Horrible trash! And you know what? I'll be disposing

Of this trash, this stupid fight club!
How dare they come into my

Turf and take people from my café!
Huh? There's plenty of factions
Around New Eridu? Okay, first of all?
Take that mouths of yours

Inward! And go on now! Zipper it
Shut for me, okay?

Are you just trying to make me mad?

Ha, well, guess what newbie, you already have!
Okay? I am so incredibly in a
Rage, so listen, loser, listen
Right now before I go
In and sew your lips closed! You
Better help me find a way to get a
Little more traffic to my store, or I'll blame
Everything on you, got it?

To be honest, you are so
Horribly ignorant and stupid,
I shouldn't have to say this to you! You
Need to know that things
Get pretty heated between other chimeras and

Their factions! And,
Obviously we are out for blood if you

Should ever dare to step into our territory
And take our bait!
Yes, this includes the cops, P.O.N.E.C, and those losers in Inferno Punishers and Cold Flames! Eh?

What about the Flower Silencers?!
Eh? Who cares about that hit gang?!
Listen, they ain't even that strong, so don't worry 'bout them? Ya got it? I what? Are you even
Listening to a word I'm saying?! Right now? Newbie, I can't stand you!

Too many questions! Too many stupid and
Obnoxious questions from the likes
Of you! You know, I ought to

Bite the bullet on this one
And just kick you out already, kay?
Drill Dozers ain't not nothing, FYGHT CLOBB

Ain't got nothing, Cold Flames ain't got
Nothing, the Flower Silencers, they
Don't got nothing? P.O.NE.C?

They ain't got nothing? The Inferno Punishers?
Obviously, you know what I'm about to
Open my mouth to say, don't you? They ain't got nothing!

Look, I am not the best of the best, course I
Ain't! It's kinda like a given
That those humans are
Especially stronger than

I. Alright, there, I went and admitted it, kay?

Ha! I probably shouldn't have,
And yet, here I am, doing that
Very thing! Well, oh well,
Even if I denied it, it's

As obvious as breathing that there's
Leagues of differences between us!
Really, you should have known by now
Everything in this world is
A tier system. What? I
Don't know what the fluff I'm talking about?
Yes, I do newbie! You know what?

Shut up, get out of here,
And, most important of all, leave!
I'm tired of you, get out!
Domini, do me the honors!

I'm free! Free from that stupid person!
They are finally gone!

So, alright, yes, it's
Obviously true that the business has been very slow lately,

And it's difficult to wager
Now when I'll get my customers back, but
You know, Domini, Peltro and I,
We're about to start discussing it
And finding a way to get traffic back.
Yes, I need people to

Bust in asking us to help get rid of hollows!
Ugh, it has been
So long since
I have stepped into a hollow,
Not like I am always
Expecting those types of customers to
Step in, or anything! Well, I
Should stop lying to myself

Bout it, you know? Fine!
Even though I said all that I always
Except people who are in
Need of our hollow

Services, but nope! It truly
Looks like not a single person wants to.
Oh, well, I will be discussing it.
We will be discussing it! All three of us.

Look, I just don't want to be
A normal café all
The time, kay?
Even though that still makes dennies, it's
Literally nothing in comparison to what we make from Hollow Investigations!
Yikes, to the people who think I'm

Nothing more than a scoundrel!
Everything I do is for New
Eridu! I'm not just in it for the
Dennies! Some people might be!

Some are just in it for the money,
Obviously, some will always be in it for the
Money, but I am not
Ever just doing it
To rank in the Dennies, kay?
How annoying can people be?
It's so disgusting how some seem to think that!
Now it's time to
Get on with the strategy meeting pretty soon.

This time, I will get more customers to come back
Over here! So,

Don't sit around behind the screen? Watch
Our progress unfold on the latest most epic installment in Maid An Impact!"

It had been about three or so weeks since Maid an Impact had dealt with the trash that was the the Drill Dozers. Topping them in absolutely everything, those stupid scum backing off, everything had been business as usual with the theme café of Maid in Heaven. But, at the moment, that had been where the good times died.

Not a single customer asking for hollow services, Eclater could hardly believe what was happening. Where had all the good customers gone? It couldn't have been people were tired of the crossplay theme. That would be so nonsensical. Why had people get tired of a theme in a theme café? That was ludicrous, and he knew it.

But, he had soon found out something rather darnding. His customers had been taken up by someone else. A stupid group of fighters, the FYGHT CLOBB had scooped up his usual dear guests. Those stupid, annoying losers, how dare they think they could take away their regulars like that, why he oughta. Have a meeting about it.

Lifting up from his bed, Eclater rushed through his morning routine. He didn't have to sit around anymore. Today, once and for all he was going to get his customers back! And, he's going to get to go on new Hollow investigations. Mark his words, that stupid FYGHT CLOBB is going down. And they were going down fast.

Hair brushed, cowlicks stuck upward, but he hardly cared. His hair was so dang annoying, as usual. But, who cares, when was it ever not? Maid dress slipped on, no makeup had been put on whatsoever. Who has time for any of that today? He had to get on the road as soon as possible, and get out of here. But, the dreaded message soon played.

{Ring, Ring, Master Eclater, you have new messages in the group chat. Would you like me to read them out loud for you?}

Artificial Intelligence turning itself on again, Eclater cracked his knuckles. He really needed to turn that stupid program off! He should just communicate through his Bangboo living at the café instead. But, whatever, he guesses. It's not like this stupid program matters! He ain't got time for this things stupid slow text-to speech feature. It takes it ten minutes to read thirty words, no thanks!

"No!" Eclater shouted.

{Got it. I will not read your messages for you.}

Rubbing his eyes, Eclater opened up his phone. Banner reading he had twenty unread messages, he snapped his fingers. Did his only two employees start the meeting without him the owner of this café? How dare they! Hello, did they forget whose café this is? He thinks they most certainly did. He needed to start handing out workplace infractions.

{Maid in Heaven Group Chat}.

{Domini}
{Good morning, well, not really for me.}

{Peltro}
{Oh, no, what happened did a family members you haven't spoken to in years contact you begging or money, or somethin'?}

{Domini}
{Did that happen to you, too? I have a feeling you're asking me that because it happened to you. Wait, did it? Who's asking you for money? You should tell them you're poor and have no dennies! That's what I did when my ex-cousins contacted me recently trying to beg for money.}

{Peltro}
{You got it right on the dennies. That's exactly what happened to me, too. My ex-sibling had the nerve to text me asking me for money! They know I have never, ever, not once in my life wanted anything to do with them. Not since our parents divorced, and most certainly now that we're adults. They can kiss my grits.}

{Domini}
{Okay, while that is part of what happened this morning, that's hardly why I'm not having a good morning, it's much worse than that! Someone performed a SWAT on my property! And this hyena lady with green hair said I've been engaging in illegal Hollow Investigation activity! And, I know who called the cops on me. Guess who, Pel?}

{Peltro}
{It was that family member who couldn't get money out of you.}

{Domini}
{That's right! That stupid cousin of mine, they didn't get what they wanted out of me, so they had to nerve to call the cops and perform a SWAT on my house! That's some next level bull! Like, it's my fault you don't earn anything from that little fight club of yours!}

{Peltro}
{Speaking of the fight club.}

{Domini}
{Speaking of the Fight Club? What are you getting at?}

{Peltro}
{Speaking of the fight club, isn't that the group of scoundrels stealing all our customers? The FYGHT CLOBB? That bunch of fighters who thinks they can just punch their way around the Hollows?}

{Domini}
{I believe that's what my former cousins called themselves. But, I don't talk to them, so what would I know? Should I care about the name of my enemy's establishment? I don't think it really matters, right.}

{Peltro}
{Uh, you know that they're the ones that have been stealing all our business lately, right?}

{Domini}
{Oh, were they? I didn't notice. But, unlike boss, I don't spend my days going around and thinking about the people stealing our customers away. Everyone knows how things work around here. The Hollows are like a competition to us chimeras. Even my sister, whom I never speak to, says that all of us in our own factions are in a heated competition for who gets to clean up a Hollow.}

{Peltro}
{Don't let boss see you said that, Nick. He might fire you.}

{Domini}
{Fire me over the truth? He knows that's how it is for us. We're all competitive. So, it's pretty unrealistic to expect us to be the ones people go to all the time for hollow investigations. I'm just speaking the truth! Have you seen how many hits my sister's flower shop gets?}

{Peltro}
{I thought you didn't talk to her.}

{Domini}
{Didn't say I did, but Veiled Whisper is like, extremely popular. I'm pretty sure that everyone at this point know that name! And it's hard to deny their impact within the chimera hollow business. I'm pretty sure if I had to guess, they are the ones that get the most customers out of all seven of our factions.}

{Peltro}
{Is that true, though?}

{Domini}
{It's true. I've heard that The Flower Silencers earns up to one million per commission. We're peanuts compared them.}

{Peltro}
{I wonder how we can be like them? I feel like we're the worst performing faction out of the seven.}

{Eclater}
{Hello, my lovely employees! I believe I told you guys to stop airing out your dirty laundry in the Group Chat! You know I can read all these, right? Of course, you're all too dumb to realize that, though, I guess! Also who said you could start this meeting without me, huh?}

{Domini}
{Sorry.}

{Peltro}
{Apologies. But, really, is there anything to talk about at this point? This is the way of the world. People who need help in the Hollows will go with whoever they think would be best at it. And, people seem to think we aren't the best, so they went to the FYGHT CLOBB. Whom have gotten a commission about Shiyu Defense.}

{Eclater}
{We have to get a commission for that and show them we're the ones that are stronger!}

{Peltro}
{Speaking of commissions.}

{Eclater}
{What? Tell me now! Don't hold out on me!}

{Peltro}
{I received a text message from an unknown number asking if we're Maid in Heaven.}

{Domini}
{Sounds like a scam. Delete it.}

{Peltro}
{I don't think so? Their name was Lyc----. You know, that famous guy with Victoria Housekeeping?}

{Domini}
{You know, anyone can claim to be anybody online.}

{Eclater}
{Patricia! Tell me more about that message you received!}

{Peltro}
{The message asked me if I was from Maid in Heaven, and I told them yes. And, they asked me to rent them a table for today. It seems pretty important.}

{Eclater}
{Then what are you waiting for? Open the café now!}

{Peltro}
{On it, boss. So, will you be coming soon?}


{Eclater}
{Oh, I'll be there alright. Shorty.}

{Domini}
{Don't speed! The cops are giving extra tickets out today!}

-This is the most recent message.-

Locking his phone, Eclater hopped into the car. Tickets? Ha. He'll just sweet talk his way out of them like he always does! Flooring it, the vehicle had reached maximum speed in a matter of second. He was lightning, he was speed, he was the fast king. But, as he zoomed, he could hear those stupid dreaded sirens chasing after him.

Pulled over to the curb, Eclater snapped his fingers. Oh, come on now, can't these stupid officers ever learn what it meant to be in a hurry? They sure didn't! He ain't gonna pay no stupid ticket! Forced to pull down his window, a tall man with short silver hair, wolf ears and ugly blue police outfit looked rather done with him.

"Hey, there, you need to slow down!" the wolf cop said. "You're going way over the speed limit!"

Stupid wolf cop commenting on his driving, Eclater cracked his knuckles. Oh, like who cares? Didn't this loser see he was in a hurry? He needed to cute charm his way out of it and get this annoying little sucker away. He didn't even drive, like hello? That stupid black haired cop did! How dare he comment on his driving.

"Oh, te hee, sorry mister, my brakes are broken!" Eclater exclaimed. "Please, I'll get them fixed soon! Forgive me?"

"Right, uh, sorry," the stupid wolf cop responded, confused. "Please get your brakes fixed, sir."

"I will, right now!" Eclater said in a fake cute voice. "So, could we pwease go away now? Pwease?"

Stupid wolf man returning to his car, Eclater was off to the races once again. Reaching the parking lot of the café in record speed, he stomped in through the door like he super owned the place. Completely furry wolf man with a black muzzle on his face, white hair, and black suit, he walked to the table. So, this was the real, true blue Victoria Housekeeping leader? He bet no one else in New Eridu could say they were hired by him!

"Greetings," Lyc---, said. "I would like to order one of your most esteemed carrots."

Secret phrase said, but with some fancy polite zest, Eclater twiddled his thumbs. Excellent, magnificent, there it was. He had heard the best line in three weeks. Sword in his bag twitching, he held back a giggle. Act professional, Eclater, or all of his future clients would go the way of the dinosaurs in no time flat.

"So, what would you like us to do for you?" Eclater asked.

"It would seem while engaging in Shiyu Defense, our employee Cor-- got lost in the Hollow," Lyc--- said. "I am sorry to trouble you, but could you rescue her?"

"Of course, at your service!" Eclater exclaimed. He then turned to his employees. "Let's go, boys, we're heading to Scott Outpost!"

Hopping into the business car, Eclater floored it. But, he could hear his employees screaming to stop speeding. But, he refused to yield. Ha, slow down a little? Heck no! Why should he when there were Dennies on the line? This was the first commission in weeks! Scott Outpost fence almost broken through, he let out a whistle.

Hollow Investigation, here he comes!

***

"I really wish that boss would

Stop speeding. I really
Wish he would. He goes the maximum speed even possible.
Every time he does, Peltro
And I tell him to please stop. He's so
Reckless, how has he evaded the cops

So many times and able to avoid getting a speeding ticket?
Oh, well I suppose, I
Might have an idea.
Eclater can sweet
Talk pretty much anyone,
I'm pretty certain that he
Might have like,
Every single trick in the book to avoid
Speeding tickets at this point,

But I don't have any clue how he does it.
Oh, man, he thinks he's above the law, or
Something, I have no idea what to
Say. I think they should just revoke his license. Like,

Come on, I've seen him go over two hundred,
And do you know how dangerous that is? Cars are
Not supposed to go that fast.

But, he doesn't care.
Every single time, I

Tell him,
Hey, you're going too fast, could you please stop. He doesn't.
Eh, you're asking me why he does that? First of all, who are you?

Man, so you're that weird person hanging
Over people's shoulders lately?
So, let me ask you something. What do you want?
This is kind of annoying. I've heard you have been a

Rather annoying little bug pretty much
Everywhere lately. I
Can't understand what you want. I don't
Know who you are, but could you please go bother someone else?
Look, if you're here because of a hollow,
Err, you can see we're busy right?
See, look, we're off to go
Save a young maid.

Please go away, alright?
Eclater has already
Removed your from our
Store a plentiful amount
Of times now, so you should know by
Now. That you clearly aren't welcome here.

Of course, you should have known that by now.
For the love of. You don't, do you?

Ah, I can see the ample annoyance that you are,
Look, you are not doing anyone any favors by
Loitering. And, I suggest you learn


That before you're arrested for
It, or something. Well, I don't know, I
Might be in over my head.
Everything is like really easy to turn to crime

Here. It happens all the time
Eh, well, I guess, that's

Not uncommon, so I'm not
Even sure what I'm complaining about it. I know it's
Very typical of people to just complain about
Everything. Like, why is the crime
Rate so high, but whatever. Listen, newbie, you really

Should, and I'll say this again, leave
This place. If boss has
Opened his mouth to say that,
Please listen to him,
Since boss is only looking out for you,

Though, I guess you just can't understand that.
Of course you can't you are an

Unfortunate side effect on this world.
So, let me just start by saying
Everyone thinks it would be best if you left

Here. You should know that, even despite what you say, all that nonsense, you're lost, you can't get around,
I'm going to just
Say it to you yet again.

Better off if you leave this place and never
Return. Go find somewhere that's
At least safer, which you now, right now
It clearly isn't. You know, you should
Never leave your house,

If you get stuck in a Hollow, I won't save you.
That's harsh. Alright, let me ask you something, do I care?

I don't even know you.
So, why in the world should I

Rarely meet weak people such as yourelf, and
Even so, you
Aught to learn a thing or two around here.
Listen, around here, if you can't fight in a hollow, you need to
Learn how to work things around here, or
You're going to get eaten. I

Can't be responsible for your death,
Okay? I have many other thing I
Need to get done that
Currently do not involve babysitting the likes of you.
Eck. Do you understand? You
Really just simply do
Not get it, do you?
If you don't, then please do
Not request our services, and don't
Get any other ideas either, please.

We don't help those who are like you,
Even if you beg and plead,
Let's get real here, we don't
Lend ourselves out to the

Weak. And, I am
Hardly interested in helping you
Any. So, please stop coming by
The café. We will not be helping,
Even if you're dying. I think boss has
Very much made it clear,
Everyone who loiters
Round his store will not be receiving any help in the Hollows. So, we'd all appreciate it if you just left."

Car practically breaking the fence of the Scott Outpost, and officer yammered on about driving safety, but, he tuned it all out. Ugh, like who cares, seriously? It's just a stupid fence! Easy to fix, easy to pay for. They were just so hungry for his wallet, they were making garbage up to try and rob him. Feeding a lie to the officer that he'll totally pay later, Maid An Impact dashed into the Shiyu Defense Hollow.

But, of course, as expected, three stupid pests waited for the group inside. Pests that looked awfully familiar. And they smelled. They smelled rotten. This trio, he knows them. They are those losers on the Inter-knot! That weak and pathetic excuse for a fight club, the FYGHT CLOBB. Gods, what a stupid name to call themselves, too, he would get his revenge for them stealing his customers yet!

Standing in the center punching multiple Ethereals with pathetic little punching bags had been a woman with blonde hair that went down to about her waist. She had stupid penguin crests, and orange eyes. Pink sleeveless belly top and pants both reading out princess, he scoffed. Princess? Princess of what, losing? Oh, for sure, princess of losing! Totally.

Kicking with mechanical wheels had been an even bigger loser. Short androgynous person with shoulder length hair and short ponytail with those same stupid crests and orange feet kicking even harder with their wheel legs, their orange fancy outfit was even less appealing to look at. How was this dude a fighter, huh? Sorry! Excuse him, not dude. Whatever.

Firing a stupid gun in the corner had been a weirdo with short black hair slicked back. Fancy light brown shirt, their green frog legs weren't covered with pants. Disgusting! Have some public decency! And bygone, were bleeding red eyes an eyesore to look at? Who invited trash like this guy into a fight club? Get out of here with this nonsense. Ethereals all defeated, he cracked his knuckles, but someone beat him to the punch, literally.

"God, it's you," Peltro said in a disgusted tone. "Who do you think you are, former sibling of mine, asking for money. I told you a million times now, didn't I? I don't want anything to do with you. Let that sink in!"

"Yer jokin', right?" Zinn asked. "I though'cya weren't serious 'bout all 'dat."


"I was, also stop stealing our customers." Peltro cracked their knuckles upon saying such. But, another annoying voice took shape.

"Stealing your customers?" Malika asked. "Just how stupid are you, huh?! Listen, bucko, around here, whichever person the client goes to is the one that sweeps the deal! You, and our cousin, and even your boss should know that." She punched her gloves together. "Oh, but look at you, dear old cousin, and his cousin's friend, stupid as ever!" But, another interruption had soon kicked in.

"I'm broke, huh?" Baron asked. They twirled their ponytail as they said such. "You hardly are. I just asked for one-hundred-thousand dennies. That's hardly a dent on your wallet."

"Stop asking for Dennies," Domini said. "I'm not handing any over to you, alright? Make your own." But, another shout had soon echoed throughout the area.

"Someone, please help me!" a girl's voice cried.

"Who cares about these losers?!" Eclater shouted. "Boys, let's go!"

"Roger!" Domini and Peltro shouted.

Hearing a loud shout from the other side of the party of three had gone running. That was the girl they had to rescue, right? All of them needed to hurry and get to her before these stupid members of the FYGHT CLOBB could get to them. There was no way this job would be lost to some weak club of punchers. No way.

But, luckily, he had an advantage these stupid people did not have: speed. He was nimble, he was quick, he could leap over a train with one simple trick. Hearing his teammates yell at him to slow down, he wouldn't yield. Him, slow down? Try again! Not happening. Locomotive vehicle leapt over with full force, the cries for help only got louder.

"Please, don't come any closer!" a girl voice shouted.

Surrounded by Ethereals had been a short teenage girl with light green pigtails and a black maid outfit. Adorning a nervous disposition, Eclater took out his sword. Slashing up a flurry, he let out a grunt. He'd better hurry and defeat these creatures before they eat the maid girl over there! Team running slower, he could hear them shout out to him.

"Boss, you run so fast, could you chill?" Domini asked.

"Yeah." Peltro parroted.

"Less talking, more fighting!" Eclater shouted. "And run faster!"

Team bringing on their A game, one Ethereal after another bit the dust in unison. Eclater couldn't help but laugh at how pathetic all this was. This was supposed to be some difficult place to challenge Hollow Investigators? Everything is so weak! This was Shiyu Defense? More like Shiyu Flop! Groups of weak, pathetic monsters all shattered, Eclater cracked his knuckles.

"You alright, kid?" Eclater asked. "You hurt anywhere?"

"I'm fine, really! No injuries!" the young maid girl exclaimed. "But I dropped my saw somewhere in the Hollow."

"We'll go look for it!" Domini cried.

But, whilst running through the Hollow, he could see the stupid group of fighters again pummeling monsters left and right. Sawblade in the dumb short penguin's hand Eclater dashed towards the dumb muscle for brains. He swore, all the other chimera factions were idiots, and he was a genius, compared to them.

"Hey, you, let go of that sawblade, it's not yours," Eclater said. "Go steal something else!"

"Are you stupid, or something?" Baron asked. "This thing was lying around on the ground. Clearly, the owner didn't want it." But, a protest had come their way.

"Um, excuse me," the green haired maid said in a nervous one. "But, that's my weapon. Please, give it back to me."

Stupid wheel footed penguin dropping the sawblade, the mission had soon been done and dusted. Returning to the café, maid girl in tow, the wolf prince and the young princess had been reunited. White haired wolf man giving a heaping load of Dennies, Eclater's face lit up like a birthday candle. He was practically swimming in riches! As usual, he was the only decent Hollow Investigator on the block, as it should be!

Speeding back to his home, Eclater let out a greedy giggle. Surely, after this, he would be loaded with requests to investigate more hollows. Move over, Drill Dozers, they've fallen into a hole. Step aside, FYGHT CLOBB, they're finished. Close up shop, the Flower Silencers, whoever they were, they're bankrupt. Get outta town, Cold Flames, they're washed out. He hardly cared about the other two groups, their names were stupid, just like them. Leaping into his bed, he was ready to catch all the zs.

Maid An Impact was the only decent Hollow Investigator faction around.

---

Alright, next week is Cold Flames. That should be fun. Sorry that most of this was just a group chat.

 

[Palamon]

Cold Flames Dirty Money: Little Lamb

---

'Sup, sup, what is
Up, new guy, do you know where you are?
Perhaps, I should tell you this isn't a place you

Should be! This is a dangerous game you're playing!
Upupu, okay, I'll tell you who I am. I am Bain,
President of Cold Flames Loan Services? That's

Not dangerous, you say?
Ahahaha, you are a little stupid, huh?
Maybe I should explain it in a way that's
Easier to understand, okay?
So, hehe, I am a

Big bad Loan Shark!
And people rent out my money, and
I make them pay me back at triple the rate! Huh? That's
Nasty? Oh, you stupid, stupid little newbie

Are you trying to make me angry
Now? That's how loan sharks work you
Dummy! We lend out our dennies to desperate suckers and

I give them a whole month to pay me back!

At least I'm nice, right? I let them have a whole
Month! And, of course, we

Also demand people

Let us know about Hollows
Of course! We demand payment to go
After those! Do
Not forget, I am a loan

Shark first, and I'm a
Hollow Investigator second!
Are you looking for my services, stranger? That's why you're here,
Right? Hold on, excuse me, what, you're not? You
Know, if you're a spy from the Red Fang, you're dead.

Are we going to have a problem here, newbie?
So, tell me, who sent you?

Please don't fool
Around in here, it'll be the last thing you
Remember, hehe? Excuse me?
That laugh is annoying?

Oh, you're really doing it now,
For you're really pushing all my buttons!

Cut it out, okay, newbie?
Okay, are we clear?
Look, if you're a spy from the Red Fang,
Don't walk into my little ring, those gangs are

Far from allowed in my space!
Listen up, okay? They
Are a rival to
My work, you should know how New
Eridu works by now, pal,
Shady people, shady businesses,

Look, little lost lamb, if you don't get it, you should get
Out of here! I will have Izzet take you to
A nice place. Huh, what did you say
No to me? Hey, buddy, who

Said you can do that? You're
Here in my turf,
And thus, that means you have to follow my
Rules! Don't step out of line, you don't want to
Know what happens to those who

Cut that rope, he he!
Oh, what happens to those who
Might cross the line? You're a brave soldier, I see!
Perhaps I will tell you, since you're so interested
And all that!
No one survives if you cross the line!
You don't want to end up like that, do you?

Please understand! I'm just running a business here,
Ehehe, and you don't want to find
Out what is the
Path for those who tread the
Line of being on the wrong
End. So, if you're from the Red Fang, you'd

Better get out of here!
Everything would be better for you if you
Get out of my abode if you're one of them!

Uh, also! Just so you know! If you're from Pub
Sec, I'll roast you under the

Fire! So you'd better not be an
Obnoxious cop who is trying to get
Right under my nose pretending to be a new resident!

My, my, you sure are a fun
One, aren't you? You better
Not be an undercover cop!
Ehehe, I don't like people like
You, you know that?

And, people I don't like, they do
Not live very long in this town,
Don't scare you like that?

Well! I won't if you're not a cop,
Ehehe, or a part of Red Fang. Oh,

Get real with me right now
Oh, are you trying to

Avoid answering me?
For real, for real?
There's something you're trying to hide, huh?
Ehe, I see, I see, you're
Really interesting, you know that, stranger?

Hehe, so what do you want, possible
Obnoxious cop? If you're here to ask me to
Lend you my money, I can't
Lend you any, sorry!
Oh, you don't
Want my dennies?
So weird, so then what are you

After, then? You're a
Ferocious little weirdo, aren't you?
To be honest, if you aren't here for money or a hollow
Eradication, I need you to get out of here! You
Really shouldn't come into this

World. You don't want to
Enter this criminal space, okay?

Get with the program, okay?
I'm telling you for your own good! Aren't I a
Very kind person?
Ehehe, of course I am a nice person! But

Only of you're not here for my money,
Uhuhuhu, of course if you're not here for
That, I won't have to make this ugly.

Oh, anyway, do tell me what you
Ultimately came here for! And, you
Really should hurry! I'm

Getting a real customer soon!
Eh, you?! You're brave, aren't you, you're
Not here for anything?
Eh, then what
Reason do you think it would be
Okay to just walk in!
Ugh, if you're here for the
Slot machines, you quite

Literally came to the wrong place
Our slots are not here,
And you should know that, kay?
Now that you made
Such a stupid mistake I

Have to guide you
Upon the right path!
Huh?! You're not here for the gambling either?

What a confusing guy! So,
How did you end up
At my place, then, hmm? Hmm?
Tell me before I

Have to take out my saw
And scare the answer out of you!
Pahaha, pahaha, pahaha
Pahaha, pahaha, pahaha.
Eh? Stop laughing?
No, why should I
Stop laughing, what you said,

I told you what happens, and you are just the
Funniest and stupidest

Person who has
Ever stepped foot into my abode,
Okay, I have has funnier, but
Perhaps you might take the award!
Let's stop for a sec. Brume get a crown!
Eh, stop making fun of you?

Don't order me around!
Order me around again, and you'll regret it, okay? Do

Not ever do that again, or I'll make sure you cannot
Open your mouth, cause I'll sew
That thing closed, super tight!

Pahaha, pahaha, pahaha, pahaha, pahaha, pahaha
And no, I am not going to stop laughing!
You're stupid, remember that.

I'm in my right to go ahead and laugh at
The stupid people!

Because you're one of them!
And I love making fun of
Completely stupid morons who don't
Know any better, so get used to it,

Okay? Now, I demand you tell why you're
Here! Because you shouldn't be

Here! This is not your playground, okay?
Ehehe, now, please
Hurry up and tell me

Your reasoning for being here,
Or I'll get out my glue gun!
Uh, wait, you're lost?

Really? You can't be serious.
Eh, you, you, you just wandered
Around and just came here
Literally not knowing how you got here?
Look buddy, I'm going to tell
You this, I'm not buying it!

Do I look like a stupid
Ostrich? I am not, mmk?

Need I repeat myself
One last time, so it sticks
To you like glue?

Well, alright, alright
Alright, alright alright, alright,
Now big sister Bain will
Tell you one last so

That you understand,
Okay? You are not supposed to be here, I

Know you know that, you
Need to get yourself
Out of here, and I will
Warn you again, there's

Plenty of people here who aren't as nice as me,
Ehehe, I am giving you
One whole chance to flee!
Perhaps I am not letting you off with the right warning,
Let me just say
Everyone that isn't me would

Have killed you by now!
Aren't I such a sweetie for
Very much not doing that to you?
Ehehe, ehehe, you. What

Be real with me here! You
Look as though you have heard this
One too many times!
One too many times,
Don't go down the wrong

Street, okay?
Huh, wait, you? I think I have seen you
Enter that hit hyena's store? And went
Down to go

And bother them? Do
Not try and deny it
Don't, okay? Oh, I see now!

Maybe I was wrong about you,
Ugh, I see you're here to spy on us
Chimeras, aren't you?
Hahaha, I knew it! I knew it.

Maybe I shouldn't have been nice to you,
Obviously, you're just a spy, that's
Really annoying, crck,crck,
Eh? Did that noise scare you! It should have! I just cracked my knuckles.

Don't do that?
Oh, you don't like that sound?

Now, it makes me want to do it even more! Crck crck
Oh! Covering your ears? Do
They hurt? Well, I don't care!

Because I'm going to keep doing it,
Ehehe, ehehe, crck, crck.

Take a moment to say goodbye, because I
Have a nice brass knuckle sandwich,
And, I never miss, newbie!
This one's for you! Crck crck,

Gapow! Wait, hold on,
Ugh! You, how did
You?! How did you dodge that! You look like a

Weak human! I don't understand!
How were you able to dodge one
Of my punches!

Don't tell me you're
One of P.O.N.E.C?
Eek, no. Not them, not them,
Stay away from me pony scum. You're

Not one of them, either...?
Okay, then loser, so
Then, tell me who you really are,

Please hurry, or I
Am going to force an answer out of
You right here and right now so don't pretend to

Be something you're not
Anymore because you're going to
Completely regret it!
Know this newbie, you're

Taking a very dangerous road around
Here, so let me tell you
Everything you should know!
If you keep sticking your nose
Right where it doesn't belong, you're

Literally end up getting yourself a
One way ticket the world where
All dead people reside,
Not sure if you're be in heaven or the underworld or
Somewhere in between, but just know that you're really

Treading on the wrong side
Of the world, you seem like quite the

Utter fool, and really, really, really
Stupid, so I'll explain to you one final time before

My patience with you runs out completely.
I recommend this to you,
Get out of New Eridu! I
Hardly think someone like you has what it
Takes to survive here.

Every so often weirdos like you
Neander around here, and guess what happens to them?
Ding dong, ding dong,

Uhuhu, death. You're treading on a
Pretty dangerous thread right now,

Do you understand?
Ehehe, you know I'm going to be honest
And open before I knock you
Down! That you're going to

One day find yourself dead in a ditch, so it's a
Really bad idea to involve yourself in these kinds of things!

What I think you should go ahead and do, and I will say it again so you understand: get
Out of New Eridu and find somewhere else to live. I
Really am feeling to
See a point in why you're in New
Eridu! Are you some android with extremely

Horrible coding that hasn't been tested at all in any capacity?
Eh, no, alright then so enlight me, please who are you?
Huh, you aren't going to tell me that
Either? Do you think you
Have a choice! I don't give you one! I'm going to count down for ten. Ten, nine,
Eight, seven, six, five, four, three, two

One, say, you'd better hurry,
Or I'm going to be very, very, very angry!
Perhaps you've already forgotten who I am!
Should I remind you with a little violence?

Tch, tch, I am a loan shark!
Oh, look at you, stupid
Neanderthal, it looks like you forgot! You forgot, haha,
Get out of my place, okay?
Up you go because I'm going to throw you!
Ehehe, ehehe, ehehe, crck, crck.

Sayonara, bye bye, I am not
Looking to entertain a stupid
Idiot like you, fling! Sigh,
Please tell me this is over, I have lost so much business because of this. Aaah!"

A short adult woman with bright, spiky pink hair slipped on two green ribbons towards the top of her head. Pink eyes, and guppy tail behind her practically glowing, she slipped a small jacket over her white shirt with a blue stick figure in the center. Knives tucked into her back pocket, her hands had soon been cupped around her mouth.

"Yo! Brume, wake up!" the woman shouted. "Get off your lazy butt already! It's morning." But, her phone soon rang.

<You have one unread message in the group chat.>

{Brume}
{Ure two loud u know dat, Bain?}

{Me}
{Shut up, Brume, we got business today! So get off your tushie and come upstairs. Also, stop typing like a grade schooler who doesn't know how to read!}

{Brume}
{Uuuuuugh, Izzet, Izzet, where are yew? Save me, save me Izzet!}

{Me}
{They can't save you from yourself!}

<Izzet is typing...>

{Izzet}
{Dude, just get out of your stupid bed. We're getting a super special person at the 'shop' today. Someone's going to take a big loan, heh heh.}


"What?! Yer kiddin'!" a voice from downstairs said.

Feet barreling up the stairs, a tall man with blue shoulder length hair had come running into the upstairs bedroom. He had blue eyes, and a denim suit to match. Her stupid brother, like always, was quite the sharply dressed man. Quite annoyingly so. She picked the wrong family member to not sever ties with! Maybe she should have moved in with Aigre instead. But, oh well, that's not how it is.

"Sis, we're expectin' a big client today?!" Brume asked. "Someone who wants our dirty money?"

Bain smirked upon hearing such, ah, yes, dirty money. Her favorite words. Someone big in the world was going to take out a loan today, someone with special information, someone with information about the Hollows around New Eridu. And, she'd eliminate the hollows alright, and make her lovely client pay quintuple interest! Heh, heh. Beautiful.

"That's right! Someone who wants our dirty money," Bain responded, smirking. "Wanna know something else, bro?"


"What?" Brume asked. "Dear sister, enlighten me."

"They got a carrot for us!" She was giggling up a storm as she said such.

"Yow! We gotta hurry to the 'shop' right now!" Brume exclaimed. "Izzet's setting up, right? Quick, we gotta get in the car!"

Reaching for her purse, the party of two dashed out of their home like their lives depended on it. Brume revving up the engine, she crossed her left leg on top of her right knee. Heh heh, dirty money, what a beautiful time to be a chimera in New Eridu! She hadn't gotten any interesting clients in awhile. Just dumb, irresponsible men who she dump into the hollows after they couldn't pay.

Reaching the 'shop' after about ten minutes of driving, a short person with golden tan skin, pitch black gazelle horns opened the door to their 'store'. Their short pink hair pulled back into a ponytail had been a mess, like always. Big bang in the middle looking like it cut their face in half, their black sleeved shirt had been covered to the brim with dust. Bain couldn't help but gag at that. Why did she hire this one again? Izzet needed to learn how to change.

"Izzet, I told you a gazillion times at this point," Bain said in an annoyed tone. "On big client days like this, don't wear your dusty old jacket!"

"Bain," Izzet said in a curt tone.

"I ain't listening to your excuses, kay?" Bain replied, cracking her knuckles.

"Bain, I think our client is a Pub Sec worm," Izzet said. "So be careful, aight? Don't' blow our cover."

Hearing such, Bain couldn't help but laugh. Oh, boy, oh boy was this rich. Another stupid Pub Sec spy pretending they wanted a loan, huh? How rich, but, she knew how to deal with those stupid cops! They were an easy nut to crack. They always were. She had a little flame that could take them out, heh heh. Why be afraid of some silly cop?

"Don't worry about Pub Sec!" Bain said. "I know how to take care of them." A wide smirk appeared on her face. "You'll see. So, let's go set up shop, kaaay?"

Everything moved out of the way, Bain folded her right leg over the left one. Sweet, sweet dirty money, so many losers always tried to borrow her dennies and couldn't pay back the interest. They all deserved to die in those Hollows! Not like she knew anything about that, or anything. Nope, she definitely, most certainly didn't know anything about all that. Totally not.

Door slamming straight open, a tall woman with a black asymmetrical bob walked into the room like she owned the place. Long red underside, pointy grey ears, and a peculiar mechanical tail, her grey jacket and black zipper skirt stood out like a sore thumb. Seeing this woman, Bain could feel her blood begin to burn like a cold flame. Heh, she'll have this woman pay quintuple the interest rate stupid pub sec.

"Greetings, little lost lamb," Bain said in a low tone. "Welcome to Cold Flames Loan Services." A smirk graced her face as she kept going. "I'll give you my dirty money, but, in exchange." She then lowered her voice into a whisper. "You'd better give me information about the Hollows."

Pub Sec worm making up some fake sob story about her brother being in the hospital, Bain, Brume and Izzet held back the urge to laugh up a storm. Ah, what a bold faced lie. She's one of those pub sec losers who likes to go undercover with all this nonsense garbage. She'll give her dirty money alright, and a little bonus, too. An electrifying bonus, hehe.

"I need five million to get my poor sister the surgery she needs," the pub sec worm worm said. "Please lend me the money."

"Heh, of course, lost little lamb," Bain said, giggling. "I can lend you Five Million Dennies." She then pet the lamb's face. "If you give me information about the most recent hollow outbreak first. Kay?"

Piece of paper thrown her way, Bain could hardly believe her eyes. Bain lowered her eyes into a squint. God, this stupid Pub Sec worm's handwriting was nearly illegible! Maybe she should make her pay septuple interest instead of quintuple. She could milk this cow dry! Squirt, squirt, hehe hehehehe. Faking a cough, she read the letter addressed to no one.

{Hollow Warning;

Hollow Spotted in Lumina Square beside the flower store. Gang members of the group Drill Dozers spotted walking in. They're a dangerous group of people who fight with drills. They are a group of illegal hollow investigators who thinks they're not being watched. They're ignorant fools who will be dealt with accordingly.

There's a big flower monster within the Hollows that might destroy that flower shop next door, and it needs to be dealt with before it can do anything worse than it already has. Take some time to weed out these illegal hollow investigators and put these little drill kids behind bars. Let them go inside the Hollow for now, but tail them when possible.}

Rest of the text incredibly illegible, Bain's blood had begun to boil. Oh, great, that stupid group again, Drill Dozers, didn't these losers know that Lumina Square was their hunting grounds? How dare they mosey around these parts where they didn't belong! She's going to catch these worms this time and knock them of the park before they pressed on any further in their streets.

"Izzet, my lovely little ram," Bain said, giggling. "Go into the back and get the dirty money, kaaay?"

"It would be my pleasure, boss," Izzet said, exiting the room.

Suitcase soon handed off to her, it had soon been handed off to the stupid Pub Sec worm. Slapping a little zippy zappy sticker on the bottom, she held back the urge to giggle. Oh boy, oh boy, she was going to get an electrifying present, a sweet little zapping gift very soon. This pub sec worm, she'd get everything she deserved for playing this little game.

Rereading the stupid illegible note, she crumpled it up into a million pieces. Drill Dozers, those were those losers who always dared to barge into other people's Hollow Investigation territories, didn't they? They should get their own dang place to call their own, Lumina Square was theirs. Didn't those freaks run some interknot service? Stick with that, freaks of nature.

"Where's the Hollow, sis?" Brume asked. "You seem kinda mad about it."

"It's next to the flower shop," Bain growled.

"That's in our territory, ain't it?" Izzet asked. "So, why ya'll so gung ho?"

"Why am I so gung ho?!" Bain asked, voice raising. "Why am I so gung ho, you ask? It's because those stupid Drill Dozers went in there!"

A long silence soon followed after that. She could hear Izzet mumble something under their breath. Ah, they knew something about these stupid little worms, didn't they? Well, they'd better hurry up and spit out what they know, and fast! Or, she'd make him do it, and she had many ways to make people do things for her. Heh heh, heh, heh, heh.

"What did you mumble just now, Izzet?" Bain asked in a booming tone.

"The Drill Dozers, those stupid rats!" Izzet shouted. The drills on the sides of their hips had begun to spin. "Bain, Brume, we have to eliminate those stupid little rats, do you understand?"

"I get you, but like, what's yer history with them?" Brume asked. "Shouldn't we start with dat?"

"Does it matter? Let's just say one of their members is a little rat that needs to be taken care of, kay?" Izzet asked in a low tone. "Also, how stupid are you? They're in our territory, remember?"

"Ohhhhh, right, they're in our territory," Brume said as if he were stupid. "Let's sock it to them!"

Telling everyone to get armed and ready, Bain reached for the knife drawer. One of her little sharkies had a history with these stupid Drill Dozers, did they? She sees, she sees, then this'll be personal. She could feel her blood begin to get hot enough to boil an egg. These stupid little freaks, she can't wait to get rid of them once and for all.

"Brume, warm up the car for me kaaay?" Bain asked, singing.

"Of course, sis right away, and hurry along in the car, kk?" Brume asked, running out the door.

Knives polished and ready to go, Bain let out a sinister giggle. Oh, she'd hurry along in the car alright, and she'd hurry in there fast. A hollow next to the flower shop, huh? That was her territory, her little lamb! Anyone who dared think it was okay to steal her Hollows in Lumina Square should die in a house fire!

Izzet soon in the car as well, she gave her employee a sinister glare. What secrets was her employee keeping from her? If they thought they could hide things from her, they're one step away from getting that pink slip with a special little extra present just for them. But, she knew she couldn't just go out and say that. What kind of boss demands her employee tell her their secrets? None do!

Flower shop coming in close, Bain cracked her knuckles. Polishing her little knife collection, she guffawed up a storm. hehe hehe hehehe hehehe hehehe. Finally, something interesting to do. A Hollow worth investigating. Not some poor little crying men begging to use her money who didn't know a thing about Hollows. The actual juice.

Rainbow pod right in front of her, Bain clipped the knives onto her pants. It was time, it was time. Time to enter the hollow, time to get rid of this stupid trash. Time to eliminate these stupid little Drill Dozers and get them out of her territory. She'll show them. She'll show them who Lumina Square belongs to! Throwing herself into the rainbow dome, she closed her eyes.

She's taking back what's hers!

***
"Looks like boss probz knows I'm hiding somehin'.
Ugh, well, I'm not telling her
My secret about the Drill Dozers and what I know.
I'm sure she's about to find out anyway, so I ain't sayin'
Nothing--. Huh, and who the heck are you? What
Are you doing around these parts, and why are you

Staring at me? Wait a minute, hold on, you're that 'newbie' that keeps invading chimera spaces. You've made
Quite the infamous name for yourself, you know that?
Ugh, so what do you want, you filthy piece of trash?
Are you going to keep invading everyone's territory? You
Really got to stop doing that, okay? You're going down an
Especially dangerous road. Like,

If you invade the FYGHT CLOBB'S territory, they'll kill you.
So, like, if I were you, I would stop doing that,

Mmmk? I'm warning you,
You're going down the wrong road for yourself.

The other day, I saw you go into Maid In Heaven, I wouldn't
Ever go back there, if I were you, those maids
Really don't like loiterers. You
Really don't understand, do you?
It's pretty weird, you say?
That's your problem.
Oh, well, go and get yourself killed, then. You're
Ripe for the picking, oh and by the way, since
You're so stupid, and ignorant, let me

Go and tell you this,
Okay? We will not be lending you any dennies
That you might need. I know what you are. You're a spy. Oh, shaking, are you, that I,

Izzet already figured you out?
That's rich. So, you're just a spy, huh?? You should

Get out of New Eridu already! New
Eridu isn't for a weak little baby like you. So, I'd hurry
The heck up and leave this place when you still can!

Oh? What's that, little spy? You don't want to leave just yet? Well, you should, you should, that is,
Unless you're just looking for a quick way to die! Listen, listen, your
Type isn't welcome around here, okay? Your kind isn't welcome here at all,

Okay? Okay? Do you understand? You understand, don't you?
For the love of,--- Oh, I see, I see, I see, I see, I see, I see, I see, I see, I see, I see!

Here I thought that you couldn't get any stupider, but you just are the gift that keeps on giving!
Ehehe, so wait until the Inferno Punishers gets to you! They'll
Really burn you into a crisp if you dare
Ever spy on them, so I think you should go over there and look at their activities!

Let it go, man?! Oh, you... newbie, did you just call me a man?
Oh, you've done it now, honey. Call me a man again, and I'll
Seer you into the ground, okaaay? Newbie, let me ask you something! How
Egregiously stupid are you? I think you're stupid enough to
Rot in a grave and die. So, keep making all the wrong
Steps, and you're Hollow fodder. Just so you know, if they happens you deserved, you little spy."

Entering the Hollow with style and grace, a thick jungle had been laid out in front of the Cold Flames Hollow Investigator team. Seeing such, Bain couldn't help but giggle. Ah, she sees, so one of the flower shop owners plants was turned into an Ethereal, huh? Where were those useless people from Veiled Whisper? Not like she'd ever dare let those rats enter her territory. Of course not.

Sniffing around, she could smell it in the air. Those stupid putrid rats of the hour, those freak shows that didn't belong here. The Drill Dozers. Smell that? That smells like a rat! And, she knew a squeaky loser when she smelled one. Who did these losers think they were, stepping into her Hollow Territory? It was time for her rusty, trusty knife to teach these annoyances a lesson.

"Brume, guide me towards the little rats!" Bain cried.

"Aight, sis, follow me!" Brume cried.

As she demanded such, her brother had begun to run. She could hear him scream across the Hollow like a mad man as such occurred. Blue guppy tail glowing against the thick, dense trees, she prepared herself to give these stupid morons the lesson they deserved to daring to step into their territory.

"Izzet, get your drills ready!" Bain cried.

"Already on it!" Izzet shouted.

But, what awaited at the other end of the hollow had been a very surprising set of faces. A short woman with ugly maroon hair, a power saw, and a guppy tail. Seeing her, Bain could feel the rage veins begin to pop one after another. What was that ex-sister of hers, Kali doing here? She was a member of Drill Dozers? Disgusting. How dare she invade her territory. She'll pay.

Another familiar face next to her, Bain turned towards Izzet. That gazelle person with the spiky pink hair, hadn't they been Izzet's sibling? Well, former sibling, rather. Everyone in Cold Flames had been estranged from their families, after all. Well, she supposed, part of that was a lie, she still had ties to one part of her bloodline, she guessed. Whatever.

"You," Bain said in a cold tone. "What are you doing in my territory, ex-sister?" But, she had been met with an immediate guffaw.

"You're just like Eclater!" Kali cried. "He said the same thing to me when we clashed a few weeks ago! I'll have you know that we got a commission on the Inter-Knot, and I don't give a hoot that this is your territory!" She then laughed. "You cut all ties with all of us, huh? Liar. You're still in contact with Brume!"

"Shut up, former kin," Brume growled. "Get out of our territory, or we'll burn you."

"And if I don't?" Kali asked. "You'd hurt me? Your poor younger sister?" But, as she said such, she could feel something sharp come for her back. Pool of red tricking down onto the ground, she let out a scream. "You! You'd hurt your own sister?!"

"I thought I just called you my ex-sister, did I not?" Bain asked, voice echoing. Her blade kept poking in deeper and deeper, like a rock drowning in the ocean. "You should know by now! I disowned you. I disowned Aigre, I disowned Eclater. It's your fault what happened, you know, and I'll never forgive you."

"I didn't--" Kali said, but her voice cut out.

"Kali!!" Kelebek cried. "Kali!!" They then turned towards Bain. "You, how could you do this..." But they had soon been interrupted.

"More like, why are you trying to steal our territory, ex-kin?" Izzet asked. "Stay out of Lumina Square hollows, or you'll regret it."

Pathetic gazelle crying their eyes out, Bain dashed deeper into the Hollow. But, another pesky fly had been fighting the big flower ethereal. That dumb blond penguin dude. She knew how to deal with these freaks. Precious knife on fire it had been tossed across the way like a present. Neck caught in the crossfire, the stupid little wannabe hero had been knocked out with a cold flame.

Gigantic flower monster holding a lady hostage, Bain had her knives ready. So this was the boss of the hollow, huh? No worries, no problem, que sera, sera, as everyone said. Barrage of weapons tossed like they were riding the breeze, three had been engulfed in flames. Chains locked and loaded, she cried out a name.

"Brume, chill them!" Bain cried.

"Aight, sis, I gotchya!" Brume shouted.

Power of flames and ether energy coming together, the enemy was about to be burned to a crisp. Flaming knives coming back with a vengeance, she readied herself for one last tag. She would destroy this stupid little ether monster, and leave these stupid little territory invaders in here to rot for all eternity. They deserved it, after all.

"Okay, Izzet, freeze 'em good!" Bain cried.

"Feeling a little chilly?" Izzet chanted.

Icy drills putting and end to it all, the flower monster had been done in. Shop owner ready to become a rock, Bain skid her feet. Victim saved, the hollow soon crumbled into nothing. Lady profusely bowing over and over again, it all ended. Stupid Drill Dozers getting out of there alive, the party of three turned the other cheek. Stupid territory invaders, living to see another day.

But, something even stupider had occurred a week or so later. Pub Sec worm paying back their loan, Bain bit the tips of her nails. This stupid public security cop, how, how did she pay it all back? Oh, this woman, her money was dirty, very dirty. She needed to watch out for her. Maybe it was time to go find more gullible victims now. She wasn't a very good loan shark for having a client who could actually pay her back!

Discussing things with her brother, she soon departed to bed. Thinking things over to herself, she could feel herself ready to question that Pub Sec worm. She was one of those undercover worms wasn't she? Oh, she definitely was. She needed to take care of her next time she pretended she needed a loan. Drifting off, the thought repeated.

She needed to eliminate this pub sec worm.

---

I honestly... There is something deeply wrong with all these versions of my ocs, I'm sorry! lol. Bonk, all of you go to therapy i s2g.

None of these that aren't about Siorc are planned in advanced btw, this was a pants.

 

[Palamon]

Cold Flames Dirty Money: The Ponies

---

"Hey, hey it's your favorite little loan shark, Bain!
Eh, what do
Ya mean I am not your favorite? You wanna go,

Huh, newbie?! You wanna go,
Eh?! Well, if
Ya do, then come at me!

Hehehe, well, newbie, you're
Especially weak, so
You and I both know,

I'd just win!
Tehee, what? So you think

I'd lose to an idiot like you? You
Shouldn't underestimate me, newbie!

You should honestly know by now
About my strength! I have

Gone and destroyed lives
I'm a dangerous woman! You
Really don't want to mess with me, hehe.
Look, newbie, I am going to tell you this again

Because you're simply
An idiot: leave New Eridu!
I don't know why you think you can waltz in wherever. You are
Not welcome here! Got it?

How many times do I have to say it? You don't
Ever understand anything anyone ever warns you about,
Huh? I guess you don't!
Ehehe, well, like I've said, you should leave New Eridu!

And go somewhere else,
Now, I should remind you,
Domping around in other chimera's Hollow territory is super duper bad of you!

I would leave, if I were you!

Get out of here, and go
Over to someone else's
Territory! Like, you should hello? Go away, mmk?

Listen, newbie, if you linger
Over in other people's
Territory all the time, you'll
Soon learn the hard way what happens to even

One single person who stays here
For too long! Honestly!

People have you don't
Even have a brain up there!
Oh, boy, do I have
Plenty of stories!
Listen, one time a dumb kid,
Ehehe, kind of like you!

Went into a hollow, and they never returned,
Hehehe, wanna know what happened to them?
Ooooh, listen up fool, listen up!

Ooohohoo, so! Do you
Want to know what happened?
Ehehe, allow me to explain! Allow

Me to explain! Allow me to
Explain everything,

Mmmk? Listen up, so!
Okay, wanna know? They're
Now an Ethereal, oh? What's that?
Eh, are you so stupid that
You forgot? They're creatures in

The hollows! You're so
Horribly stupid, it's almost incredible!
Ehehe, what, ya got amnesia or something? Ya do, don't you? Poor loser!

Loser, loser, ehehe, that's what happens to
One person who
Stays in a hollow for too long
Ehehe, you haven't figured it out yet, huh? You
Really are super dumb, you know that?
So, newbie! Let me ask you something!

What is it that you want,
Huh?! Huh? Tell me.
Oh, and if you tell me again you're lost, you

Can pay me
All your dennies and I'll help you!
No? You're not lost?
Now, I'm going to ask again!
Okay, what are you doing here? Is
There like a motive, or something?

Please, enlighten me!
Ah, you know, Brume told me
You might be a spy! And if that

Might be what you are, I am going to
Eat your energy, and

Bring you to Pub Sec
And make an example out of you! Huh, what?
Come on now, don't do that?
Kneel before me if you think you have any

Say! You don't get any,
Understand? Ehehe, you
Can't and won't be, okay? I
Know you're probably a

Spy, so I'll just tell you this
Once and only once!

If you're a spy, you

Will never live here again!
I will make sure of it!
Listen, spies aren't welcome here, period!
Let that be known!

Come now, you should know we don't like
Ugly little spies!
They're an eyesore! Do you understand

That, newbie? If you're a spy, I'll have you know, I'll
Have you know good and well,
Everyone will want you dead! You
Might think I'm exaggerating

And all that, but newbie you

Don't know the half of it! I am
Especially not exaggerating! I
Am far from exaggerating, actually!
Listen, you should never ever pry

In places you aren't

Wanted! I'll keep
It brief, aight? You're a
Loser, so I doubt you're a spy, but
Listen here, if you are, I'm

Taking your life from you!
Hehehe, hehehe, hehehehe,
Look, if you're not a spy, there's
Literally no problem!

Tell me you're not one, and we won't
Have any issues here,
Ehehe, okay, okay, you know what?
Maybe I'm just being a little bit a

Grainiac! I mean, you're just an
Idiot, after all! Too stupid to be a spy! I
Might be a genius! But you're kinda a
Moron just stepping into
Everyone's territory without permission!

Hehe, of course,
Of course, you're just a moron getting
Lost all the time!
Look, I'm not lending
Out my money to a
Wallowing moron, mmk?

Don't ask me for any, okay?
Ahaha, my services are not for
The stupid, do you understand?
Ahaha, of course you don't, since you

Are so dumb! It's
Not like you understand since you are so
Dumb after all! You should just get lost

In a hollow already! By the way if that happens, I'm
Not helping you! I'll make sure

Everyone else does the same!
Xxxxxxxxxxx, ehehe, ehehe,
Come on, you should go get lost in a
Hollow! You don't belong here,
After all! And, you know who else does
Not? That's right, the Drill Dozers! They should
Get lost in a Hollow, too!
Eh, how can I be so rude?

Take a sock and eat it, why don't you?
How many times do I tell you to
Eat a sock until you shut up?
It's about time you see what the world is
Really like! The Drill Dozers are

Fools who deserve to be
Eaten in the hollow!
Eaten in the hollow! Do you understand?
Since you don't, I'm going to repeat it!

Why don't you understand that
I'm enemies with those
Losers? Do you not understand that?
Like, you really don't get it, do you

Buffoon? I'm their
Enemy, and they're mine!

We want absolutely nothing
At all to do with each other, and I'll claim
Victory over them in
Every shape and form!
Do you understand?

Bet you don't, this time, I have the
Ultimate plan to get
Them out of my territory!

If you have a problem with that,
Flip off, okay? I don't

Need to hear your stupid
Opinion, okay, newbie? So, don't waste your
Time with telling me your

Horrible waste of
Effort because I'm not listening, mmk?
Hehehe, hehehe, hehehe.

But? But what, I already told
You, newbie, I'm not
Ever gonna be interested in what you're

Going to say! So don't
Ever forget that! Anyway
Take a moment a moment to realize that I

Will never, listen to you nor your
Really stupid nonsense!
Ehehe, so what have been I
Cooking in the past few weeks? You
Know, I should have told you
Earlier! Nothing too interesting, just
Dummies not paying back

Interest, as usual!

We haven't into any hollows.
I know, weird, right?
Look, there's been none, and
Like it's been super duper boring.

Good, what do you mean good?
Eck, newbie, say anything else
This stupid, and I'll kick you out

Violently! You know, maybe
I'm being way too nice!
Ohoho, ah yes I'm just a
Little too nice! I'm a loan shark, an
Evil guppymaid loan shark!
Now, I'm honestly being way
Too nice!

Ohoho, too nice, too nice,
Hehe, I should be meaner,

Yes, assert my dominance over Lumina Square!
Ehehehe. Fair reminder,
All of Lumina Square is my territory! All
Hollows here are mine!

But, you're a newbie, so
You didn't know that, did you? Of course you didn't,

Tehee, well, anyway! I
Have full intentions of
Eradication of the Drill Dozers! Eh,

What, why can't I solve
All this peacefully?
You know what newbie!

I'm putting you on strike one!

What point is there
In solving our differences peacefully?
Listen, listen, there's
Literally no point in doing it!

Come on, now! If you
Romp around in my territory,
Ultimately, you gotta pay the
Steep price!
How are you so stupid?

This is unbelievable! You know what!
Here's your second strike,
Ehehe, keep going like this, and I'll

Dump down the third one! Those freaks
Really don't deserve to breath the same air as me!
I'm not explaining this again, mmk?
Listen, they're a bunch of
Losers, kinda like you, but

Double so of you, ehe.
Oh, why can't we just make up?
Zip it, freak! I'm
Especially getting fed up with your
Ridiculous little mouth,
So, you know what, strike three! Get out of here!

Just get outta here,
Unless you want to go?
So, fight me! Haha,
The coward ran away!

Well, good riddance, they're so
Annoying! Well, anyway,
To be honest, there's been no Hollow activity lately
Can't say I'm surprised, I
Have done all I can to

Make sure people are giving me
Every slip of

Information they got for me!

Well, not everything, but
I'm paying people my
Literal fortunes, so
Like, I'm going to

Demand something in return!
Everything costs
Something in this world!
There's no such thing as a free lunch!
Right, so lately not a single person has had any info for me
Oh, well, let's be real,
Ya know it's how things are in

My business. Most people are
You know, a bunch of weaklings I can

Easily bully into getting an especially high amount of loaned Dennies.
Xxxxxxxx, xxxxxx, xxxx.

So, it's just a ton of boring
Idiots asking for my loans lately,
So do that with what you will!
Trust me, I get more boring clients than I
Ever get the decent ones who
Really pay back the interest!

Ahaha, that's just how it is!
Stupidity abound! Stupidity abound! Stupidity abound! Stupidity abound!

Stupidity abound! Stupidity abound! Stupidity abound!
Okay, okay, okay, okay
Okay, I'll stop, I'll stop.
Not like it isn't true, though, it's stupidity abound! Stupidity

Abound! Stupidity abound! Stupidity abound!
Stupidity abound!

Perhaps, I will finally get
One client who has
Some juicy information about
Some Hollow, but
I'm guessing that's
Bound to not happen.
Look, look, it's just
Everything is slow lately! I need something interesting to happen!"

About three weeks or so had passed since those stupid Drill Dozers had dared to walk into the Cold Flames' territory. Since such occurrence had taken shape, not much things of interest had happened since then. Usual weaklings daring to ask for her dennies, many pathetic losers weren't paying back the interest.

But, Hollow Investigation had reached an all time low. Not a single person having any information about hollows, Cold Flames had next to nothing going on. Business busting, customers had been going to other Hollow Investigators, she had a bone to pick with many other people. But, she'd remain docile, for now.

However, someone had been about to pull out the big guns, or rather, the big knife. Brume going out for hours on end and almost never returning home, she had begun to suspect foul play. Who was her only remaining kin she had not cut contact with conspiring with? If he was going behind her back to reconcile with her ex-sisters, or any of their other former kin, she would banish him yet!

Something, however, hadn't been right. She didn't know why, but he hadn't come back last night. Was it something she said? She did not recall saying anything wrong. It was those lame people's fault for not being able to pay back their interest! That was how loan sharks worked. Either pay back, or pay the consequences.

But, today would prove to be the day she'd receive a consequence of her own.

Waking up for the morning, Bain let out a yawn. Another day, another moment to loan out her riches for triple the interest. Had Brume finally come home? There was only one way to find out. Jacket slipped over her arms, she cupped her hands around her face. It was time for her morning shout, as usual.

"Yo, Brume, get off your lazy butt, and wake up already!" Bain shouted. "It's eight o'clock!"

Phone not vibrating in any shape or form, Bain shook her head. He still hadn't come back? Who had he been with? Did her brother get a girlfriend, or something? Probably. They were adults, after all. But, if he had found a lover, she wished he'd tell her! Whatever, what did it matter? Maybe she'll just text the group chat.

<Cold Flames Group Chat>

{Me}
{Brume, where are you? If you have a girlfriend, and are moving out, I'd wish you'd tell me about it, at least! Hmph, come on! I should have cut ties with you instead of Aigre! At least, with her, I'd have someone more reliable in my Hollow Investigation team! Are you even reading these messages? Hello?}
|Read by Izzet|.

{Me}
{Good thing I have read receipts on! I can see Brume hasn't read anything I've said at all. Brume, you too busy with your girlfriend to talk to your own sister? Get out of your girl's bed for a whole second to read these messages! I feel like I haven't seen you in weeks. You runnin' away? Huh, huh? Can't run away from being a Loan Shark, that's life, bruddah!}
|Read by Izzet|.

{Me}
{Izzet, quit leaving me on read and say somethin'. I know you're online right now, I got read receipts on!}
|Read by Izzet|.

{Izzet}
{Gurl, what in the world you going on about? Why would your brother have a girlfriend? Don't you think, if he had one, he'd tell you, 'sis, I found a chick I am head over heels for, and we're datin'!' For as long as I've known you two, he's never kept his secrets. He'd be a hot corpse on the fire, anyway.}
|Read by Me.|

{Me}
{That's not the point, like hello, Izzet! I think he's changed! Why else would he be ignoring us? He's changed, found a girl to get him hitched, and that's it. Well, whatever! I don't need him to investigate the hollows anyway! I should have severed ties with him instead of Aigre! You know I bet this 'girl' is some chick from another chimer investigation team, why I oughta!}
|Read by Izzet.|

{Izzet}
{Gurl, you can't be cereal right now. No way your brother's hitching it off with another chimera in another Hollow Investigation Team. That's crazy talk.}
|Read by Me.|

{Me}
{Crazy talk?!}
|Read by Izzet.| {Reaction pic thumbs up dot jpeg}.

{Me}
{Are you reaction silencing me?!}
|Read by Izzet.| {Reaction pic thumbs up dot jpeg}.

{Me}
{Flip off, Izzet! Ugh, whatever. Has Brume contacted you at any given point? I should have started with that, but silly me, I guess, am I right?}
|Read by Izzet.|

{Izzet}
{No, I haven't heard from your brother. If he hasn't texted you, why would he text me? He hasn't messaged me in weeks, and, as you can see, he hasn't sent or even read anything in the group chat, either. I dunno, maybe he's got his own problems he ain't telling you, what would I know? I'm not in your family.}
|Read by Me.|

{Me}
{You know what? Forget it. Just, forget it, he'll come back. Anyway, I'm feeling a big client today that'll want our dirty money. So, let's get to work! Datin' schmatin, forget Brume, I don't care about him! He ain't care 'nough to to even send me a message to say he's not coming back, so who cares, am I right?}
|Read by Izzet.|

{Izzet}
{Aight, see you there. I'll open up shop for you!}
|Read by Me.|

-This is the most recent message.-

Closing her phone, Bain cracked her knuckles, she readied herself for her least favorite activity in all of New Eridu: driving. Getting behind the wheel, all she could ever feel beside this thing was rage. This is why she didn't drive! But, it's not like she had the option to ask her brother tot rev up the engine. Whatever, she supposed it was go time.

Stepping on the gas, she sped the stupid dungy vehicle with all her might. But, as she had done so, a stupid pedestrian with a high silver ponytail, yellow goggles, and a sword got in her way. Pressing the brakes, she waved her fists. Stupid pedestrians, stupid people, stupid everything. Rolling down the window, she let out a scream.

"What where ya goin', buddy!" Bain cried. "Can't ya see I'm drivin' here?!"

"Excuse me, ma'am, forgive me for my forwardness, but you are driving way above the speed limit," the stupid silver haired lady said.

"Who asked you, huh Soldia Girl? Get outta the street, or next time, I'll hit ya!" Bain shouted.

Lady beating it, Bain revved up the engine once more. Stupid pedestrians, stupid Brume disappearing, stupid everyone else. Reaching the 'shop' after about ten minutes of driving, she cracked her knuckles. That stupid soldier, if she ever dared to come in her way again, she'd hit her next time, mark her words! Izzet in their same old dusty clothes again, Bain cracked her knuckles. She swore she told this dumb gazelle at least a hundred times to not dress like that in her 'shop!'

"Izzet, stop wearing those dirty old clothes!" Bain cried. "You'll scare clients away."

"Bain," Izzet said in a curt tone.

"Don't even try to make excuses again. I don't care!" Bain cried.

"Bain, watch out," Izzet whispered in a low tone. "A pony's coming."

Hearing such, Bain's eyes pulsated. Oh, no a pony, P.O.N.E.C. was coming. The most corrupt cops in all of New Eridu. Had they found out about their business? Haha, haha, hahaha, hahaha. Oh, great, great, wonderful, fantastic, amazing. What a perfect day when Brume hadn't been around! What a perfect, wonderful, fantastic day! Haha, haha, hahaha, hahaha. Great. Great. Bullets biting her door, the pony entered the stable.

Entering the 'shop' had been a tall bunny dude. He had long, spiky orange hair with stringy ponytails. Wearing a half black, half pink outfit with a rabbit with the x shaped eyes and the tongue sticking out. His white eyes looked like they didn't have a soul. Bain's eyes pulsated. Officer Hatsu. One of the deadlier officers within P.O.N.E.C. Oh, no, she's doomed! Pretend this a gambling den, pretend this is just a normal gambling den.

"H hi th there officer," Bain said, stumbling on her words. "Hahaha, hhhhh are you hhhhh hh here to use the slot machines? Ddddd don't be shy, go ahead!"

"Hello, precious little citizen," Officer Hatsu giggled. "I have a little present for you!"

Officer reaching for a paper in the back of his uniform pocket, Bain broke out into a sweat. Oh, she was cooked, she was a hot egg on the frying pan. Was this an illegal business notice? She had heard these ponies had done it before. Countless times before. She was next, wasn't she? They knew. They knew, didn't they? But, what she had received had been something she least expected.

{Hollow Warning;

Hollow spotted in The Ballet Twin Tower. Gang members of the Drill Dozers spotted going in, along with some of the members of the Inferno Punishers, but not all. These dangerous drill owning gang members seem to be holding a blue haired man with a guppy tail behind him hostage at the top of the tower. These stupid little curs will get the stun gun treatment.

There have been various claims as of late from Victoria Housekeeping that this tower seems to be exuding paranormal activity. But, I %^$&*#$^ suspect that they're just lying to create some illegal activity. Well, nothing good old reliable stunny can't fix. But, we shall wait until they make their move. Blah, blah, blah, [don't arrest without probable cause.] Bull.}

"Say, precious little citizen, wouldn't you say that blue haired dude in the letter sounds kinda familiar?" Officer Hatsu asked. "You'd better go into the Hollow and get him before my buddy cops do. Stunny's getting kinda cold!"

Corrupt cop taking out a dried out stun gun, Bain could not process anything. Wait, hold up, hold on, hold the phone here. This Hollow Warning, it was a plant wasn't it? The cops, they had something to do with Brume's disappearance, didn't they? Those monsters. She knew what this was all about.

But, she was always one step ahead of all those people who tried to weasel out her loan shark business. As if she'd ever let the truth be known! Besides, that person with blue hair in the Hollow Investigation report, definitely a total coincidence! Her stupid brother watch hitching it off with some other chick living his life! However, that's when her stomach sank.

That person mentioned in the Hollow Warning, maybe it was Brume. She could feel her blood boil at such. Those stupid Drill Dozers, what did they want with him? And, were the Inferno Punishers conspiring with these territorial invaders? The nerve! She'd put everyone in their place! Maybe it was about time she started charging quintuple for the dirty money she gave out. Alright, time to play along with this pony.

"Officer, are you suggesting my brother's being held hostage in the Ballet Twins Tower?" Bain asked. "How do you know that?"

"My dear citizen, how do you think I know that?" Offer Hatsu asked, playing with his stun gun. "How do you think I know that, dear citizen?"

"Stop wavin' that dangerous weapon around in here!" Izzet cried. "Just tell us how to get to the Ballet Twins Tower, please!"

"Heh, go to the train station and ask the maids there, dear citizen," Officer Hatsu replied. "Oh, also, if you're those people running that illegal loan shark business, you can say hello to Good Ol' Stunny!" He laughed as he said such. "Bye bye, dear citizens!"

Officer leaving, Bain dropped to her knees. P.O.N.E.C., they knew, didn't they? They knew everything, didn't they? What should she do? Should she move her business elsewhere? Be more discreet about her loans? Who told these ponies about her business? She was in trouble now. Izzet dropping to their knees to, doom ate the room.

"Bain, what are we gonna do?" Izzet asked. "Dude knows bout our business." But, a wave of denial came their way.

"Haha, maybe he's just on the case about missing persons!" Bain cried, laughing. "No way he knows about Cold Flames Loan Services!"

"You seriously saying that right now?!" Izzet cried. "We gotta face the facts, Bain! They know. They've probably known for awhile now! Why else would they come here directly and send us this Hollow Warning?!"

"What are you saying?" Bain's head felt like a brick as she asked such.

"You know what I'm saying, Bain." Izzet turned their head off to the side as they said such.

Click.

And, then it hit her. Brume's disappearance, it was all a setup, wasn't it? She sees now, she gets it. What else would it be? Those lowlife officers, they'd get into contact with other criminals to get their dirty work done. She sees now! She gets it. Those darned cops. They had really done it now.

"We have to head to the train station!" Bain cried.

"You're the boss, boss," Izzet responded.

Leaping into her car, Izzet had soon been behind the wheel. Seating herself in the back, she tapped her foot in a ferocious manner. She couldn't help but feel regret wash in over her previous assumptions. Why would her brother go get hitched with some girl? He wouldn't ever do that kind of stuff without telling her. Of course he wouldn't. Silly her for thinking otherwise! Come on, now Bain, have more faith!

Izzet revving up the engine, the train station was right around the corner. Seatbelt flung off like it was a little creature, she let out a scream of the ages. Quick, she had to be quick, or those stupid cops would chase after her. They were onto her now, those fiends. Dashing on through, her knuckles had soon been cracked for everyone around to hear.

Time for some hollow business.

***

"This is Brume. Well, guess you know that already,
Huh? But, what you don't know is that
I, Brume, have been tricked by
Some group of peeps. Can you guess who?

I'm assuming you can't,
Should I spoil the surprise for you?

Maybe I won't, that would ruin the rest of this chapter for
You, wouldn't it, newbie? Oh,

Huh, it's you. That's weird guy who keeps following all us chimeras around.
Okay, first off, let me
Start by asking you, since you're over
There in the corner watching me, who
Are you? And, honestly, what purpose do you
Get out of stalking all of us? Care to elaborate?
Eh, you're doing no such thing? No

Such thing, you say?
Oh, I see, you like to joke around.
Not funny. Do you hear me laughing? Whatever,
Guess since you're here, I'll

Have to let you know
Everything that's happening here, don't I?
Let me start by saying, yes, my ex-sister, she contacted me recently. I don't know why, and
Like, I don't talk to her, but she pretended it was some kind
Of emergency, and don't tell Bain, so I believed her.

Look, so I'm
A little gullible, so I'll admit it. I'm a
Little bit gullible,
And I fall for things like this kinda often. So, I went to go to this 'emergency
Location, which I have been doing for the past few weeks.
All of that was a lie.

I shouldn't have fallen for

Any of that. Like, come on now,
My ex-sister wanting to contact me?

Be real with me, that ain't
Ever actually happening,
I suspect she's doing this because someone is making her follow a script,
Not sure who. But, from what I
Gather, this was a planned

Hit on me. Me, specifically, since I'm
Especially gullible.
Look, hit me with me, 'there's an emergency', and I'm gonna believe you.
Perhaps, I should reevaluate myself, anyway whatever

Crud my ex-sister is pulling, I
Am now at the top of some big tower,
Plain and simple, this
Tower is haunted, I think.
I ain't a ghost seer or nothin' but there's these
Very terrifying doll creatures.
Err, and also, hopefully, I'm wrong about this but I

Hear a familiar foe on the bottom floors,
Ehhhh, what was their name again? The Inferno Punishers.
Riiight, so, like, I think they're workin' with the cops.
Eh, as if I know anythin' bout that.

Look, I know nothin' kay?
And, I'm trying to keep it that way.
Look, I ain't go to where my business isn't wanted,
As I know how things all go down if I
Lend myself to other chimera's territory. So, I ain't about to do all that.
Ain't about to. I know better. I dunno what my ex-sister wants, and who she's workin' with, but this ain't it. Ain't the way to go to get the family back together, lyin' 'bout some emergency."

Reaching the train station, a tall woman in a black maid dress and long hair stood at the entrance next to a short teenager with short black hair. Her peculiar shark tail stuck out like a sore thumb. Bain couldn't help but feel these maids were a bunch of weirdos. Who were they, anyway? And, what were they doing here?

"Miss maid," Bain said, huffing and puffing. "Tell us how to get to the Ballet Twins Tower!"

"Who's she?" the shark tail girl asked.

"A guest," the taller maid said.

"Does it matter who we are?!" Bain asked. "We need to get to the Ballet Twins Tower, alright? It's an emergency!"

Directions handed to her, Bain stared at these maids. Who was Victoria Housekeeping anyway? Ah, what did she care, she had a Hollow to bust into! Izzet and she running towards the tower, she clutched onto her knife like it was some kind of pearl. The Drill Dozers, they'd pay for taking Brume like he was some kind of prize!

Finding themselves in an extremely low lit abandoned building, spotlights had soon shone over two annoying strangers in denim jackets. Standing on the left had been a person with spiky orange hair, and a dead look on their face. Gazelle horns almost looking crooked, they adorned a white shirt with an upside down triangle with feet on it.

Next to them had been a slightly taller masculine person with short orange hair that went to about their chin, and slicked back bangs. Adorning the same outfit as their opposite, and horns, as well, she clutched her knife once again. These two were a part of The Inferno Punishers. She remembered them, they were some defense squad, or something. Time to bog them down.

"Give me back my brother, fiends!" Bain exclaimed.

"Don't got him, right Firat?" gazelle number one said.

"Correct, Damla," gazelle number two said. "What makes you think we're the ones who took him, hmm?" But, a thorn had soon come their way.

"Why are you two here, former kin of mine?" Izzet asked, voice low. "And, what do you want with Bain's brother?"

"We didn't do anything," Damla boomed. "And, if I were you, ex-cousin, I'd make up with your sibling. They're going to squeal about you soon. And maybe we will, too, heh." But as they said such, drills had gone flying.

"You wouldn't dare tell the ponies about us," Izzet cried.

"And if we do?" Firat asked. "What then?" But, as they said such, further projectiles had gone flying.

"You wouldn't dare tell the ponies about us!" Izzet repeated.

Hearing a loud mechanical wail as everyone argued, Bain rolled up her sleeves. Running towards the enemy, a wall of dancing robots had been abound. Knives going aflyin' she let out a shout. Stupid ballet tower, stupid Drill Dozers. Stupid Kali, stupid ponies. They probably already squealed, she bet.

Lights flickering over and over again, multiple flying knives had missed their targets one after another, but she wouldn't falter. She had to go to that top floor and get Brume back. She wasn't afraid of some stupid cops! So, what if they knew about her Loan Shark Business. She'll just lie about it like she had before. No harm done.

Ethereals putting up quite the fight, the top floor was looming. But, she couldn't help but laugh at the so called 'paranormal' activity claims. Sure, sure there was paranormal activity here. Absolute hogwash. She ain't believing that for a second. Some idiot just forgot to take the batteries out of their stupid meks before leaving this building. Their fault, not hers!

Stupid robots piled up one after another, the party of two dashed upwards towards the roof. And, the scene that played before her pushed all her buttons quintuple fold. Brother being held at drill point, she couldn't help but laugh at the red haired freak in the corner. Letting out a guttural laugh, knives had been tossed.

"You blabbed about us, didn't you?" Bain cried. "How dare you talk to P.O.N.E.C. about us, ex-sister!" But, a laugh had come her way.

"Oh, I haven't yet, but you just gave me a great idea, former kin!" Kali shouted. But, as she said a knife had been thrown her way.

"I'll just deny it, so good luck!" Bain cried. "Let go of Brume already!"

"Bain, just forget about me," Brume said. "There's a huge Ethere--" but as he attempted to say such, a drilly gift had been awarded to his neck.

"Did I say you could talk former brother of mine?" Kali asked in a high pitched tone. "Consider this payback for what went down in the last hollow we were in!"

"Bae, don't you think this is going a little too far?" Kelebek asked. "Pretending you had some sort of family emergency?"

"I concur," the penguin man, Earl said. But, shouts had come there way.

"Who asked you two? This is payback for taking our prey!" Her voice echoed as she said such.

Roar kicking in the corner, a gigantic dancing robot had begun its last waltz. Cracking her knuckles, Bain's weapons had gone aflyin' once more. Ah, who cares about her former sister's plot for revenge? She'd get revenge all the same! Flames building behind her, she soon slapped the invisible chain.

"Izzet! Finish this!" Bain cried.

"Ice cold drills, raaa!" Izzet shouted.

Mechanical monster frozen, the knives had done their sworn duty. Hollow crumbling around them, she let out a shout. Stupid Drill Dozers, stupid cops, stupid everyone else. Brother let go of. The pesky gang hightailed it out of there. Serves them right! Brother huffing and puffing, they all exited the hollow.

Heading home, the party of three discussed the current events. Cops talked about in full detail, the topic about whether they knew about their 'shop', days soon passed. Nothing happened, Bain had come to a conclusion. It was all a bluff. They didn't know. Or, perhaps, they just had a hunch. But, she knew one thing for certain.

Cold Flames had to lay low for awhile.

The loan sharks were dipping out for now.

---

Next up? Inferno Punishers, yippe!

 

[Palamon]

The Inferno Punisher's Road: Maids Crashing In

---

"Hello, hello, hello!
It's nice to me meet you!

This is the Outer Ring!
How can I help you?
Eh, you! You're that
Really weird guy who's
Entering chimera territory!

How could you keep doing that,
Eh? You should, totally
Like screw off with all that, mmk?
Lemme ask you
One thing! Why are you in the outer ring right

Now? Eh? You won't tell me unless
I introduce myself?
Come on! You should know that
Everything about all

That is stupid, like I'm a stranger,
Okay? What?! You

May just stay here until I say who I am?
Eh! You're nuts, and gutsy!
Eh, fine, fine, fine!
The name's

Yínlóng! And, I'm
One of the Inferno Punishers!
Uh, so are we, you ask?

I'm glad you asked! We

Are a defense force and we
Mingle ourselves with P.O.N.E.C.

You must be thinking, eh, we're cops?! Well, yesn't.
It's not quite like that we're
Not like, full blown cops, that's not it. Aight, so
Listen up, okay? Listen up,
Okay? We are a defense force for hollows, and only serve P.O.N.E.C. if we
Need to. We usually act on our own. So, don't
Get scared of us! Promise that I won't do anything to you, at least not unless you enter my territory!

We don't think you mean any harm, though, so you're
Especially in luck today, newbie!
Let me ask you something,
Come on, you know this
One's coming! What
Might you be here, for,
Eh, you mean, you don't know?

That's crazy! Why are you in the
Outer Ring and don't know why?

To be honest, you're a weirdo, newbie!
Hahaha, okay, okay, so, let me
Enter this into your brain.

Okay! So, let me
Unleash a little more about us so
That you understand who I am
Err, so first of all, I'm a panda chimera! I may be a little lazy looking, but you're
Really looking too deep into this!

Right, so lemme ask you something,
Is it fun going to annoy others like this,
Newbie? Look, I
Get you're lost and bored! But the

Outer Ring is a lot less protected!
Ha around here, if

You get lost in a hollow, it's
Over for you!
Uh, anyway! Around

Here, in Blazetown, it's mostly just biker gangs.
Ah, by the way, we're one, too. That's
Very weird, you say, since we're also cops?
Eh, okay, first off! We're

Not! We're, hello, the defense force!
Eh, what, you want to know how we got our name? You're
Very friendly, that's a little
Evil ya know? Eh, Esquire might
Rip my ear off if he heard me say that!

Bah! Whatever, whatever! That doesn't
Even matter! It
Especially doesn't matter!
Not one bit! Well, fine, I'll tell you

How we got our name,
Eh, so, we blow everything up in a
Raging fire style!
Everything is a big,

Wild Inferno! So, therefore we are The Inferno Punishers!
Everything makes sense now, doesn't it?
Look, you just a
Little stupid, so if you don't

Get it, you don't get it.
Oh, by the way, all
Our bikes are named after flames!
Do you want to know the name of mine?

You do?! You know what, newbie, I like you!
Okay, so! Mine is name is named
Unleashing Embers! You

Should see all the stickers I
Have on my bike!
Oh, you want to look,
Uh, okay! Sure! You can take a
Little peek! Here!
Do you like it? Oooh,

Now we're talking!
Okay, you know what? Newbie, I
Take back everything I said before, you're pretty

Cool! Alright, so I guess I'll tell you more.
Okay, so I'll tell you the name of
Marquis's bike! His is
Engulfing Wisps!

Huh, you don't understand that one?
Eh, well, alright,
Right so, a wisp is like a ghost flame,
Even if you don't understand that's

A-okay. I'm much
Nicer than most chimeras, so I'll explain it to you, don't
You worry. I promise I
Will. I promise I will, do don't be
A stranger, ask away! Eh,
You're a little nervous?

I understand that, really.

Anyway, let
Me continue talking

About this our bikes! Okay, so

Please listen! Now I
Am going to talk about Esquire's
Roller! Let me go ahead and
Tell you the name of his bike! The

Over Burner! You don't understand? Aww,
Fooey! Burner, burner, you know

That means fire, right?
Hmm, well, I guess that isn't
Especially obvious

In the name, but do
Not worry about it!
For now, let me tell you about
Everyone else's bikes.
Rrrr, what? How many of us are there?
Now, let me start by saying, there's
Only five of us, including me.

Perhaps, you think there's more of
Us hiding in the shadows?
No, no, there
Isn't! I promise it's just the five of us!
So, let me tell you
How the other two named their bikes!
Eh, are you getting bored, newbie? You
Really need to
Sit tight, come on now! I'm

Almost done, I promise I'm almost

Done! So, please just open your
Ears! I promise I'm almost done!
Firat's bike is named the Fire Maiden!
Eh, you don't like that?
Newbie, pray tell,
Say what's wrong with it?
Eh, what do you mean it's boring?

Firat, you hear that?
Our new kid called your bike
Really boring! Ah, they don't seem to
Care. So, never mind! So,
Eh! They're bored today, but anyway let

Me just tell me i
Our last member's bike!
So, Damla's is a a bit weird, so let me go ahead and
Tell you that the names a
Little long, okay!
You ready? Okay, then,

Listen up! This
Is going to be a
Very long name to tell you,
It's the Burning Monster That Can Take Down The Mountains!
Now, that's a mouthful? Yeah, I don't
Get it, either, Damla

Is? A little weird sometimes. Well,
No matter. I wouldn't judge

Them for something like that.
Ha, so tell me! Which one is your favorite?
Eh, what do you mean you don't want to pick?

Oh, if you're worried about hurting our feelings,
Uh, don't be,
That's a little silly!
Eh, if you don't want to tell me, that's
Really okay! It's okay if you do

Really have a favorite! I promise
It's okay I will
Not be mad, it's too much effort! So
Go ahead and tell me! Eh?!

What's wrong? Is
Everything okay? You just fell on your face.

Please, stop being dramatic!
Uh, so anyway, you want
To know what we're up

To in the outer ring?
Heh, well, there's a grand prix soon!
Err, what? You're shocked we're not doing cop stuff?

Pulease, we haven't spoken to P.O.N.E.C

In a few weeks
Now! So, don't you worry, don't you fret! The

Ponies aren't coming here
At all! So, they're not
In the area, okay? So do
Not worry, they

Aren't coming! They do
Not care about the Outer Ring! They
Don't go in areas like this

Ever, the outer ring isn't
Apart of New Eridu
This is outside their jurisdiction.

However! It is within
Ours, but we don't
Like doing anything
Like super violent unless it's in a hollow.
Okay, so I'll just say
We're not corrupt cops like P.O.N.E.C., Oh, I
Shouldn't say that? What are you trying to say, newbie?

For real! They don't care we go
Over to them and
Regard them as corrupt,

Because the leader
Really likes it when we say that.
Eh, that's sadistic? I guess so. Well,
Anyway, that's how it is! I
Know it's weird! Well, <redacted> has
For the most part, <redacted> is
A little lost in the head,
So try not
To be too hard on <redacted> okay?

Bwaa, being proud of being
Evil is a little

Weird? Hey! They're not evil, just
A little broken! Look, I am, too,
Really, bad things happened that lead me,
Yínlóng to make the Inferno Punishers!

Oh, well, that's a story
For a different day.

Um, so, anyway?! I
Should say, there is just

One place I don't want you to go,
Really, and that's the biking grounds,

You know I'm much nicer than all the
Others, I'm much more
Understanding! So, I'm not going to tell you to leave! Well, yet. Just

Make sure you don't press my buttons, and
I won't go ape on you. Eh, don't
Give monkeys a
Horrible look? Uh, hi, hello,
Take a moment to

Just listen to yourself for a second!
Uh, it's just a
Saying, so don't pick at
That, okay? I'm a biker and I'm a

Bigger than you think,
Everyone knows my name!

So, don't get up my tail about the apes,
Why does it matter I said that?
Ape as in going crazy on you.
Look, so anyway, we'll
Let you watch
Our race and watch us
Win! What how do we
Even know we're going to win?
Don't you know how good

We are? I'm going to assume you don't,
Hey, listen, I get it,
Okay? I know I don't
Look all that strong,
Everyone fears me on the track!

And, honestly, you should, too! What, I'm
Not that scary?
Don't say that! You don't

Really mean all that,
Eh?! You actually do
Mean it? Crck, crck,
Eh, you're wrong, now you're
Making me mad, newbie!
Bold of you to think I'm not scary!
Everyone is afraid of me, so you
Really are underestimating me!

That's not very smart of you!
How could you say that?
I'm getting mad, I'm getting
Super mad now!

Don't ever underestimate me!
Okay? Okay? Good, good!

Now, I'll tell you who
Our little gang is facing,
The Sons of Calydon!

Ghhh, also, a few weirdos,
Eh, dudes in
These maid dresses,

I don't know what they're doing here, do they
Not know that the outer ring is

My, no, the Inferno Punishers territory?
You're choosing poorly!

Why do they think they're
Allowed here? They're not!
Yes, that's right the hollows

Out here belong to us, they
Really should know all that.

Eh, yes, I know we
Leave our territory
Sometimes! But that's when we're with the ponies!
Even so, this entirely ours.

You just don't get it!
Of course you don't,
Ugh, you know

What? You're annoying me,
I'm going to have to ask you to
Leave, before I get really scary!
Let's get you out of here!

Panda punch!
And, off they go.
You know I have hear

This person
Had been
Entering many, many

Chimeras hollow territory and
Opening their mouth to ask
Nonsensical questions.
So, let's just assume that's
Everything that just happened. That's
Quite annoying, if you ask me.
Ugh, next time they dare
Enter the outer ring, I'm
Not going to be nice,
Come on, little spy,
Everyone is aware now that you're a
Stupid little rat! So, it's about time you leave. Bye!"

A short, feminine appearing adult with silver hair pulled into a braid dappled oil onto the top of their panda ears. Their pink eyes almost glittered too brightly. Slapping a reddish-pink buttoned jacket with the fasteners opened up, they rolled their shoulder, for a brief moment as the blazing sun petered out behind the clouds.

Stepping to the outside of their home, their garage soon awaited them. Bright red motorcycle with a blazing sticker that read, Unleashing Embers, the lubricant oil had been in their hands. It was time to get down and clean; get ready for the best time of the year, the only thing that mattered in their lives outside of the occasional cop moment or two.

It had been that time of year again, the motorbike showdown. They could hardly believe how fast it had come. They had nearly forgotten. Being forced to patrol around New Eridu alongside P.O.N.E.C. lately for illegal Hollow Investigation activity, they had been away from from their home sweet home for quite a few months now.

But, their affiliate had gone quite quiet lately. Much more shush than normal. Ever since they had gone off to the Ballet Twins tower, *#$&&#*$&# had gone silent. Had the ponies decided to act without them? Well, good timing, if they did! They refused to miss a biker competition due to cop work. They had another thing coming if they thought they would leave Blazewood now!

Hearing a knock on their garage door, the panda pressed a button, metallic gate swiping upward, four faces they knew they'd see waited from them. Curling their fingers, the quartet strutted in with a high sense of power like they always did. Rag dropped upon the motorbike, Unleashing Embers had been pushed aside, for a moment.

Strutting beside the bike out in front had been a tall penguin man with long flowing blond hair. Adorning two loose cowlicks that looked like a seedling, his penguin crests were glossy with sparkles. Orange eyes as bright as a fire, their blue and black striped shirt was lukewarm in comparison. Ah, Marquis, he really ought to dress like he's an inferno like the rest of them.

"Hey, Marquis," the panda said. "You ready for today's race?"

"That's just what we came to talk about, Yinlong," Marquis said. "We should call it off. I hear the racing track was caught in a Hollow."

"Yeah, if I were you, I wouldn't go!" another blond next to him cried.

Crying at the top of his lungs had been a tall man with golden penguin crests that looked like flames. He had long blond hair that went down to about his chest with stringy sideburns, and brightly burning orange eyes. Yinlong couldn't ever get over how this guy was still so handsome, despite being almost thirty. While they hadn't been quite there yet, six years to go, they wondered what their secret was to defying age.

Penguin duo telling them to try to forgo the race, Yinlong clicked their tongue. Call off the race? No way! They had been ordered around by P.O.N.E.C. for long enough! Can't they have a moment where they aren't lower ranking cops for a change and have fun on their bikes? Who cares about a hollow? They sure didn't!

"You know how Yinlong is," a carrot top said, sighing. "They're not going to call off the race."

"That's right," another carrot top said. "Besides, I'm tired of the ponies throwing us around. We'll deal with the Hollow along the way." They added their own sigh to the mix. "We're The Inferno Punishers, remember? Motorbike gang first, hollow investigators second, cops last."

Sighing in the corner had been a short feminine appearing person with short, spiky orange hair. Their gazelle horns had been bright, pitch black, almost as dark as a black hole. Orange eyes to make, their denim biker jacker had been open. Grey shirt with a six pointed star on it with legs, Yinlong nodded at their declaration. They so would not be calling off the race. No way.

Standing in the corner listing their priorities in order had been a short masculine appearing person with short orange hair and slicked back bangs. Light brown gazelle horns on the top of their head, their minty green eyes looked as dead as a corpse. Also adorning a open denim jacket, their turquoise shirt an upside down triangle with legs.

"That's right I'm not calling off the race!" Yinlong cried. "The ponies have had a grip on us for too long! It's not like we're going after that hitman group or anything, so let us live a little, why don't you, Esquire?"

"Why you calling me out, huh?" Esquire asking, pointing at Marqius. "I'm not the one who said we should call it off!" He then turned towards the spiky carrot top. "And Damla, don't you think that we should call it off? It's a pretty big hollow, ya know!"

"So? We'll just clear it out," Damla responded, arms crossed around their waist. "I'm with Firat on this. I'm tired of the ponies ordering us around. I need a break from cop business. Last time, Hatsu staged a kidnapping between two estranged family members who ain't want nothin' to do with each other, and we had to act like we knew nothing. I don't want anything to do with junk like that."

"I concur," Firat said, nodding. "Hatsu's gone kind of crazy lately. He thinks there's some loan shark service, and, honestly, he went too far. I want a break from those nutcases. Especially *%*%#(&%&(*. Like, I know Yinlong and *%*%%*#%(%#& have some sort of history with some other guy whom they cut ties with, but they're getting far too power hungry lately, and I've had enough."

Firat fanning the flames across the way, Yinlong could not help but agree. *%*%$#_*_) had been getting way too violent lately. They had no idea what had been up with them lately. What were they thinking, and why? They had heard, recently, they had been patrolling the alleyways. And, not just any alleyways, the streets the Flower Silencers territory, the top hollow exterminators in the business. Well, chimera business at least.

"Mm, yeah, *%*%#%%% has been making too many dangerous moves lately!" Yinlong cried. "I don't want anything to do with %%% right now!"

"You say that now, but don't you at least want to talk to the person %%% is trying to scare into coming out?" Marquis asked. "Weren't you friends with %%%'s brother?"

Marquis bringing up their former friendship with %%%'s brother, Yinlong slapped her hands onto her fist. Why bring up that person now? That was then, this is now. They hardly cared about him anymore, and why should they? How dare Marquis think it's alright to bring them up! They would not stand for this.

"Who cares about $(%%(#&%(#&'s brother?!" Yinlong cried. "We aren't friends anymore! Don't ruin today for me, alright? It's already bad enough you're complaining about a Hollow!" But, more bad news had soon laid itself down.

"If that's got you annoyed, this'll be the last straw for you, so buckle up, Yinlong," Esquire said. "Another group of chimeras is joining the race."

"Are you kidding me, who?!" Yinlong cried, rage building in their voice.

"You wasted no time getting angry," Damla said, arms across their waist.

"Esquire didn't even say who it was yet." Firat added, sighing.

"Uh, hello, another chimera is probably here to invade our hollow territory!" Yinglong shouted. "Why wouldn't I be peeved?" They then pointed at Esquire. "Spill the beans! Who dared to step into The Inferno Punishers territory?"

"I dunno! Some dudes in maid outfits!" Esquire cried. "They all sped on by in rentals. Recklessly, might I add. They weren't even obeying the speed limit!"

"And, they had to nerve to come on rentals? How dare they!" The rage on their voice was building.

Esquire telling them more, Yinlong almost wanted to rev up their engine right here, right now. Who did these people think they were?! They had to nerve to invade their hollow territory, and enter the motorbike race? Unreal. They would take this unwanted used napkins out of their turf while they still could.

Everyone getting on their bikes, the quartet rode off towards the racetrack. But, the entire time, Yinlong could taste the anger stew brewing on their tongue. They weren't about to lose to a group of maids who never knew how to go the speed limit, no way. Not a chance. This was their turf. And, the only people they were going to race were The Sons of Calydon and others who rode the streets fairly. they needed to warn the competition now.

Reaching the racing area, a lot of motorbikes had been on the premises. A set of three they did not recognize, they cracked their knuckles. Those disgusting rentals get that trash out of here! So, the maids were already here, were they? Large rainbow dome engulfing the race track, they were about ready to watch the world burn.

Standing in front of the hollow had been a tall woman with a busty figure. She had short green hair from the front, and an extremely long ponytail in the back. Black biker outfit upon her, and red collar that read king, her shield had a pig on it. Miss Cae--- had been in top form like always. Unlike those stupid trespassers.

Next to her had been a tall woman with blonde hair and red sunglasses on the top of her head. Adorning a pitch black spiky biker jacket, and skull bra upon her bosom, her stomach had been exposed. Her flamethrowers had been in top form, like always. Miss Burn---, the perfect example of what a biker gang member was supposed to look like!

Looking ready to enter the hollow had been a tall man with spiky black hair, and sunglasses to match. Pitch black biker jacket, ah, Lig----, he had been the one and only actual son within the Sons of Calydon. Yinlong had always found their gang name ironic. Most of their members had been girls. But, it's not like they were one to judge. They were called the Inferno Punishers, and the only thing about them that had to do with fire was their motorbike's names. Bikers turning towards them, the introductions juiced themselves up.

"Sup, little sib," Cae--- greeted. "I don't know if we can race you guys today."

"If this is about the hollow, we'll get rid of it, big sis!" Yinlong cried.

"I dunno, little sib," Burn--- said. "The Ethereals are wild here!"

"Well, excuse me for not taking care of them for awhile!" Yinlong cried. "Why aren't you three helping? And, where are Pi--- and Lu---?"

"Something is blocking us from enterin'," Ligh--- said.

Only son within the Sons of Calydon claiming something was blocking their entrance, they cracked their knuckles. Oh, those invaders, they were behind this, weren't they? Who did they think they were invading their territory, taking their hollows, and keeping it for themselves? They would pay for that. Revving up their motorbike engine, they let out a shout.

"Everyone, we're going in!" Yinlong cried, ready to floor it. But, they had soon been interrupted.

"Hello, Yinlong? Did you not just hear what Ligh--- said?" Firat said. "Something is blocking the entrance?"

"You think I care?!" Yinlong cried, turning the handlebars. "I just lubed Unleashing Embers up! I can go through anything!"

Engine roaring, Yinlong drove towards the hollow blazing in. Ha! There was something blocking the entrance? As if they'd let that stop them! Party of four shouting for them to wait, they refused. No chance of that happening! This was their territory, and they had some maids to get rid of! Hollow almost front and center, they blew their horn in defiance.

They were ready to send these maids back home crying.

***

"Sigh, and there Yinlong goes. Huh?
I, who in the world are you? Oh,
Great, you're the annoying spy that
Has been lurking around these parts?

And, you think that's allowed,
Newbie? I don't think you know what I'll
Do to you. I'm not as nice as Yinlong.

Or Marquis, nor Esquire, and especially not Damla. I am
Fuming with rage over seeing you, newbie.
For the love of everything,

Take yourself out of
Here before I permanently disfigure you!
Eh, you're not scared of some gazelle?
You wanna go, huh? Huh? I'll have you know that we're also cops. And we

Get to use force when we want to so,
Oh, stupid newbie, do not test me. And,

I will beat you up. Alright? So, don't say

Anything that will awaken my
Little rage demon, because I
Will burn you. Mark my words, I will burn you
Alive until you're dead. Until
You're dead, understand?
So, don't test my patience, do not

Test me, go it? You think I
Have the same amount
Of kindness that Yinlong exhibits? I don't.
Ugh, you're still here?
Get out of here. Get out of
Here already. Get out of here if you plan
To be annoying, because just know

You'll be dead before
I'm done with you! Alright,
Newbie, since you're still here, and you're still
Lurking, I'll just tell you what we plan
On doing to get rid of those stupid maids. I will
Not be gentle with them. What, did you just say?! Be
Gentle with them?! They're probably just lost.

What, who in the world do you think you
Are, huh? You don't listen to anyone, do you?
So let me remind you of what Yinlong said, they're in our territory? What did you just say? Why aren't we kicking out The Sons of Calydon? Excuse

Me, do you wanna go? First
Off, we're pals and
Rivals on the streets with the Sons of Calydon, a brother of mine is a brother of mine.
Everyone should know that around the

Outer ring, we're like
Fam around here, so you'd better shut that

Annoying mouth of yours. Those

Loser maids invaded our territory! What
Aren't you getting here, you fumbling
Idiot? You obviously
Don't understand that concept of chimera's territory. So, let me

Break it down for you, idiot.
All seven chimera factions in New Eridu and in the outer ring have
Claimed certain areas as their territory. I
Know, that's a difficult

Concept for you to grasp since you're such a
Half-whit, and all, but you can't be such an
Idiot that you don't understand that!
Maybe if you weren't such an annoying piece of trash
Eavesdropping all the time, you'd
Really know what's going on
Around here, but nope, you're always just spying in the corner.

Bet that stupid shiny butt of yours if I see you around here again, I'll
Unleash the dry ice upon you and
Take you out

So fast, you might as well have never existed
On this planet! Understand?
Maybe I wasn't clear
Enough on this, so I'll explain it
One last time since you're so incompetent,
Newbie. So, you'd better listen up, idiot.
Every single chimera, both

In New Eridu, and in the Outer Ring have claimed certain areas as their territory. Do you understand
Now, are you just pretending not to listen? You're
Very annoying, you know that? Very, very,
Annoying. I can't believe Yinlong hadn't attacked you.
Don't act like you're special just because you're brand spanking new around here.
Everyone should know by now how things work,
So that goes for you, too.

Our territory is the Outer Ring!
Uh, excuse me, what did you just ask me? What's P.O.N.E.C's territory? You're
Really bold enough to ask

That, and think I'm going to answer you? I don't
Ever have to answer a stupid spy! That better have been a
Rhetorical question, because it wasn't a
Rhetorical question, shiiing, you'll have to answer to my sword. What? What was that scream, mmm? You scared?
I would be. How many
Times do I have to say this to you? The
Outer Ring is our territory. So, I don't know why those stupid maids had the nerve to
Raid our hollow. Their territory is their cafe in New Eridu! This is like if the Flower Silencers invaded someone else's hollow investigations grounds. Look,
Yes, I know, the other day, no week, the other week, we were in the Ballet Twins tower

And all that, but that was because we were forced to. It's
Not like we wanted anything to do with the
Drill Dozers and pony's business. And, yes, I know

The Cold Flames were also in there, too.
However, the Ballet Twins tower isn't any chimera's territory.
Everyone knows that place is apparently haunted.
Yeah, so why would any of us

Claim that place as
Ours? Drill Dozers, well, color
Me surprised, they take commissions on the Inter-knot.
Please tell me they're joking, that's
Like the worst place to go and take them.
Every chimera should know that.
Though, the Drill Dozers are just a little stupid, so
Even if I tell them that they're doing it wrong, it's not
Like they'll listen to me.
Yeah, yeah, whatever, it's not like I

Care. Honestly, newbie, why are you so annoying, and why are you still
Here? Don't you have other people to go
And spy on? Get away before I stab you with my sword.
No way, could you stop asking me questions already? I'm
Getting really annoyed, here.
Everything about you is just
Really annoying. No one know where you came from, and

That's annoying. You
Have the nerve to burst into
Everyone's territory, thinking
It's okay to do so just because you're new.
Right, so listen up, idiot.

The, I'm new around here, give me a free pass ain't going to work forever.
Ugh, you dare think that's allowed, you know it's
Not, right? By the way, don't
Ever try that around P.O.N.E.C. You should know as well as

I do. They're a group of corrupt cops. So

Don't ever get
On their bad side.

Never, ever, if you get
On Hatsu's bad side
They have a stun gun. It's best you remember that.

Getting on their bad side is the last thing you'd
Ever want to do. And, there's other chimeras out
There that will kill you.

That includes me. Some will just
Hope you get turned into an
Ethereal and do nothing about you, but people like
Me, we won't hesitate to harm you

As we see fit, so stay in line, or
Take a grand exit from life.

Ah, all I'm talk, huh?
Look at my sword, does it
Look like a toy? That's right!

I didn't think so.
Now, if you'd just shut up,

And leave this place, I will
Not have to harm
You, understand?

So, I'll give you to the count of three to get out of
Here. Or I'm going to go
And use my sword. You don't want to be cut to
Pieces now, do you? That'd be
Especially painful to clean up!

One, two, three, and, they're gone.
Really, who in the world is this

Freak following every chimera around and acting like they're new?
Obnoxious creep.
Right, so, I have
More important things to get to."

Reaching the inners of the hollow, a group of stupid men dressed in maid costumes had been prowling around the premises. Annoying guy with a guppy tail behind him, Yinlong cracked their knuckles. Maid in Heaven what were they doing here in their territory? These were those reckless drivers that %*(%*(%#&(*#& was trying to catch after Pub Sec failed, wasn't she? Get out of their hollow!

Stupid penguin guy and person with an alligator tail, they were ready to ram their motorcycle into them with no care in the world. Didn't these three have a café to run to get their own customers to tell them about hollows? Stick with that, and leave their space! Revving up their engine, their team did the same.

"If it isn't the reckless driver!" Yinlong cried. "Haven't had enough of speeding on the road, so you sped here on a rental?" As they said such, they shined their light on the stupid grey haired loser's face. "I don't care who you got this mission from, but this is the Inferno Punisher's territory!"

"Well, it's not like you're doing a good job of keeping the Outer Ring hollow free!" Eclater cried. "So, we'll enter your territory and cheat in your little race as you please! Right, boys?"

Silence.

"Don't ignore me!" Eclater cried.

Stupid penguin boy's eyes on Marquis and Eclater, Yinlong shook their head. What was with this stupid tension between these three? They were invading their hollow territory! At least act guilty. Hearing a roar off in the corner, they revved up their engine. Whatever, who cares about all that, they had an ethereal to kill. Speeding off, they could hear some arguments in the background.

"Hello, cousins from a bygone era," Domini said in a disgusted tone. "What are you ugly freaks doing here?"

"Ugly? How dare you!" Marquis cried. "You twenty somethings and your beauty standards!"

"Hello, are you forgetting something, ugly ex-cousin?" Esquire asked. "The Outer Ring is our territory!"

"You think we care?" Domini asked. "Like our boss said, you don't seem to taking care of this place at all."

"You five are too busy staging a kidnapping to care!" Eclater exclaimed. "So, we're just taking care of business for ya!"

"Excuse me, but we wanted nothing to do with the kidnapping of your brother," Damla said. But their ear had been yanked.

"Former brother," Firat whispered. "These two are estranged from each other, did you forget?"

"Okay, so, and you expect us to not take a mission from someone just because this is your territory?" Peltro asked. "Get real."

Chaos brewing, Yinlong revved up their engine. Motorcycle monsters in front of them, their bike had been on fire. Great, perfect, now that they were all fighting, it was time for them to shine. Those stupid maids, they think they can just waltz in here like that? Fat chance. They would pay for their illegal entry.

"Fiery engine!" Yinlong cried.

Large motorbike monster attempting to burn the joint, Yinlong drove back, defenses kicking in, they could feel it all ready to be engulfed in flames. This poor bike just had to fall into the hollow and become a monster, huh? Too bad their lube couldn't fix this. Charging right into the enemy, her team came driving in at full speed.

"Dry ice!" Firat cried. "Damla, now!"

"Taste my drill!" Damla cried. They then tapped Esquire in.

"Some like it hot!" Esquire cried.

"Wo-hoo, you're in for a teeny tiny little zap!" Marquis cried.

Ethereal motorbike looking to fall over the edge, Yinlong could feel the decibels reach their maximum. Revving up their engine, they were ready to unleash the power of the inferno within them. Honking their horn, Unleashed Embers had soon been airborne. This was it, the final blow that would break this hollow down once and for all.

"Start your engines, racers! We'll burn you!" Yinlong cried.

Ethereal biting the dust, the hollow had soon been no more. Younger two members of the Sons of Calydon exiting from far deeper in, a pile of dumb bodies made them bust a gut laughing. Stupid maids knocked out of the park, the Sons of Calydon returned these invading fiends to their little make believe café where they belonged. Annoying thread gone, they swiped their hands together. That'll teach those freaks who the Outer Ring belongs to: not them!

Race back on, it was time to show what they were made of. No stupid cheaters on the road, a ten lap drive around had taken the Outer Ring by storm. Ready to show what they were made of, their shiny bike had come out on top. Lady Victory on their side, they put up a peace sign. Look at them, winning fair and square. Not with a disgusting rental bike, their own.

Crowd dispersing, Yinlong readied themselves to ride back home. But, an unfortunate familiar face had drove next to her. Young woman with icy blue hair tied into two high ponytails adorning a small pink dress with a pentagram and jackal ears driving right next to them, their blood turned cold for a moment.

"What are you doing going around playing a little racing game, little panda?" The jackal asked in a cold, booming voice. "Yinyin, I thought we made it clear to you that when we call you, you answer. Why you flaking on us, hmm? Scared of %##**#* and what she'll do to you?"

Motorcycle cop crawling under their skin, Yinlong's heart almost stopped. What was Oluchi doing here? Who sent a pony out to the Outer Ring? When did they call them? Why did they call them? They thought they told (%#*%(#&%# they needed a break from their defense force duties. Why wasn't she listening.

"Sorry? I thought I said we're taking a vacation," Yinlong said, voice shaking. But, such words weren't bought.

"And who said you can take a vacation, hmm?" Oluchi asked. "You know we found those little loan sharks, and we needed you, Yinlong! Why did you flake on us? That makes me sooo angry, you know?" As she said such, she threw a tiny ball the stupid panda's way. "So, so very angry." But, as she said such, she could hear an engine zoom off. "How dare little Yinyin run away from me. They'll pay for that."

Speeding off the fastest the speed limit would allow, Yinlong huffed and puffed. P.O.N.E.C. were always so aggressive, why? Why couldn't they take a few days off to go back to their roots? Slamming the door behind them at home, they opened up their phone, fifty-five unread messages with threatening words, they threw their phone across the way. Running off to their room, they crawled up into a ball onto their bed.

Don't ever ignore the ponies. Or face aggression forever.

---

Acab, seriously. Anyway, I think this anecdote has one more part before I move onto the next group. This was mostly pantsed, so I had no plan going forward, lol. Anyway, Wohoo, finally, Zenless Yinlong! Let's go!

 

[Palamon]

The Inferno Punisher's Road: New Cheesetopia Chef

---

"Hello, hello, hello! It's
Everyone's favorite motor bike gang
Leader, Yínlóng! It's been a
Little over two weeks since we had
Our biker competition and

I haven't went over
To New Eridu in awhile. What can

I--. Ugh, it's you again
Spy. Oops, what I

Mean to say is is newbie!
Eh, so what do you want?

Are you trying to
Get under my skin by
Always showing up unwanted
In every single area? You
Need to stop that, okay?

You're freaking me out?
I may be much
Nicer than other chimeras, but
Listen, you're in my territory, and it's
Overtly annoying. Ugh,
Now what, what? You
Got a question for me?

Alright, shoot, and please, hurry up.
Now, go. Eh? Are we related to Theirans?
Do I have

To ring
Out that neck of yours, newbie?
Don't ask something so stupid!
Ah, now I am getting mad! I,
Yínlóng am absolutely furious,

Absolutely angry you'd ask me such
Nonsense. Where
Do you get off asking me that?

I'm so annoyed, I'm fuming now! Disgusting, absolutely vile question, newbie! What were you thinking?!

How could you
Ask me such a
Viscous question? You should never,
Ever ask a chimera

Something like that!
Of course we're not related to Thierens. We were
Made from some sort of
Evil experiment in some academy in

The old capital, and it was
Hundreds of years ago.
If only you didn't ask!
None of us like talking about our
Garbage history of the
Situation that made chimeras exist.

To be honest,
Our bloodlines

Got ruined forever
Ever since
That happened, do

Don't compare
Our situation to Thierens! We're
Not Thierans, okay?
Even though we're

Wildly similar, we aren't them, okay?
I want you to stop asking
These awful, terrible, disgusting,
Horrible, questions, okay?

Come on, now, I
Have nothing to
Even say to you,
Everything would be
So much better if you kept quiet.
Egregious, how dare you ask if we're related
To Theirans, we're not!
Okay? Okay! Glad we
Put that out there.
In any case, what's been going on
At Outer Ring since you last saw us?

I've been avoiding the ponies;

Avoiding them like the plague.
Might just go

Ahead and pretend I'm on
Vacation from my cop duties.
Of course, the truth
Is, I'm just scared. What?!
Don't you dare laugh at me!
I'm scared of the one at the top: ****.
No, you don't
Get to hear

Their name, I am censoring it,
How could I say *** name?
Everything about the leader of the

Ponies is absolutely terrifying.
Okay, actually, all of them are, so
Now, I went and decided
I'm taking all my sick days and
Eating them
So I can avoid them.

Look, I'm a cop last,
I'm a defense force member second. I
Know, that's pretty weird, right?
Even so, I really don't care.

That's just
How it is, I am a biker first,
Everyone should know that,

Perhaps the ponies should
Listen to me
About how I feel, but I don't
Get that luxury.
Unless I keep avoiding them!
Everything is fine,

It's all good, so now, let me

Tell you what I'm up to,
Hahaha, well, for starters,
I'm updating my motorcycle. Huh?
No way that takes two weeks? You don't
Know anything, shut up!

I'm starting to get
Mad! So, you'd better close your mouth,

Or else, I'll do it for you,
Newbie! Don't

Say things as if you know
Things! You don't know anything, you
Really need to shut up. Anyway!
It's not just me modifying my bike, I
Know Marquis and
Esquire also are and

Over in the city, so are Damla and Firat.
Now, we're all planning on
Entering a small little drag race over in

The city but we're probably cancelling.
Ha, what?
Oh, that's cowardly?
Ugh, listen do I have to
Go and say it again: I
Have to avoid the ponies!

So, be quiet before I sew metal
Over your mouth!

If you're going to keep speaking

Absolutel nonsense I'm going to
Make you feel pain! I'm

Very dangerous when I'm angry!
Everyone fears me and that
Really should include
You! Fear me, I

Am a very strong and
Formidable foe, you
Really don't want to get on my bad side!
And, you don't want to get on the ponies, either.
If you do, you're gonna
Die, newbie! I'm

Obviously not going to protect you
From them, so I

Want you to stop saying
Horrible things, okay?
At least try
To think before asking

These absolutely awful, terrible,
Horrible, insane, monstrous, bombastic, tactless,
Egreigous questions. Don't
You have any sense of class, or tact?

Maybe I should teach you a lesson!
If you keep on
Going and asking these
Horrible questions, I'm going
To break your pinky! What?

That's a horrible threat? You
Really are a little coward,
You know that? And, if you're going to keep spying

Around here, you really
Need to learn there's
Dire consequences of running around territory that you

Don't belong in! So, you need to stop.
Okay, whatever, let me and

Tell you what else I'm planning as I get rid
Of the last two weeks of

My sick days.
Eh, so, Cheesetopia will soon

Be completely renovated, so I have
Ultimately, decided to go ahead and lend
Them a hand. I come from a family of cooks. But, my brothers and sisters all died

In a hollow, so it's just me now. That's sad? That's just life in New Eridu

And the Outer Rings, people die.
Meh, I have already pretty much gone and accepted that awhile

Ago. That's the cycle of life,

Some claim that pands live
Twice as long as humans, but that's
Really not true. It's never been.
Oh, well, anyway, I am lending a paw
Now to Cheesetopia, starting today, and this will be
Going for the next two weeks. I'm currently

Blocking the ponies
In my phone, so they can't contact me, I
Know the lie I plan on telling
Everyone once I'm back:
Really sorry, my phone fell in

Some river and I lost all contact, hehe!
Of course, that's likely not going to work,

I'm pretty sure they installed a secret

Widget that tracks my location,
I'm absolutely certain on that,
Like almost one-hundred percent certain. Not
Like I can find it, I'm pretty sure it's invisible.

Really doesn't may, though, I am
Especially terrified of what ****
Might say to me when they find out I'm just
Avoiding all of them right now because
I'm scared of them,
Not like I'm going to admit it

Of course not, I won't.
Not a chance, I am not going

To admit I'm scared
Of them? Why would I,
Please, enlighten me,

For I am confused
Over here. Why would I
Rightfully admit I'm terrified?

How could I ever
Open my mouth and
Wallow in my fears? It's not

Like I'm going to admit it!
Obviously not, there's
No way I am
Going to do that,

Why would I?
How could I? It's pretty
Obvious you just don't

Know how strong and scary the ponies are! You do
Not know what they're capable
Of, and you should be scared!
Why aren't you just as
Scared of them as

I am, newbie? You know, I honestly

Don't get? Ah, huh, come again? Repeat that?
Oh, my did you just say, all cops are jerks? First off,

Not all of us are. I don't do anything
Overly violent when I'm in
The field. So don't lump me in there! I don't

Know what you've been through,
Not like I care either,
Obviously, but I am not one of those cops who
Would abuse my authority,

Because I am a cop last!
Ugh, I thought I
Told you to stop saying horrible nonsense. Quit

Flubbing your words,
Or I might actually get violent. You're
Really annoying, and I

Need you to stop
Opening your mouth
With garage statements.

Look, you're not very funny, okay?
Every time you open
That mouth of yours, you
Seem like you're about to laugh! Don't act like it's a

Fumble, it isn't, and you're
Overtly annoying for thinking you
Can act like you slipped.
Ugh, whatever, so let me continue.
So, anyway, I will be heading

Over to Cheesetopia starting today to help make the food.
Now, I have heard

Cheesetopia is expecting
Hundreds of customers,
Even though I don't believe
Even for a
Second we can
Expect that many people, I need
To act like that's
Openly possible. I mean, it is
Possible, I do believe
It's going to happen
At least, during the course of my temporary status

As the cook.
Now, am I confident I'll
Do well? I am, but I also

Am not. There's some
Very weird, and
Odd dishes on the menu that
I'm not really sure about, so I
Don't know if
I can fulfill those, eh, it's
Not like cooking is hard, I
Go about doing

That every day, I
Have cooked thousands of dishes.
Eh, that's exaggerating? I'm a

Panda, I eat a lot
Of food! Okay maybe
Not enough to the point
I have made thousands of dishes.
Err, but yeah, I'm not
So sure I

Fully have what it takes, I've lived
Over here for as long as I can
Remember, since I was old enough to know

A thing or two about
Stuff, and things got

Literally so much worse
Over here after the apocalypse came.
Not like it matters, I
Guess? I don't really remember

All that happened,
Since I'm suppressing some things? Eh,

It's not healthy to do that?

Can you shut up?! You
Are trying to make me boil with rage
Now, aren't you? I've had enough of you!

Please, get out of here, get
Out, get out, get out, get out!
Stop asking all these
Stupid questions! Stop
It, just stop it. Go away!
Bah, alright, they're gone.
Looks like it's a nice day today,
Yes a perfect day to cook outside.

My new
Uniform is ready,
So, it's time to go.
Time to head to Cheesetopia.
Even though I am avoiding the ponies, I'm
Ready. They won't come to Cheesetopia, right? .... Right?"

It had been about two weeks since the Inferno Punishers dealt with the hollow near the race track. Ponies looking about ready to do everyone in, Yinlong had taken the decision to take some time away from the defense force. Blocking the pony's numbers, there had been some peace and quiet for fourteen whole days.

Not much happening in the Outer Ring, Yinlong and the rest of the Inferno Punishers had begun to update their motorcycles. Parts swapped out for better ones, they could feel doom looming over their shoulder at all times. Party of five taking all their sick days and extended vacations aplenty, they knew it would all be over once they found out the truth.

During the time away, the Outer Ring had been doing its own rounds of maintenance, as well. Cheesetopia getting multiple updates, one of the employees had requested Yinlong temporary work there for the next two weeks going forward. Taking the job offer, they could feel it in their soul that a certain group of ponies might visit the outdoor restaurant while they had been helping out there.

Such bad luck would happen today.

It would happen fast.

Hearing their alarm clock peep like mad, Yinlong pressed the pause button upon their phone screen. Letting out a yawn, they took out their outdoor diner uniform. Today was the day, the first day at Cheesetopia. They could finally use their cooking skills to use for someone other than themselves. When was the last time they did that? Years, they supposed. Who cares about all that, though. It had been too long for them to care.

Everything all ready to go, they headed for the garage. Modified motor bike ready to go, the metallic door creaked upward. Group of four waiting for them outside, they could see a look of disdain on the penguin brothers' faces. Oh, no, why did they look like that? They had bad news for them, didn't they?

"Yinlong, are you ignoring #%%%##'s texts?" Marquis asked.

"I mean, isn't that obvious?" Damla asked. "#%%##'s been texting me saying, 'why isn't Yinlong answering my calls and texts?' Lied and said they were sick." But, two other voices cut in.

"Don't you think it's time to stop avoiding them, Yinlong?" Esquire asked. "They've been texting all of us, I don't have a lot of minutes, ya know!"

"Why are you avoiding them, anyway?" Firat asked. "You're a grown adult, Yinlong. You can't run away from your fears forever. What, are you afraid of them or something?"

Firat calling them out, Yinlong let out a nervous laugh. That's right, they were running away. But, so what? So, what they were running away? They needed time away. Time away from#%%%&. Time away from P.O.N.E.C., the defense force. Who cares if they weren't supposed to take vacations? They had run them dry; the missions had been getting out of hand lately. Everyone needed a break every once in awhile.

Thinking the question over again, they wondered if they should tell the truth. Should they say that Oluchi threatened them with something, and they didn't feel safe? Ah, no, they can't say that. Maybe it was better to tell a lie; say the same thing they usually did. They were a biker first, defense force member second, cop last. That was the truth, after all. The full blown truth.

"I'm just tired, is all! Everyone needs a break every once in awhile!" Yinlong exclaimed, two index fingers touching one another. "Besides, Cheesetopia hired me for the next two weeks! I don't have time to be a cop for P.O.N.E.C!" But, the party of four looked at one another.

"Liar," Damla said, shaking their head.

"Lies," Firat said, crossing their arms across their waist.

"Oh, come on now, you expect us to believe that lie?!" Esquire cried. "You're touching your fingers together again!"

"Yeah, Yinlong, tell the truth!" Marquis cried. "Tell us why you're avoiding P.O.N.E.C!"

But, Yinlong shook their head. They didn't owe anyone an explanation. Why did they have to share that? They were an adult, and they could make their own decisions. It's not like they were a full time hire as a sub branch of P.O.N.E.C. they were nothing more than on an as needed basis. It's not like they were needed right now, or anything! Not like they'd know, they blocked their numbers.

"I just want a vacation, what's wrong with me taking one, huh?" Yinlong responded, in an annoyed tone. "I told them I was sick, anyway!" But, a collection of sighs had come their way.

"You can't keep using that excuse forever," Firat said, shaking their head.

"After I'm done with Cheesetopia, I'll answer them!" Yinlong exclaimed. "And, it's not like they need us for anything right now!" They laughed as they said such. "I'm a biker first, cop last."

"Whatever, man, have fun cooking," Esquire said. "We're going to go finish updating our new bikes in my garage. See you later."

Party of four zooming off, Yinlong revved up the engine. Who cares if the ponies needed them for something? They were 'sick' with lazyitis, and it was super contagious! Anyone who came in contact with it would come down with it, too! Can't risk spreading the lazy plague, after all! Couldn't allow that to happen, now could they?

As they biked along the way, they could feel a chill in the air, why did they feel like someone was watching them? No one was, were they? Ah, no, no one was, for sure. It was just the Hollow over in the corner. That's right, that's all it was. It was the Hollow! What else could it be? They swore that thing had eyes! Tons of eyes! And, they were everywhere.

Finally reaching Blazewood, Yinlong parked their motorbike. Pushing through the door of Cheesetopia, the main employee came in, as well. Woman with long brown hair and pearly headpiece greeting them, they prepared themselves for their first busy day of fourteen within the outdoor restaurant. Master Chef Yinlong, reporting for duty.

Multiple outer ring citizens coming around and getting a hearty breakfast, the kitchen was fired up and ready to go. Various individuals ordering specials one after another, Yinlong broke into a sweat. Man, this place sure was busy during the day, huh? But, they supposed it had just reopened. People hadn't gotten their food fix in awhile.

Orders getting wilder, Yinlong huffed and puffed. When was the last time they had cooked for other people? Was it when their brothers, sisters and parents were still alive? It had to have been that long, for sure. It was definitely years ago by now. Since they all got lost in that Hollow, and never came back. But, why dwell on the past? That was then, this is now.

Morning rush almost going overboard, Yinlong nearly burned their hands. How could so many people be storming in this early? Was it always like this? It probably was. But, this sure beat dealing with criminals in New Eridu. It did one hundred percent. This beat fighting crooks as part of the defense for times ten, and then some.

Afternoon sneaking on by, a familiar group of faces strutted on by. Sons of Calydon leader, and the two blondes, they could see a look of fatigue on the loose haired one. Ah, classic Pi---, always tired, and acting like they were close to retirement. They were always like this. Did they ever get sleep at night? Probably not.

"Hey, you three," Yinlong greeted. "What can I get for you?"

"Something healthy!" Cae--- said.

"Little old me will have a salad," Pi--- said, yawning.

"Granny's Stuffed Peppers," Lu-- said.

"Got it, I'll whip that up for you!" Yinlong exclaimed.

Leader of the Sons of Calydon requesting something healthy, Yinlong looked at the menu. What was considered healthy on this menu, anyway? Wasn't all of this high calorie food? Probably. Maybe Scorpion Rice Meal would be healthy enough. That sounded nutritious enough in value. Deciding upon such, they fired up the grill.

Eggs simmering, Yinlong turned their head towards the right and left. Was it just them, or was someone watching them from somewhere afar? They didn't know why, but they could see a familiar set of wings. Was it just their imagination? It had to have been, right? Who would be watching them from the sky, anyway?

Eggs almost ready to burn, they kept their focus forward. They were a master chef, what were they doing, getting super distracted? That wasn't a good idea. Couldn't disappoint the customers, or they'd never do their business here again as long as they were temporarily working here! Right, they have to focus. Focus, focus, focus. Focus, Yinlong.

Putting together the salad, they swore they could see a wing off in the distance move. But, they tried to ignore. It was just a silly bird on the roof, nothing to get distracted over, nope. What were they doing, come on, focus, focus, stop staring off into space while making food for customers, or they'll get angry.

Stuffed peppers dish soon made something exploded in the distance. Had someone went and exploded some barrels in a Hollow nearby, or something? Well, probably. Other people could deal with that. They were on the clock right now They didn't have time to investigate it at all. Nope. Not at all. Meals ready to be served, they could see the Sons of Calydon's eyes wanders as they placed the plates on the table.

"Seems like there's some Hollow nearby in the oil fields," Cae--- said.

"Wait, didn't Ligh--- go over to the old oil fields?" Lu-- asked.

"Yup," Pi--- said.

Party of three exiting to go investigate the hollow after getting their fill, revenue had gone up a smidgeon. Afternoon hours clicking down, they prepared themselves for the lunch rush. They swore more people were coming in than they had in the morning. People sure were hungry, weren't they? Cooking up a storm, three strange people soon came in.

Walking past the doors looking as hungry as ever had been a short teenage girl with blue skin and spiky white hair. Who was this girl again? Wasn't she a part of that group H.A.N.D.? They believed so. They never had seen them outside of that one time they went to Hollow Zero. What were they doing around the Outer Ring? Was there some Hollow Disaster?

Next to her had been a tall woman in long pink hair that went down to about her chest. White blouse with a black bottom and a spiky armor on the right arm, they did not look hungry at all. At least, they didn't think so. How were they supposed to know that, anyway? They weren't the gauge of people's hunger!

Looking away in the back had been a tall wolf woman with long flowing black hair. Adorning the same uniform as the pink haired girl and spiky white haired hunger machine, Yinlong had come to the conclusion that they had all been in the same squad. Another person walking by, a spiky black haired man soon came onto the scene.

"I'm so hungry!" the spiky haired girl complained. "When's the food coming?"

"You haven't ordered yet," the wolf girl said, sighing.

"Oh, right!" the spiky haired girl cried. She then turned towards Yinlong. "I want everything on the menu!" But, the pink girl sighed.

"We have to take care of a hollow disaster," the pink haired girl said.

"But, I'm so hungry!" She drooled as she said such.

"You can get everything on the menu next time, Sou----!" the spiky haired man cried.

"Okay," Sou---- pouted. "Sou---- will get a burger!"

Whipping up a burger, the young girl gulped down the beefy patty quicker than they could blink. Ah, they sure were hungry, weren't they? They don't think they had ever seen someone wolf something down like that before? But, who were they to judge? There was some sort of Hollow Emergency, after all. They had to be quick.

Lunch rush slowing down, Yinlong plopped their head on the table. This was quite the uptake of work. They weren't cut out for this high rush life. Maybe they were better off just investigating Hollows and biking on the road, like they always did. But, they tried to fill the glass half full. Come on now, it was only day one. They just had to get used to all this, is all.

Evening coming in clutch, the customers died out like everything had gone extinct. But, then a group of faces they did not wish to see came flocking in, literally. Hearing a familiar wing flap, Yinlong froze up like a popsicle getting stuck to their freezer. No, that noise. They knew that racket very well. Hearing the sound of jackal claws slashing wood, as well, they were an icicle.

Two of the ponies were here, this wasn't good.

Flapping downward towards the doors of Cheesetopia had been a tall woman with light brown hair pulled into a ponytail. Their scrunchy had deep spikes in it. Seeing such, Yinlong could feel themselves about to break. Oh, no, they were wearing, the punishment wheel. They were in so much trouble, weren't they? Light brown eyes looking ready to catch on fire, they had a black sailor suit shirt with a patterned pink ribbon. This lady, she was a couple years older than her, and she still dressed like a child. Annoying. Pink skirt with sewn on hearts, her falcon wings dropped down a sea of feathers. Turning their head, their panda heart pitter pattered. Why was Gwendolyn here? They shouldn't be here.

Looking ready to slash the world had been a short young lady with a low icy blue ponytail. Jackal ears on the top of her head, she had light purple eyes. Her dark skin looked rather moisturized. They swore that her skincare routine had been more important than her cop work sometimes. Loba should just run a makeup business, or something. They didn't know why they were still with P.O.N.E.C. Adorning a purple open jacket, and white shirt that had the word punk printed on it, they wanted to look away. But, before they could, a hand had been on their collar.

"You don't look sick at all, Yinyin," Gwendolyn said in a booming voice. "But, we'll make you sick how does that sound?"

Falcon cop laughing up a storm, Yinlong could feel their will drop. These two, they knew all along they were bluffing. Swung around like a ball, their body had soon been slapped upon the walls of Cheesetopia. Peeling down towards the ground like a piece of cheddar, a pitch black baton had soon been ready for action. Metallic bar taking them for a ride, the other cop added their own voice to the mix.

"Blocking our number, how could you, Yinlong?" Loba asked in a booming voice. Their voice had been quite deep today. "#%%%$ has been trying to contact you for weeks. %%% needed you. But instead you're playing hookie!" Bam, bam, conk. Their stick of doom kept going as they said such. "When we need you, you come. That's how you side ponies are supposed to operate!"

"I'm sorry!" Yinlong cried, voice weak. "I just needed a break, honest!" But, such had been met with immediate criticism.

"We thought we told you that you don't get breaks!" Gwendolyn cried, talons by Yinyin's stomach. "You were taking advantage of our kindness. We were so worried when you said you were sick, but Yinyin, you're just a stupid little liar, aren't you?" As she said such, their talons dug into Yinyin's belly. "Yinyin, don't be a liar, okay?"

Hearing frantic motorcycles coming from afar, Yinlong, could feel the world begin to spin at full speed. They shouldn't have lied. Why did they do that? They were such a terrible person, no chimera. They were an awful chimera, and such a loser. How could they be dishonest with the ponies? They should have never done that. But, they had been taken out of their thoughts, in an instant.

"Yinlong, Ligh--- is stuck in the Hollow!" Esquire cried. "Hurry, we have to get him out!"

Warning coming their way, Yinlong stood up. Cops brushed off, they revved up their motorcycle. Oh, no, the Sons of Calydon were stuck in the Hollow? They have to hurry! Or, they might become Ethereals. Speeding off, they could hear the two ponies yelling from afar. Get back here, they weren't done with them yet. Speeding away faster, Unleashing Embers squeaked on in.

Time to come to the rescue.

***

"How could I let little Yinyin get away? Oh, they'll pay for for blocking
Our number! Pay for such atrocity!
Why do they think they can get away from their

Duties! I thought Oluchi made it clear they don't get
Any vacation days! Nope! Not a single one! I should
Release the toxins and make them subservient to me!
Eh? Who are you, freak? What did

You just say to me? 'Miss Gwendolyn, that's disgusting behavior,'
I didn't ask you! And who are you, hmm? You have
No authority over me,
You have no authority over me, got
It? And, did I ask for your opinion, kiddo,
No? No! That's right, I didn't! I didn't ask! Oh, let me

Think, I remember now! You're that
Horrible little spy
I've been getting various stalking reports for!
Now, now, you
Know stalking is illegal, right?

Turn yourself in, or I'll
Have to use force on you!
Ehehe, oh, what was that, spy creep?
You're not stalking people?

Come on, you little freak! I have gotten an
Ample amount of reports about you!
Now, don't act all innocent! You're

Especially guilty, creep!
So, turn yourself in or Hatsu will have to use Good Ol' Stunny on you!
Cacacacaca, on, come on,
Are you kidding me? How dare you continue to
Play the role of the innocent little lost person!
Everyone knows at this point you're

Making that up to try and gain sympathy points!
Ehehe, well, let me start by saying, with us, that's not gonna work! We're

Literally the toughest cops in all of New Eridu!
If you think I'm gonna go easy on you, you're wrong!
Know this, we take stalker reports seriously!
Ehehe, so tell me!

Tell me, freak! What are you so interested in you
Have to go out of your way to stalk
All these chimeras? Don't you have a life?
Tell me! But, depending on what you say, I'll

Have to violently arrest you!
Eh? Excuse me?! You're not stalking anyone?
How could you! How could you lie like that?!
Ehehe, I am demanding

That you confess to your
Horrible crimes, or
Else, I'll take out Mr. Stunny myself.
You--you're really a stubborn little criminal, aren't you?

What's wrong with you?
I can't stand people
Like you who keep on denying, denying, denying!
Listen, listen, if the one at the top of the

Ponies gets to you, you won't be
Alive to see tomorrow! So,
You'd better fess up, and you'd better fess up now!

This is your fault that you're in this
Horrible predicament, you know,
Evil little stalker!
You're to blame for this situation you've gotten yourself into!

What did you just say to me?
I can't believe you're still
Lying! You're just
Lost and need help getting around New Eridu?

Pulease! Don't keep telling that
Absolutely bull lie!
You're in front of a cop, remember

That! And if you keep on saying these
Horrible lies, I'll make sure you get an
Eternal sentence!
You'll never see the sun ever again!

Wahaha, so you'd better fess up, and tell the truth, or
I'm getting the handcuffs!
Listen, now's your chance to
Let us know the truth!

Pulease, you can't keep going on
And on over this, 'I'm just lost, I don't know what
You're talking about' shtick! You're a stalker, and

For real, if you keep up
On this little lie, you're
Really gonna get an eternal sentence. Tpp tpp.

That little freak, they ran away!
Hehehe, they ran
Away from a cop.
They're so getting an eternal sentence, I

Will make sure of it!
I will make sure of it!
That little stalking loser,
Hehehehehe, they're a runner!

They're a runner!
Hehe, well, I'll catch them! I do
Every single time! But,
I'll leave them be for now, hehe.
Really, though, I have been getting flooded,

Littered with reports about an annoying stalker! And,
I'll catch them! I'll catch
Them next time! Well, anyway, let's go back
To talking about good old
Little Yinyin! Do they really think they can get away with lying to me?
Ehehehe, lying to us? Lying to the ponies?

Bet that they will get what's coming to them!
Ohoho, I will make sure they'll get so, so
Drenched in blood that
Yinyin will never ignore us again!

Hehehehe, hehehehe,
Ehehehe, ehehe
Hehehe, ehehehe,
Ehehehe, ehehehe!"

Reaching the hollow rather quickly, Yinlong found themselves in a large racing track. Hearing a lot of screams off in the distance, they had been off to the races. Was this the Blazed Inferno track? How did this end up in the Hollow? Ah, whatever, did it really matter? They had to hurry and go get the Sons of Calydon out of here!

Debris and oil cans everywhere, Yinlong's bike skirted. What in the world happened in this hollow? Why were their oil barrels everywhere? Ah, that's right, they heard that explosion earlier. How long ago did that happen? Hours ago? Did time pass differently inside a Hollow? Probably, they didn't know. Hurry, hurry, hurry, hurry.

Pillars falling everywhere, Yinlong took a leap of faith. Unleashing Embers's engine ablazing, they let out a battle cry as Ethereals appeared shortly after. What, were they attracted to the spilled oil or something? Large army joining hands with one another, they could feel their blood go cold. Oh, come on this was so annoying.

Fighting with their bike for minutes on end, or no time at all, they didn't know, they let out another shout. Stupid Ethereals, stupid ponies, stupid Gwendolyn, stupid everyone else. And, where were the members of H.A.N.D. at a time like this? Hadn't they gone into this Hollow? Stupid, all of this. All of this was a nightmare.

Wheels slamming down hard into the enemy, Yinlong huffed and puffed. Why were these monsters so strong? They didn't know what to make of this. Had everyone else been defeated, or something? That definitely wasn't good news. Further monsters coming from behind them, they let their engine blaze once more.

Sea of beasts defeated in batches, they could see a familiar face in the corner. Leader of the Sons of Calydon and the two blondes laying weak on the ground, Yinlong raced over to them. How long had they been in here, hours? What if they're about to turn into Ethereals? This isn't good, oh no, what should they do?

"Are you three alright?" Yinlong asked, voice fluttering. "What happened to you guys?!"

"We're fine, don't worry about us, sib," Cae--- said. "We just lost to an Ethereal." Her voice soon dropped. "Some leader I am."

"Follow me to the exit!" Yinlong cried. "Or, you'll all turn into Ethereals!"

Riding back through the race track at lightning speed, the exit had soon been reached. Three of the four Sons of Calydons taken out of the hollow, they turned back around. Ligh---, they had to find him, too. And the members of H.A.N.D.S. They were defeated, too, weren't they? They had to have been. They needed to hurry; they needed to be quick.

Finding a fissure in the hollow, they revved up their engine. Finding the last of the members of the Sons of Calydon, and the disaster Hollow Disaster Investigation crew, they tried to lead them out towards the exit, but that had not been possible, at this point in time. One last Ethereal dropping down, a boss fight took the stage.

Boss decimated into nothing, the exit had soon been reached. Both thanked, and criticized for the rescue, they tried to not take this all too personally. Can't please everyone, they supposed. Returning to Cheesetopia, a falcon claw had soon been around their neck, gasping for air, the pony soon neighed in the stable.

"Tell this nice lady here that you resign from your position as cook of Cheesetopia," Gwendolyn demanded in a low voice. "Tick tock, Yinyin, if you don't do it--" As they said such, a metallic object gleamed in their free talon. "You can say hi to Mr. Cutty, hehe!"

"I'm so terribly sorry, but I need to resign as a cook at Cheesetopia!" Yinlong cried, bowing their head.

"Huh, already?" the owner asked, bewildered. "But, it's only your first day!"

"Sorry, missie, but our little Yinlong here is a cop, and we need them more than you do!" Loba exclaimed. "Go find someone else to cook for you!"

"Okay, but you're always welcome to take your position back if you want to work here again," the owner of Cheesetopia said, dejected.

Ponies soon leaving, a dark storm cloud crashed over Yinlong's head. It was over, it was so over now. %%%% was tired of them ignoring them. Biking back home, everything had begun to crack. Why did they ever agree to align themselves with the ponies? Was it because they split ties with %%%%'s brother? Because they felt like they were indebted to them after they were saved in that hollow? Maybe.

Reaching their home, they threw themselves in their bed. They could feel the doom cloud bring them into a chokehold. They couldn't run anymore. They were the pony's little saddle, around their neck. And, that's how it would be forever. Head slammed into their pillow, they had begun to doze off, dooming thoughts hugging them harder.

No one can avoid the ponies.

---

Why is this title so long, LOL? Whatever, next week, it's P.O.N.E.C.'s turn. Btw, I think I have written all the characters in zenless zone zero that are in the game as of 1.2. Yay??

 

[Palamon]

The P.O.N.E.C's Stable: Trotting Into A Hollow Warning
Tw: police brutality.

---

"Alert, alert, illegal Hollow activity
Lert! Alert, alert! Alert
Ert! Ah, alright! Alright! Aight, let's
Restart the show! Spotlight please!
Tada. Hello, there,

Newbie, we finally meet you
Evil little stalker!
We finally meet! Oh,

Come on, don't act like we haven't be tracking your every move!
Really gotta be more sneaky
If you want to get past
Me! Huh? Who am
I? Oh, you wanna know who I am?
Now, now, okay, creepy chimera stalker, I'll tell you before your
Arrest! My name is %%%%,
Lalala just kidding, just kidding!

Ah, I'm that
Little mystery person
Everyone has been
Rather hush hush about
That, huh? Well,

Okay! I'll tell you who I am,
Hehe, nice to meet you, stalker freak, I am Officer

Hase Ingne, top gun at P.O.N.E.C.
Uhuhu, by know you
Have to know what that stands for by now, little

Criminal! You, what? Don't
Remember? Well,
I'll make sure you do,
Mongrel, so listen up!
I'm only going to say it once! Police Officer of
New Eridu Corporation!
And since you're already aware,
Let me just start by saying, that the Inferno Punishers

Are under us, too!
Lookie, look, I know you
Already knew that, freaker! You
Really are understimating who we are, freak!
Maybe you don't even

Get who we are, but
Once I tell you,
I'm sure you'll be sorry you ever dared to stalk us,
Newbie! Since you don't
Get it, I'll fully explain

Our cop duties and name!
For one thing, we call ourselves the ponies.
For what reason, you ask? Oh, you're a stupid little criminal, aren't you?

Hahaha! We are the five Horsemen of the apocalypse here in New
Eridu? Eh, what do
You mean it's four? I did

Not ask you! Now did I?
Aahaha, no, I didn't,
Maybe I should take out Mr. Stunny and teach you a lesson,
Eh? What did you just say?!I shouldn't carry around
Such a dangerous weapon?!

Oh, you stalker
Freak, I just want you to know you need to stop
Fumbling! I know you didn't mean to say that, hehe.
I'm a cop, okay? Top
Cop! You you don't
Ever get to tell me what to do! You
Really ought to understand that, mmmk?

Hahaha, oh, what's that? Why have I been kept
Anonymous up until now?
Since you're so curious!
Eh, probably some god doing

It to keep me a mystery!
No? You don't buy that!
Guess that's pretty stupid of me to say!
Not like it matters, stalker freak, but I'll just tell you
Everything. You don't need

To know who I am unless you're a pretty
Obvious and out of control criminal! I am the last
Police officer you want to meet your

Gaze! Do you
Understand? If you do
Not, you should understand

How horrible it is to
Encounter me! And, you should be
Really scared right now!
Everyone should know what it means to meet me!

Ahaha, you should know by now
That meeting the top gun at

P.O.N.E.C is never a good thing! I
Only come out if there's
Nasty criminals like you!
Ehehe, you should feel afraid!
Come on, you should

Not be feeling anything
Except a
Very heavy sense of fear right now!
Ehehe! Need I
Remind you that I

Have a stun gun?
Ehehe, did you
Already forget? You
Really did forget,
Didn't you? Didn't you?

Ohoho, I see! You definitely did!
Fool! Do you need

Me to remind you all over again of
Everything? I'm the top gun of the ponies!

You should know that by now! I
Ought to drill it into that
Ugly brain of yours, hehe!

Now! Since you think you can
Escape me, I very much am going to tell you about a
Very slippy criminal we've been
Eyeing lately! You
Really want to know, huh?

Well! I'm sure you're aware of them, so
I'll be a good
Little cop and tell you!
Listen up, they're called the Flower Silencers?

Ah! So, you know that name, huh?
Guess you would, huh?
Ah, but we're not going after them right now,
I have another criminal group,
No, two, I am going to eliminate!

I'm sure you're
Fuming to know who, hehe, so I'll tell

You! Who we're after, so listen up!
Okay? I shall tell you!
Uhuhuhu, first off, the Drill Dozers! Oh, you

Know that name, don't you?
Ehehehe, of course you do,
Ehehe, of course you do!
Perhaps, I should remind you, hmm?

Come on, now! I know you know!
Oh, what could they have done that needs
Me to come out, you ask?
Maybe I should tell you!
I'm sure you're aware of
Their illegal activities on the
Interknot, are you
Not? Well, you should be! They're
Going around going into hollows

Completely illegally!
Right, so, let me start by saying, yes!
I staged a kidnapping to try and
Make the Drill Dozers talk
Ehehe, but it didn't work
So, now we going to focus

All our attention on their little interknot activity!
Now, I've staged another fake kidnapping in a hollow! What? How dare
You say I'm a bad cop!
Wanna get zapped?
Ahaha, if
You keep this up, I'll have to

Teach you a lesson,
Hehehe, a zappy little lesson.
Ehehehe, you are
Really pushing my buttons, creep.
Ehehe, well, anyway, you
Should know

I'm after two groups right now!
Let me see, oh! Would you
Look at that? The other one is,
Ehehe, the FYGHT CLOBB. OH!
Guess you haven't heard of them
At all, huh?
Lalala, so,

Here's the deal with those
Obnoxious freaks!
Let me start by saying, their
Little fight club is
One big sham! Huh,
What do you mean don't

Act like it's true!
Can you be any stupider?
They're running an
Illegal fight club! You're not
Very bright, are you?
It's very obvious you're just
That dumb if
You don't understand!

Why don't you get it, hmm?
Ehehe, you really don't get it, do you? Do you? Do you?

Well, miss Hase, the top gun
Is going to tell you! So, you'd better
Listen up! You'd better
Listen up or I'm going to

Break all your bones, te hee!
Eh? You didn't

Do anything? You know, being this stupid should be made an
Even bigger criminal offense than anything else! It should be made
A big crime to be this to be
Literally this ignorant! You know!
Ignorance isn't bliss!
Not in the presence of me! Do you
Get what I'm saying, newbie?

We know you're feigning
Ignorance! So just come out and say
That, or I'll just
Have to say it for you!

To be perfectly
Honest with you, I
Am going to make
That a crime!

So, if I were you, newbie,
I'd stop pretending to
Not know anything
Cause it's not working, okay?
Ehehe, it's really super cute

That you think that
Horrible tactic is
Ever going to work on me!

Don't say I didn't
Even warn you on what happens to those who
Fumble around acting like they don't
Even know a single thing! They do
Not last even a
Single second around here in my New
Eridu district! So, stop

Fumbling around, mmk?
Okay, creepy little stalker?
Rahaha, you are the kind of
Creep who would lie to
Everyone in the court of law,

I'm onto you, you
Stupid little freak! I know that's how something like that

Would go with you! I know you're kind!
Everyone knows that's the type of criminal you
Are! The one that feigns innocence to try and manipulate everyone into thinking they don't really
Know who actually committed the crime!

Listen, little creepy losers like you belong in jail to rot in prison forever!!
Anyway, let me continue with what I'm doing to
Those real criminals we're catching!
Ehehe, we posted a fake
Little bulletin on the Interknot claiming there's been a kidnapping in a hollow!
Yes, I know that's a very, very

Wicked thing to lie about, but listen! Listen to
Everything I'm about to tell you, okay? These little

Witches always answer the
Interknot commissions that involve
Literal abduction cases! Both the FYGHT CLOBB and the Drill Dozers! What?? What did you just say to me
Loser? They're saving people so it's hardly illegal? Oh, you!! You really don't

Get it, do you? I see, you're a special kind
Of stupid! You don't have a single brain cell left

In there, do you! Did a hollow eat all of them in that
Noxious brain of yours? Ahaha! Oh, that's it! Oh, this is rich,

Ahaha, ahaha, oh, I knew it, you're quite
Literally, the special kind of stupid! Oh, I see, I see, I see,
Literally the special kind of stupid! Ahaha, it

Really cannot be helped, can it? How
Especially stupid you are! You
Are super brainless, not only do you
Dare to invade chimera territory acting like
You're just a a newbie on

These streets acting like they're lost
Over here, you have the audacity to keep this little lie

Going around, acting like you have no clue to keep
On following us all around! Ahaha, you think you're so slippery, huh?

Well, guess what! You
Ain't slippery at all!
This time, I've finally
Caught you! Huh? You still claim you're not stalking anyone?
Hahaha, listen you little creep! You're not going to get out of here

Unscathed this time! You should know by now,
So, I'll tell you once more time, once

Again, when you meet me, the top gun I'll be the last person you ever meet!
So, this is your last chance to

Walk away, and I'll pretend I didn't
Even so anything! And

Don't go around saying I let you get off Scott free, or
Else, I'll make sure the entire world knows I
Slayed you into death! So
Try and
Run away now, or I'll let
Out Mr. Stunny! And,
You really don't want

That, now, do you? Hehehe!
Hahaha, they ran away!
Ehehe, but, anyway, we've
Staged a fake kidnapping!
Ehehe, so this time, we'll

Lead these little criminal scum
Into the trap
That we let them into!
They're going down! After that! I'll
Lead The Flower Silencers into the next one.
Every single

Chimera commiting hollow crimes should get
Ready for me!
Ohoho, ohoho,
Ohoho, ohoho, they should
Know, they
Shouldn't mess with me!"

A short, adult female with short emerald green hair pulled into a high ponytail bopped on the top of her head. Her bright, emerald green eyes had a diabolical look in them. Mirror out in front of her, a bottle of lotion sat upon her hyena paws. Creamy, white liquid slapped onto her wrists, she had begun rubbing like her life depended on it. Her hands had gotten quite dry since those stupid little loan sharks got a little too cocky lately.

Pure white shirt with a little square creature with wheels on it, she soon slapped on a pure azure coat. Pitch black shorts slapped on her, hyena tail swished behind her. She could hardly wait to bleed blue today. There was some big pests that she needed to take care of. Phone vibrating in her pocket, her eyes glowed at the message bar that awaited her.

{The Ponies Work Chat}

{Hatsu}
{Aye, boss, you up?}

{Me}
{Of course I'm awake. I'm punctual, unlike a certain little panda who think they can run away from me, tehee.}

{Oluchi}
{Hasers, good morning.}

{Loba}
{Good morning, Hase.}

{Gwendolyn}
{Mornin. Speaking of Yinyin.}

{Oluchi}
{Hehe, speaking of Yinyin, we'll be bringing them to your office today! You wanted to give them a stern talking to, riiiiiight?}

{Me}
{You got that right. I will be giving little Yinyin a stern talking to. How dare they think they can lie to me about an illness they didn't have to get off work! They're so horrible for that. So, I'm going to give them a nice little warning!}

{Gwendolyn}
{Speaking of warnings.}

{Loba}
{Oh, right, we contacted the Cunning Hares to go pull off that stunt, right? To lure a certain group of illegal Hollow investigators out? We'll be doing that today, correct? Say, Hatsu, do you have Mr. Stunny all juiced up? I hope you do. It would be quite terrible if it didn't work at the right moment, wouldn't it?}

{Hatsu}
{Aye, don't worry 'bout it! It's not like it can run out of power. I made sure to charge the thing fully before Getting ready to leave today! Say, boss, I gotta really, super duper important question for you, so hear me out for a sec, kay? An' don't get all mad on me for askin' you 'bout this. It's just a silly little inquiry I got.}

{Me}
{Shoot, my majestic stallion, tell what your ever itching question is that you've got for me! I won't get too mad, promise! But, it all depends on what you're gonna ask me about 'course! If it's about my stupid brother, I wouldn't tread down that path, I were you, hehehe. Ask me the wrong thing, and I'll take away Mr. Stunny.}

{Hatsu}
{Wowza! No, I ain't gonna ask 'bout your brother! I know he ain't the point of discussion right now. What I gotta ask is, are ya sure you want to involve the Cunning Hares in our business? They ain't exactly, ya know, on the legal side of things? Should we collaborate with Pub Sec instead? Cops collaboratin' with cops, ya know?}

{Me}
{Not happenin. I am not collaborating with Public Security. Those guys are way too soft, and I'm not about to get myself entangled with those weaklings! Besides, they don't know anything about chimeras and their problems! They'll just think we're a group of Thirens, which I ain't dealing with that nonsense, even for a moment!}

{Oluchi}
{Yeah, Pub Sec are a buncha weak little losers! They can't handle a bunch of little criminals that don't have a license to investigate the Hollows! And, they don't even, like, do anything about the gangs, nor do they do anything about those loan sharks! They just showed up with their uncover little coppy! And yet, they did nothing. Hehe, we had to did something about them!}

{Hatsu}
{Aight, aight, whoopsie, little tongue slip there, hehe. But, like, Do ya really want to work with people outside the law? Those little bunny bunnies aren't squeaky clean!}

{Me}
{And, we're not either, now are we?}

{Loba}
{Nope.}

{Gwendolyn}
{You got that right, nope.}

{Oluchi}
{Dirty little cops with blue blood on our hands!}

{Me}
{See? Hatsu, so who cares if we're working with people whose hands are just as dirty as ours? I ain't working with no wimpy Pub Sec, got it? They can go deal with their stupid little safety stuff! We're real cops. They're just losers cosplaying in cop costumes! Hehe! They'll never be brave enough to do what we do! Ponies forever!}

{Oluchi}
{We're the five horseman of the apocalypse!}

{Loba}
{Ponies forever!}

{Gwendolyn}
{Ponies forever.}

{Hatsu}
Ponies forever.}

{Me}
{Alright, everyone, it's time to head for the office. Remember, we gotta grill Yinyin super hard to make sure they never do what they did again. Got it? Faking being sick like that! How dare they do that! I'll see you all in the office. Make sure you lock the door from both sides until I say the magic word: unicorn.}

{Hatsu}
{You're the boss, boss!}

-This is the most recent message.-

Cracking her knuckles, Hase cracked her hyena knuckles. It was go time. Slipping herself into her tiny ponymobile, a bright indigo car with a sparkly unicorn decal practically glowed against the sunlight. Pushing through sixth street, she gazed at the silly little Random Play store. One day, she would pay a visit to that little video store and say hello.

Heading through the rest of the alleyways, she had found herself on a familiar street. This street, she always dreaded crossing through every single day. His street. Moving through, she readied herself to speed. Spotting a hollow off in the distance, she grit her teeth. He's out today, isn't he? Whatever, this wasn't her jurisdiction. She didn't care what happened to him. She had other annoying criminals to take care of besides him.

Office reached, her phone had soon been out of her pocket once more. Flipping through her contacts list, she giggled up a storm. Name Yinyin pressed, she readied herself to send them the reminder of all time. The reminder to end all reminders. One that would never forget. Digital keyboard between their fingertips, they were ready for action.

{Me}
{Yinyin, you'd better hurry up and get to my office, right now. And no funny business, got it? Or Mr. Stunny's gonna to have a nice long word with you! And, if you think you can make up any more excuses, I'm this close to being done with you! So, don't test my patience, okay? This is your last warning from me. I don't have to play little games with you today!}

{Yinyin}
{Hase, I'm sorry.... Please can we just call this off?}

{Me}
{See? I knew you'd try and say that! But, listen, listen here, okay? I'm not interested in hearing any of your excuses! You'd better come to my office right now! I'm already here! Otherwise, I'm going to send Hatsu out to your home and he'll destroy that precious little bikey of yours that you worked so hard to polish recently! And, we don't want that, now do we? Hehe.}

{Yinyin}
{Hase, please, I'm sorry! I won't fake an illness ever again! Can you ever forgive me?}

{Me}
{Come into my office, and maybe I'll forgive you. If you don't, I don't think I will! Are we even steven?}

{Yinyin}
{We're Even Steven.}

{Me}
{Good! Now, you'd better hurry it up, or I'll make sure that little bikey of yours has four flat tires! Little Switchy here's been getting kind of rusty lately. So, don't make me use it on that precious little fire wheeler, okay?}

Closing her phone, she could hear the honks of multiple other cars in a row. Great, everyone was here, it's go time. Automatic doors squeaking open, a group of faceless nobodies paved the way. Her little steeds had already opened up the stable. Excellent, excellent. Ponies following behind her her little blue cap had been upon the top of her hair. It was go time.

Liar panda soon walking through the door, Hase crusted her left leg into her right thigh. It was time for a good nice long talk with this little liar who thinks they can get away with feigning an illness. Little Switchy shaking behind her, she could no longer hold in a giggle. Her least favorite biker had finally make it to the stable.

"Sit down, Yinyin," Hase said, voice firm. "This little pony would like to have a nice long word with you!"

Pitiful little foal seated with a face of darkness, Hase removed a nail filer from their back pocket. Oh, that look of pure fear on this face, it was juicy. So juicy she could almost taste it from here. She just had to wait for the right moment. The right words. That special, four letter interrogative pronoun. It was coming, any second now.

"What is it?" Yinlong asked. "What do you want to say to me?"

Slipping out of her chair, Little Switchy slithered around the base of the little liar's neck little switchy bathing itself in, a tiny red mark made its presence known. Little fibber sweating, her lips stretched from side to side. Oh, what was this, they were afraid? Afraid of her? They deserved this little word for pretending to be ill!

"Say, Yinyin, who do you think you are pretending to be ill when I have been messaging you for weeks now saying I needed you!" Hase exclaimed voice echoing. As she said such, Little Switchy caressed the little liar's wrist. "When I need you, you answer. When I tell you we're on a mission, you come. That's how things work around here!"

"Hase, please! I'm sorry!" Yinlong cried. "I'm sorry! Please, it won't happen again! Please, I'm sorry! Please, put it away!"

Hearing Yinyin's pleas, Hase let out a little witch laugh. Oh, what was this, Yinyin was asking them a question? Did she tell them they could speak? Oh, she would put it away alright! Snapping her claws, she put on a smirk. Oh, she'd put it away alright, on one condition. One silly little condition.

"Bow your head, and beg for my forgiveness, and then I will!" Hase responded, cackling.

Panda liar's pathetic little body by her feet, she let out an even louder witch cackle. Haha, they actually did it, they actually went and did it. They got on their knees! She couldn't believe it, she couldn't believe it at all. Ha. Their little bike would live to see another day. They should be grateful that they're so nice to them and letting everything go.

"I'm sorry, Hase!" Yinlong cried, bowing their head. "Please, I'm humbly asking you for your forgiveness! I did a terrible thing, it won't happen again!"

"Hahahahaha, you did it! I can't believe you actually did it!" Hase cackled. As she said such, Little Switchy had been tucked into her pocket. "This little pony forgives you, okay? So, raise your head." Her cackles broke out once more as they rose from the ground like a zombie. "I hope you understand what happens to you when you lie to this pony now. Don't ever do that again, or else, next time those tires of yours are going to get it!"

"No, please! Anything but that!" Yinlong cried. "I promise, it won't happen again! Next time you call me, I'll answer!" Tears streamed down their face as they continued. "And, please, I'm begging you, leave the rest of the gang out of this! It was my mistake, and I'm really, really sorry!"

Hearing Yinyin's plea, Hase sifted through her pocket, Mr. Wheeler out and ready, the metallic creature sped past them. How dare they think they can tell her what to do! Big, big mistake. But, she could soon hear a knock on her door. Cracking her paws, she pointed at the exit way. She didn't have time to play with them anymore.

"I have other business to attend to now!" Hase cried. "So, get out of my office, mmk?"

Little liar panda running out, a young adult woman with long pink hair, a volumed chest and a shirt with symbols on it walked into her office with a very strange suitcase. She couldn't help but feel jealous over seeing these woman's gigantic knockers. Maybe it was some kind of human thing to have those badoinkers. She didn't know, or care. Soon joined by an Android dude, a catgirl, and a quiet silver haired woman, she put on a fake warm business smile.

"Hey, there, so if we do this for you, you'll pay us a lot of dennies, right?" the pink haired lady asked.

"That's right, all the Dennies you could ever ask for!" Hase cried.

"So you want us to stage a kidnapping to lure out those people you're tracking right, nya?" the catgirl asked.

"That's right, you're so smart, little kitty!" Hase said. "You don't mind, do you? I'll even give you a Hollow Investigator License on the house, free of charge!"

"Really?! Nic---! We can finally pay back the manager!" the android man said.

"Where to?" the grey haired girl asked.

"Oh, you know, in that big hollow that sprung up outside the H.I.A. building!" Hase exclaimed. "I've already posted the kidnapping on the Interknot under a fake account! They should be at the location soon, so I need you all to hurry up and get there, okay?"


"Roger." They part of four all left as she said such.

Everyone leaving, Hase's phone lit up in her pocket. Interknot message read, she let out the pony call. It was time for the ponies to leave the stables and get out to the races. Plopping down into her teeny tiny little car, the hollow behind the H.I.A. building was fast approaching. Ready to hop in at any given moment, a smirk grew on her face.

It was time to eliminate these stupid criminals once and for all.

***
"These silly Drill Dozers keep think they can just
Hop into any Hollow they want just because they're big on the Interknot, huh?
Ehehe, little old me should have taught them a thing or two about that!

Perhaps I should have suggested to Hase we do this awhile ago, but I would have been told:
'Oluchi, do you remember who the top gun is around here? Me!
Not you!' Hehe, so I wouldn't dare open my mouth and suggest
It because I'm just a little obedient pony!
Ehehe, ah, well, my sister and I aren't
Scared of the top gun, or anything!

Hahaha, what a silly little thing to say, you know?
Ahahaha, why would be scared of her power? We all came together and opened up shop together as a unit! And we
Very much all that same idea! Haha too! And, even Gwengwen.
Every one of us came together to become the ponies you all know and

Love, silly little stalker!
Eh, what? Surprised I didn't call out you earlier, newbie? You're such a silly
Fool! I have much more important things
Than that right now! Okay, like first of all! I have

To go and crush some
Horrible little criminals! You don't
Even understand that at all, do you?

So, newnew, let me ask you something before I go into
The Hollow! What is that you want from
All of us? You are such a weirdo! Going around stalking all the chimeras!
But, I know what you're going to say, you silly
Little loser! 'I'm not stalking anyone! I'm lost!'
Ehehe, we've already been through this so many times now!
So, let me ask you again, why are stalking us all?

I'd like to remind you of something! I'd like to

Remind you fully! That stalking is illegal!
Ehehe, there you go again, saying that line! You're not stalking, you're just lost!
Pulease! We know you're playing the dummy act!
Ehehe, you know we're very fully
Aware that you're a spy!
That line is going to stop working soon!

Though, we don't have time for you right now,
Hehe, we have much more
Evil people to attack and disrupt!

Pahaha, so if I were you, I'd run now!
Or, we'll throw you in the hollow and act like you're the
New kidnapping victim! Ehehe,
I'm totally being serious right now,
Ehehe, totally, one hundred percent, bonafide
Serious! And I

Hope you know that we
Are on your radar! And we're
Very close to getting rid of you now!
Ehehehe, ehehehe, ehehehe. Now, go, shoo!

Looks like they're gone!
Ehehe, can you believe this
Fool thinks that we'll go easy on
Them just because

They keep playing the we're lost act!
Hahaha, as if! We're about ready to
End them pretty

Soon! How soon, you ask? Well,
To be honest, right
After we set our sights on our next target! The Cold Flames!
Bah, what? We already did something about them? Well,
Let's just say we haven't messed with them
Enough, so we intend to do
So again! Hehe."

Finding themselves in a large tower based hollow Hase had gotten her Little Switchy ready. Hiding in the back as the Cunning Hares got ready, she could hear the pitiful feet of the little criminals. Hearing such, everything was ready. These illegal hollow investigators. It was time to catch them red handed.

Running in first had been a tall woman with blonde hair and penguin crests. Adorning bright pink fighter outfit, Hase cracked her knuckles. Oh, joy, not only was she an illegal hollow investigator, she was running an illegal fight club, too. Perfect, perfect, something for Mr. Stunny to deal with! Next to her had been a person with grey hair and frog legs, and the lady's penguin sibling. Ha, perfect, the criminal gang was all here!

Dashing in second of last had been a person with spiky pink hair, and drills covering their hands. Red haired lady with a guppy tail behind her, she turned away. Oh, she remember this loser from when she was in the academy still. Third penguin of three, she tried to not laugh. But, couldn't hold it in. When drill penguin sees the fight club penguins, they'll expose each other! Lovely, lovely, awesome!

"Hey, you there! Let the cat go!" Zinn exclaimed, pointing. They then let out a shout. "Hey, anon, we got yer message!" As they said such, they took out their phone. "Are ya here, anon? It says: "Kᴉquɑbbᴉuმ ᴉu ϝμԍ μoɼɼoʍˋ bɼԍɑƨԍ ƨԍuq ƨowԍouԍ ϝo μԍɼb onϝ¡' You sent 'dat, right? Are ya here?"

"Uh, Zinn?" Baron asked. "We told you to not read it." They then sighed. "Anon, you sent this right, 'Kidnapping in the hollow, please send someone to help out!' We're here now. And, we're going to save you, miss kitten." But, they soon turned around screaming. "What are you doing here?"

"Huh?" Earl asked. "What are you doing here? I told you to not ever go into the same hollows as us!"

"And, I said the same thing," Baron said. "Don't ever do that, got it?"

"Babe, what's going on?" Kelebek asked. "What's happening? Babe, I'm scared."

"Kerry, I don't know," Kali said. "I'm sorry." But another voice soon interrupted.

"Darlings, please don't fight," Malika said. "Let's settle our differences for today, and save the--" Raising her voice, two people shouted at the same time.

"Andritty!" two people shouted at the same time, voices muddied together.

Everyone arguing, Hase whispered in everyone's ears. Hatsu soon whispering into a little microphone, everyone was ready for action. Mr. Stunny out and about, she slowly walked out. It was time for action. Time to give these little criminals a nice warning on what happens if they break the law on her watch.

Clapping slowly, the six little losers looked her way. Jaws dropping, she let out a little cackle. Haha, the looks on her face, what a joy to see! Didn't see her coming, did they? The ponies were here, and it was time to gallop into a little chaos! Little Switchy dancing in her paws, she put on a twisted smile.

"Yup, little anon's here!" Hase cried, cackle. "Little anon is here, and guess what? You fell into my trap!"

"Hase, why are you laughing, huh?" Kali asked. "Hold on were you?" Her eyes grew big as she said that. "Did you plan this? Including that kidnapping the other week?"

"That's right! Congratulations!" Hase cried, slowly clapping. "That's right, you figured it out." She put on a craftiest of grins. "Little Drill Dozers, do you know what happens when you enter a hollow illegally within my jurisdiction?"

"I--." Kali started to say, but paused. "I don't understand. You asked for my help to lure those loan sharks here. Was that all a game?" She shook as she said such. "Hase! In the academy, you were such a nice girl! What happened to you?"

Dashing towards the stupid criminal, their back had soon been hers for the take. Little Switchy dancing on the guppy's tail, it had soon been dyed bright red. Stupid girl screaming, she pointed at Hatsu. Ah, here comes her favorite part, the moment she had been waiting for. The ultimate closure.

"Hatsu, now!" Hase cried.

"On it, boss!" Hatsu exclaimed.


Mr. Stunny doing its wonders, the rest of the drill dozers had soon been piled up on the ground like a bunch of body bags. Stupid little redhead bawling like a baby, she placed her hyena feet on top of the pathetic little loser. Ha, what, couldn't take a little electricity? What a little loser. A pathetic, little loser.

"It's not your business what happened to me," Hase said, voice echoing. "Next time you step into a hollow, make sure you remember how to identify a trap, mmk? Thank you for coming into the pony's stable!" As she said such, a special spray had been laid down upon the scum to the world. But a new racket had soon broke out.

"Yer kidding?! Was this one of those psyops?!" Zinn asked.

Hearing the magic words, it was time.

"Girls, now!" Hase cried.

"On it, Hase!" Loba, Oluchi and Gwendolyn exclaimed.

Stupid illegal fight club members becoming one with the ground, their faces had soon become one with her claws. Criminals out of the picture, she couldn't help but smirk. Another day, another moment justice had been served by the ponies. Wonderful, amazing, perfect. Move over, Public Sec, they're the most pathetic cops she's ever seen. Turning towards the hares, she let out a shout.

"Okay, guys, you're all done now!" Hase shouted. "Thank you so much for the help." As she said such, shiny bags had been thrown to the pink haired girl. "Here you ho, as promised, the money we owed you!"

Hollow closing around her, the ponies returned to the stable. Report scribbled up, Hase cackled at her desk for minutes on end. Two illegal hollow investigator groups down, three to go. Who should she warn next? Those stupid little maids? Should she have fun with the loan sharks again? Or the Flower Silencers?

Crossing out the Flower Silencers from her murder book, she shook her her head. Ah, no, it was way too soon. It was too early to pay him a visit. Maybe she should wait until he least expected it. Circling the Cold Flames and Maid an Impact, she couldn't help but put on the biggest smirk. This time, she would pummel those freaks into the ground, once and for all. She's show them who's the boss around here.

Evening soon coming, the stable had been closed. Heading back home, she let herself sink down into her covers. Tiredness overtaking her, she closed her eyes. Ah, another good day of giving criminals the pain they deserved. She bet she wouldn't see those little drill dozers again any time soon. Zs soon caught, she had been off to dream land.

It was time put out some cold flames next.

---

I triggerd myself writing this!! Hooray!! Go me!! /s Well, next chapter is the ponies again... fun... /s

 

[Palamon]

The P.O.N.E.C.'s Stable: Stunny Actions Taken

---

"Hello, hello, hello, hello! It's your favorite little cop hyena!
Ehehe, that's right, it's me, Hase! Eh?
Listen you little stalker, if you don't
Like that I said that, get
Out! Get out of here and go

Away, okay? Ehehe, you don't
Get to say that about me, okay? After all, I
Am at the top of the totem pole! And you're at the bottom!
It's that simple, so little freak
Newbie, don't you dare ever say anything that suggests the contrary, or

I'm going to take out Mr. Stunny, okay? Have I made myself sufficiently clear?
Tehee, I better have because if I didn't, there's going to be unspeakable things

I plan of doing to
Scum like you! So, you shouldn't go down that route! You

Might regret, you little
Evil little stalker!

Hehehe, hehehe, hehehe, hehehe, hehehe, hehehe, hehehe hehehe, hehehe, hehehe hehehe, hehehe!
Ah, what did you just
Say to me you little freak?
Eh, could you repeat that,

You stupid little stalker because I didn't quite catch that!
Oh, get to the point already? How dare you say that to me.
Uhuhuhu, uhuhuhu, uhuhuhu, uhuhuhu, uhuhuhu, uhuhuhu, uhuhuhu, uhuhuhu, uhuhuhu. You
Really don't get to say that to me, okay? You're quite the

Fool for saying something like that!
Ahaha, ahaha, ahaha, ahaha, ahaha, ahaha, ahaha, ahaha. Huh, I sound
Very deranged right now?
Oh, who asked you? You
Really need to shut that stupid mouth!
If you don't, you're really going
To get it! So you'd better shut it!
Ehehe, so, alright fine this,

Crazy cop will tell you what's been going
On in the past few weeks!
Please, allow me to explain

In full detail for that stupid little
Numb brain of yours, okay? Hehe.

Now, let me start by saying we've started
Everything up already regarding the elimination of those cold little flames! Ah,
What did we do, you ask to set everything into motion? Hehehe, hehehe, hehehe, hehehe, hehehe, hehehe. I'm so glad you asked that question, freak! I'm so glad you asked.

Everything is set in motion already, so I
Really should start at the beginning, shouldn't
I? Okie dokie, well since you're
Dumb enough to ask, I guess I owe you an
Unleashment of the truth! About

What went down in the you ended up disappearing, stupid little newbie!
Err, okay, so we took out one giant loan

At the loan agency! Eh, what do you mean, we just walked
Right in, mask off? We didn't
Even do that, okay? We

Got technology to
Obscure our voices and faces, like hello?! Unlike you,
I'm a smart cop who is always ten steps of everyone else in
New Eridu! So we went inside their little den and
Got a super big loan! And, of course,

Those stupid crooks didn't even know it was a cop up in their den
Of criminal activity! And

Get this, they told me we'd better pay back
Or else! I was given three weeks.

Ahaha, ahaha, ahaha, ahaha, ahaha, ahaha, ahaha!
Fools, they're a bunch of fools!
They're just a bunch of fools!
Ehehe, ehehe, ehehe, ehehe, ehehe, ehehe. We
Really will pay it all back,

Truly, but hehehe, where, exactly? In a
Hollow of course! And if you think I'm going to go
Easy on them when they fall into

My trap, I'll see to they never breathe in this town
Again! Ehehe, ehehe! What,
I need to stop laughing?
Don't you dare
Say that to me! Say it

Again, and you will never breathe in this town again! So don't you ever say that again, okay? Do
Not ever! Do not ever, do not ever, do not ever, do not ever, do not ever.
Do not ever, do not ever, do not ever. Okay, calm down, me!

Let me start by saying that those little loan sharks are going down forever this time!
Ohoho, ohoho, ohoho, ohoho, ohoho, ohoho, ohoho, ohoho, ohoho, ohoho, ohoho, ohoho, ohoho, ohoho, ohoho, ohoho, ohoho, ohoho, ohoho, ohoho!
Ahaha, ahaha, ahaha, ahaha, ahaha, ahaha, ahaha, ahaha, ahaha, ahaha. What did you just say? Stop laughing?
No! These little criminals are all going down! And,

So I shall laugh about it! Do you understand? You
Have no idea how long I have been
Attempting to get
Rid of these monsters! What? You don't
Know about them being monsters? You need to
Shut up! If you ever contradict

What I say that again I'll
Have you arrested! I'll have you
Arrested, I'll have you arrested, I'll have you arrested! Stop repeating
That? If you know what's good for you,

Don't say that again. I'm itching to have you arrested!
Ohoho, ohoho, ohoho, ohoho, ohoho, ohoho, ohoho, ohoho. Ohoho, ohoho, ohoho, ohoho, itching to have

You arrested! You're talking back to me,
Ohoho, ohoho, ohoho, ohoho, ohoho, ohoho, ohoho, ohoho, that's a big
Ultimate mistake you're doing! You know that? But,

Maybe I should at least continue
Everything I was saying so you shut up
About me! So, yeah, we will take them to a hollow and
Not only will Mr. Stunny have a word with them, we'll make sure they don't

Wake up for at least a week!
Huh, why don't we just
Arrest them like normal cops?
Traumatizing these stupid freaks is much better!

And that's what we're going with right now! Huh,
But why aren't we going
On to arrest them?
Uh, loser, did you even listen
To what I just said? We're going

To traumatize them! Are you even listening?
Haha, you aren't, are you?
Ehehe, of course aren't! Because that brain of yours is so dead it cannot even work right in there! I see, I see, it's just

Fumes up in there, isn't it?
Lalala, lalala, lalala, lalala, lalala, lalala, lalala, lalala, lalala, lalala, lalala, lalala, lalala, lalala, lalala! Smoke
Over the water, smoke over the
Water! Well, anyway, let me go ahead and
End the discussion
Regarding those stupid Loan

Sharks! Allow me to
Introduce you to my next victim!
Lalala, lalala, lalala, lalala, lalala, lalala, lalala, lalala, lalala, lalala, lalala lalala, lalala, lalala, lalala, lalala lalala, lalala, lalala.
Eh, what did you just say to me,
Newbie, stop singing? Oh, hello,
Can you please shut up? I didn't ask you!
Ehehe, ehehe, ehehe, ehehe, ehehe, ehehe, ehehe, ehehe, ehehe, ehehe, ehehe.
Right, so are you listening to me,
Stupid little loser? I'm only going

To say this once, okay?
Haha, haha, haha, haha, haha, haha, haha, haha, haha, haha, haha.
Ehehe, ehehe, ehehe, ehehe, ehehe, ehehe, ehehe.
You're still listening, right?

Alrighty! So, in
Regards to my second victim,
Ehehe, ehehe, ehehe, ehehe,

Now, you won't believe this,
Okay, it's the maids!
Those stupid little maids always

In drag! I don't understand why they
Might think their stupid little
Plan to assume the role
Of ladies is actually working! Huh? Did you
Really just say what do I know?
That's it, I'm giving you
A warning! Do
Not ever question my intelligence? You got
That? Don't you ever do that again, understand?

Wahaha, wahaha, wahaha, wahaha, wahaha, wahaha,
Hahaha, haha, haha, haha, haha.
Ohoho, ohoho. Okay,

Come on, stop laughing, or I'll never get
Anywhere with this explanation, now will I?
Right, of course not! Anyway, those
Especially dumb losers thinking,
Sitting around in drag

Will really get them more illegal
Hollow warnings their way, so
Ehehe, I am planning on luring them into the same hollow I am
Now luring those stupid Loan Sharks

To! Killing two birds with one stone as they say!
Haha, haha, haha, haha, haha, haha, haha, haha!
Eh? They did nothing wrong?

That's the stupidest thing you could ever say to me!
I'm going to beat the living daylights out of you if you ever say that again!
Maybe I should refresh your memory on
Everything, shall we? Like, hello, they're operating this business illegally! You're really stupid, you little

Creep, you know that?
Ohoho, ohoho, ohoho, ohoho, ohoho, ohoho, ohoho, ohoho, ohoho, ohoho, ohoho, ohoho, ohoho, ohoho, ohoho, ohoho.
Maybe I should repeat
Everything I just said
So that little brain of yours

Is actually on point on

What I just told you! So,
I'll repeat what I just said,
Listen you moron, and
Listen well, or I'm going to

Completely rip that moronic head of yours off, alright?
Right! So, they're running an illegal hollow extermination business
Under the guise of a maid cafe! Isn't that so
Stupid? It's so stupid!
Haha, haha, haha, haha, haha, haha, haha, haha, haha, haha, haha, haha, haha, haha!

The stupidest thing I have ever
Heard! Like, let me ask: who's even stupid
Enough to step up something so
Moronic like that? No one

Is! So, it's going to be very easy to eliminate these idiots!

Haha, haha, haha, haha, haha, haha, haha, haha, haha, haha, haha, haha, haha, haha, haha, haha, haha, haha, haha, haha, haha, haha!
And, I will be eliminating them at the
Very same time that I'll be
Eliminating the stupid Loan Sharks! Excuse me? What do you mean you

Bet they're already onto me and probably found a way to get around
It? You stupid, dumb little creepy stalker! You don't
Get to tell me that, okay? You don't
Get to tell me that, you don't get to tell me that, you don't get to tell me that, you don't get to tell me that, you don't get to tell me that, you don't get to tell me that, you don't get to tell me that,
Ehehe, ehehe, ehehe, ehehe, ehehe, ehehe! You
Really don't know who you're messing with, okay?

Fufufu, fufufu, fufufu, fufufu, fufufu, fufufu fufufu, fufufu.
I'm a very dangerous cop!
So, stop trying to push all my buttons!
Haha, haha, haha, haha, haha, haha, haha, haha, haha, haha, haha, haha!

To be honest, though, I have
One big backup plan in store

For the criminals should they be able to
Run away from Mr. Stunny! Oh,
You want to know what that is? Okay, criminal scum, I'll

Tell you since you're oh so curious! A three part
Hollow competition!
And, I have already arranged it to happen, so there's
No going back! What's the prize? A

Licence of course, a legal
One to actually go into the hollows! Except it's
Some sort of tracking device,
Ehehe, ehehe, ehehe, ehehe, ehehe, ehehe!
Remember! Big
Sister is always

Watching! What did you just say to me?! Big brother is always watching??
Haha, haha, haha, haha, haha, haha, haha, haha
Ohoho, ohoho, ohoho, ohoho, ohoho, ohoho.

Haha, haha, haha, haha, haha. Zap!
I'm going to ask this one more time.
Don't push my buttons,
Ehehe, you really need to shuo up, understand,

I'm done with you!
Now, before you go and black out, I'll

Tell you about this
Hollow competition, okay?
Ehehe, ehehe, ehehe, ehehe, ehehe.

Ahaha, so the prize really, truly is st
Licence! I'm not
Lying around that, okay?
Ehehe, well, I am lying,
You know, it's just a tacker!
Well, anyway, today I
Am just luring these stupid criminals into a hollow.
Yes, and I'm going to take them out,
So, bye bye, criminals! And bye bye to you, loser. Zap, zap, zap. Hehe, haha, haha, haha, hahaha! Haha! Hahaha!"

It had been about three weeks since the top gun amongst the ponies, Hase had taken out the stupid fight club and even dumber Drill Dozers, she had begun to set up for her next big criminal takeout she had readily up her sleeve. Cold Flames next on her list, she had a foolproof plan that would trick those unintelligent fools into getting themselves taken out of the picture.

Assuming a rather foolproof disguise, Hase had come up with the perfect plot to to usurp the loan shark losers once and for all. Assuming a completely different voice and look, she had taken out a loan big enough to tip off the silly little guppy's alarm bells, but not large enough for her to question anything.

Stating in three weeks time, the loan and interest would be returned in a hollow, the puppet strings had been set in motion. The little rat had been caught into her little trap. But, it had been far from over. There had been one more little squeaker to catch into the cage once and for all. Ready whenever to lure in the stupid maids, the plans were set into motion.

Knowing she would have to lure the maids into the same location, another layer had been added to her game of criminal whack a mole. Having Hatsu book a table at their little café the same day as the loan were to be paid back, everything was aligning perfectly. These chimeras who dared to enter the hollows illegally, they would finally get the comeuppance they deserved.

But, not much of interest had happened outside of such points. Human criminals being as boring as they usually were, nothing had been out of the ordinary. She couldn't help but feel tired of these dumb human criminals. Petty thieves, domestic cases, all that boring nonsense. Boredom eating her away, she could feel her demons call out to her. Maybe she should go after the Flower Silencers as well.

And, today was the day she would be taking out two of the three remaining weeds.

Waking up for the morning, Hase slapped her cheeks. Today was the day, the beautiful day where she would finally eliminate those dumb maids and loan sharks once and for all. She could feel herself bubble with anticipation at the thought of these six fiends being scared into ending their illegal activities. While she knew arresting them would be more than enough, giving them permanent trauma sounds leagues more fun.

Removing a big red notepad from her drawer, the words police report had been slapped over the cover in extremely messy cursive writing. It was time to go over the nature of the report one last time before going into action. She was a diligent pony who could never do any wrong. Finger on the first word, the review began.

|Pony Police Report, Loan Sharks.

Victim Number One: Bain Bulles.

Physical Description: Leader is a an adult female with spiky bubblegum pink hair and bright red eyes. She is about five feet tall, and has what can be described as a guppy tail from behind her. She wears an open jacket and shirt with a symbol of a person on it. Armed. Has multiple throwing knives on her person.

Threat level: Maximum. Using a stun gun to detain is highly encouraged.

Victim Number Two: Izzet Saber.

Physical Description: Lackey is an adult person with no discernable male or female features. Person adorns short pink hair partially tied into a ponytail with gazelle horns on the top of their head, and pointy elfen ears. Despite not being a drill dozer, they, for whatever reason, have drill installed upon their own body. Perp is about five foot nine and does not get in on the action.

Threat level: medium. Using less lethal force is recommended.

Victim Number Three: Brume Bulles.

Physical Description: Right hand man of the leader. Is an adult male with blueish-green hair. Has elfen ears, and is almost always sharply dressed. Like the leader, has a guppy tail behind him, but it is bright blue instead of pink. Seems to carry a gun on him that always fires with exact precision.

Threat level: tipping point near maximum. Using a stun gun is recommended.|

|Pony Police Report, Maid Undercover.

Victim Number One: Eclater Bulles.

Physical Description: Leader of the maids and their illegal underground Hollow Investigation ring. Is an adult male with long grey hair and pink eyes with square pupils, for some reason. Has a grey guppy tail behind him like the aforementioned leader of the Loan Sharks. Almost always seen in a maid dress, performing drag under the name of Claire. Known to speed on the road recklessly, and has a sword.

Threat level: triple maximum. Using a stun gun is highly encouraged.

Victim Number Two: Peltro Casur.

Physical Description: Lackey of the maid leader. An adult person of no discernable male or female features. Has short indigo hair, and a bruised nose. Like the member of Cold Flames, Izzet, they also, for some reason, have installed drills onto their body. Can occasionally be seen with an alligator tail behind them that can miraculously disappear. Highly dangerous, and poisonous individual.

Threat level: quintuple maximum. Kill, if necessary.

Victim Number Three: Domini Gefroren.

Physical Description: A short adult male at around the height of five foot five. Has short golden blond hair that is chin length, and long golden penguin crests peeking through his bangs. Almost always seen with a large sword behind him in combat. Wears an orange maid dress. Victim seems to be quite weak in comparison to the rest of the maids.

Threat level: minimum. A light reminder of the law should be more than enough. Repeated felons will be answered with a Switchblade reminder.|

Slamming the book down, Hase dropped the tome back into the drawer. Today would be the day she would finally get rid of these dumb little illegal hollow investigators once and for all. And, next? The Flower Silencers. Mark her words, they would get the worst punishment of them all, or else she would drop her title of the top pony. Phone soon vibrating, she had been greeted by the best message of all time. Password tippy tapped in, it was go time.

{The Ponies Work Chat}

{Hatsu}
{Heya, boss, I'm headin' to the maid cafe now! Anything I should know before going in? Special words I have to say to lure them into the Hollow?}

{Oluchi}
{Omiigawsh, you don't even remember that much?! Silly, silly cop! Ya know, Hasers might fire you for that!}

{Loba}
{She's signing your pink slip right now, as we speak!}

{Gwendolyn}
{Better pack up everything in your office now, all those bobbleheads, bye bye! You're going to have to sell them on the Interknot to pay for your lights!}

{Yinlong}
{Hey, that's mean. She's not going to fire him for forgetting one simple thing, is she?}

{Marquis}
{Don't be so sure she wouldn't, Yinlong.}

{Esquire}
{That's right. Hase's not a nice cop.}

{Firat}
{Ditto.}

{Damla}
{Ditto.}

{Me}
{Good morning, everyone! No, I'm not going to fire little Hatsu for forgetting something. It's been a few weeks since I told him the protocol for the Maids at Maid In Heaven, after all! So, I don't mind reminding you. But next time, write it down, or I'm going to have to remind you of one of the top things about being a pony, got it?}

{Hatsu}
{Got it, boss! So, what is it I gotta say?}

{Me}
{'I'd like to order one of your finest carrots!' From my intel, they will jump at this line immediately. It's some sort of secret code word for someone wanting them to investigate a hollow. So, make sure you say it loud enough for them to hear! Also, Hatsu, I've got something to ask!}

{Hatsu}
{Uh, yeah? What's up, boss?}

{Me}
{You're wearing a hat to cover your ears, right? Don't let them know you're a pony! You're wearing a plain outfit, I hope! If they knew you're part of P.O.N.E.C., they might become suspicious! So, make sure you don't do anything that'd get them to raise their eyebrows!}

{Hatsu}
{You got it, boss! I'll drive there right now! I got my casual clothes in my car!}

{Me}
{Good! Now, get going!}

{Hatsu}
{Roger, boss!}

{Me}
{Okay, everyone! While we wait for Hatsu to tell us he was successful, I have something I have to tell you all before we proceed on with the mission! So, listen up, okay?}


{Loba}
{I'm listening.}

{Oluchi}
{Okaaay!}

{Gwendolyn}
{Bring it on.}

{Yinlong}
{Is this about what I think it's about? Oh, no.}

{Marquis}
{What do you mean, oh no?! Keep that to yourself, Yinlong.}

{Equire}
{This is a group chat. Everyone can see your messages.}

{Damla}
{Yeah, I'm ready.}

{Firat}
{I'm also ready, I guess.}

{Me}
{Oh, dear, Yinyin, what's wrong? Is there something you're afraid of? Pray tell!}

{Yinlong}
{Are you going to go after the Flower Silencers, too?}

{Me}
{Not right now! Why, do you want me to?}

{Yinlong}
{Um, no. I wouldn't say that I want you to.}

{Me}
{Don't worry, they'll get their turn eventually, dear Yinyin! They'll get their turn eventually, as well. About that! I'm starting to get ready for the next turn of events! If our little stunt today doesn't scare any of these groups into stopping their illegal hollow investigation activities, we'll be going ahead with that hollow competition we talked about!}

{Loba}
{I recall you mentioned that in our last meeting, yes.}

{Oluchi}
{Oooh, the competition! I remembered you mentioned that, Hasers!}

{Thumbs up reaction.}
{Thumbs up reaction.}
{Thumbs up reaction.}
{Thumbs up reaction.}
{Thumbs up reaction.}
{Thumbs up reaction.}

{Me}
{Good, good, so everyone's aware! Perfect! So, that makes this easier! We'll be doing a Hollow Competition that will award a fake official Hollow Investigator license! But, of course, this license is just a tracking device! And, we'll know every single hollow these illegal losers get themselves into! All five illegal groups will be invited! And of course, we'll be pretending to compete as well!}

{Yinlong}
{Us in the Inferno Punishers, as well?}

{Me}
{That's correct! you five, as well!}

{Yinlong}
{But, wouldn't it be suspicious if we act like we're competing as well?}

{Me}
{Did I ask you for your stupid questions? I don't believe I did, Yinyin.}

{Hatsu}
{I got them to go to the Hollow! These maids were very easy to manipulate! Say, boss, where's the Hollow we're headed to this time?}

{Me}
{It's the one in Lumina Square. You know, those Loan Shark's territory!}

{Hatsu}
{Oh, gotcha! I'll drive there right now! See ya there!}

{Oluchi}
{Loba and I will be going now, too!}

{Gwendolyn}
{I'll be there in a jiffy.}

{Marquis}
{Esquire and I are goin'.}

{Damla}
{Same goes for Firat, and I.}

{Yinlong}
{I'll be there.}

{Me}
{Okie dokie! I have to go stop at the construction site real quick and pick something up, but I'll be there!}

-This is the most recent message.-

Phone put away, Hase cracked her hyena knuckles. It was time to get the ultimate little pony to assist her with this operation. Closing the door behind her, the car was ready. Motor vehicle cruising past the accursed street, she let out a hiss. She was on his street again. Maybe she should push up going after the Flower Silencers a little sooner.

Sixth Street soon passed through as well, she giggled as her vehicle passed by Random Play one of these days, she would stomp into that little video store and catch those dumb proxies red handed. But, they were pathetic little worms on the cutting board. They can wait until every single chimera was taken out of the picture, and put in their place.

Reaching Brant Street Construction Site, another giggle released itself from Hase's throat. It was time to collect her new favorite pony. The only one that mattered, in any capacity. Stepping out of her car, she tried to hold back her giggles. The stars had aligned. Everything was going absolutely perfectly. Greeted by a tall woman with black haired pulled in a ponytail she readied to remind her of her equipment.

"Yes, I'm the one who contacted you about the Pony," Hase said with a sinister tone. "Is she done?"

"Your little cutie is done," the black haired lady responded, nodding. "I'll tie it onto the top of your car for you."

"Thank you so much. You keep up the good work, okay?" Hase tried to hide another giggle as she said such.

Metallic pony machine tied to the top of her vehicle. Hase was ready to zoom off to the races. Lumina Square Hollow about to be upon her, Hase removed the brand new creature from the car roof. Riding on in sails risen high, she guffawed up a storm as the disheveled world was about to engulf her once more.

It was time to scare some stupid criminals.

***

"I think that lately Hase has begun to take things a little too

Far. I don't intend to say anything about it to her, as, if I do, I'll lose
Everything. My salary,
Access to my lifeline, this, as of
Right now, is not something I am willing to risk. If

Hase says, 'Loba, you're fired for going
Against my word!' I'll probably lose everything.
So, I'm going to zipper my mouth shut.
Eh, what should I say in my defense? What

Is there I can say here?
She really has been going too far, though.

As of late. I didn't say anything in our one
Big group chat, but personally, I don't think it's a good idea to
Open up a false hollow competition
Under the pretense of
Tracking the victims and

To monitor their illegal Hollow investigation activity.
Or, maybe I am just too nice. I guess I'm probably just

Too nice, aren't I?
Ah, that's it, isn't it? I don't truly
Know, in the long run.
Everyone has always called me

The jackal and
Hyde. I suppose that
Is true. I can be sour and sweet.
Not like this isn't already common knowledge.
Guess I should be a little more upfront on some of this.
So, Hase used to be

A nice girl, excuse me,

Lady. She's an adult now, and
I am, as well. I'm a few years older
Than her, though, give or
Take, when we were all in the academy together, I was in my
Last year, and she was in her first.
Err, during that time, she was a sweet young lady. And, so was her brother,

Though, I'm not really supposed to talk about her brother. For some reason.
Obviously, I do not intend to question her
On it. I have no desire to do so.

For now, it is a forbidden topic,
And I do not intend to touch upon something, she'd
Rather I not dip my toes into.

But, one thing I do know, is that
Ultimately, something
Terrible happened, and

It is something that broke us all apart.

We all split into two groups,
I decided to join Hase, and we all got our legal
Licenses. My sister, too, along with two people we met a
Little later, Hatsu and Gwendolyn.

Now, the other party that broke apart, was Yinlong, they created a defense force with four
Others whom they met when
They were getting their motorbike repaired. Ah, I really

Shouldn't talk about this. But,
Ah, what do I have to lose.
You're listening to me right, newbie?

Ah, what, did you expect me to
Not address you at all? I know
You're here, and I know you're listening. Alright, since you're still with me, I'll
Tell you all the parties involved that had split into their own
Hollow Investigation groups.
I'll start by mentioning Hase, and I. My sister
Never had a relationship with Hase's brother, whom will
Go unnamed for now, because just saying

That name makes me want to hurl. In any case,
Oluchi was never acquainted with

Him in the academy. Neither were Hatsu nor Gwendolyn.
Eh, but Hase's brother and I were
Really good friends for

A long time. As was Yinlong. And Hase's
Brother, he had two
Other friends named Aigre and Vidame.
Uh, they were part of a different friendgroup
Than Yinlong and I, and Hase.

I know that might seem a little strange, but
The brother and Hase shared friends.

Is that weird? Probably. Is it

Normal for two siblings to share a friend?
Eh, I don't know, maybe?
Everyone is a little
Different, but

The two
Of them were very supportive during my journey to womanhood. But, I don't

Know, I am already not normal, being a chimera.
Eh, I guess that doesn't
Even matter in the grand scheme of things.
Perhaps I should mention

This to you newbie, if it
Hasn't been obvious by now, but a majority of us chimeras, except for Yinlong, my sister and
I, and Gwendolyn, had
Some very bad event horizon where we all

Just cut
Ourselves off from our families.
But that is not for right now. It can wait until next time."

Small Hollow with nothing but a small room of weak Ethereals, Hase and the rest of the ponies obscured themselves behind a pillar. Holding back a giggle, she watched as the stupid maids and loan sharks defeated everything they could left, right, front, center, and backwards. These criminals really fell for it, she could hardly believe it. They were the most gullible chimeras of all time.

Whispering into Hatsu's hat, the mission had been lad been laid out to her. Told he had said to the maids that she had lost a very important briefcase in the Hollow, she couldn't help but guffaw up a storm. Ah, yes, a 'briefcase'. Of course, what a beautiful excuse. The best one of them all. She couldn't wait to unleash Mr. Stunny on all of them once and for all. Watch ticking, it was almost time for phase two. Soon hearing a familiar voice, she was ready.

"Uh, hello, helooo?" Bain asked. "I heard some footsteps! Dear client, is that you? You have the interest for your loan, right?"

Voice far deeper in, Hase and the pony prepared to go deeper in. How perfect, the stupid maids and the even dumber loan sharks weren't even aware they were in the same Hollow. Excellent, excellent. Taking out these pathetic worms would definitely be easier than she first thought. Perfect, wonderful, absolutely perfect.

"Hatsu, Loba, Yinyin, get ready to go after the maids!" Hase cried.

"Okay, boss!" Hatsu cried.

"On it," Loba said.

"Sure?" Yinlong questioned.

"Oluchi, Gwendolyn, Marmar and Esquie, you're coming with me!"

"Okaaay, Hasers!" Oluchi cried.

"I'll take the skies," Gwendolyn cried.

"Marmar, ugh. Don't call me that," Marquis complained. "Whatever."

"Esquie? Esquie?! Gag," Esquire complained. "Fine, I'll be your backup! Whatever!"

"Damla and Firat, you'll act as cleanup, kay?" Hase asked, winking.

"Why are you winking?" Damla asked. "Are you planning to?"

"That's right!" Hase said, laughing. "That's right."

"Alright, whatever, we'll clean up for you," Firat said, sighing.

Speeding up ahead, the stupid loan sharks had soon been within sight. Bain with a money hungry look in her eyes, she could see the Dennies about to spin. Hand over her mouth, she got the steel pony ready. Oh, they'd get their Dennies alright, they'd get them with a nice little stunned up present in returned. Hehe.

"You're finally here!" Bain cried. "I thought you were about to flake on us!"

"Bain," Brume said, voice shaking. "You recognize that voice, don't you?"

"No, should I?" Bain asked, tilting her head.

"Bain," Izzet said, voice shaking, as well. "That's the top gun of the ponies and her army of stallions, Hase."

"What?!" Bain cried. Her eyes then wandered. "Hase, I thought we were cool!"

Fearing lady shaking in front of her, the big pony was ready. Mr. Stunny had been placed into the creature's mouth. Pressing a button the creature stroked forward. Zippity zaps deployed, three limp bodies had become pancakes upon the floor in a matter of moments. Guppy tails shaking, she could hear pitiful cries of mercy.

"Hase, why?" Bain asked.

"Because, you're investigating Hollows illegibly, and silly little you needs to be punished for it!" Hase cried. "This should teach you a little lesson on what happens when you run an illegal Loan Shark business and enter hollows without a license to do so!"

Party of three losing consciousness, Hase let out a guttural laugh. These silly loan sharks were finally down. This would teach them a lesson on what happens when they illegally enter the Hollows. They would never investigate another one again, surely. Heading off towards the entrance of the Hollow, three further losers had become one with the ground.

"I told you we shouldn't have come here," Domini said, huffing. "I knew this was a trap."

"How was I supposed to know it was a trap?" Eclater said, words labored. "It sounded like a genuine request."

"I knew it was suspicious, too, but you didn't listen," Peltro added, huffing. But, as they said such, a blade had been on their face.

"You're still awake, criminal scum?" Hase asked. "Say hello to Little Switchy!"

Blades digging in deep, a small pool of red had clumped together beneath the trio of scum. Party of three crying they won't stop investigating the hollows, Hase let out another laugh. They said it, they said the magic words! The words she was waiting for. A refusal, beautiful, wonderful, excellent. The next part of the plan could be set into motion.

"Oh, you won't, will you?" Hase asked laughing. "Then you will be hearing from me again in the future!" She then turned towards Loba. "Loba, you know what to do. I'll be going now, tata!"

Exiting the Hollow, Hase sped off through Lumina Square. Passing through his street she stared at the top floor, teeth grit. Maybe she should speed up going after the Flower Silencers after all. But, she shook her head. No, not yet. Not yet. It could wait until the Hollow Competition. It was far too early to strike.

Returning home, Hase flopped on her bed. Another long day of bringing pain to criminals. Today was a beautiful, wonderful day. Those stupid Loan Sharks were taken care of. Feeling a heavy wave of fatigue, she closed her eyes. Giggling up a storm, she could feel her subconscious sunshine shine on her from valley to valley.

Next up, the Hollow Competition.

It was time to start setting up the ultimate stunt.

---

Why is Zenless Hase like this... I'm scared.

 

[Palamon]

Drill Dozers Doin' Business: Catching Roosters

---

"Greetings, greetings, hello there little lost little lamb! Ha!
Really weren't expecting me to address you, huh?
Everyone's been calling you an
Evil stalker, newbie, but I don't plan on doing
That to you because I'm a nice person! Or, at least,
I used to be? Yeah, I used to be, but
Not anymore. Since a lot of
Garbage has been happening recently in my life!
So, no more Mrs. Nice guppy! Alright, alright, I'm just kidding, you probably already know my name, but,

My name is Kali. I'm the leader of the Drill Dozers!
You're probably wondering right about now, I bet, weren't we eliminated by the ponies?

Nope. We weren't, honestly.
Ah! You thought it was that easy to get rid of us, huh?
Maybe you ought to get your
Eyes checked, newbie. I'd never let myself get eliminated by the ponies!

I'm stronger than they give me and my darling credit for! You
Shouldn't underestimate me! Alright, so, let me start by saying that my Hollow Investigation faction is different from all the others. I

Know, I know, that's big talk! But, anyway, let me go
Ahead and explain what the Drill Dozers are all about. We're not criminals
Like these ponies seemed to have lead you to believe.
I'm sure you heard them say that about us! So,

Let me get this out of the way, okay? Since you're
Especially gullible and
All that, little lost lamb, I'm going to tell you now:
Don't believe anything those ponies say! It's
Especially the case here that they
Really don't know what they're talking about pretty much ever.

Okay, so, you're curious about what we, as the Drill Dozers do, right?
Fufufu, fufufu fufufu of course you are, so give me a moment to

Tell you the uncut truth on who we actually are okay, lost little lamb?
Here goes! Since you're curious, I'll tell you
Everything! So, try to listen up, okay? And whatever you do,

Don't make me repeat myself. I don't like
Repeating myself! Do you understand?
It's okay to ask questions, but that's it, so, without further ado,
Let's go! Alright, so
Let me start by saying, we, as the

Drill Dozers are an interknot group who helps
Out people in need. We
Zip from one place to another.
Eh, do we have our own territory? We
Really don't, and unfortunately, we've gotten into
Some territorial disputes about it.

Yes, that's happened way more times than I can count, but
Of course, there's nothing I can do about it, I have no territory, as I just go from one place to the next. Such is the nature of being an interknot service for hire.
Uh, we usually only do ones that no one is interested in tackling. You

Might as well say we just deal with
All the scraps everyone's leaving behind,
You know, honestly? That sounds about right. That's just

How it is, or I guess what I should say, how it's
Always been. It's been like this for a
Very long time. As it's something we pride ourselves in. We only take ones that
Everyone else wouldn't. We only take the ones that

Absolutely not a single other person would.
Like I already said, we take out the trash, that's
Really what we're all about.
Eh, so, why are we called the Drill Dozers, might you
Ask? Our Interknot account is
Dryll, and we doze our way into Hollows, so we're therefore, the Drill Dozers.
You think that's a nice name? Thanks, but you

Should be telling
Earl that, not me, he came up with it.
Earl is, well, can I be a little honest with you here, newbie? Earl is
Not Hollow Investigation material. I know that might sound a little

Mean, but he's always nervous about
Every little thing, we've told him many times, he should stick to proxy business.

Don't get me wrong, he's strong! But,
Earl is just too
Anxious, let me just say that. Well, not
Like my fiance
Is any better, they also get pretty nervous.
Guess I'm the only brave one here, aha. Hmm,

What? Don't discredit them like that?
I'm not. I'm just stating
The truth. I'm just stating facts.
Hmm, well, anyway, let's

Move on, okay? Alright, little lamb,
You still listening? You are, good.

For now, allow me to introduce
Our other two members!
Right now, here goes.
My fiance, Kelebek!
Ehehe, well, I call her Kerry. Why, you ask? After our favorite show, of course, the main character was called Kerry. We
Really bonded over that

Show enough to date and eventually marry them! Is that a crazy love story? Well,
It shouldn't be, we're just silly tv junkies! Whenever we're not doing hollow business, Kerry and I
Sit in front of the tv and watch all our shows together! We've always done
That, and we'll continue to do so! Eh? What about
Earl? Nah, he doesn't watch television. He just plays arcade games and never watches shows. We
Really sometimes wonder why he's even a part of our group, but we never say that to him. We always a multitude of

Better things to do than question why he's one of us, he's just behind the computer screen
Acting as a proxy for us through his Bangboo, but lately he's had to come
Into the Hollows with us, and every single time, he freezes up! I
Need to address the big elephant in the room right now. Are you still listening to me, newbie? You are? Good, I'm glad! I don't get why people call you a stalker, honestly. Those chimeras are just weird.

Well, anyway, I guess I should go ahead and start by addressing the big
Elephant in the room since I keep saying I will.
Listen, I know I'm stepping into other chimera's territory, and we don't have a
Licence to investigate the hollows. I'm pretty aware of this fact, but

To be perfectly honest, we're just
Helping out those whose requests
Aren't seen. And, doing what we can
To make sure they're fulfilled. That's how we

Drill Dozers operate. But,
Of course, sometimes this leads me to falling prey to a trap or two.
Err, okay, I didn't have plans to talk about this, but honestly I feel like I
Should say that those last two Interknot missions we took were fake, I didn't know. I

Never can tell if an Interknot account is real
Or fake, and, you know
That's on me, since I'm the one who

Manages all our requests and chooses to accept them.
Ah, you're wondering about
That kidnapping thing that happened?
That, well, that was a trap.
Eh, I sometimes don't
Read things too carefully

When I press accept on a help request.
Especially if it sounds bizarre enough. I

Guess it's my fault for accepting a mission from the ponies.
Oh, well, the other week,
They attacked us! I think they want us to

Surrender and stop helping people
Out, but we refuse. I'm not going to.
Maybe if they tried harder to I might
End my activities, but, nope, sorry.

Maybe the ponies should stop being so violent, and then that's maybe, keyword here, maybe, maybe, maybe
I'll consider getting a hollow investigators license. But considering they're so violent all the time, I'm not going to
Stop. Why should I stop when I already have gotten
So many help requests piling up? I did get very injured recently, by my former sister, no less! And, that pony, too. So,
I took a little break from my Interknot activities for a few weeks.
Of course, in the time I've been away, I've gotten
Numerous direct messages from
Scared people who really need

Our help, but I've been ignoring them. I didn't have the energy to do so for quite some time until
Now. I despised having to turn a blind eye to the people that needed me.

There's so many people that needed my help and I
Had to ignore them because some loser, my ex kin had to stab me! God, I despise
Everything about that annoying woman!

I'm glad I severed ties with her! You know what she's up to
Now? She's a loan shark! You heard
That right! She's one of those nasty
Evil criminals who steal people's money! I'm
Really cut I cut it off with her when I did! You
Know, taking people's money illegally is so rancid, and
Noxious! I can't believe her!
Okay, I also can't believe my ex brother, Brume would willingly join
That little wench! She didn't used to be so

Wicked. The two of us, we used to do
Everything together! We used to do everything together.

Hmm? What about my other ex siblings? You're asking about
Aigre? She's the worst in all of this! She is part of a hitman service! I
Very much despise what she's become, too!
Eclater is just a weirdo, I don't care about him.

That guy, he started a maid café,
Or something, what a weirdo. He's

Always just been a bit of a weirdo,
Though, so, like I said, I don't mess with him.
There's no possible way a drag cafe would
Ever do well. Of course it won't. He's such a weirdo. So, I'd
Never, ever speak to him again! Earl is in the same position, he
Doesn't speak to his family, either, Kerry also doesn't.

The weirdest thing all
Our rivals are in

The groups we oppose. The maids, Cold Flames. Funny
How life works out, am I right?
Eh, you also don't like those groups?
You're so sweet, little lamb.

Ha, so, yeah, we're
Always trying to stay out of trouble, but we
Very much have gotten into it
Especially lately.

But, that's where this stops. All of us are tired of being pushed around by
Everyone else, we're tired of
Everything that's been going on, so we're going to do missions for Sixth Street this time.
Now, here's an interesting one, huh? Hold on, what is this?

Please go get our birds, we lost them
In the Hollow, and we're scared of them becoming Ethereals. Hmm, this is
Likely another trap, I imagine.
It's feeling like it might be one, I don't know. I have
Nothing to say, but I
Guess this sounds like a mission I'd take.

Ugh, I'm having a lot of doubts now. Alright, well,
Perhaps I shouldn't do this so hastily. Perhaps I

Should check the Interknot Address before accepting this
One. I can't let myself be three for three on not reading!

I have to actually read this time, alright, press and hold, and
There it is: LYTTLE BYRDEE. Hmm, I
Seem to recognize that Interknot Address.

That's?! No, it couldn't be, could it? Ah, nah,
It's just a coincidence. It has to be, right?
Maybe it is, if I accept this mission, I think
Earl is going to get pretty mad at me. But, I really shouldn't ignore it.

Well, here goes, I'm pressing accept!
Eeeeeeeeeeeeh, there we

Go, I accepted it. Man,
Earl is going to be mad at me,
That name on the Interknot, I know who it belongs

To. But, I'm not going to say it.
Oh, huh, newbie, you have to go?

Well, alright, safe travels, don't get eaten by an Ethereal.
Okay, so, I have to go
Rescue some birds! I,
Kali, accept this mission with all my heart! It's been awhile since I've done this, so be nice to me, okay? Tehee."

A short, adult female with short, messy maroon hair scrolled through her phone as her partner next to her was snoring next to her. Her maroon eyes blurred as the dark-mode web page on her browser burned into her retinas. Flipping to light mode, the woman kept on browsing forward. Pupils eyeing the request board her guppy tail swished from behind her.

Inter-Knot screen in front of her, she read the page carefully. Ridiculous headline reading, Help! Roosters Caught In Hollow!, the lady shook her head. Some people really make the most outrageous headline. Phone clock soon blinking zero seven colon zero zero her partner's phone alarm started blaring like a siren.

Hearing a loud yawn, the lady put on a warm smile. Babe woke up right on time as usual. Partner lifting their head a feminine appearing person with messy spiky pink hair and gazelle horns had a tired look on their face. Face turning towards her, the usual morning greetings had come each other's way.

"Good morning, Kali," her partner greeted.

"Good morning, Kerry," Kali responded. "I found an interesting commission on the Inter-Knot today!"

"Can we wait to talk about that until after we watch our show?" Kerry asked.

"Sure, babe," Kali replied. As she said such, she headed into the washroom. "See you in a bit!"

Stepping off towards her dresser, Kali grabbed her Hollow Investigator clothing from the top drawer. Bright jasper engagement ring stone glowing against her mirror, she let out a blissful sigh. If only she had enough money to marry her lover, she would do it in a heartbeat. But, such had not been reality right now. All she had was a promise for the future.

Blue belly shirt with shiny cerulean ribbons slapped on, her pants with multiple buckles on them crunched onto her injuries of weeks prior. Flinching, she groaned. Those stupid ponies, they would pay for what pain they caused her in the past few weeks. But, she kept herself calm. Now was hardly the time to get angry, her favorite show, Kerry's Mysteries was about to come on! Stay calm, stay calm.

Gel slapped into her hair, her phone alarm beeped like a madman. Sliding into the kitchen, the fridge creaked open. It was time for her favorite breakfast dish, sausage eggs benedict. Flame raging underneath the frying pan, the herbs were sprinkled on with a gentle roar. Sausages burning on the ends, the world was ready for the next hit show, Cooking With Kali. Plates plopped on the table, her partner groaned.

"You burned the ends again!" Kerry groaned.

"But, I thought that's how you like your sausages!" Kali cried. "Burned!"

Munching away at her charred sausage, Kali's phone soon vibrated in her pocket. Feeling such, she let out a groan. Ugh, who is texting her right now? Can't it wait? If it were any members of P.O.N.E.C., they can buzz off! She's not doing any more favors for them, not a single one! Not after last time, nope. Vibrations continuing, her partner gazed her way.

"Kali, don't you think you should get that?" Kerry asked, lowering her eyes into a squint.

"Nope, it's probably P.O.N.E.C. I don't want to talk to them!" Kali cried. "Not after last time."


"I don't blame you babe, they're scary," Kerry responded. As she said such, she wolfed down the last of her eggs. Alarm soon beeping once more, they stood up from their chair. "Well, it's time for our show."

Wolfing down the rest of her sausages, Kali dashed onwards towards the couch. Remote in her left hand, the large television blinked onward. But, what awaited the couple had not been their mystery show. Stupid Breaking News program blinking on the screen, she rolled her eyes. How dare New Eridu interrupt her precious pastime, they'll pay. Reporter screaming, she rolled her eyes.

{This is a New Eridu Breaking News Report!

There is a sudden outbreak of malfunctioning Bangboos everywhere! Are you entering a Hollow? If I were you, don't bring your Bangboo with you! You'll be sorry if you do, they might attack you, and, wham! That's it, it'll be curtains for you! Eaten by an Ethereal! Can you believe this, folks? I've never seen anything like it!}

<The news reporter had soon been knocked down by a large Bangboo whom shouted Ena-na-na-na. But he got up like nothing happened. The robot creature's eyes were swirly and blinked red for many seconds. Citizens screaming one after another, a tall pink woman with a briefcase added her own concerns to the mix.>

|Woah! That's a big Bangboo!|
|Uh, hello Nic---, we gotta get outta here!|

{As you can see, these big Bangboos out here are a real big problem! Hollow Investigators, could someone please help get this problem under control?! This blows, ya know? This city is supposed to be the safest of them out there! Yet, here we are, with these crazy coincidences! Come on, somebody please help, help heeeeeeeelp!}

|Alright, dude, we'll help you, sheesh! Come on Bi---!|
|You got it, boss! Wait, what?!|

News report coming to an end, Kali let out a groan. New Eridu never caught a break from all these stupid incidents, did it? What was next, flying birthday cakes? But, she shook her head. Don't will that into existence, or it'll definitely happen! Familiar tune playing, her pupils soon wandered back towards the large flat screen.

Kerry's Mysteries a joy to watch as usual, eight o'clock made itself known to the couple. Screen shut off, Kali turned towards her partner. The time had come to address the elephant in the room, or rooster in the room, rather. Lover's eyes fluttering towards her, she took her phone out from her back pocket. The time had come.

"Babe, can I read the Inter-Knot notification I received now?" Kali asked.

"Sure, babe," Kerry responded. "Go for it." But, their head turned for a moment. "Are you sure you want to go back into hollow investigations? What if the ponies see us?"

"We'll tell them to back off, 'cause I'm not dealing with them anymore!" Kali cried. "I draw the line after what they did to us last time!" She then faked a cough. "Well, here goes. I'm readin' it!" Bright screen in front of her, she put on her hollow investigator voice.

-at sign LYTTLE BYRDEE-

-Hello, is anyone reading this? If anyone on this little Inter-Knot iz pleaze help me, my roosters broke out of their cajez and are loose on sizth street! They were suppozzed to fight today in a combetizhun, but somehow they got out! They're looze on the streetz some are eben in a hollow! Could someone pleaz hear my plea and round up our lyttle henz and roosters? The FYGHT CLOBB's libeleehood dependz on it.

If any of my roosters are in the Hollow for two long, they'll become monzters and they'll be less balubull, that'll tank my bizzness, if any prozy is willing to reach out, I need ya'll to do it quigly. I don't know how long they have left before they're monzters, pleaz! Pleaz hurry!! I don't have anyone else to turn to!!-

Comments:

-Fake, lol-
-Are you serious, bro?-
-Yeah, no, this is a troll, I mean look at the spelling errors.-


{Would you like to write a comment?}
>Yes.

-DRYLL here, we'll help you!-

Letting out a cough, Kali couldn't help but think LYTTLE BYRDEE, wasn't that the name of Earl's sister's Inter-knot account? Maybe she shouldn't have jumped to accept this mission, but why would she refuse something that others have? That was her job as the leader of the Drill Dozers! Take the commissions that no one else would dare to do. Closing her phone, she could hear her partner groan.

"Babe, did you have to read out all the spelling errors, too?" Kerry asked, sighing. "You were being really silly just now."

"I don't know, it feels kinda authentic to read it as presented!" Kali said. "I accepted the commission, though, but, I think we should probably talk to Earl about it first."

"LYTTLE BYRDEE, isn't that his sister's handle on the Inter-Knot?" Kerry asked. "She keeps a rooster fighter ring, or something, doesn't she?"

"She does," Kali responded, nodding. "Let's talk to Earl in the group chat and then head out."

Unlocking her phone once more, Kali's fingers plopped towards the messages section. Hundreds of unread messages from P.O.N.E.C., she marked every single one as spam. She was done with those freaky cops. She could have sworn she blocked their number after last time. She would never help them again. not even if they begged her.

Drill Dozers group chat located, the digital room had been a ghost town. When was the last time she had opened this thing? It had to have been at least two weeks prior. Business had been busting, as of late. But, no more of that, fingertips pressed onto the message box, she was ready, set, go.

{Drill Dozers Commission Discussion Room}

{Me}
{Earl, you here? Kerry and I have accepted a commission today. So, if you're still in bed, get out right now! Come on!}

{Kelebek}
{Get up, Earl. We know you're reading our messages, I have read receipts on.}
|Read by Earl.|

{Me}
{I should have thought about that, babe!}

{Kelebek}
{Come on, Earl, we know you're there! Quit hiding behind read receipts!}
|Read by Earl.|

{Earl}
{Ugh, what do you two want? I was doing my makeup. Do you have any idea what time it is? Eight-thirty-seven! Can't you two, like, wait until ten to contact me? Like, come on now! I've told you that so many times before. I do my makeup at eight-thirty sharp! Eight-thirty sharp! Understand? Don't message me before ten!}

{Me}
{Wow! Who killed the anxious Earl and brought out drama queen Earl, huh? We should change your name to Perdante! What do you say, babe, should we start calling this fool Perdante? That's a perfect name for this brand new Earl! Perdante, Perdante, Perdante, Perdante! Perdante!}
|Laugh crying emoji.|

{Kelebek}
{I agree, babe!}

{Earl}
{Did you two just call me a loser in my mother tongue?! I'm just confident today, is that so hard to believe?!}

{Me}
{Kinda.}

{Kelebek}
{Yup.}

{Earl}
{Shut up, Kali and Kelebek! I'm not always a nervous little wreck, ya know! And look who's talking about nerves! Your partner always gets nervous when we enter a Hollow! If anyone's a perdante, it would be them, not me! Maybe I got a backbone in our two weeks away from Hollow investigating! Did you ever think that, hmm? Hmm? Hmmm?}

{Kelebek}
{Back up, Perdante, I only get nervous when the Hollow is scary.}

{Earl}
{Whatever. What commission did you accept?}

{Me}
{Rooster breakout on Sixth Street.}

{Earl}
{Ugh.}

{Kelebek}
{There it is.}

{Earl}
{Why did you accept that commission? Don't you have any idea who it's from? How could you that to me? Be more mindful about what you take! I can't believe you two! I have no desire to see my ex sister! Her stupid roosters can die in the streets for all I care! Who cares if they get turned into monsters? I sure don't!}

{Me}
{We'll let you inject one of the roosters with bad hormones to make them become scrawny if you want!}
|Laugh cry emoji.|

{Kelebek}
{Woah, sick one, babe!}

{Earl}
{Alright, fine! I'll help out, but don't think for a second that I'm doing this for my ex sister! And, I'm taking you up on that offer of poisoning her stupid roosters! Where is the commission this time?}

{Me}
{Sixth Street.}

{Earl}
{Whatever, I'll meet you there.}

{Me}
{See ya there.}

{Kelebek}
{Tootles.}

-This is the most recent message.-

Closing her phone, the couple stepped out the door. It was time to go catch some roosters. Reaching for her saw hanging upon the hinge, the party of two dashed off towards their business car. Favorite song blasted out the window, she could see the citizens on the street scream for her to lower the volume.

Sixth Street about to be upon the party of two, Kerry's hand pointed towards the street. Pressing the brakes, a blond man with golden penguin crests, and a matching orange belly shirt had soon been spotted. Shouting at the person to hop in, her car's population had increased by one. Earl seated, she pressed the brakes once more. Screeching into the parking lot in the corner, she could already hear the roosters cooing up a storm. Knuckles cracked, she readied herself.

It was time for Operation Rooster.

***

"It's Kelebek, better known as Kali. Uh, hello, stalker? I

Don't know how to address you, but you're always watching all
Of us, for some reason, and I am really

Not a fan of that kind
Of behavior. Listen, kid, you really need
To get a better hobby, leave us alone.

Kali might be a nice girl, but I am
Not so when I get angry.
Of course, getting under my skin is pretty hard, but I
Will shout at those whom displease me. You're

Horrible, you know that? I've heard you always poking your nose in where it doesn't belong.
Over in that Loan Shark business, over in that Hitman business, too.
Why do you do

That? Do you understand
How dangerous you're being?
Everyone knows that those hitmen you have been stalking are
Really dangerous when they find their target. I would know, babe's
Ex sister works for them. I

Can't believe that girl.
Okay, well, I never have met babe's ex sister, and
Unless they make up, it's
Likely they won't. Just like I
Don't have any intentions of making up with my ex siblings, either.

Because, honestly, why should I?
Eh, but they're in the past. All three of them are in the past.

So, here we go, we're going to catch some roosters,
Or maybe some hens. I don't know, that fight club is just full of

Meatheads who only seem to care
About fighting, and
Nothing else. Did
You see those spelling errors in their Inter-Knot message?

Roosters, hens
Or not, I just don't know.
Oh, well, anyway,
Since we have
To go get these roosters back, I have to
Enter a scary hollow. Ah,
Right, come on, I have to take this one
Step at a time. It's not scary. It's

Literally just a bunch of roosters.
I'm always astonished by that fight club, I don't
Know what they're thinking. I have heard they have a huge animal fighting scene that people bet their dennies on.
Err, is that legal?

To be honest, I don't know, I
Hardly think
It is. So, no wonder those roosters ran away. They
Shouldn't be forced

To fight against their will. Do they make
Hens fight, too?
Eh, I don't know,
Roosters probably make more dennies.
Even I don't know.

It doesn't really matter,
So, I guess we have to go catch them.

So, stalker, if you're listening to this, I'll say this
One last time. Back off, alright?

My partner may be
A nice girl, but I am
Not so, this is
Your second warning. And if you stalk Earl,

Then I will not
Hesitate to
Attack you.
Try and remember that, alright?

For now, I'll just say that
I'm not scared of some chicken. I
Guess I am a little scared of the
Hollows, but not all
That much today.

Come on, what do you take me more? I'm not that much of a coward.
Look, I was just afraid of the ponies, alright?
Ugh, and afraid I was.
Because they're a bunch of horrible cops who think they can get away with anything. Why wouldn't

I be just a little afraid of them?
See? That's why I was nervous last time, so

Just shut up, stalker, alright?
Ugh, you are
So annoying, stalker, I can't stand you.
This may be a very strange

Commission, but I can't
Have second thoughts about it.
Okay, here goes, I'm
Coming roosters! I
Know you're hiding there somewhere!

Fooey, they're running away,
Ugh. Maybe yelling I'm
Looking for them is a dumb idea. Can't
Let them know that.

Oh, well, I have to move around very quietly. Man, the
Fight club, excuse me FYGHT CLOBB,

Sure are strange people.
To be honest, it's
Rather dumb of them to run
An illegal cockfight, but I'm
Not going to judge them.
Guess they have to
Earn their keep somehow. So, I can't fault them for

Pursuing upon the path of illegal activity.
Eh, I think we and those maids are the
Only chimera groups in some way that do not skirt around the law.
Perhaps, I could be wrong about all that, but it's not
Like I know of
Every chimera faction out there,

I also don't care.
Fooey, another one got away.

You know, I'm really starting to get annoyed.
Ogh, these stupid roosters, hold still!
Ugh. Hey, you!

Are you laughing? You are, aren't you?
Shut up! And get out of here! I
Knew it, you're annoying. Go away!

Man, what a pest.
Eh, back to catching roosters."

Reaching Sixth Street, Kali could hear an annoying amount of cock-a-doodle-doos in the distance. Hearing such, she rolled up her sleeves. It was time to catch some roosters. Multiple people screaming in the distance, she dashed onto the scene. Finding herself near Random Play she could hear a girl scream.

"Where did all these roosters come from?!" a blue haired girl screamed.

"Leave them to me!" Kali cried. "Babe, get me the big wooden cage!"

"Really, a cage?" Earl asked. "They're going to get out again!"

"This one is electronically sealed, Earl, be quiet!" Kali cried. "Babe, now!"

"On it, babe!" Kerry cried. "Get in you rascals!"

First batch of roosters dropped in, the cock-a-doodle-doos continued. Multiple behind the counter of waterfall soup. Red demon creature turning his attention towards the fowl, she could hear him question their presence, babe opening the cage back up, she let out another scream as she leaped towards the dumb birds.

Roosters cooing up a storm, Kali could feel them pecking within the cage. Were these creatures mistreated by their owner? Maybe she should just release them back into the wild instead of returning them, but she knew she couldn't do that, what kind of person would she be if she did that without the owner's permission?

Hearing a loud woof in the corner, Kali's feet brushed up against the road. Little squealers behind the counter of Howl's Newsstand, the stupid fowl were as done as dinner. Cage about to break out of its britches, she cupped her hands around her mouth. So many roosters, she could hardly believe this.

"Earl! I need another cage!" Kali cried.

"Ugh, whatever, here," Earl groaned. "I'll take this one to the car." He then poked the fowl with a stick. "Shut up, you annoying birds! I'll skewer you!"

New cage upon her, Kali kept on marching onward. One hundred fifty one birds captured, she swore she could hear the last one mewing. Man these creatures were so annoying. Who in their right mind would bet on these roosters for dennies? But, why judge other people life decisions? That was their life, not hers.

Hollow about ready to be upon her, one final wooden cage had been in her possession. Babe and Earl soon following straight behind, an entire army of roosters with dark energy protruded through the area. Seeing such, she grit her teeth, oh, no, was she too late? She was, wasn't she? Well, whatever, losing a few roosters wouldn't hurt that penguin's business anyway.

"They're getting hostile, we're going to have to attack!" Kali cried. "Charge!"

"Do we have to fight?" Kerry asked. "They look kind of scary!"

Roosters letting out another morning call, the dark energy had soon reached its maximum. Creatures clumping together one after another, a brand new Ethereal was ready to be added to the database. Saw out and ready, she aimed for the feet. Creature cooing every step of the way, she kept going. This fowl, it was going down.

"Earl, knock some sense into them!" Kali cried.

"You're going down! Penguin punch!" Earl cried.

Bird locked into place, Kali's saw slammed into the enemy once more. Cock-a-doodle-dos getting weaker, stone eggs had been thrown her way. Seeing such, her saw spun the blade works. Eggs pelted down one after another, she grit her teeth. Uh, hello, roosters were male. Stupid creatures, dumb Ethereals. Electricity coming a chargin' in, she tapped babe in.

"Kerry, go!" Kali cried.

"On it, babe!" Kerry cried.

Kerry's drills giving the bird a stern scolding, the creature had soon dissipated into nothing. Every single rooster within the hollow nothing but dust on the wind, Kali shrugged as she exited the Hollow. Returning to her car, Earl hightailing it out of there, screaming he's not dealing with his ex sister, Kali shook her head. Heh, loser. He's not getting his share of the pay, then.

Entrance of the FYGHT CLOBB reached, she knocked on the entrance door. Tall, blonde woman in a pink boxer outfit stepping out, at least six rooster cages had been handed off to her. Lady stacking them up on top of one another, sweat poured down Kali's cheek. They're going to escape again like that, for sure.

"Thanks for getting my roosters back," Malika said, tone warm. "Here's your pay."

Dennies slapped into her pockets, she divvied the reward between babe and she. Not much to go off on, she sighed. Would she ever be able to afford her wedding? Probably not. Being a hollow investigator for higher was tough business. Returning to her car, she drove on home at the speed limit.

Returning home, babe and she returned to their heaven. Kerry's Mysteries blasting through the speakers, no further breaking news ruined their alone time together. Night alarm soon ringing after four episodes, Kali let out a yawn. Dang, it was eleven already? Time flies when one's having fun. Heading to the water closet, she could feel a somber wave flow through her.

Only rewarded six thousand dennies, Kali wanted to lay on the washroom floor and think about life. Was being a hollow investigator really worth it? She rarely hit big. What was she doing wrong? Should she dig into illegal activity to get more dennies? She shook her head at such. Nah. That was not a good idea. The ponies were a loose cannon, and they would fire at will if they saw her resorting to such.

Face washed she crawled into bed. Babe fast asleep already, she couldn't help but giggle. Kerry was always such a heavy sleeper. Head slapped onto the pillow, she closed her eyes. Accursed clucking noise replaying in her head, she slammed her covers over her face. Ugh, she was going to hear that, even in her dreams, wasn't she? Catching some zs, dream land was ready to come for her as one somber thought plopped in.

How she wished she could afford her wedding.

---

This is probably the only Drill Dozers anthology. Next is the FYGHT CLOBB. And, yes, 151 is a Pokemon reference.

 

[Palamon]

FYGHT CLOBB On The Rails: Trains Not Runnin'

---

"Hyllo, hyllo, hyllo, hyllo, hyllo, hyllo!
Yikes! I forgot it ain't hyllo, it's hello. Listen, I can't read well, kay? I never really
Learned how to do that! I see literally all the words backwards, all
Letters are reversed for me! Oh, what do you mean that's impossible? Okay, weirdo, you wanna go? You wanna go, don't ya?
Okay, punk, I'll take you on since you decided to run your stupid mouth!

Oh, just get on with the introduction, already? Newbie, you ain't get to tell me what to do,
Okay? So, watch your mouth, or this ain't gonna be
Pretty cause I'm the creator of the FYGHT CLOBB, and you
Shouldn't mess with me like at all! I can take you out with the ittiest bit of poison and yer gonna be dead from it! Aight, aight, fine, kid,

I'll tell you about myself, okay? Since yer still asking me
That annoying question, you're going to have to give me a minute though, kay? Cause I'm a bit slow! Aight, so

I'm Zinn, creator of the FYGHT CLOBB. Why is it called the FYGHT CLOBB? Well Malika and I can't
Spell to save us in a pinch, so we named our club as is!

Hmmm, that looks so weird? Listen here, kiddo! It ain't!
Everyone tells us that the club would be boring if it was
Literally what it was on the tin! So, if you don't
Like it, you can just go,
Okay, kid? Listen, I can't read! I see everything backwards! What?

Stop being so dramatic?
Of course a little loser who can
Read would say that! I
Rely entirely on screen readers and a conversion program to be able my life normally! Kiddo,
You can read normally, so don't

Call my way ridiculous! What if I made funna you, huh?
Ah, wouldn't like that very much, now would you? You would
Not! See? I know it sucks
To make funna others, so

Reap what ya sew, newbie, and
Eat your words, or I'll not hesitate
At harming ya with my super
Duper noxious poisons, mmk? I

Wouldn't mess with me,
I wouldn't, if I were you!
This is a fight club with very athletic people such as myself! Well, person, I ain't, I'm a frog chimera! Ah!
Hmm, that's why yer visiting me, I take it, kiddo?
Oh, I see now! You're onna those.
Uh, kay, so kiddo, listen
To what I'm

About to say, aight? You don't wanna go down this dangerous road, understand? Some of us are monsters you

Should never mess with, but it seems you ain't got the memo on that, I keep seeing you sneaking around where you aren't wanted! You
Can't keep doing that, okay? If you do, you'll get killed on the spot! And I ain't gonna help ya at all if yer gonna squeal around. You just don't get it, do ya, newbie? Yer
Rancid, and yer kind ain't welcome here.
Eh, yer just lost? Ya know the amount of times ya claim that,
Every single time it's getting less believable. Okay? Do
Not try and play the I'm lost card, we are completely aware that is just an act yer playing, so I ain't buying what yer selling, ya

Really gotta stop with that
Easily spottable lie, okay? We know for a fact yer not lost, so don't go and acting like yer lost, kay? With us, that
Ain't gonna fly, so
Don't try it, aight? We're a fight club, we ain't no charity!
Everything is about fighting here! You should know that, mmk? Ah,
Right, you gotta few screws loose, so course ya don't know that! What? That's mean?

No, it ain't! There
Ain't nothing wrong nor
Mean bout being honest! Yer just annoyed I ain't like
Everyone else who tolerates your
Sticky web of lies and nonsense, well, I

Zinn, have not a single
Intentional of dealing with your sticky web of
Nonsense, so don't web me into it, kay? What? That's
Not why yer here? Alright,

Come on, out with it, then! What's the
Real reason of your visit,
Eh? Go on, cause I
Ain't got all day! I have a few fights
To get to, and yer getting in the way
Of that! You need to know
Round these parts

Our time is precious,
From the get go, yer

Taking time away from me, I don't
Have all day, so
With hurry or yer going

Flying, do ya understand?
Yer kidding, that's awful?
Get real, kiddo! That's
How it works around here!
Thems the rules!

Can't follow, then get out?
Look, yer wasting my time, so
Out with it,
Be quick, or I'll
Be sending you flying! Err

What? Weren't we the ones with those roosters?
Err, yes that was us. Completely.


How did we let that incident fall so far out of control? Yer asking me? Why you asking me?! I ain't got nothing to
Even do with that at all, okay? That was Malika! She was the one who
Asked to introduce an animal cockfighting system, in addition to our Hollow Fighting Business and our normal fighting
Ring business! You can go ask her about it! I
Don't know nothing bout any of that, mmk? It was her idea, and I

Ain't in charge of that cockfighting ring, that's all her! It's all her. Ya best remember that, mmk? I
Bet yer frothing at the mouth
Over that, ain't ya? You need ta know that I ain't responsible for that you
Ultimately need to know how everything works around here, kid, our fight club is broken into three sectors, understand? Three.
The first one, is the good old normal one, the fighting ring where normal peeps box each other and various other types of sports.

Ain't that grand? Yer super confused right now, I

Bet, but yet just gonna have to listen up, kay? The second ring, and
I'm sure ya already saw this coming, so I ain't
Gonna waste yer time, is the Hollow Fighting Ring. This is where

The weak people come in like a
Rancid infestation and beg us to go
And clear out a hollow for them! What,
I'm being too judgemental?
No, I ain't! Where do you get off on, huh? We get a lot of

Inquiries about this business, and it
Never stopping, so I'm in my right to be

Tired over this ever growing nonsense, and you ain't got no say in that, kay?
Heh, lately, it's just been a little too much, though cause
Everyone has been asking for the same thing, the trains are stuck in a

Hollow, please help up get them out! We can't go to Sixth Street, we can't go visit family! We ain't able to do nothing!
Okay, okay, I get it, I've heard y'all! And I believe y'all, really, but
Listen, kay? This is a very lofty order! It's a train yer talking about here!
Listen, I'm not saying they're all lyin,
Or anything, but ya expect me to believe the trains are backed up in a Hollow?
We ain't buyin'

Any of that crack we've been told. For
Now, we've decided to
Decline these kinda requests.

We ain't buyin' it.
Even though it's getting more frequent, we

Ain't gonna take that request because it's ludicrous, and obnoxious, why should we have to take this on, huh? We ain't no mechanics! Do ya understand? We ain't a mechanic, go ask Belobog Heavy Industries to help with stuff
Regarding machines cause we ain't know nothing about them, got it? Eh, Baron's been saying they know a thing or two bout them trains, but even so, I ain't buyin' it!
Eh, well, to be fair, Baron is the one who's handling all of the Hollow Investigation requests. That's their department. As they can read normally, unlike me! And Malika who struggles, too.

Gah, what do you mean I'm getting off track here? Keep yer mouth shut,
Or I'm gonna sew it shut for ya, understand? This is how our lives have been for ages
Now, okay? We've been getting requests to go fix the trains, and we've
Never accepted a single request regarding this dumb, and ridiculous nonsense, we
Ain't running a charity here, ya know! We take payments to investigate hollows cause it's a lucrative business here! We're not like

The other groups who will take everything that is asked of us! We are far pickier bout the missions we take on, and that's how it like it! We
Ain't gonna take no mission we ain't got the
Knowledge to tackle the problem at large!
Eh, the heck you just say to me, kiddo? Could ya repeat that?

I should just hire the Belobog Heavy Industry to help me?
That's easy fer you to say, newbie, I ain't go no idea if they'll even answer us, we ain't that popular ya know?

Our fight club is just like it's super
Niche, newbie, we never step out of our zone unless we like gotta. And, ya know,

Since we don't gotta, we ain't gotta take this mission
On! And we ain't intending to do so. It's not like

We're looking for help, okay? We
Ain't we ain't about to take on stuff we don't understand, so we'd appreciate if you don't
Try and worm us into that, mmk? Oh,
Come on, try asking for
Help anyway? Kid! New Eridu is a dog eat dog world and the last thing I need is help.

Ugh, it'll get people to
Stop asking us to fix the train if we at least, bare minimum, go

Ask them for help? Alright, newbie, maybe you don't get it, we ain't
Stooping down to the level of begging for help, mmk? We ain't doing that! Huh,

What? I don't have to beg? Yer just saying that, aren't ya!
Eh, people like you are too inconveniently innocent, ya know that? Whatever. We'll ask fer help. Ya happy?

Don't ya know how annoying it is to ask other people around here for help? You really just don't get it! I told ya, it's a dog eat dog world
Out there, and yer simply just not listening to me! Well, don't blame me for yer death if someone goes and kills you in cold blood!

Ah, what did ya just say to me, newbie? That's scary? Well, yer gonna have to get used to that! Yer

Failing to understand who wr are, we're the FYGHT CLOBB, a fighting ring.
If I'm scary now, yer gonna be scared even worse when I poison ya to death, what, I would never?
'Xcuse me? Who says I ain't got the guts to?
Everyone is afraid of me, and that
Really should include the likes of you! You

Ugly, ugly sorry little
Person, you should know by now my
Position, my power over
Everything, I'm a poisonous frog! And you
Really shouldn't mess with me, got it? You really don't get it

At all, do you? I thought so, ya
Really don't understand what kinda power I got
Over ya, well, I got the
Ultimate weapon, so you'd better
Not make me any madder cause that's
Deadly! Eh, how have I not been sent

To jail? Ah,
How ignorant ya are!
Everyone knows I ain't got no control over my poison
Sacks so I ain't
Ever gonna go to

Prison for that, it
Ain't like I've killed no one, ya
Really think I have
Though, huh? Well, I ain't yet,
So no prison for me.

I can't believe ya asked
That'. Kiddo, yer annoying,
Since yer annoying, I'm

Going over the last sector so I'm rid
Of ya. Alrighty, so,

The last ring is our cockfighting ring.
It's for our trained
Monkeys, roosters,
Etcetera to clobber each other for entertainment. Are ya

Fer real right now?
Yer yelling me that's cruel?
Get outta here with yer
Half-baked assumptions, kay?
They're trained, yer so annoying,

Can't stand yer kind,
Look, I've had enough
Of yer nonsense, so go
Before I poison ya!
Bet I will if I reach three and yer still not

Out the door! One, two, three,
Now they're gone.

This ain't flying.
Ha guess I beg them peeps about the train
Eh, this is

Really annoyin. I
Ain't even
Interested in this mission, whatever.
Let's get this over with
Since I need dennies for the rent."

A tall person with short, slicked back black hair in the form of a mullet, and no discernable gender at a glance's bright green frog legs had soon been coated in slippery oil. Their leapers had been getting quite slimy lately around these parts. What a tiresome ordeal. Facial cream mask slapped over their golden tan face, their lacy white shirt was about to get dirty as ever.

Phone ringing off the walls, the frog person tried to scream go directly to voicemail. Every single person lately had been asking right and left, go fix the trains in the hollows! Go fix the trains in the hollows, please! They had gotten quite tired of hearing it. First, the rooster incident in the last week or so, now the constant badgering about the train problems. How annoying humans could see sometimes.

Facial done, the frog's alarm had gone off. Ah, wonderful, it was time to open the FYGHT CLOBB for business today. Tiny car leaped into like a lilypad, the frog was off to the races. Bright, and colorful building adorning a sign that read the name of the fighting establishment, they tried to open the doors. But, they would not budge. Key removed from their pocket, they let out a groan. Don't tell them, their employees were late again. Lovely. Just lovely.

Neither of their employees opening up shop, they could hear multiple people at the entrance door on the other side complaining their pants off. Where were their employees when they needed them? They had been coming into the fight club rather late lately since the rooster incident a week prior. What, were they scared of them, or somethin'? They needed a stark reminder they needed to come into work on time.

Complaints outside getting louder, the frog headed off towards the entrance door. Entire sea of people screaming let 'em in, it's opening hours, they twisted the lock leftward. Sea of boxers flooded in, multiple questions had come their way. What took them so long to open up shop, owner? They gotta a fight to practice for. The tourney's coming up. Voice after voice after voice drowning them, they placed their frog hand up.

"Aight, I heard ya'll. Ya'll got my sincerest apologies, Baron and Malika are late today, dunno why," the frog person said. "But I'll tell 'em off."

"Aye, Boss Zinn could it be 'cause of the train in the hollow, maybe?" one of their patrons asked. "We heard yer takin' on that mission from someone in the Hollow Fighters Ring."

Loyal patron reminding them of that annoying mission, Zinn slapped their frog palm across their face. Boy, does word travel fast around here. They weren't even certain if they were doing that, thank you! Maybe they should make a rule to not discuss hollow business out in the open and only have it stated in the Hollow Fighters Ring.

"So, what if we are, huh?" Zinn asked. "Ya wanna fight in there, too, or somethin'?"

"Nah, boss, we good," the boxer said. "We ain't want nona dat."

Fighters going about their day, Zinn headed for the downstairs ring. Roosters and monkeys screaming up a storm, they let out a growl as they filled up their food bowls. Why did they let Malika talk them into creating a cockfighting ring? Because it would make more Dennies? What nonsense. It's not like their business needed it to stay afloat.

Animal fighters fed, Zinn removed their smartphone from their back pocket. Rugged, beaten up device powered on, they hummed a tune as it took forever to reach the home screen. Speaking of Malika, where the heck was she? She was very late today! They ought to dock their pay by half for coming in tardy with their sibling for a whole seven days. Screaming open messages app, a robotic voice soon played out into the open.

<You have six unread messages in: FYGHT CLOBB GROOP CHATZ, open group chat?>

"Open group chat," Zinn said into the microphone.

{FYGHT CLOBB GROOP CHATZ}

{Malika}
|Mathematical sign bold capital a, mathematical sign bold capital a, mathematical sign bold capital a, mathematical sign bold capital a, mathematical sign bold capital a, mathematical sign bold capital h!| {I overslept again.} |Mathematical sign bold capital a, mathematical sign bold capital a, mathematical sign bold capital a, mathematical sign bold capital a, mathematical sign bold capital a, mathematical sign bold capital h!|

{Baron}
|Mathematical sign italic capital s, mathematical sign italic capital h, mathematical sign italic capital u, mathematical sign italic capital t, mathematical sign italic capital u, mathematical sign italic capital p.| {I can hear you through texts practically.}

{Malika}
|Mathematical sign bold capital a, mathematical sign bold capital a, mathematical sign bold capital a, mathematical sign bold capital a, mathematical sign bold capital a, mathematical sign bold capital h!| {Boss's gunna kill me dry for this.}

Zinn groaned as they looked at their screen reader screamed out gibberish to them. By the lords up above, how many times did they have to tell Malika and Baron to not use fancy fonts in their texting conversations. Like, hello, they can't read? Quit making life difficult for them! They were so lucky they could read words as they normally appeared they ain't need none of this technology. Time to scold them for it screeching into their microphone, their screen reader continued.

{FYGHT CLOBB GROOP CHATZ}

{Zinn}
{How many times I gotta tell ya'll to not use yer stupid fancy fonts in our chatroom? My screen reader ain't able to read none of all that. Use that junk in yer own private chat's, kay? Anyway, Malika, I can't believe ya'll overslept. Get your butt here as soon as possible!}

{Malika}
{Well, sorry for oversleeping! We had a busy night last night calling up Belobog Heavy Industries. No one would answer their phones, it was so annoying! We were trying to get in contact with the boss so they can guide us through the Hollow and help with the train. But, no one picked up, so forgive me for sleeping in for a little while, okay?}

{Baron}
{I told you we have to just go there and ask them in person, but you refused to listen to me. You can be so stubborn sometimes, it's astounding. Belobog Heavy Industries is too busy to take phone calls. So, why would anyone answer to you? It's your own fault we're late today, and you know that, Malika.}

{Malika}
{Alright, alright, I heard you the first fifteen times you said it, okay?}

{Zinn}
{Since yer both late, I had to feed the animals! That's yer job, Malika, not mine! An' I'm docking it outta yer pay!}

{Malika}
{Hey, I'm sorry! Please, don't dock my pay, I'll come on time starting tomorrow!}

{Zinn}
{If ya don't want me to dock yer pay, you'd better get over here to the club in ten minutes, or yer going to take a five percent cut in yer next paycheck, got it?}

{Malika}
{Alright, alright, fine, we're coming! We'll be coming through the door to the entrance for the cockpit ring, alright?}

{Zinn}
{Ya'll better get here quick, I can't stand none of yer annoying roosters! Ever since they got outta their cages last week, they've been nothin' but trouble, ya know that? I'm this close to sellin' them to anyone who'll buy 'em. If yer not here in ten minutes, I might make some calls to get rid of them.}

-This is the most recent message.-

Closing their phone, Zinn tapped their sticky frog feet upon the floor. Baron and Malika had better be here in ten minutes, or else they'll take another extra fiver percent outta their paycheck for leaving them with their stupid birds. These creatures were so loud, and noisy. Why did she ever think it was a good idea to open up a cockfighting ring here?

Door clicking open, a tall woman with long, chest length light blonde hair and orange eyes walked into the cockfighting ring room. Sideburn pulled into a small ponytail, they swore their penguin crests on the top of their face looked slicked up with oil. Yeah, sure she was late because she overslept. More like, she was doing her morning beauty routine and took too long to get ready. Ladies sometimes, gee whiz. Bright pink boxer outfit upon her with words they couldn't read, they rolled their eyes. Oh, they piped up and ready to go, alright.

Next to her had been a short young adult feminine appearing person with curly golden blonde hair that went down to about their shoulders. Small wavy ponytail twirled with their fingers, their orange eyes were as on fire looking as their penguin crests were. Wheels for legs looking rusty, they crossed their sticky arms across their waist. What a sorry excuse for a fighter they were. They didn't oil their wheels. Again.

"Baron, I told ya so many times, keep up with yer wheel maintenance," Zinn complained. "I'm taking a chunk of yer pay until ya get that done!"

"Does it look like I have time to get my wheels oiled? First, the rooster fiasco, and now the train hollow situation," Baron retorted. "I don't have time for any of that right now."

"Don't come cryin' to me if yer wheels get all rusted, then!" Zinn cried. "Whatevs. We're heading to Belobog Heavy Industries, and askin' them to assist us in the Hollow with the lost trains, so ya'll better peddle to the metal, or I'll dock yer pay a whole ten percent!"

"Hey, boss, come on, I need that money!" Malika cried. "I got important meds to pay for this week! If you dock my pay that be catastrophic!"

"Then ya'd better hurry up and get into the backseat of my car, or I'm dockin' ten percent from yer pay for bein' tardy all week! I coulda fired you for that, ya know. But, I didn't 'cause yer the face of the FYGHT CLOBB."

"Terribly sorry boss, it won't happen again!" Malika bowed as she said such.

Dashing off towards the tiny car, they could hear a loud bump upon their felt roof as Malika got in. Tardy penguin complaining, they tuned them out. Hadn't anyone ever taught them how to duck their head? She was all brawns no brain every single day of the week, wasn't she? Comical. Sometimes, they wondered why they even hired her.

Entrance towards Belobog Heavy Industries Reached, Zinn could not help but notice a hole in the fence. Some people weren't very safe drivers, were they? The nerve! Whatevs, that ain't their problem. Who cared about any of that, anyway? Walking through the door, they had begun to look for a big bear with a huge machine in his hands. Locating them rather quickly, they introduced themselves, and their purpose of coming here.

"You need someone to instruct you on how to fix a train stuck in a hollow?" the big bear man asked. "Sure, we can help you, but you should ask the President."

Told the president had been a young woman with long red hair and an eyepatch, Zinn looked high and low for her. Finding her after about fifteen minutes, they wanted to eat some plywood. Nothing was worse than annoying tardy people. Relaying the message of their mission, they could feel a rejection coming their way already.

"Huh, you need directions on how to get a train running that's stuck in a hollow?" the red haired president said. "You gotta a Bangboo with you?"

"They're in my car chargin'," Zinn responded. "But, here's their carrot. Don't disappoint us, or we ain't payin' you nothin' got it?"

President accepting the condition, Zinn hopped back to their car in a jiffy. Knowing the Hollow had been located somewhere off the outskirts of Faunus Quarter, they floored it. They had to hurry, the clock was ticking. There was no time left. They had to get this stupid mission over with right here, right now. Rainbow dome nearing, they turned their Bangboo on. Hollow leaped into, they cracked their knuckles.

Time to get this stupid train mission over with.

***

"I, Baron, feel like I'm the only one working at the FYGHT CLOBB who has a brain that isn't thoroughly

Squished by thoughts of fighting all the time.
Why did I ever agree to join this little startup?
Eh, guess I was desperate
At the time to fit in somewhere after Malika fought with the
Rest of our family in

Some big incident. I felt like I had nowhere to go, so I followed her.
Oh, ugh, so, you're that unintelligent person who's never
Minding their own business, huh? You're as stupid as
Earl, he never minding his own business, either.
That rascal. Well, it doesn't matter now,
I no longer speak to him, nor the rest of
My brothers and sisters at all, aside from Malika.
Earl is just like you, nosy,
Stupid, and annoying.

I really am the only one with

A brain amongst
My boss and my sister.

Those two, I swear they both
Have about half a brain, and they ate
Each other's brains

Or something. I told Malika multiple times
Not to call Belobog Heavy Industries
Last night, and you know what she did? She didn't listen to me.
You know, I often wonder if

She can even hear me, mini Earl. That's right, that's what I'm going to call you, stupid,
Mini Earl, because that's what you
Are: a mini Earl. Stupid, nosy, and a
Rubber burner. Did I ever
Tell the story

Of how I lost my legs?
No, you don't care? You didn't
Even ask? Well, too bad, it's story time. What's your problem, Mini Earl? If you're going to barge into my business, I

Will talk your ear off about my story, so, listen up, Mini Earl, you brainless moron. Whether you like it or not, I'm telling my story.
Oh, and by the way, you have no right to
Refuse. Since you were so kind to come over here and stalk us like you do everyone else, I'm going to ruin your day. Anyway, I
Know you'll just tune me out, but anyway,
I lost my legs during some explosion in some Hollow some time ago, and
Now I got wheeled prosthetics since I had penguin feet, and they could not fit the ones humans have. So, I have to
Go on with life with wheeled prosthetics.

However, Zinn is always annoying me to get them properly taken care of.
Eh, listen, I haven't been fighting much lately, so no need. Huh, that stalker is gone.
Really? Hmph, did they not want to hear my story that much? They're just like
Earl! Slow, and annoying. Whatever, we're dealing with the stuck trains now."

Hollow leapt into with all their might, a large and strange corridor with nothing but train tracks in the wrong placements awaited the party of three. Large Bangboo with a frog costume waddling in, a voice had soon played through the creature's zipped up body. Voltage clapping their legs, Zinn wanted to munch on it. Stupid static, now's not that time!

"Zinn, Malika, Baron, did you make it into the Hollow?" the president asked on the other end. "Tell me the situation with the train!"

Inspecting the train and the tracks, something immediately stuck out to Zinn. Tracks all on the wrong side of the track, they slapped their sticky palm across their face. How did this end up like that? This vehicle looked about ready to fight in the boxing ring. No wonder they had been getting a bajillion requests to get this thing back on the rails lately.

"It looks like the tracks are all screwed up!" Zinn cried. "Malika, check the engine room!"

"Got it, boss!" Malika cried. "Woah, this engine is dead! Hey, president, can you teach me how to fix that?"

"Baron, yer helpin' me rotate the tracks back to normal," Zinn demanded. "Got it?"

"Whatever, boss," Baron responded, lackadaisical.

"The engine? Alright, that's pretty easy," the president said through the headphones. "Zinn, Baron, fix the tracks on your side! I think I remember the layout! I'll send it to your phone!"

Big picture of the train tracks sent their way, Zinn lowered their eyes into a squint. This path kind of looked like it turned off towards the right. That seemed pretty dumb. But, whatevs, did it matter how stupid a train track layout was? It ain't no problem of theirs. They hardly cared. All they had to do was fix it, so those annoying requests to do so would finally stop.

Finding a button in the corner of the hollow, Baron ran off towards the other end of the tracks. Studying them for a minute longer, Zinn had gotten a pressin'. First track rotated thrice, it had been in the correct position in a matter of moments. Further tracks returned to their correct orientation, they could hear it all click into place one after another.

Other side coming along nicely, Zinn cursed themselves under their breath. Why did they keep on rejecting this mission? It wasn't that hard after all! They could have easily fixed the tracks much sooner, and this big annoyance abound wouldn't have ballooned outta control like this. Whatevs, it was their own fault for ignoring it for so long, anyway. Should have never done that.

"We fixed the tracks, president," Baron said. "Now, quickly guide Malika on how to fix the engine."

"Alright, Malika, are you ready?" the president on the other end asked.

"Yeah, I'm ready, boss," Malika responded. "So, how do I fix this engine?"

Hearing a lot of loud electrical noises inside the train, Zinn hopped onto the top of the roof as the locomotive vehicle's whistle blew once again. Vessel chugging along the tracks, the FYGHT CLOBB was on the rails. But, they could soon hear something ram into the cars in the back. Hearing such, they let out a shout at the top of their lungs.

"FYGHT CLOBB, it's time for action!" Zinn cried. "Malika stop the train."

"Got it, boss!" Malika cried.

Strange bright yellow ethereal aboard the train, Zinn dropped down through the window. Baron wheeling on in, they had soon sprung into action. Wheeled kick bruising the creature up aplenty, Malika's punches came in clutch. Feeling themselves about ready to be clapped into battle, they got their pistol ready for action.

"Time fer some shootin' practice!" Zinn cried.

Shots fired, they could feel their energy boil over the edge, poison welling up inside them, they leaped into the air. Dropping downward, their slimy, webbed feet coaxed their poisons in. Ethereal biting the dust, they had become one with the roof once again. Train chugging along towards the hollow exit, they could soon hear an even louder whistle off in the distance.

But, what they saw had been most puzzling. Warped train tilted upward, Zinn leapt off the roof in style. By the lords up above, what happened in this Hollow? Shouting at their employees to exit the cars, everyone dashed towards the racket as fast as they were able to muster. Whistles reaching their maximum capacity, everyone's eyes pulsated.

"Yer kiddin!" Zinn cried. "This train became an ethereal!"

"Are you serious?!" Baron said. "That's stupid, that cannot be the case."

"I am serious," Zinn responded, annoyed. "Look with yer eyes! That train's an ethereal, like hyllo? I may be frog, an' I can't read, but I ain't blind, and I ain't hallucinating nothing!"

"Hey, boss, there's a train in here that turned into an ethereal!" Malika said into her microphone. "Can you help us fix it?"

"I'm 'fraid I can't fix that, sorry, guys," the president said on the other end. "You're going to have to take it out."

"Boss, ya can't be serious right now!" Zinn cried. "What are we gonna tell city hall?"

Choo-choo.

Train ethereal revving up its whistle, Zinn rolled up their sleeves. Whatevs. It's not like they had any choice but to fight this stupid train. Pistol ready to go, they backed away as the bullets kept going. Man, this stupid train, it just had to become a monster. No wonder people kept telling them to take care of this thing over, and over, and over again.

Malika's fists doing the talking, and Baron's wheels ramming in, the locomotive beast let out another aggravating whistle. Hearing such, Zinn hopped up word. Fer cryin' out loud, could this train shut up already? Energy reaching its maximum capacity, they prepared one last battle cry for the choo-chooer to hear.

"Take this! Poison bullets!" Zinn shouted at the top of their lungs.

Toxic froggy bullets raining down from the sky for six seconds, the train was out of service. Hollow wiped out, they returned to Belobog Heavy Industries. President paid, Zinn opened up their phone. Text to speeching the commission had been taken care of, a visitor soon awaited them in the Hollow Fighting Ring a few hours later. Barely enough dennies paid to even cover the rooster and monkey's food funds, Zinn cracked their slimy knuckles. Why did they agree to take this mission for such a nothing amount in return? Lame.

Closing up shop for the day, their tiny car had been their best friend once more. Returning home, their face was creamed up to oblivion once again. Cucumbers soon over their eyes, they sunk down in their tub as the hours dragged on by. Man, that mission was stupid, they needed six hours to wash all this tomfoolery away. Feeling themselves doze off in the water, they let out one final complaint for no one at all to ever hear.

They shouldn't have taken that dumb mission. Waste of time, waste of money.

---

After this, it's that Hollow Competition that was mention in the pony's anthologies. This is so far, probably the only anthology that stayed with its original one sentence prompt LOL.

 

[Palamon]

Hollow Competition Round One: Lumina Square Hoedown

---

"Hello, greetings, salutations, pleasure to meet you, pleased to be of service today, welcome to Veiled Whisper, I'm Aigre and what kind of flowers would you like to acquire today?
Eh? Ugh, it's just you again, that really annoying person who is always waltzing in unwanted and trying to act like you're lost all time. Listen to to me, newbie! I'm here to tell
You that you're lying about all that, I know you're definitely not, in any shape or form lost. I know that's a made up lie.

It's so incredibly made up that I'm swimming in the sea of your lies, all of them one after another, of course, of course, I know what you're after, you're
Trying to get all our trade secrets by stalking all of us, and trying to go and pass

It off like you're just some lost little lamb! Well, listen here, you freak, that's not going to work, it'll never work as long as you keep trying! Geez, could you please
Stop pretending like you don't understand what I'm saying at all?! I know you do. Stop playing dumb,

Alright? Stop playing dumb, please stop with that stupid nonsense, why do you think that someone like me
Is going to go easy on you, hmm? I want you to hear me right here, right now, newbie.
Get this, okay? We're the most dangerous chimera faction in along with outside
'Ridu, do you understand? You really don't understand at all, do you? You are stupid, newbie. Absolutely
Everything about you is simply stupid, and I'm simply just

Trying to understand why this is!
How could you be so incredibly stupid?
Eh, stop being so
Rude? No. Stop stalking people!
Eh, what do you mean, 'get on with

It, catch us up with what's happened
Since the last time we were focused on?

Are you trying to ask me what I

Have been up to?
Oh, shut up, newbie! You're
Literally so annoying, you're
Literally the most annoying
Of the annoying! I don't get
What you're even trying to ask, like

Come on! What do you think I've been up to, hmm?
Obviously hitlady business, duh? Um, what that
May as well be a lie because you haven't seen us around lately?!
Pulease, you're so annoying, newbie.
Eh, whatever, yeah, you're right,
To be honest,
In the past few weeks, Siorc has shut himself
To his room and hasn't come out, so Vidame and
I have halted hit business.
Obviously, without Siorc there's
No way we can operate. We've tried, but

Guess people prefer to
Only do business with him,
I don't get it, I
Never understand his customers! But, I
Guess that's not my job, now is it?!

Of course it isn't, I shouldn't have to understand him in any shape, or form. It's
Not my job to do so, not at all.

Ah, I mean, Siorc is an entire mystery to me, to be honest. He doesn't talk, and yet he's perfectly able to pull off hits completely without ever uttering a single word. Zero, how does that work? I just don't get it, at all. Don't you
Need to have like, incredibly good communication skills to be a hitman? I just don't understand how people find him reliable at all, he just has this vibe, or something, I guess? I have no idea.
Don't get me wrong, freak in the corner, I do think he's somewhat capable of this job. I have heard other chimera factions are scared of Siorc and his strong capabilities, which I don't understand this, either.

I'm not hearing this wrong am I? Siorc, scary? Honestly, you've got to be joking. He's barely even that terrifying at all. Why do people think this? Dunno, I'm just clueless, to be honest.

All and all, no one ever wants to ask us to do a hit if I'm the one in charge, people ask me: where's Siorc, and I have to lie and say, he's come down with an illness, sorry. My lie is begging to slip,
My web of lies has begun to tangle up together, as of yesterday, a lot of our usual clients have

Pestered me over and over
And over to tell me this is all so
Ridiculous, they need to
Take someone down and they're not doing business with me, guppy.
I'm offended by this, by the way, like
Come on, what's wrong with me, huh?
I don't get it, and these
Pests tell me that I'm too
Annoying, so they'd never
Take a hit from me.
I feel like people have become cold to me
No one wants me doing their hits, uh hello? This
Gang is three members,

Three, not one, not two, but three.
How in the world did this
End up in such a way? I don't know.

Please, tell me this is all a mistake, I
Really don't get why
I always get
Zero recognition for all the work I do,
Everything would be better

If people didn't act like I'm
Scum in this business.

Ah, but Siorc is
Not coming out of his room,

And he won't tell me why. I
Can't believe he's doing
This, what's he so afraid of?
Ugh, hold on, actually, I know the
Answer to this, I know the
Likely culprit. The person.

The person that likely caused Siorc to decide to rot in his room for what I assume is the next few months or so is that he saw his sister. What? Does that seem dramatic. Newbie, you see, this is where I tell you that there's a terrible history between them, I mean, I'm sure you
Readily knew this information, did you not? Like, hello, aren't you stalking us? You're a stalker, after all, so I ultimately know you already knew that tidbit of information. Why wouldn't you? You are going around and bothering everyone pretending you're lost, literally all the time.
Ugh, so let me just say that you really need to cut that out, okay? It's not cute, and you're just making yourself look
Especially bad right now. Please stop all of your stupid and annoying nonsense. It's

Bold of you to assume you're going to get any information out of me. Because you're not going to,
Let me just say you won't get a lick of it from me, you're going to have to fight me quite literally
Until I bleed if you think for
Even a second that I'd ever, for even a moment, tell you anything.

Hah, what did you just say to me?
Oh, I see how it is,
Listen newbie, I am not
Letting my guard down, alright?
Obviously, you're trying to
Wet the whistles with me, but

Let me remind you who you're talking to.
It's me, Aigre, and you
Can shove all of your annoying questions up your rear
End because I am
Not answering a single one. Oh,
Come on, what now?
Eh, why is he

Scared of his sister?
Oh, you know why, alright? She's a cop.

I thought you knew that already, stalker, did you forget?

Guess you did, huh? Man, weirdo.
Obviously, you just don't get it,
That's what I'm getting out of
This conversation, that you're
All talk, and just completely stupid.

Guess you're as stupid as I thought
Of a stalker, ha.

Come on, get
On with it? God,
Maybe if it'll shut you up,
Perhaps I'll tell you
Everything we're about
To get ourselves into, alright?
Egad, newbie, why are

You so annoying?
Oh, my goodness,
Ugh, fine, I'll tell you.

So, here's the deal, since you're so insistent on being annoying as ever, stupid newbie. It's been announced there's going to be a Hollow competition. Do you understand, or do I have to explain it to you like you're a five year old? I bet I have to explain it to you like you're a five year old! You're such a stupid idiot, you know that, such an idiot. Ugh, fine gimme a minute, okay? So, there's a big
Hollow Competition between all of the chimera factions except, pony and the Inferno Punishers whom I don't think were invited. I don't know, so you know what this means, right?
Of course you do. There's going to be an Ethereal battle race, or something stupid like that.
Ugh, so who's competition you ask?
Let me start by saying we are, those stupid,
Dumb, moronic maide are, too. What's their moronic name again?

Stupid, stupid, stupid, ah, Maid An Impact. Yeah, it's stupid, alright, absolutely madness. I am
Especially puzzled by that
Egreigous name, but whatever.

So, who else is there? The Drill Dozers, that group is even stupider, by the way. As far as I'm aware, my ex-sister and her stupid fiance run that gig.
I don't get them at all, like at all at all. Oh, you, shut up, I didn't ask for your
Opinion. Now, you're asking me who else there is? Could you shut up, I'm
Really trying to think about it, alright? The other one is some stupid loan shark business run by my other ex-sister,
Cold Flames, I don't even understand this name at all.

How can flames be cold?
Eh, how the heck should I know? It's all so stupid, and who is the

Stupidest one of them all, you
Ask? Well, since you have gone and asked me that stupid question, I'll give you the very stupid answer that
You already know you stupid, and annoying
Stalker freak. You know already, the FYGHT CLOBB. I heard that they've been getting kind of out there lately, and I

Have nothing but negative thoughts about them.
Eh, whatever. That's just how it goes.
So, anyway, those are the five groups competing. And,

No, I've heard the Inferno Punishers passed
On it. Now, I'm sure you're wondering, what's
The prize for winning all this?

I'm glad you asked that very stupid and obviously dumb question,
Newbie! I'm so glad you asked
That. The prize on the line os a hollow Investigator license!
Eh, what do you mean it's a trap?! You're
Really getting on my nerves!
Eh, if it were legal,
Shouldn't P.O.N.E.C, and
The Inferno Punishers also be participating?
Eh, what do you know? You
Don't know anything. The

Inferno Punishers did
Not apply for the competition, don't

Go running
Off your mouth.
I know you don't know anything, so you
Need to shut up, alright?
Get out of here if you're going to be stupid.

I can't believe how incredibly stupid you are, it's

Horrible to watch, you know that?
Ah, so, anyway, of course I'm competing,
Vidame is, too, but is Siorc? Resounding no. He won't
Even leaving his room, I have

No idea if he's even aware
Of the Hollow battle competition going on. I guess I

Could try and force him out of his room, but it's not
Like all three of
Us have to compete.
Eh, whatever, if he doesn't

Want to compete, I can't force
Him, but he needs to get out of his room,
You know?! I don't get it, but,

Whatever, he's a mystery. Huh?
How did I end up being his friend, then?
Ah, that's a stupid question,
That's an annoying question.
Everything about that is
Very annoying, so I want you to go away after I answer
Everything else, okay? It
Really doesn't matter if

He doesn't go with us, not
Everyone has to compete. It
Really only has to be one from
Every faction, so
Siorc doesn't have

To go, neither does Vidame.
Oh, well, whatever. Okay, I'm done answering questions, leave!

Man, annoying pest.
Eh, so I'm going to

Win this thing.
I'll get Siorc to exit his room.
Now, I am aware it's
Not a legit license,
I know, and I'm
Not going to keep it, I'm
Going to rip it up, but I'll win this, mark my words."

It had been quite some time since the Flower Silencers had gone on their last hit inside Hollow Zero. Not much had occurred since then. Siorc laying low once again, no further hits had been done. Veiled Whisper operating as normal flower shop for the time being, something strange had begun to happen to the gang leader.

Siorc acting rather paranoid day in, day out, he looked everywhere for someone who would never come. Withdrawing more and more, everything soon took a turn for the unexpected. Hyena shut up in his room, no one had seen him in any capacity for seven days. Customers draining away, Veiled Whisper had grown silent.

But, as such crisis had begun to play itself out, an interesting development had occurred within New Eridu. Something strange, something completely out of left field. Message on the Inter-knot titled, Hyena Factions Hollow Battle Competition, participants needed, five groups had entered. But, the username of whom had posted it had been rather strange.

Inter-Knot username known as esahengnI, Aigre couldn't help but feel a little suspicious, but disregarded such feelings of disarray inside her. Who could it have been who had posted this message? It couldn't have been who she thought it was. No way, not a chance. Writing her application in weeks before the deadline, Vidame had entered as well.

Days passing rather quickly since entering, Aigre could not help but feel increasingly frustrated at the closed door on the second floor of Veiled Whisper. It had been a week since Siorc shut himself up in his room, a week. She had had quite enough of this nonsense. Today was the day of the Hollow Battle Competition, and they needed all three of them to win that sweet, sweet prize. No more of this.

Cracking her knuckles as she pulled her hair up and sheathed her blades behind her, Aigre hopped into her rust bucket. Flooring it, she could feel the irritation grow. What was Siorc's problem lately? Ever since they all went to Scott Outpost, he had been acting so strange. Did he see his sister, or something? If so, why didn't he at least text her about it? She could never hope to understand him.

Reaching Veiled Whisper's parking lot, Aigre let out a sigh. Sometimes, she wondered why she was even still friends with him. But, she knew she couldn't think something like that. Sure, he could be annoying sometimes, but who didn't get irritated at their friends every now and again? Everyone was, including her. Maybe something about the Hollow Battle Competition message bothered him. She should look it over before she storms into the store. Phone unlocked, she opened up to the Inter-Knot. Message located, she was ready.

{Sender: esahengnI

Chimeras Hollow Battle Competition, calling all chimeras!

To all the chimeras who may be reading this, do I have the sweet deal for you! There will be a Hollow Battle Competition coming soon, and I need all the competitors I can get! There is a hollow with hundreds of Ethereals that need to be exterminated. The person or team who eliminates the most wins! There will be a prize for the victor!

And, what prize would that be, you ask? Why, a legal hollow investigator license! No strings attached, you will finally be able to investigate the hollows within the law! No more dodgy methods! But only one faction can win it! Knocking the other teams out by force is allowed! There will two rounds, and two individual licenses to win!

What will the losers in the first round get? Nothing, nada, zilch! So, you should take this seriously! Make sure you sign up by tapping 'I'm interested below and you will be put on the roster! And make sure you sign what faction you are in somewhere, too! That is required. So, let's pedal to the metal. Time is wasting!

MAID CLAIR
I'm interested |MAID AN IMPACT|

MAID PATRICIA
I'm interested |MAID AN IMPACT|

Maid Dana
I'm interested |MAID AN IMPACT|

DRYLLER Kali
I'm interested |DRILL DOZERS|

DRYLLER Kerry
I'm interested |DRILL DOZERS|

DRYLLER Earl
I'm interested |DRILL DOZERS|

Chiller Bath Water
I'm interested |Cold Flames|

Hot Diller
I'm Interested |Cold Flames|

Icy Broom
I'm Interested |Cold Flames|

SOUPA FYGTER
I'm Interested |FYGHT CLOBB|

Wheeler Fighter
I'm Interested |FYGHT CLOBB|

FROJ FYGTER
I'm Interested |FYGHT CLOBB|

Misty Rose
I'm Interested |Flower Silencers|

Golden Magnolia
I'm Interested |Flower Silencers|

-This is the most recent comment.-

Aigre lowered her eyes into a squint. That sender seemed a little suspicious. But, she shook such off. Ah, nah, it was nothing, really. Anyway, she needed to get Siorc out of his room. He couldn't rot in there forever! Their shop was losing dennies since the hit services had been put on hiatus. Didn't he care? He owned this place, for crying out loud! Cracking her knuckles, she slammed her car door open.

Storming into Veiled Whisper, business was busting. Not a single client here whatsoever, she barreled up the stairs. How could Siorc coop himself up in his room for a whole week like this? It was time for a wake up call. Knuckle out and ready, the wooden door crackled. No answer, she kept her patters going. Louder, louder, louder.

Entranceway soon opening, a green eye peeked through the crack. But, almost immediately, the door shut. She swore she could hear a quiet tch from the other side. Hearing such, Aigre cracked her knuckles, oh, so he was going to play this game, was he? Well, she wasn't going to. No way, irritation dial reaching two, her screams were ready.

"Did you just click your tongue because you know it's me behind the door?!" Aigre cried. "Siorc, get out of your room already! It's been a week! Business has slowed to a crawl because you're not here, you know!"

Hearing a pen scribble on the other end of the door, Aigre slammed her palm upon her face. But, she rescinded such. She knew she couldn't possibly expect Siorc to just talk to her. Sheet of paper slipped under the door frame, she picked it up. Neat handwriting laid out in front of her, she shook her head. Here it comes. The two letter word of rejection, in the form of paper.

<I'm not coming out of my room.> The note said.

Reading such over, Aigre let out a groan. Of course he wasn't. But, she knew she couldn't give up here. She should ask the W.W.W.W.W.H. He couldn't stay in his room forever! She had to get him out of there. Didn't he want dennies? Maybe she could convince him to come out of his room if she tells him the Hollow Competition has a monetary prize.

"Come on, Siorc!" Aigre shouted, frustrated tone in her voice. "You can't rot in your room forever!" As she said such, she could hear the familiar scribbles again.

<I can, and I will.> The note said.

Reading such, Aigre crumbled the paper up. No. No way is he staying in there forever. She could feel herself itching to ask the five ws and one h. Why does he want to rot in there? What was his problem? Who made him want to stay in there forever? When would he get out of there? Where will he live if he gets evicted for not making money? How can she convince him to get out of there?

"You can't just stay in there forever, you know!" Aigre cried. "Eventually, you're going to have eat, you know! I know, shocker, you need food, too!" As she said such, she could hear an annoying long scribble.

<I'm a hyena chimera, Aigre. I can go a long time without eating. Leave me alone. I'm not leaving my room.> The note said.

Aigre could feel the irritation dial reach seventy-five. Ugh, he wasn't going to come out of there ever, was he? What in the world was his problem, huh? If there was something bothering him, why couldn't he at least text her to tell her he was taking some time off for himself? He hadn't looked at his phone in a week. Not even a text, not a single one. It was time for the final blow.

"Come on, Siorc, there's a Hollow Battle Competition!" Aigre cried, irritated tone of voice. "If we win this thing, we could earn a lot of Dennies! You know, you favorite thing besides flowers? Don't you want to get rich quick?" But, as usual, she had been met with another loud and swift scribble from behind the door.

<Aigre, did you even read the username of the person who sent that message? I'm not going to that Hollow Battle Competition, and I'm not leaving my room, and that's final. Could you please leave? Veiled Whisper is closed today. Go to that stupid hollow competition, and just leave me alone.> The note said.

Siorc's note mentioning the username, Aigre read the name again, esahengnI, why did that seem so suspicious? It was just random gibberish, wasn't it? Siorc refusing to come out of his room, she sighed. God, he was hopeless, whatever. He can rot in there, for all she cares! Not her problem. Running back to her car, she dialed a million numbers.

{+55, 556-736-4636}
{Ring, ring, ring.}

{Vidame: |Business tone of voice.| Yes, hello, welcome to Royal Penguin Information Broker Services, how may I help you today? If you need to pay for some info, tell me what kind of information you need, and I will give you the price. |Her voice had grown more monotone as the pitch went on.|}

{Aigre: |She let out a sigh| Every time you say that over the phone, you sound so bored. Vivi, I'm begging you, if you despise this job so much, you can always dedicate yourself full time to our hit business. I tell you this every time I call you up! Come on now, how tired are you of this job? Add a little more flavor!}

{Vidame: |She let out an exasperated sigh on the other end.| Aigre? I've told you so many times, do not call me on my business line. What's so important you can't just call me on my cellphone, huh? |Her voice was getting more irritated as she continued.| Alright, Aigre, tell me what you want, and be quick, alright? You forgot what we're doing today, didn't you? |Her voice grew even more tired as she spoke further.}

{Aigre: |Irritated tone of voice, hands shaking as she held her cellphone to her ear.| Excuse me? Why would I forget what today is? Uh, hello, it's the day of the Hollow Battle Competition we signed up for! And, I called for a reason you know. I called out Siorc! |She waved her hands in the air for no one to see as her rant continued.| Guess what?}

{Vidame: He wouldn't come out of his room again?} |She sighed on the other end of the phone.|

{Aigre: |She sighed in tandem with such.| That's right, he wouldn't come out of his room!}

{Vidame: And you called to tell me that, and nothing else? Aigre, he's not going to come out of his room until he's ready. Leave him alone. |There was brief, very long pause for a moment.| Could you pick me up? Do you know where this Hollow Competition is being held?}

{Aigre: I believe it's being held in some hollow on the bridge in Lumina Square. |She hovered her finger over the end call button.| I'll see you in a few, okay? Bye!}

Hanging up, Aigre floored it. There was no time to waste, she had to head for the Hollow Competition! But, as she had parked in Vidame's parking lot, an unusual annoying visitor demanded she lower her window. Black haired cop with a ponytail at her door, she grit her teeth. Oh, no, what was Pub Sec doing here? Go away.

"Excuse me, ma'am, do you know anything about an illegally hosted hollow competition in Lumina Square?" the black haired cop asked.

"What hollow competition?" Aigre said, sweat bathing her back.

"I see, sorry to bother you," the black haired cop. "But, if you hear anything about it, please tell me." As she said such, she drove off.

Cop gone, Aigre huffed a weak breath. Oh, gods, Pub Sec was investigating this? No, no, no, no, no, this wasn't good! But, she shook her head. Oh, keep it together, Aigre! Keep it together. There wasn't any time to worry about this. Honking her horn, she could hear penguin feet waddling on the asphalt.

"Alright, let's go," Vidame said. "We're going to win, this."

"We will," Aigre said, pressing down on her brakes. "And we're going to get Siorc out of his room when we do!"

Flooring it, the speed meter teetered past ninety six kilometers. Reaching the parking lot of Lumina Square after a ten minute drive, she slammed her door shut. Vidame powering on one of her spare Bangboos, the girls ran with all their might. Running towards the opposite end of the Hollow was waiting. Entering, her swords were ready.

Time to win this.

***

"I think that Aigre should probably give up on getting Siorc out of his room, he's not going to. Ugh, huh,

What do you want, newbie?
I don't know why you're
Listening to my woes, but
Listen to this, you really need to go away.

Why do you keep following us everywhere?
It's beginning to get quite annoying.
Now, you just asked me, what can we do

To get Siorc out of
His room? Newbie, if you
Intend to stalk him, don't. There's nothing we can do to get
Siorc out of his room. If something is

Bothering him and he wants to isolate himself from everything,
Ultimately, that's his choice.
That's not my call to make,

So, I'm going to leave him alone. Unlike Aigre,
I know when to back
Off, she doesn't, I told her to not bother him, but she
Really wouldn't listen, I honestly
Cannot tell you the amount of times I have told her,

'Why can't you leave him be, Aigre?'
Of course, she would
Not listen to me when I asked her
This. She just said, 'I can't

Leave him to rot in his room forever!'
Eh, she should know that when Siorc wants to leave his room, he will. But, that's not good enough for
Aigre, I guess. I,
Vidame, know better than to
Ever bother

Him when he's
In a mood. And, I know I
Shouldn't, so I won't. I know it

Really frustrates Aigre sometimes. But, it should be
Obvious to her that if he doesn't want to come
Out, he doesn't want to come out.
Maybe he will when he's over whatever is troubling him.

Since he never talks, we know to never force it
Out of him.

We can't do that, that would be
Horrible of us.
At least, that's what I
Think. So, I wouldn't
Ever dare bother him when he's in a
Very bad mood.
Eh, oh well, it's time for the hollow competition. We
Really have to win this."

Finding herself inside a strange corridor, twelve other chimeras already at the starting line, Aigre could feel her blood boil at about four of them. That stupid pink spiky hair, that ex-kin of hers Bain was here. That disgusting long maroon hair, her ex-sister Kali was here, too. How dare she. That annoying pest with the seaweed green locks, disgusting. Brume was here, too? That ugly maid costume, even worse! Her former kin, Eclater was also here. Why was her entire family here? Gazing at Vidame, she could see a look of rage on her face, too.

Looking around the starting line, Vidame could see a group of aggravating losers in the corner. By the ever annoying leviathans, why were Malika, Earl, Baron and Domini doing here? Go away. This was so annoying. They signed up for this hollow competition, too? She could see Aigre's former siblings, too, oh, great. The whole gang was here. Gazelle duo, annoying frog person and alligator person as well, she cracked her knuckles. Aigre and she were going to kick some butt.

"Ugh, who invited you freaks here?!" Aigre asked, pointed.

"The same freaks that invited you!" Kali cried.

"Babe, who said that to you?" Kelebek asked, nervous tone of voice.

"Oh, just a bug, Kerry, ignore her," Kali said, voice echoing.

"I'd like to ask you the same question, ex-sister!" Bain cried. "Who invited you here?"

"I'm pretty sure she signed up like the rest of us?" Brume asked.

"Shh, Brume, you ruined it!" Bain cried.

"Hmph! Whatever, losers, I'm going to beat you all!" Eclater cried. "Isn't that right, Patricia, Dana? Maid An Impact is going to win this!"

"You got that right!" Domini cried. "I'm going to kick your butt to the old destroyed capital, ex-sister!"

"That goes for me, too, ex-sibling!" Peltro cried. "I'm taking you down!"

"Yer not doin' annya dat!" Zinn cried. "I'll be the one to embarrass you outta the race!"

"I'll crush you to the ground, Kelebek!" Izzet cried.

"Same goes for me!" Kelebek cried. "You're going down, ex-sibling!"

"Hmph, I can't believe you three had the nerve to write your names down on that sign up list!" Vidame cried at the penguin trio in the corner.

"That goes double for me!" Earl cried. "You can forfeit right now, no one would miss you!"

"Don't you mean you should forfeit?" Baron said, scoffing. "No one would miss you!"

"Can ya'll be a little more mature please?" Malika asked.

Everyone locking eyes with one another, a microphone soon screeched. Twenty-eight ears soon covered, a very peculiar person in a blindingly emerald green gown with sequins all over it, had been tied up towards the hollow ceiling with a sea of strings. Everyone looking upward, an announcement was ready to let itself out in the open.

"Welcome, everyone, to the Chimera Hollow Battle Competition!" the weird person in the dress called. "You all have thirty minutes to kill as many ethereal beasts in this hollow! Whoever wins gets a legal hollow investigator license! The clock starts now! And remember, violence is permitted! But, I'll be docking points every time you hit someone! So, think wisely before doing it!"

Everyone running off, Aigre prepared herself for the long sprint ahead of her. Vidame right behind her, her dual swords were in her hands. Alright, it was go time. Time to destroy all these ethereals once and for all, and win this with a landslide. Blades swift and ready, she was ready for action. Usual weaklings in her way, she was focused.

Vidame's Bangboo getting in on the action, Aigre's blades came charging in, feeling her energy reach the maximum, she let out a battle cry. Tens upon tens of ethereals instantly biting the dust, she kept on going. Do these creatures want a piece of her, huh? Huh? Bring it on. She could take hundreds, no thousands, millions, if she had to!

Speeding off to the next army, the army had been decimated before they could even breathe. Other chimeras further in fighting one another, she shook her head. Ah, what a pathetic group of losers, they were so going to lose this. Monsters dead as yesterday, she let out another scream. Another army down, hundreds to go.

Ethereal group up about stunned into oblivion, Aigre turned her guppy tail towards the bait. Yet another group that was going down. Wonderful, she could hear the victory bells ringing! Feeling the ultimate level of power flow through her, she jumped upward. It was time for the last stand. She would win this thing, mark her words.

Stupid other chimeras mauling one another, Aigre couldn't help but laugh. They knew they were going to lose points for this, didn't they? Ha! Bunch of losers, don't mind if she does, more points for her! Two handed sword style taking the stage, the decibels continued to reach the critical overdrive point. Another army down, a few more to go!

Time ticking down faster and faster, only five minutes remained. Other groups starting to catch up, she knew she had to pull off a fast one. Bending her knees, she looked for a group of new victims. Sword in the center, she took a deep breath. It was time for one final cross road killing. Guppy tail swishing behind her, she leapt upward once more.

Ethereals slashed to bits, one after another, she could hear the timer beep to zero. Loudspeaker blaring, Vidame and she ran back towards the starting line. Everyone huffing and puffing, there had been no sweat on her brow whatsoever. Ha, weaklings. That's what they got for hitting each other instead of their targets. Take the loss!

"And the winner is the Flower Silencers!" the sequin dress woman cried. "Come to the podium and receive your prize. Sucker soon coming up, she tried to hold back a laugh. "Congratulations, you two! Enjoy your hollow license!" But, such came with immediate protests.

"Nuh-uh, I killed more than they did!" Eclater cried.

"Oops, sorry! You didn't hear what I said, did you?" the sequin dress woman asked, giggling. "I believe I said, if you attack the other contestants, I'd dock points!" She then let out another giggle. "But, you'll all get another chance next week to earn one last hollow investigator license! Come back then! Bye byeeee!" As she said such, she snapped her fingers.

Hollow vanishing, the other annoying chimeras soon left. Returning to her car, Aigre gazed at the hollow investigator license. But, observing it further, she knew something wasn't right. Why did it feel so heavy? What was wrong with this thing? Handing it over to Vidame, she knew she wasn't about to hear anything good as she shook her head.

"It's a fake, Aigre," Vidame said, shaking her head. "It's got a tracking device inside it. I'm going to cut it up."

Vidame removing a pair of scissors from her pocket, Aigre let out a sigh. Maybe she should have listened to what Siorc told her on his notes. That username on the Interknot, esahengnI there was something suspicious about it. Should she decode these letters? They had to mean something more sinister. Card cut up, she could soon hear the familiar question.

"Could you drive me home now, please?" Vidame asked. "I'm tired."

"Alright," Aigre said.

Flooring it, Aigre thought about the name, esahengnI, what was suspicious about it? It was just gibberish, wasn't it? It had to have been. But, she looked at it closer. That last letter, it was capitalized. Was that done on purpose? It had to have been done deliberately. There was no way it wasn't done so without a purpose.

She thought it over, for a moment. Should she flip the letters backwards? Maybe she should. Taking the first letter, she put up a finger in her mind. I, second invisible finger put up, she had soon come to a realization when she shifted the first half back together. Oh, no, those letters. I-n-g-n-e. This wasn't good. She knew now.

Ingne.

Hase Ingne.

Top pony in P.O.N.E.C., she sent this message.

It was a trap.

A trap. And she fell right in, hook, line and sinker.

"Aigre, you've been awfully quiet," Vidame said in the backseat. "Is something wrong?"

"esahengnI is Hase," Aigre responded shaking. "We've been tricked, this was all a trap."

"You're right, this does have her name written all over it, a fake hollow investigator license," Vidame said, sighing. "So, you can't blame Siorc for not wanting to go, okay?"

"Did I say I did?" Aigre asked, voice shaking. "I don't." Her voice continued to shake as she said such. "I'm going to text him to apologize."

Reaching Vidame's home, Aigre's hands shook on the steering wheel as she continued. Ah, wonderful, this was all a trick, haha. Of course it was. Who would ever just give a hollow investigator license out for free like that? No one would. Not ever. Not in a million years. Friend telling her to take care of herself, she slammed her head on her steering wheel. There's no way she was going to sleep tonight now.

Heading home, head hung low, Aigre opened up her phone. Opening her messages app, she scrolled into her list. Tapping Siorc's name, her messages had been left on read, as usual with no response in any shape or form. Cracking her knuckles, she knew she had to apologize. She knew she wouldn't get a wink of sleep at all, if she didn't.

{Messages}

{Me}
{Siorc, I know you're going to just leave me on read, but I just want to apologize. I'm sorry, you were right. That username was suspicious. I'm sorry for pushing you to leave your room when you're going through a hard time. I'm sorry for acting like you're annoying. Take all the time you need to get better.}

{Me}
{The Hollow Battle Competition was just a trick. There was no real prize, just a stupid tracking device. I'm sorry, I should have listened to you. We should have listened to you. I know you told me a week ago to look deeper into it. I didn't, and that's my fault. I hope you can forgive me. Ha, I know you won't answer these, though. I'm going to sleep now, goodnight.}

Closing her phone, Aigre crawled into her bed, arm covering her eyes, limb soaked with tears. Ha, of course this was a trap laid out by P.O.N.E.C. why hadn't she seen this coming? She definitely wasn't going to the second one. That would be the other chimera's problems. Should she tell them? Should she warn everyone else about this shady competition? Shaking her head, she could feel herself nod off as tears stained her bed covers.

No, they could find out on their own.

They could find out on their own the ponies are behind this.

---

This ended up being slightly longer than I usually go. But, this one... pretty suspicious. First time in a very long time where I wrote Siorc as not the focus character, but him just happening to be there. Next week is the second and final round of the Hollow Competition. After of which, we'll be moving onto Flower Silencers part 2.

 

[Palamon]

Hollow Competition Round Two: Patricia In Charge

---

"Hello, hi, hey, greetings, salutations, bonjour, salut, hola, good morning, good morrow, good day, good afternoon, loser wandering around the world! You might know me as Peltro or perhaps as Patricia, the maid in drag.
Eh, listen, stalker newbie following us around all the time, I am not into that, mmk? Boss just makes me wear all that as a part of his business strategy, all the time, we used to have more themes than cross play,
You know? We used to have more! Spring filing, animal, winter brush, but
As of the last few months or so, all we've done is drag! I don't know what Éclater is thinking,

But I guess it's because it's only really cute girls who get hollow information, or something, how should I know? I don't know at all, alright? Nothing
Éclater is thinking makes pretty much any sort of sense at all, and I can never guess what he's thinking. What did you just ask? Why don't I just quit my job, then?
Eh, that's easy for you to say. I don't despise him, we go way back to before the fall of the old capital. Bonding over being chimeras who were
Never seen in a good light by society. So, we

All go way back. It goes
Way back to our childhood, I don't
Have much to really say about
It, but after we all broke it off with our families, we
Latched onto those we deemed we were close to.
Err, I felt closest to Domini and Éclater. You see us three, we're kinda aquatic chimeras?

I'm an alligator chimera,
Though I can for some reason hide my animal traits.
Seems I am one of the special ones?

Yes, it would seem so, I think I
Am pretty much the only one who

Might be able to do that, or
At least, that's what
I believe, I have no idea how it is for other chimeras, but I
Doubt they can hide their animalistic traits. Dunno.

I should say this to you, newbie. Do
Not lump us into Thirens, okay? We are not one of those, alright?

Don't lump us in with that
Race, we are completely separate, entirely, so don't even
Ask, 'aren't you just a thiren?' We are not, so
Get that disgusting thought out of your head, okay?

Pluck it out right here
And right now, we are not
Thirens, you have to understand how
Ridiculous that sounds. We might look similar, but
It's an insult to call
Chimeras thirens! We're a separate race,
If you don't remember that, you can go
Away right here, right now,

Alright? Huh, you didn't say we were?
Now, we're talking, keep that energy high.
Don't ever say it, okay? Can you please, promise me you never will? To anyone. Not a single chimera.

Will you please promise me that you won't? If you do, there will be consequences, understand? Dire consequences. And, don't go asking thirens if they're chimeras, either. We're nothing alike, and the earlier you know this, stalker, the better.
Eh, stop calling you a stalker, and fill you in on what is going on around here? Who said you could order me around, newbie? I don't believe I allowed you to say that. Keep that stupid mouth of yours shut, or I'll sew it shut for you! Are we clear, newbie? Are you still with me? Hello?

Ah, whatever, I'll go ahead and tell you what is
Really happening around here, alright? So stop asking me
Every five minutes to get on with it. So, sit down and shut up, here goes. As you know, we lost

That Hollow Competition to the Flower Silencers, whom I bet cheated. They're
At the top of New Eridu, they always get the most requests of all of us. I
Know I should like I'm jealous, but
I'm not, so don't get the wrong idea. I am, in
No way shape or form jealous of those people in the
Gang and hitman scene, of course they have an advantage over us. They're

Pretty much ahead of the curve, so I bet they cheated to get
Ahead! Of course they did, they
Really know how to get around
The law to take everyone out! Huh, what?

I lost because we were fighting others?
No one said we couldn't get violent on that battlefield! No one ever said

That we couldn't, so we tried to
Hinder our competition! That's what that lady said! So, we took the risk.
Even so, this time we're going to win. We

Have to win this time,
Of course we will
Lead ourselves to victory!
Look, we were careless last time,
Our brains got in the
Way, so we shut our

Brains off last time,
And we lost some points, due
To that. Honestly, I'm just peeved
The Flower Silencers one, they were
Literally missing their leader! He wasn't
Even there, which

Couldn't be any more annoying
Of a win, they shouldn't have even competed when someone was
Missing! But, they did anyway, and
Placed first at the top.
Even though their leader wasn't
There. I could have sworn
If you wanted
To enter, the entire team had to enter
In, not some
Of them! But, what do I know? I ain't know
Nothing, really, I guess it ain't

Even matter now since they're not
Coming back for the
Last round,
At least, I don't
Think so?
Even still, I think they cheated, they're
Really shady, you know? Super shady, all the time! At everything. They

Ruin everything, especially that leader of theirs with the short purple hair. He's always scooping up our customers and taking them for himself, he's always scooping
Up our future customers that would have come to us
Instead of him, but his staying power around here is too strong! How does he lure customers to him so quick and efficiently? As if I know! How should I know that? I have
No clue, but he is always taking people's customers away! Stop exaggerating, you say? I am not
Exaggerating! Those clients could have been ours, but they went to that
Dumb hyena instead. Huh, what did you just say to me?! Don't call him dumb, he's trying to survive like me? Did

I ask for your opinion? I don't believe
That I did! And, since when are you on his side, huh?

That's very annoying of you, you know that?
How can you walk
Into our cafe and
Side with other chimera factions? Aren't you supposed

To be a neutral little stalker?
I thought you were! You're supposed to be a neutral stalker!
Maybe I should remind you who we are and where you stand, alright?
Eh, you really don't remember who we are, do you?

I'm from Maid In Heaven, member of the Hollow Investigator group, Maid

An Impact, do you understand?
Maid An Impact. So, stop

Talking positively about the Flower Silencers in here,
Alright? Look, I get it, I
Know they won and we lost, but
If Éclater hears you talking about them, it's
Not going to be pretty, so
Get that name out of your mouth, got it?

Can it, or else. Alright, now
Here's the deal on what is going to happen next, since you're still lurking around and refuse to go away. I'll just tell you everything, alright, so don't go away. Just sit right there, and listen up. So, I have decided that I
Am going to take charge this time. Usually, things are left to Éclater, but I won't be letting him blow this for us again. This time, we intend to win the holy grail. And I'm not going to let Éclater
Ruin this for us by attacking the other factions. I refuse to allow that to happen, this time, I am
Going to make sure we win. And, it's up to me this time to
Ensure we do so. I am not about to let this chance

Slip by us again. I have to get that legal hollow investigation licence for
Our business. I know that

If we're certified, we'll steal all the customers.

We'll take away the Flower Silencers lead in this business! We'll shrink it.
I am determined to get us to steal their customers! Huh? Did you just say they have a
Licence now, though? Okay, maybe that's true! They got one too, but
Look, they will lose their lead quickly

When we get ours! When we get our license, the Flower Silencers can say goodbye to all of their customers,
I'll lead them over to us.
No matter what, I'll lead them over to us!

It's not impossible, I have what it
Takes to do it, because that group is just a bunch a stupid hitmen who always have everything laid out to them upon a silver platter! They're just a bunch of fools, a group of people who have it easy in life. Ha, yeah, they're

Fools, alright, and they're spoiled super rotten by their success that they get! So, at this point, they're probably about to completely tip over from that success, I know they're pretty close to tipping
Over by now! They're close to losing it all to us, they're going to
Run out of customers soon, since we're going to take them away!

Uhuhu, what? You just groaned? What did I say here that is so wrong that you needed to groan about it? That's so annoying. Listen! We're all in competition with one another even though we have our own territory. And, you
Should never, ever forget this, newbie, you should know by now that

Just because we all have our own territory, doesn't mean we're not all on the race to
Ultimately get the most clients, you
Should know
That by now, newbie! So, why don't you let it sink in?

You should let this fact sink in deep,
Or I'm going to have to force it into your memory! Do you
Understand? Hurry up and remember exactly

What I'm saying to you. All of us in New Eridu, we
All just want the most customers,
It should be obvious to you,
That this is our goal, so

Why don't you seem to understand? You don't
Even get it at all, do you?

We're always competing.
I shouldn't have to say it again. You're not
Listening to me, are you? So,
Listen up, before I shove the information down your throat.

Best you understand how things work around here, alright?
Everything should be understood. You know that we're in constant competition. Now,

Today we plan to actually win. And we, well, I
Have no intention of ruining
Everything by attacking the other factions. We would have won

That first round if it weren't for Éclater attacking everyone.
Ah, well, I guess I can say that about the other groups, too.
Look, none of us are perfect, I
Know, we're all guilty

Of attacking the other groups, but we all
Fought eachother because we

Thought knocking every else out would
Halve the competition, or stamp it down.
Even still, this time, we won't be doing

That. We'll try to win, fair and square.
Of course if
We get attacked,
No mercy, no mercy

At all. Ah, well,
For now, we're aiming for the
Top, we'll not be getting our paws dirty.
Everyone else is free to
Ruin it for themselves, though.

We'll win it that way.
Eh, that's what the Flower Silencers did?

Whatever, so they did. Whatever, so what that's how they won.
It's not like there's any other options to win this, you know.
Not attacking the other groups is pretty much

The only way we'll come out on top. That's just
How it is, so little stalker,
I hope you plan on watching us win the Hollow Battle Competition, because this time, we plan to come out on top. We're not going to lose, we have no intention of doing so!
So you'd better be watching closely, newbie."

It had been a little over a week since Maid an Impact had lost the hollow battle competition. Almost all their points completely docked, the maids could not help but feel embarrassed for themselves. How could they humiliate themselves like that in front of a dozen other chimeras like that? They needed a do over.

But, the maids had remembered something. Something important. The Hollow Battle Competition would have two rounds. There was still a chance to win, still a moment to get the permitted fruit. This time, for sure, they would be victorious in this game. They killed the most ethereals. Discussing things amongst themselves through multiple meetings, decisions had been made regarding the next one.

Coming to the decision to no longer attack the other participants to get by, someone else had to be elected to be the front runner amongst the maids. Boss attempting to take front in center again, such had been vetoed immediately. Employee taking the mantle, the decision had been made. Maid café closed for the time being, no hollow investigations had occurred for Maid An Impact.

Today was the day the competition would resume once and for all.

Alarm clock beeping like a mad man, the tool of morning awakenings had been thrown across the room. Loud, baritone groan slamming the walls, the individual let out a groan, they really ought to put a muzzle on this stupid thing. Why did they have to buy such a loud one? Whatever. Too late for that now, wasn't it? The regret tasted like bad chocolate on a hot summer day.

Walking towards their mirror, slovenly purplish-blue bangs covered their face. Brushing them away, the person groaned at their reflected. Ah, Peltro, such a messy chimera like always. Why were they such a restless sleeper, who knows? It's not like they were human. Mumbling to themselves, they reached for their hairbrush. Bangs combed back, they gazed at their uninstalled drills on the top of their dresser. Why did they feel as though they were forgetting something?

Nodding off as the bristles pressed on, Peltro snapped themselves out of it. Ah, what were they doing, trying to go back to sleep now? Didn't they have something to do today? What was it again? They didn't know why, but they could not seem to remember. Well, maybe it wasn't all that important. The café was closed, after all. It was time to kick back and relax, and go on vacation.

But, a memory flashed through their alligator brain as they prepared to dress into their vacationing outfit. Wait a minute, hold the phone, hold it tight. There was something they were forgetting, indeed. The second round of that was today. Did they even bother to sign up for the second round? They needed to refresh their memory right here, right now. Reaching for their phone, they opened up the Hollow Battle Competition announcement.

{Sender: Silly Jackal

Chimera Hollow Battle Competition Round Two. Calling all chimeras once again.

Hello again, all you silly chimeras! This is the second round of the Hollow Battle Competition. If you participated in the first round, providing you did not win, you may fight for the second legal Hollow Investigator License! And, you never know, there might be a third round! Hehe, after all, there's still hundreds of Ethereals to be eliminated.

This time, you will be taking on the hollow in the deepest hidden trenches of Sixth Street! And remember, if you see that black haired cop with the ponytail you act like you know nothing about this competition! They've been far more active, as of late around New Eridu, so remember the code word: I know of no such competition!

As written last time, if you are interested in this Hollow Battle Competition, make sure you tap, 'I am Interested' below, and you will be added to the roster! And, don't forget to add what faction you belong to! This second bit is very important!

MAID CLAIR
I'm interested. |MAID AN IMPACT|

MAID PATRICIA
I am interested. |MAID AN IMPACT|

MAID DANA
I am interested. |MAID AN IMPACT.|

DRYLLER Kali
I am interested. |DRILL DOZERS|

DRYLLER Kerry
I am interested. |DRILL DOZERS|

DRYLLER Earl
I am interested. |DRILL DOZERS|

Chiller Bath Water
I am interested. |COLD FLAMES|

Hot Driller
I am interested. |COLD FLAMES|

Icy Broom
I am interested. |COLD FLAMES|

SOUPA FYGTER
I am interested |FYGHT CLOBB|

Wheeler Fighter
I am interested |FYGHT CLOBB|

FROJ FYGHTER
I am interested. |FYGHT CLOBB|

-This is the most recent message.-

Reading the message over, Peltro did not know why, but they could not recall signing this message on the Inter-knot. Maybe boss signed it for them? Perhaps so. They had been feeling rather hazy lately since their routine had been mildly disrupted. Slapping on their work uniform quickly, they tried to comb through their memory as to who had been deemed in charge of this Hollow Battle competition as the temporary leader of Maid An Impact.

Bubble popping, a realization washed over them. Wait a second, they were the temporary leader of Maid An Impact, weren't they? Memories flowing back, a wave of embarrassment flowed through them. Right, it was them indeed. How could they forget all of this information? Man, they could be so scatterbrained sometimes. If boss knew they forget, they would be eaten alive.

Scrambling through their phone, Peltro opened up their work group chat. How were they supposed to address the majority as their leader, anyway? Sup, bimbos, they're the leader maid now. But, they shook their head. Ah, no, that sounded too power trippy. Besides, only Domini was blond, and and he wasn't stupid. Should they act natural? This was only a temporary position, after all.

No unread messages to look over, Peltro let out a sigh. Man, their work group chat had been such a desert lately. Nothing to discuss, nowhere to go. What were they doing with their life besides working? Nothing, they supposed. But, what was there to do in New Eridu? There was not much left standing after all. Cracking their knuckles, they had begun typing away.

{Maid in Heaven Group Chat}

{Peltro}
{I know everyone is probably still in their vacation mode, but it's time to get out of relaxation city, and get ready for the Hollow Competition! As a reminder, I'm in charge this time, and what I say goes.}

{Domini}
{Sheesh, only in power for one whole minute, and you're already losing control of being at the top. At least wait an hour before becoming drunk in power. You're just like my ex-sister. When she reached the top of the information broker business, she started to act like everyone was beneath her. I know what you were originally gonna write, 'sup bimbos, I'm in charge now, mwah.' You were, weren't you?

{Peltro}
{Wow, you hardly know me at all. I would never say something so stupid in all my life. This is slander upon my entire family, a stain upon the Casur name. How could you say something like that about me, you you, drama queen? Oh!} <Faint emoji.>

{Domini}
{Stop being so melodramatic, I was joking, you know. You forgot all about being assigned the leader of this competition, didn't you? Every time I texted you about it in private, you left me on read. Peltro, how could you forget something so important after we talked about it in great length? That's not good, you know. If boss is reading these, he's going to take his leader position back, and we'll have to get violent again and lose our rights to the Hollow Investigator license.

{Peltro}
{What are you talking about? I didn't forget, I have just been sleeping a lot lately, that's all. I'm an alligator chimera, remember? Sometimes, we sleep for up to a whole day, sometimes, even later! Seems you forgot that, Mr. Penguin. Look who has the worse memory of the two of us now! Not feeling so high and mighty now, are you?}

|Eclater is typing...|

{Domini}
{Hi, boss! So lovely to see you today! Isn't it a fine and beautiful morning to kill Ethereals together?}

{Peltro}
{Nice to see you again, boss! Please, don't take my leader position away from me for this mission, I totally remembered I'm in charge of that, promise! I definitely didn't forget at all! Nope, nada, not at all. Please, don't fire me, I need these Dennies! I'm but a poor chimera whose roof could collapse any day now!}

{Eclater}
{What are you two going off about? How many times to I have to tell you to not air out your dirty laundry in the work group chat! Do that in your own private chat, okay? Also, I don't care if you forgot you were the one in charge of this mission, Patricia. I'll have you know, I have been in vacation mode and been free from you sorry rats for the past few days now!}

{Domini}
{Rat?! I'm well bathed, boss!}

{Peltro}
{Me too, how could you slander my name like this?} <Faint emoji.>

{Eclater}
{Since you two are so on board today, remind me, dear Patricia, what are we doing today? Or is that stupid head of yours still stuck in vacation mode, too? Ha, maybe I should take that temporary leader position away from you right now. I got this pretty pink slip right in the palm of my hands, I could sign it any second now.}

{Peltro}
{Come on, boss, you can't just do that!}

{Eclater}
{Just kidding, I'm such a silly maid, aren't I, te he?} <Tongue stick out emoji.>

{Peltro}
{You--. Whatever! Since I'm in charge of this mission, you'd all better listen up! This time, we're going to win this Hollow Battle Competition, and in order to do that, we're not attacking anyone this time, understand? Last time, we had been docked of all our points because we tried to eliminate the other groups by fighting them! And those stupid girls from the Flower Silencers won instead. If we hadn't attacked everyone, we would have won the first round. So, this time, we're going to do this fair and square!}

{Domini}
{The Flower Silencers shouldn't have even won that competition. They didn't have their leader with them! I could have sworn that message on the Inter-knot said everyone in their respective chimera factions had to participate in the Hollow Battle Competition! So, they should be disqualified!}

{Eclater}
{The not on the Inter-knot never said all the members of a chimera hollow investigator team had to participate.}

{Domini}
{You sure about that, boss?}

{Eclater}
{Do I have to send a voice message to prove it to you?}

{Domini}
{No, I'm good.}

{Eclater}
{As much as I wish those stupid flowers would get disqualified, they were the only ones who didn't attack the other competitors. So, obviously they're going to win in that front.}

{Peltro}
{That's right, so this time we have to do what the Flower Silencers did to win. We cannot fight back even if the others attack us. We're not losing that Hollow license again this time! We're going to take what's rightfully ours! So, remember to stand our ground and not get hostile towards the other factions.}

{Eclater}
{Aight, well, I'm going to pick you two up, then. The hollow is in the deepest depths of Sixth Street, right?}

{Domini}
{That's right.}

{Peltro}
{Don't speed, the cops are patrolling today!}

{Eclater}
{Don't tell me what to do. I'll speed as much as I please!}

-This is the most recent message.-

Closing their phone, they could hear a honk at their door after about ten minutes. Oh, great, Eclater sped over here, didn't he? Someone really should take his driver's license away. But, it's not like they could open up their mouth to say that. Their boss would totally fire them for that. Say nothing, do not speak a word about his driving. Window dropping down, shades met their eyes.

"Get in, loser, we're going monster killing," Eclater said in a cheesy, girly tone.

"You watched bad girl movies again while on vacation, didn't you?" Peltro asked, sighing.

"How else will I become the hottest maid in drag in town if I don't?" Eclater responded.

"You got me there." They climbed into the back of the car as they said such.

Eclater speeding through the streets, Peltro sighed once more. Did he even know what the speed limit was anymore? Probably not. But, whatever, that was his speeding ticket, not theirs. But, as the guppymaid started driving faster, they swore they could hear a familiar voice yell at him to pull over. Oh, no, what a nightmare. Window pulled down, the black haired cop with the ponytail had been in view of the mirror.

"Miss, this is the third time this week we have caught you speeding, what's the rush?" the black haired cop from Pub Sec asked.

"Here he goes," Domini said, sighing.

"Oh, miss coppy, I'm terribly sorry, I'm just a silly bimbo in a rush to go somewhere!" Clair cried, giggling. "Could you please forgive me? I'm just such a dumb big girl sometimes!"

"Where are you off to in such a hurry, miss?" the cop asked. "You aren't going to that illegal hollow competition, are you?"

"Uh oh, Patricia, this isn't looking good," Dana whispered. "Should we step in?"

"No, you know Clair, he's smart, he'll get us out of this," Patricia whispered.

"Oh, my, officer, what Hollow competition? I've never heard of such a thing!" Clair exclaimed. "I'm just so excited to get my nails done I went over the speed limit. I'm such a silly girl, te hee. Please forgive me, it won't happen again!"

"Do you promise this won't happen again?" she asked.

"Prommy!" Clair said in a high pitched, squeaky voice.

Cop driving away, Peltro could hardly grasp what happened just now. This lady, how could she call herself a cop letting Eclater get away with speeding across the road? But, they shook their head. Ah, what did they know about their job? Nothing. Not a single thing whatsoever. Reaching the deepest trenches of Sixth Street, they put on their game face.

This time, they're going to win.

***

"To be honest, I can't believe Peltro forgot all about this
Hollow Competition. We made them
In charge of this
Since I didn't feel comfortable

Taking the lead. Huh, hello, weird stalker,
I see you. You know, I think Eclater is getting too comfortable with his drag persona.
Man, we just watched him get out of another speeding ticket by acting like a bimbo.
Err, do cops like stupid girls, or something?

What do I know?
Eh, what? What is it? Why does he

Act like that? How should I know,
Really? I don't.
Eclater is the one who went and decided we're

Going to
Open up a maid café.
I didn't have any say in that.
Now, yes, we voted on it, and I
Guess I didn't put that much

Thought into my decision,
Or anything, because

We had to decide it quick, and such.
I didn't really put much thought into my vote.
Not much at all.

To be honest, I'd
Have voted differently,
If we weren't in a pinch. But,
Since we all broke it off with our family and

Couldn't go back to
Our kin. We
Might have severed our bonds
Permanently. So, there's not going back anymore,
Even if we make up,
The threads have been cut.
It's whatever, really, at the end of
The day, that was our own decisions.
I don't really like dressing in drag, but apparently, I pass well,
Or whatever, so I do
Not ever say anything. I

Feel like Eclater enjoys
All this a little too much.
I don't know how he can sound like a
Realistic woman
Like that. I am starting to miss the other themes we used to do, but
You know I would never say that to him, stalker.

Now, I suppose,
Our café has been

Met with major success since
Our theme has
Remained cross dressing for awhile.
Eh, I dunno, maybe he just likes

The extra dennies it's given us. I
Really don't know.
I have nothing to say in that regard.
Clearly, it's working, so I
Know to simply just leave it at that.
So, anyway, it's time for the Hollow Competition. This time, we're going to win fair and square."

Finding themself in a strange hollow, nine other chimeras had been waiting at the starting line. Seeing their former sibling at the front, they cracked their knuckles. Oh, great, Zinn was still here? They had lost in a humiliating way last time, they should have tucked their head between their buttocks and admitted defeat. Pitiful. How dare they come back like nothing happened. Dashing towards the starting line, they pointed at their former sibling.

"I thought you'd have dropped out by now, former kin of mine!" Peltro cried. "You should have!"

"Yer kiddin' right? Yer the ones who attacked everyone last time!" Zinn shouted.

"Excuse me, froggy freak, that didn't happen!" Eclater cried. He then plugged his nose. "Disgusting. Is that rotten guppies I smell?"

"Shut up, 'Clair'. Did doing drag melt your brain?" Kali asked.

"You know, I agree with ex-sister for once!" Bain cried. "His brain rotted out of his head, and fast!"

"Hmph, look who's here. Dumb, dumber, and dumbest," Domini called out to the three penguins in the corner. "Go away already, you're all going to lose."

"Will not," Earl cried. "You will, though!"

"Hello, ex-cousin, need I remind you, we're in a fight club," Baron retorted. "The only one here who is going to lose is you."

"This time, we'll get the hollow license, so better back up!" Malika cried.

"Kelebek," Izzet hissed.

"Izzet," Kelebek hissed back.

"I will win so hard you regret coming here!" They both shouted together.

"Could all of you stop fighting, please?" Brume asked, huffing. "This is what got us all into this mess last time."

Everyone yelling at one another, a loud siren soon screeched, turning towards the commotion, a weird person with a dog mask had been attached to the ceiling with strings. Seeing such, Peltro could not believe their eyes. Who in the world were these people? Maybe they should have listened to their parents to never meet up with strangers on the internet. Oh, well, too late now.

"You all seem very lively today! Awesome!" the dog mask lady cried. "You already know the rules! The person who eliminates the most ethereals within the time limit wins! But remember, if you attack anyone we're docking points! Now, get going, you rascals!"

Nine other chimeras running as soon as the bell signaled, Peltro slapped on the drills over their hands. It was go time. This time, they weren't going to blow their chances of victory by attacking the other groups. No way, not a chance, not happening, nope, they had to win fair and square. Spotting an entire army of ethereals in the corner, they drilled away.

More than one-hundred Ethereals eliminated post-haste, they could see multiple chimeras trying to take each other out. Seeing such, they focused on their own battles. Eclater and Domini opting out of the chimera on chimera violence this time, they puffed a sigh of relief. This time, for sure, they would win this entire thing fair and square. The win that was robbed from them last time.

Strange monsters with wheels rolling on in, Peltro was ready, willing able. Ha, this creature army? Bunch of small fries, they could take these things out with their eyes closed. Other maids fighting further up ahead, they could feel the clock ticking down as all the other participants were too busy taking themselves out to notice the build up. Ha, look at them, they were blowing it. What a bunch of losers.

Scoreboard up in the corner inching them towards the top, Peltro kept the momentum going. Ah, sweet elation, is this what the cup of victory tasted like? Nearly every monster eliminated one after another, he kept his eyes on the prize. Everyone else could keep trying to take themselves out all they'd like.

Timer ticking down to the five minute mark, Peltro made a run for it. Other scores up above barely going up, they could hear the victory bells calling out to them. This is how it should have gone last time. But, oh well, too late for that, they supposed. Peculiar train monster taken out of the equation, the clock hovered down towards the last minute mark.

Buzzer soon sounding, everyone ran back towards the starting position. Nine losers in the corner waiting in anticipation for their names to be called, Peltro held back a sea of laughter. As if these nine were going to get their factions called. They clearly did not listen to the last part of the conversation at all, did they? Nope. Of course they didn't. Bunch of losers.

"And the winner is Maid An Impact!" the dog mask lady cried. "Come up here and claim your prize!" But, a protest had come her way.

"What dy'a mean they're the winners, ribbit?!" Zinn cried. "We killed more ethereals than they did!"

"Bzzt, bzzt, you attacked the other contestants, so ya'll get negative points, all of you!" the dog mask lady cried. "Come on up here, Maid An Impact!" Suckers coming up onto stage, she rose the leader's hand in there. "Congratulations, thank you for playing! See you all next year!"

Hollow breaking up into nothing, the party of three headed back into the car. Peltro stared at the card in the palm of their hands. Why did this little card feel so heavy? Peering at it, something wasn't right at all. Chip embedded in the back, a realization washed over them, in a matter of moments.

The ponies set this up, didn't they?

"Guys," Peltro said. "This hollow license is a phony."

"You're kidding, right?" Eclater said. "Patricia, your jokes have never been very funny, you know!"

Boss claiming they were joking, they looked at the card some more. Were they overthinking it? Maybe it was an actual genuine Hollow Investigator license? But, they couldn't get over that chip. They needed to look into it some more. Something wasn't right about it at all. But, how could they say that? And, how could they get the words out right?

"Boss, there's a tracking chip on this thing," Peltro said. "It's phony." As they said such, the car horn up in front had been honked twice.

"Oh? Prove it, then," Eclater said, biting back. "Dana, scan that little chip with your phone!"

"Alrighty, boss," Domini said. As he said such, he snatched it from the palm of Peltro's hands.

Strange application opened up on Domini's phone, Peltro crooked their head towards the brightly lit screen. Penguin maid scanning the chip, the duo's eyes opened wide at the webpage laid out in front of them. Chimera Illegal Hollow Investigator Activity Tracker laid out in plain text, they could feel a lump in their throat form.

"Boss, this chip leads to a tracking website," Peltro said, shaking. "We've been bamboozled this entire time."

"You mean to tell me the ponies set us up?!" Eclater cried.

"The ponies set us up," Domini responded, shaking.

"Throw that thing in your bathtub as soon as you get home!" Eclater cried, as he said such, he honked. "You're home now, so do it!"

Kicked out of bosses' car, Peltro tried to not let out a laugh. Ha, of course this was all a trap, they should have known. Even though they rarely had any encounters with P.O.N.E.C., they always had their eyes on them, didn't they? Amazing. They've been had. Practically flooding their bathroom with bathwater, they tossed the little card into the bottom of the trenches bathing casket.

Card sparking, they drained the bathing container. They didn't really win anything, did they? They shouldn't have fallen for it. Too late now, they supposed. Fatigue taking them away, they put on their mermaid pajamas. Covering their face with their eyes, they drifted off into sleep, monsters laughing at them in the dream world.

Beware the ponies, they're always stomping around.

---

Somehow wrote this in two and half hours LOL. In any case, next week, it's back to the Flower Silencers! Siorc time again, let's gooo!

 

[Palamon]

Flower Silencers Incognito: Black Lotus

---

"Hello everyone, hello, hello, hi there, salutations, welcome to Veiled Whisper! Your one stop shop for everything flower related! Do you need some flowers, well, I have plenty. They're all freshly picked, just for you! So take your pick, we're always open for people in need of some blossoms!
Eh, oh, it's just you? Newbie, why are you here? I thought I told you multiple times to get out of my store! Why are you here? I've told you a million times to leave! To not come here! And you just won't
Listen no matter how many times we send you away! I'm not interested in that false story of yours of being a
Lost little human who can't navigate through New Eridu. I'm not buying any of that little shtick of yours,
Okay? So don't say it, alright? You're always

Bothering everyone! Don't you ever know when it's time to quit? You really don't know when to throw in the towel do you, newbie? I'm telling you to buzz off, okay!
Eh, forget it, I'm tired, you know what, newbie? Let's just call a truce. I've been rotting in bed for too long to start any feasible arguments that
Equate to anything, so
No need to waste my breath more than I need to.

Ah, whatever, it's me, Siorc, you know, everyone's favorite hit hyena? I guess, not anymore, though, since I've gone and shut myself off from the
World. I just ever since I saw her in my territory, I just
Haven't wanted to do anything, she was onto me all this time, so I just had to get away from it all. I simply just had to. I knew that if I kept doing hits, she'd come after me. And the last thing
I want is to see her!
Look, I don't want to deal with her, I don't want to deal with her at all. I
Especially don't want to deal with the ponies,

I truly don't. They're terrifying
Their leader, her, her, her

I can't let her hunt me down.
She's a scary woman, a

Menace, and all the other ponies are, too.
Every single one of them.

So, that's why I was laying low, I couldn't, for any reason let them
In on what I was doing,
Of course I couldn't. And, I'd
Really like to avoid the Inferno Punishers at all
Costs, too. Simply put, I can't let them see me, I absolutely cannot, ever. I know, I'm a hithyena in a dangerous business. I'm fully aware, and

Yes, I'm fully aware cops
Out to get me and will try to
Unleash force to put me away, but, to be honest, I'd
Rather not get caught!

For now, I will be transitioning back to
At least taking a few hits. None that are
Very big, though. I have to do this
One step at a time so I don't catch the attention of those
Retched ponies. I can't catch their attention.
I know I have to continue to lie low. But, I'll start
Taking missions again. Aigre is indeed right, I can't rot in my room forever.
Even though I left her on read and

Have no intention whatsoever of answering her messages, I know she's right.
I don't want to get evicted for not paying rent. My landlord is usually pretty kind to me, saying a lot of nonsense like, 'you're a sweet boy, so I'll give you a small extension, but please pay soon, okay?' I am not a boy, but whatever, I'm grateful she gave me a few extensions due to my err, we'll just pretend it was an illness. Anyway, it really is
Time to go back to work now. I do have a few misgivings about it, but I can't just rot away forever anymore. I'm serious when I say that, newbie. Completely this time. One-hundred percent, without any shadow of a doubt.

Huh, what did you just say to me? I should just quit? You, honestly, look, I'll forgive you for your wrong opinion for today but only this once because I'm just too tired to argue with you at this point. Honestly, newbie, I don't understand you at all,
You know that? Always waltzing into other chimera's territories acting like you're lost all the time,
Even though I believe I've told you at least a dozen times now that no one is buying that story of yours. I have absolutely
No idea why you think by now anyone will ever believe you and that lie you're churning. But, just know that not a single chimera believes you. We don't,
And no one else ever will, so just know I'm pretty much onto you.

I'm never going to buy what you're selling, so maybe it's time you throw in the

Proverbial towel and do something meaningful with your life instead of going around and stalking us all the time.
Look, I'm not going to throw you out today, I don't even have the energy for pretty much
Anything, I'm completely out of my groove right now, pretty much entirely, at this point, so I'm absolutely
Not going to even bother with you. Do you understand, little I'm lost? I refuse to award you attention. But, since I know you won't go away,

This is all that I have to say to you, since you intended to stay in my store until I do.
Okay, so I'm probably taking a hit on Shiyu Defense today. I

Can't really think of what else is low scale, so I intend to stick with Hollow Zero.
Of course, I already knew that will probably get the ponies attention, but maybe it won't.
Maybe I'll be able to avert their
Eyes. After all, why would they be investigating Hollow Zero? That's completely

Outside their jurisdiction! I
Ultimately know they never check there, so
That's where I'm going.

Oh, why am I so scared of the ponies? I should be a
Fearless hitperson? You're really brainless, huh, newbie?

Maybe I should just tap the sign!
You're so clueless, it's horrific,

Really! Listen to me,
Okay? I'm only going to say this
Once so you understand
Me. The ponies are not

To be messed with, understand?
Oh, you already know? Then
Don't go around and
Act all clueless! Since you're already aware, I know that
You know how terrifying they can be!

At least, understand where I'm coming from, alright? You'll
Never understand how absolutely
Dangerous it is to mess with the ponies. They're going to ruin you, they're

Going to ruin me, and everyone else, so don't ever mess with them.
Of course, if you do, I'm not saving you.

Because I clearly warned you
And so, let me just start by reminding you, you
Cannot mess with them. I
Know, I have pretty much already said that multiple times, but

It's true. This is why I shut myself away. You
Need to understand
That. I've heard even the Inferno Punishers, their right hand group have fears
Of them. So, if even they

Have to second guess
It all, then so should you.
They'll kill you, newbie. I already
Told you at this point
In length that this is how it is.
Now, do you understand me? I
Guess I'm going to have to shout,

Because you're really not
Understanding me at all.
So, I'll say
It one last time, alright, so you're on the same page as me.
No matter what, don't
Ever mess with the ponies, understand? You know
Should at all costs, avoid
Such group of people. Look, newbie,

I'm not very nice, either, I

Know that, I'm a cold blooded hithyena. It's
Not like I didn't already tell you that, now, did I?
Of course, if you really
Want me to, I could remind you

As to why that is! And we don't want that now, do we? No?
I didn't think so, newbie. I see, you just don't
Get it. But, guess what? I'm nice today, so I'll go ahead and
Reforgive you for how incredibly stupid you are!
Ehehe, but don't get used to

It. Once I'm back in my prime form, I'll
Stop being nice on all fronts. All of them.

Right, so, this time, I have no
Intention of letting those
Greasy little ponies find out what I'm doing. I
Have to lay low so
They can't find me,

And I am going to start with Hollow Zero. I absolutely have
No intention of getting caught. I have no rhyme or reason.
Don't you dare laugh at that!

It wasn't funny!

Could you shut your mouth,
And stop giggling for just a second? You
Noxious little, honestly, how dare you. Don't you ever laugh at me again! You're
Not going to like who I become
Once you peel one more layer off
That onion that is me! You

Really don't understand who I am at all, do you?
Of course you don't. You don't know who I am in
The slightest, do you? Honestly,

I'm starting to think you don't! I'm sorry, but you
Need to understand who I am! I'm a

Hitperson, a gang leader,
Everything dangerous you could ever
Really think of to describe me,
Every one of those labels is me. Why do you

Feel the need to underestimate me?
Okay, I get I was
Rotting in my room for weeks, but
Even so, don't you dare underestimate me! You're making a
Very big mistake, newbie.
Even though I am not as gut
Ripping as the ponies,

I'm not some pansy,

And frankly, by now, you should know that!
Maybe you need a refresher on who I am?

Well, since you're so stupid
Even though I've have
Literally already said it multiple times,
Let me remind one last time about who I

Am. I'm Siorc Ingne, leader of the Flower Silencers, and top hithyena.
Why did you have to make me say all that
Again? You are so annoying, newbie, so very annoying. I
Really don't understand you, not even a little bit.
Every single time you're here, you

Seem to think if you pretend you don't understand
One of us will believe you with

Open arms. Well, I'll say it one last time! You're stupid to believe anyone's buying that hack act.
Ugh, look at what you did, newbie, now I'm
Teeming with boundless rage. You know what? Guess what, truce is over!

I want you to leave my store right now!

Get out, go awat, if you don't get
Out of here in five minutes, I'll throw a

Brick at you! Understand? So, don't you dare stay in here
Any longer! I'll give you to the
Count of three, one, two, three. Ha.
Knew that would work!

They're finally gone, and finally
Out of my sight. This stupid person, I can't believe them.

Maybe I should put a sign on the door that says, if
You're not here for flower business you're not

Welcome here! Ha, ha, ha, ha, if only I could write that. If
Only I could, but I just don't have it in my right now, I don't have pretty much anything in me at all right now. I'm feeling so incredibly tired at the moment. But, I don't care about all that. Honestly, it's about time I just get back into work. Aigre is
Right, I just can't rot in my room forever. I know that, I mean, I know she just has my best interests in mind. She may be the most annoying person within my immediate circle, but I
Know she means well. Whatever, it's time for work."

It had been quite some time since the Flower Silencers had engaged in any hits in any sort of capacity. Spotting her lurking around his territory, the hyena had closed himself off from the world. Knowing the ponies most likely had an idea of what he had been up to, all motivation to do anything in any sort of capacity drained like a river.

Shutting himself up in his room, all forms of hit business had been immediately suspended. Infernal guppymaid demanding over and over he come out, he kept his refusals going for who knows how long. Continuing to rot in his bedroom, he could not face anything, anyone, not even himself. What point was there in doing anything when she knew what he was up to?

Energy breaking as the days dragged on, he could hear the only two members of his gang constantly make excuses regarding taking on new hits. He was ill, sorry, they're all out of stock of those flowers, apologies. Every codeword in the book. Lock staying firmly in place, he could feel the dennies start to drain out of his pockets. But, he didn't care. He hardly cared. Nothing mattered. Not a thing at all, whatsoever.

However, things had taken a rather abrupt turn after some point of seclusion. Hearing Aigre on the bottom floor chatter about a Hollow Competition, the hyena knew something was up. Pesky worker trying to entice him to join, he sharply refused such. Knowing it was a trap laid out by her, he remained in his room to rot for all eternity.

But, something almost completely out of left field had brushed across his phone screen the following evening of that so called Hollow Battle Competition. Aigre apologizing to him, he had come to a realization. What point in there was there to hide from her? That's probably what she wanted, anyway, to take him out while he's down. Leaving the guppymaid on read, the shop owner had come to a decision, one he would likely regret.

He would finally come out of his room, and resume his hit business.

Alarm screeching on his phone, the chimera pressed the stop button. Letting out a yawn, the hyena rubbed his eyes. When was the last time he had set this thing? He had no idea. But, he couldn't sit around and rot any longer. He was losing dennies, for crying out loud! He couldn't hold out on the landlord anymore, either. It was time to start the day and earn thousands.

Barely any energy flowing through him, the shop owner tried to hold in a laugh. After all that deliberation of deciding to get out of bed after who knows how long, his body decides for him what the answer is. Slapping his cheeks, he removing himself from his sleeping quarters. He had a lot of clients to catch up with. No more rotting.

Staring at himself in the mirror, his messy hair dropped down to his waist. Dashing towards his clothing drawers, he sighed. Just how long has been sitting in here rotting like this? Weeks, months, years? Probably not the last one, but definitely not the first one, either. He didn't know anymore. Sighing, he placed two of his claws between a lock. This length simply will not do. Who would ever take him seriously with his hair in front of his face?

Scissors working up a fury, the young adult huffed as a sea of cut purple drowned out his feet. Length back to where it had been who knows prior, he gazed at the reflection of himself in the mirror. Disheveled hyena person staring back at him, he brushed the locks for hours on end. This would not do, either. He could not look messy in front of his clients. Reaching for the elastic, the spiky pigtails returned.

Adorning a pitch black belly shirt with pink flowers that had a lightning bolt symbol on the center, the hyena slapped on the collar with his initials printed on it. Hairpins and earrings clicked in, as well, he tried to force in some enthusiasm. Back to work today. He was ready for anything. Violent hits? Bring it on. Consider it a challenge.

Door flopping open, Wisty had come running. Bangboo pal falling flat onto their face, the gang leader picked them up. When was the last time they had come into his room? He didn't know, time was scrambled eggs. Reaching for a scrap of paper, the hyena scribbled away. The usual, good morning Wisty written down, he could feel the old routines kicking into overdrive. It had been quite a long time since he had written that sentence. Greeting coming his way, he could hear a hint of static.

<Good morning, Siorc,> the creature said in its own language.

Scribbling down on another sheet of paper, the hyena swore he could feel regret already flowing through him as he wrote down a response to his Bangboo pal. Sheet slapped down into Wisty's palm, the message read, we're back in business today, Wisty. Is everything operational? Seeing a few sparks pop, he could feel a few sparks of his own. What is he saying? Neither of them are in shape for this.

<Up and running!> Wisty responded in its own language. <Just a little overcharged!>

Hearing such, the gang leader knew he owed his pal an apology. What kind of friend was he, leaving them on their charger for so long? Had their artificial intelligence gone away, too? Sometimes, he wondered if Wisty and he were on the same wavelength. But, he shook his head. Nah, that wasn't it. Of course it wasn't. He was overthinking all of this a ton.

Familiar footsteps downstairs stomping around, the chimera scribbled away once more. Paper placed into Wisty's palms once more, the message read, Vidame is here, it's time to go, the young adult could feel himself sweat as he walked down the stairs. Why did it feel like every single step was like running a marathon? Maybe the lie Aigre had told people about closing up shop wasn't a fib, after all, in the end. Huffing, he tried to keep it together. Wisty falling flat on their face as well, he tried to keep it all together.

Aigre at his desk in the corner, and Vidame reading a book entitled, How to Deal With a Friend Going Through a Rough Patch, the gang leader attempted to turn around, but stumbled. Alright, it's been a good run in life, goodbye. Back to his good old sweet room forever. But, as he thought such, he had been scooped up into a princess carry. Guppymaid gang member holding him into a lock, he squirmed. Reaching for his back pocket, the chimera tip tappied away on his phone screen, words, put me down, Aigre! Screeching across the screen, such had been refused, in an instant.

"You finally come out of your room after nearly two weeks, no, almost three, and look at how disheveled you are!" Aigre shouted. "Let's go! We're getting you something to eat!"

Aigre carrying him off like he was some sort of princess, the hyena kept on squirming. Excuse him, who said she could order him around like this? He was the leader of this gang, not her! So, what he had shut himself in his room for two, no almost three weeks? He didn't have time to get something to eat. He needed to return to his hollow hitting business. Put him down right this instant! Guppymaid not budging, another refusal soon got in his way.

"Siorc, I know you don't like this, but we're not giving you a choice," Vidame said in a serious tone. "Aigre made up her mind today that she would have forced you out of there if you hadn't come out today." She soon gazed at her as she said such. "I told her no, of course. But, she made up her mind, and I've decided, too." She then lowered her tone into that of a gentle one. "We're glad you decided to join us today on your own. Please, just follow along with us, alright?"

Plopped into Aigre's car, the chimera sighed. Of course she would have forced him out of his room after he had finally decided he would break out of there today. She wasn't sorry at all, was she? Why were they friends again? But, his thoughts went away as he continued. Brakes screeching a house he had not seen in quite a long time had been within his low energy field of vision.

Dragged inside the guppymaid's abode, the chimera had been placed upon the dining room chairs. Plate of crispy pork tacos staring right out in front of him alongside pawprint chicken bites, the hyena covered his hands with his face. Ah, Aigre, she remembered his favorite food. How long had she been planning to try to get him out of his room? Reaching for the hard shelled tortilla, he could feel tears stream down his face as the roasted pig meat dropped down his throat. Why did he shut himself away for so long? Trying to not wolf everything down, the party of two seated themselves at the table. But, an annoying question had soon come his way.

"Since you finally came out of your room," Aigre said, tone stern. "Tell us what's bothering you! You know you can talk to us about anything, don't you?" She stroked her fingers through her brows as she said such. "Not that you ever talk to us. But, whatever, you know what I mean!"

Demands to talk coming his way, the gang leader held in the urge to sigh. Of course this was what this was all about. Aigre should know by now how things were. But, he supposed he could at least explain a little. Reaching for his pocket, a large scrap of paper had been in his lap. Scribbling away like a madhyena, he could feel regret flow through him. Should he really say anything at all? Sheet placed on the table, it read, I just wanted to avoid her is all. I don't want her to ruin everything. Sorry for shutting myself away for so long. I'm ready to return to our hit business. Aigre and Vidame's eyes darting on the paper, he could hear the penguin information broker heave a sigh.

"Aigre, I've told you so many times to not force Siorc to do things that he's not comfortable with. You'll make things worse for him. You know that. I know that," Vidame said, sighing. She then turned towards Siorc. "She scares you a lot, doesn't she? We'll do all we can to make sure we avoid her." She then turned towards Aigre. "Aigre, apologize to him."

"Look, I'm sorry for pushing you out of your comfort zone, but it is really frustrating sometimes that you don't ever tell us anything!" Aigre exclaimed. But, she dialed it down a notch. "Sorry, I won't bring her up again unless we cross the boundary of where they might be alerted of us." She then folded her arms onto the dining room table. "So, we're back into business today, is that right? Are you going back into full swing, or just going low-key?"

Writing down that they would be only taking on low-key missions for awhile, everyone returned to the Veiled Whisper. Strange masked person waiting on the outside again, they had soon been welcomed into the store. Eyes glued to him, he swore their face covering was about to fall straight off. Hands on his desk, he prepared himself.

"Hey, there chimeras, I've been dying for quite some time for you three to sell me your special flowers again!" the masked person cried. "There's no need to drag this out! I'd like to buy some black lotuses."

Black lotuses mentioned, the hyena's eyes sparkled. Black lotuses? Oh, this lady had a juicy one for him. How long had she been holding onto this hit? Scrambling for his paper scraps, he scribbled away. Writing down, you have quite the big hit for us. Where is it do you need for us to go? He could feel the sun shine from the roof. Sweet, sweet, dennies, come to momma.

"You see, one our friends became an ethereal in some place within Scott Outpost people like to call Shiyu Defense!" the masked lady exclaimed. "Can you take that loser out for us? If you do, I'll give you one-million dennies! How does that sound?"

More than six figures floating in his ears, the hyena wondered if he had died and gone to heaven. This was all a dream, right? But, he knew it wasn't, it couldn't have been. That was so much dennies, he could put them all in his bathtub and swim in it. Did they have a deal? Of course they did! Consider it done! Writing down, of course! That had been almost so big the ink got on the counter, another warning had come his way.

"Coolio, make sure you get them good for me, okay? We don't want filthy little ethereals like them in our gang," the masked lady cried. "Oh, and watch out for those soldiers prowling around. Heard some lady from the Obol Squad's is there. Ignore her."

Dennies swimming through his mind, the gang leader bolted up the stairs. Whistling for Wisty, he could hear Vidame say she was leaving for her headquarters. Aigre plopping down in his car, the chimera pressed the breaks. Rush flowing through him, he questioned everything for a few moments. Why did he shut himself off for so long?

He shouldn't be afraid of her.

***

"It's been awhile since I have fought in a Hollow. I wonder if I have what it takes

Anymore? I don't think I do at this point, I
Might just lose my way. Ugh, newbie, don't I tell you every single time you're not welcome here? You

Really love pushing all my buttons one after another, don't you?
Eck, you are so annoying, that I want to scream.
At least stop bothering me, alright?
Don't you understand that I want nothing to do with
You? I don't, Aigre most certainly doesn't, and I

For one, know Vidame doesn't want a thing to do with you, either.
Okay, so Shiyu Defense, something within that big hollow in the Scott Outpost.
Right, so, I feel like only taking hits with Hollow Zero is the only way for things to move going forward, for the time being. I

Cannot go too hard and expose myself to the ponies,
Or everything will break. I especially cannot allow
Myself to be seen by her. Not a chance, I cannot allow that to happen.
Because, I want nothing to do with her.
And, I haven't for a very long
Time now. Not since our parents--. No, why am I

Letting myself let you hear all of this, newbie? Didn't I already tell you that aren't welcome here? Do I have to go and say it again so you can hear it? I'm not asking you, I'm demanding now, go away. And, gone.
Everything would be so much better if
That pest would stop watching all the chimeras in New Eridu! When will they
Stop doing that? I don't know. I just don't

Get it. Well, whatever, I'm in Scott
Outpost now, and I have some work to do."

Reaching Scott Outpost, an annoying person wearing yellow goggles stood at the entrance of the area. Tall young woman with silver hair pulled into a high ponytail and a sword, and some stupid soldier gear, the chimera cracked his paw knuckles. There it was, yet another obstacle. He didn't have time for this, dennies were on the line here, like hello! Lady trying to prevent his entry, he was ready for the barrel.

"Excuse you two, but I am afraid I cannot allow you to pass," the stupid soldier woman said. "We are conducting an investigation in here."

Barreling through her, the hyena couldn't care less what this woman had to say to him. Who did she think she was talking to, huh? He was the leader of the Flower Silencers, the top hithyena around. And, he wasn't about to listen to some low ranking soldier like her. Scribbling down, don't tell me what to do, lowly private, Aigre, Wisty and he ran head first into the hollow. But, as he had done so, the guppymaid leaned towards his ear.

"Siorc, one of the ponies is lurking around here," Aigre whispered. "We have to hurry and defeat this Ethereal before they find us!"

<Siorc, Aigre, are you in the Hollow?> Vidame's voice asked through Wisty. <You two have to hurry. I sense one of the ponies. Also, Shiyu Defense is a time limited challenge!>

Two people now bringing the ponies to his attention, the hyena made a run for it. Oh, great, the day he finally decided to come out of his room, P.O.N.E.C. has to be here, too. Why was this happening? Just his rotten luck, couldn't he ever escape them? He needed to get this over with quickly so they don't run into one another.

Timer ticking down faster and faster, the chimera removed his blade. Multiple boxes in the way everywhere, the hyena sliced them up like they were fruit. Weight ready to crush him, he huffed and puffed. Ah, he sure had been out of practice, hadn't he? He really shouldn't have rotted away in his room for so long. Big mistake on his part.

Lesser ethereals barely defeated, the young adult tried his best to not lose his way. Monsters barely taking any hits, the hyena could feel a rock of failure drop upon him. How much rust had formed upon him in such a sort time? He truly was a pitiful sight to see right now, wasn't he? He most certainly was, for sure.

Aigre evaporating the lesser beasts, the hyena could feel everything begin to break. But, he knew he couldn't let himself crack now. What was he doing, letting himself look weak right now? He was a leader of a gang, the top of the hitperson business. So, what he hadn't been in the battle scene for quite some now? Forget it! Shake it off. It's time to move in.

Boxes vanquished the clock kept on ticking down. Further ethereals thrown away one after another, the chimera could feel the adrenaline flow through him. Monsters one after another dropping down into nothingness, everything moved forward. Hearing familiar footsteps moving through the hollow, the young adult kept the momentum going. He had to hurry, he had to be quick.

<Aigre, Siorc, I am getting a huge energy warning!> Vidame screamed through the Bangboo. <This one is really dangerous! Don't be hasty, okay? Run away if you need to!>

Large Ethereal dropping down from the ceiling, the creature let out a screech. Former person letting out some garbled noises, the hyena swore he could hear it ask why did their crew abandon them? Hearing such, the chimera caressed his blade. There they were, the big monster. The sweet, sweet, one million dennies hit. It was go time. They were going down right here, right now!

Blade doing all the talking, the chimera let out a battle cry. Aigre swiping away as well, Wisty had also begun to do their duty. Monster looking ready to go berserk, the hyena leapt towards their back. He wasn't about to let them gain any further power now, nope, not a chance! Letting down the zaps of a lifetime, he could feel it. Any second now, this creature was going to fade away.

But, an arrow had soon come from afar. Seeing such, the hyena's eyes opened. No, that bow, no. Don't tell him, her right hand woman was here. Oh, no, why? Why her? Why Loba? Anyone but her. Why couldn't it have been that bird woman? Oh, terrific. The second person he wanted to see the least was prowling around these parts. He had to hurry.

Feeling the decibels get louder, the hyena unleashed the last ditched effort highest power technique within him. Ethereal fading away and becoming nothing but ashes, the chimera wiped his brow. The job was done. He needed to get out of here once and for all. But, as he ran towards the entrance, she soon followed. Heart racing, his hyena wrist had been grabbed into a lock.

"Honey, when I saw those flowers, I knew it had to be you," Loba said, tone of voice hinting at worry. "Look, I know, we're no longer on good terms with one another, and you despise me, but you really weren't looking so good you walked in here, so I--." But, she had soon been interrupted.

"That's because you're here poking in your nose where it doesn't belong, Loba," Aigre cried in an echoing tone. "I know what you're really here for. You're here because you've been keeping tabs on us, haven't you? Well, sorry! We cut up that phony license you and the top pony made. So, you can't spy on our activities." But, a wave of confusion had come her way.

"I? That wasn't my idea, no," Loba said. "That was her idea. I just, I don't know. Alarm bells were twinkling in my head. I knew something was wrong with him. I know you don't like me either after what happened, but really, I'm thinking of l--." But, she had soon been interrupted again.

"Save it, liar," Aigre said. "Don't act like you're suddenly on our side. You're just looking to stick a tracker on us. And we're getting out of here!" As she said such, she grabbed Siorc's paw. "Siorc, let's go, we're getting out of here."

Entire conversation tuned out, the hyena could feel everything blur around him. Why, why was her top cop here? After what she did during that vulnerable time, she dare pretend she still cares? This was all a trap, wasn't it? A cheese bait waiting on the line for him to sit on it. He wasn't about to walk in that whatsoever.

Returning to his car, he gazed at Aigre from the back. Maybe she wasn't all so annoying after all. Even though she could be rather demanding sometimes, he supposed she did mean well. Maybe he owed her an apology for his behavior. Typing such upon his phone, he blasted the message onto the small radio as the robotic voice played.

"Don't apologize Siorc, it's alright," Aigre responded to the robot voice on the radio.

Returning to Veiled Whisper, the one million dennies had been slapped into the palm of his hands. Sweet, sweet money raining down, he couldn't help but smirk. He was loaded once again, wonderful! Beautiful moola, never leave him again. Splitting the revenue between Aigre, Vidame and he, the chimera took the thirty-four percent, as usual.

Closing up shop, the chimera paced around for a little while in his room. Those accursed ponies, what were they about to be up to? He needed to avoid them at all costs, no matter what. One wrong move, and she would come back onto the streets. That was the last thing he needed right now. Should he continue to only take low barrel hits, for the time being?

Nodding, the hyena walked onto his balcony. Scouting the area, no terrifying green hair awaited him. Seeing such, the chimera sighed a puff of a relief. Good, she wasn't here. <Redacted> hadn't come out to play. He absolutely, positively, without a shadow of a doubt, could not take any big stakes hits for awhile. That would be like walking straight into the pony's stable for sure. Not happening, he couldn't ruin everything so shortly after returning to business. No way.

Fatigue soon overtaking him, the chimera let out a yawn. Bed clothes soon upon him, he crawled into his warm bed. But, he could not feel comfortable. Rotting in this thing for so long ruined this sack, for sure. Maybe he should sleep on the floor tonight. But, he could bring himself to do that. Eyes soon closing, one last set of thoughts rolled on through as the dream world was ready to take him away.

He had to keep lying low for awhile until the ponies go away.

---

I guess what Siorc had been experiencing is a form of shutdown depression. In any case, Zenless Zone Zero Siorc part 2 of 3, let's go!

 

[Palamon]

Flower Silencers Incognito: Pink Hydrangea

---

"Hello, hello, hello, hello! It's your favorite hithyena, Siorc, and well, let me just start by saying, I'm still incognito and I'm not going to be conducting any dangerous hits for awhile, so don't ask me to take on anything like that right now, understand? That portion of my business is closed! Oh, no it's you again, newbie? I thought I told in no uncertain terms to go away! Why are you
Even still here? Do I have to remind you again what happens to people like you who thinks it's okay to sneak around
Like this? It's not acceptable! Understand, and it's time for you to
Learn how things work around here!
Or else, you'll be sorry you ever stepped foot in here! What, do you think I am joking? I

Am not, understand? If you keep having the balls to come here, I am
Going to make sure you are completely done away with! Complete
And utterly done away with, so don't you dare think this is something I don't stand by!
If you keep playing that stupid 'I'm lost' card, this time, for sure, you can expect
No mercy! None at all, so, don't you dare say anything that's the contrary!

I'm tired of you and your little play! You should know by now none of us want to deal with you and your stupid story. Just tell the truth already, you're well aware of what you're doing, so don't act like that isn't the case, don't act like
That's not at all the case. It's definitely not the case at all! Why would it be? I should have known you were coming here to play this game!

I should just listen to what you have to say? Oh, and honestly, why should I, hmm? Why should I hear you out? You are absolutely
Stupid if you think I'll listen to a word you have to say! I don't have any interest in doing that, understand? So, get out of my space! Excuse me?!

You refuse to leave until I answer your questions? You! Who do you think you are? Do you remember who I am! I am a dangerous hithyena!
Out entirely for blood! And, you really don't get that!
Ugh, why am I arguing? If you
Really intent to stay in my store until you get to ask your question, whatever, ask away!

Feed me your stupidity! I'm listening!
Ah, who's Loba? What did they used to mean to me? That's a
Very stupid question! A stupid, annoying question, newbie! Why did you ask that? I won't answer that!
Oh, you refuse to yield? Until I answer? I can't believe you! You
Really just want to annoy me, don't you?
I was in an academy with her, happy? Does my answer satisfy you? I won't be giving you more
Than that! Don't ask! I will not be providing you more than that! So, shut up!
Even if you get down on your knees and beg, I won't!

How could you pry
Into my business like
That? Don't you ever do that again! Understand?
Ha, what did
You just say to me, newbie? Say it again, I dare you!
Eh, cowering already, huh?
Now you suddenly remembered how intimidating I can be?
At least you remember! You don't want to mess with me,

Siorc Ingne, the most dangerous hithyena on the streets!
If you don't want to die, newbie, remember this: don't stick your nose where it's not wanted!
Okay? Okay! Glad we've established the
Rules where they're let out as plain and simply as possible!
Come on, now, it should be at least known, at the end of the day that I am not to be messed with! I

Am a powerful force in these streets, and you should never, ever, ever, ever mess with me! If you don't understand that,
Newbie, then it's too late for you, don't say I didn't warn you about this, I did already at least a
Dozen times now, and you still don't get it! Keep your nose to yourself!

It's not that hard. It's quite

Annoying that you seem to think that this doesn't apply to you! Quit trying to act like this has nothing to do with you, you always come into my store completely unwelcome, asking terrible questions I don't want to answer! At least learn that by now! Ugh, you are such a pest, I
Might put a sign on the door that reads only come in here if you're buying flowers! You seriously need to go away, but obviously, you have no intention to,

So, whatever! You pest, I know what is about to be asked next, because you're so predictable that I can smell it on your breath! You're going to ask what I've been up to since your absence!
There's been pretty much nothing, alright? For the time being,
In the last two weeks, I've gone back to normal flower business.
Look! I have to protect my hide, I know redacted is going to storm into my store and ruin everything, and I
Literally cannot allow it! I absolutely cannot allow it! It's so horrible she could come any time... and I can't allow it! So, I went back to

Lying low, for the time being, and have refused to take on
Any further hits that could get me in trouble, but I have decided it's time to resume my hit service, but nothing huge.
Yes, like last time you barged
In here, it's all the same as before, at least for the moment, I am
Not going to be taking on any further hits that involve danger. I know, wild, I, a
Gang leader of a very small gang am not living the dangerous life and have decided to

Lay low! I said it already, but since you don't understand at all I'll say it
Once again! I will not allow myself to get caught by the ponies! Especially not redacted! And, redacted's top cop, I also
Want nothing to do with her! Or those bikers that

Are their side cops! I want absolutely
Nothing to do with the leader of the Inferno Punishers either, so if you plan to ask about them,
Don't you dare. Don't you dare

Open that big mouth of yours to ask! I'm
Not going to answer you, and
Let me make this clear since
You seem to fail

To understand! What happened between us wasn't
A normal misunderstanding between friends! But I'm not telling you anything! You don't get to
Know any of that! And, I have absolutely no
Intentions of telling you, so don't you dare ask!
Never ask me anything involving those little balls of
Grease! Don't ask me about them, I don't want to talk about it, understand?

Oh, you just don't get it, do you? You're such a
Nosey little stalker! I am

Not, I repeat, not, telling you anything!
Okay, anyway, where was I before you ruined anything?
Now, I was talking about lying low for quite

Some time, I will be doing that!
Unless I get paid at least three million to do an extremely big hit, I have no intentions to take anything except missions that will fly under the radar.
Something that will not bring attention to those stupid
Police officers, I can't risk
It, not right now, not after big
Cop number two saw me doing that Shiyu Defense mission, so this time,
I'm going to dig even lower!
Oh, how low can I go?
Uh, that's a rhetorical question!
So, don't you dare assume in any way it has an answer, got it, newbie?

Maybe I should at least explain what missions
I plan to take on now at this moment
Since I'm lying low and not taking high
Stakes dangerous hits. Look, I'm not going after another gang at the moment,
If you don't get it, don't ask!
Of course, if I do get a hit worth three million, I'd
Never say no to that! Never.
Simply put, that's the only way I'd

Go after other gangs right now. If I'm paid enough for me to be loaded.
Of course, that's not happening, I

Made it so if certain codewords are said, Vidame
Eliminates them with a punch,

So, no matter what, I have a system in place
Of which will prevent it from being fulfilled.

Ah, that's too much? Listen?
No one asked you, alright? So
You don't get to say that!
Why don't you just shut up
Already and stop wasting
Your breath trying to argue with me?

This is annoying, you are a
Huge thorn in my side! The biggest thorn
In my side, ever. Worse than those
Stupid people who have

The nerve to step into my shop and not use the code
In order to ask for
Me to conduct a hit! That's right, you're about as stupid as them! Every single time, you
Especially blow me away

With how stupid you can truly be! Ugh, since you still refuse to
Exit my store and won't leave until I

Answer your stupid questions, fine, I'll tell you my next hit. It's a
Rally Mission, alright? You done asking me your stupid questions now?
Eh, excuse me? What do you mean you're not

Done here?! Go away already!
Oh, for the love of, what
Is a Rally Mission? Do you
Not know anything? I don't
Get you at all, newbie! You're so aggravating!

A Rally Mission, since you don't know, is like this timed

Relay where a team of Hollow Investigators has to enter
A Hollow, and simply put, try to survive within the time
Limit allocated to us. There's no interference from proxies. What did you say? That's
Lame? Excuse you, newbie! Excuse you, I can't believe
You said that! It's a simple

Mission, what did it fry your brain?
I guess it did
Since the only thing you were able to
Say about it is, that it's lame! Look,
I need to lie low
On this grid right
Now! Which I see you still

Barely can even grasp that! I
Especially need to lie low right now! I
Cannot risk getting caught by the ponies!
And especially not redacted! So
Unless you think I
Should walk right in their trap, I am
Especially lying low!

Why should I risk it? I
Have no interest in risking it!
You still don't get it!

No one has told you how dangerous P.O.N.E.C. can be!
Of course, you just don't get
That! You're a moron that never learns, you're

Really stupid, newbie,
Everything you say and
Do just makes me
Angry! So, either
Cut it out, or get out!
The fact you
Even have the balls to show up here is
Dastardly! And then you

Wallow that my mission
Is lame? You're such a
Loser, I hope an Ethereal eats you!
Listen, you're annoying, and

Need to follow
Our rules, or
The world will eat you.

How you don't get that
At all baffles me! You're a
Villain pretending to be a lost person,
Everyone is onto you!

Ah, well, you'll find out the hard way.
Now! I've heard that the Cunning Hares might be in the same hollow I'm going to, and
Yikes, because
This is my
Hollow! I claimed
It as mine! I
Need to eliminate them if they dare
Go in to the same one, I go

To. Huh, what did you just say to me? I'm supposed to be lying low?
Oh, for crying out loud! I'm just going to

Snatch up their monsters, that's
All! You know what, newbie? I've had enough of
You today and your nonsense! Get out! I'll give you

To the count of three!
One, two, three.

They're gone, finally. I'm free from that
Horribly annoying loser! What
An annoying pest, I swear if I see
Them again, I will not

Hesitate next time, I will
Absolutely eliminate this
Horrible scum of
A person, I will

Have to conduct a special mission, give them
A lily of the valley, the last most dangerous
Hit. But, I'd never, ever
Allow myself to get my hands that dirty!

Of course not, well, whatever.
For now, time
For a Rally Mission!

Will I survive? Of course, I am the top Hollow
Eliminator amongst all the chimeras here. We're

Going to win, those stupid bunnies don't know
Our capabilities! So, watch out, our flowers will silence you!"

It had been a couple of weeks since the Flower Silencers had taken on Shiyu Defense within Hollow Zero. Encounter with her right hand woman, the hyena temporarily halted any sort of hits. Knowing that the ponies would come for him had he done any further immediate hits, a brand new gap had been created.

Boring days ahead of normal flower orders for the usual marriages, dates and school graduation, the world was about to stop turning. But, the hyena knew that he could not jump into any further hits until the pony storm cleared. Multiple people attempting on every front to try and wiggle in some sort of deal, Siorc could feel the gang leader in him ready to murder the monotony.

Hearing some rumors about some hollow activity known as a Rally Mission, the hyena could feel the dennies rolling around in his head. Looking more into it, the gears had begun turning in his head. If someone would hire him to do such a thing, he would be set for weeks, for sure. Closing up boring ordinary flower business a day prior, he was ready to tackle the day.

Alarm beeping on his phone, the hyena lifted himself up almost immediately from the warm bed. It was seven o'clock, it was go time. Today was the day, back the business. No more boring, normal flower deliveries. So long, empty wedding halls, farewell, hideous graduation halls setting up, and other social gathering places, they're on a break!

Removing himself from his sleeping quarters, the hyena removed a poofy scrunchie from his rubber band box. Reflection gazing at him, the spiky twintails practically shining in the mirror, a black belly shirt with chains melted onto his partially human person. Pitch black jean skirt to match, the gang leader pumped his clawed fists together. Time to go for the gold.

Hearing the familiar little footsteps towards the door, the hyena headed for the entranceway. Wisty flocking right in like a little bird, he could see their eyes glow up. Seeing such, the shop owner sighed. Oh, great, Aigre had an annoying message for him, didn't she? Well, if she did, she can wait, he was getting ready right now. Reaching for a scrap of paper, the hyena scribbled away. Writing down, good morning, Wisty, can you wait five minutes, please? I'm still getting ready, the flower Bangboo nodded.

Mechanical pal stepping outside for a moment, the chimera reached for the hairbrush. Bristles stroking on through, multiple ends had begun to stick up one after another. Groaning, he slammed the teeth in further. His hair was such a disaster area today. His locks were a beast on the mountain, roaring. Giving up the fight, small matching bangboo hairpins and earrings were clicked in.

Wisty soon returning through the door, the hyena reached for another scrap of paper. Writing up a storm, the words on the paper read, what message do you have for me? His mechanical pal's eyes glowed maroon for a moment. Seeing such, he sighed. Aigre had another message for him, he knew it. Couldn't she wait in person to say her annoyances to him?

<Aigre has a message for you!> Wisty said in their own language. <She says, 'you have to go to the gardening shop in Lumina Square! Did you forget? You're so insufferable sometimes, Siorc!'>

Aigre's annoying message playing out to him, the hyena placed his paws on his brows. What did he have to go to the gardening shop for again? He doesn't remember. But, did any of that matter? He was going back to normal hithyena business today. He needed to tell Aigre this was necessary, whatever it is she wanted from him.

Reaching for his phone, the hyena tip tappied his password away. Swiping towards the message application, he pressed the Aigre chat log. Annoying wall of text waiting for him, he almost wanted to close his phone. Does she ever stop talking? Why was he friends with her again? Disregarding such thoughts, he prepared the two letter word of rejection.

{Aigre}
{Ugh, Siorc, why aren't you answering me? Hello, I told you countless times already this week that you need to go to the gardening shop in Lumina Square to replace some of our gardening tools! We're not just a hitman service, you know! We happen to sell real flowers that need water. My car's in the shop right now, and my train pass is expired, so you have to go!}

{Me}
{Have Vidame go.}

{Aigre}
{Look who finally decided to show up! |Sigh emoji|. What do you mean have Vidame go? She's busy all morning with her information broker services, she can't go! So, you have to! Can't you cooperate for once instead of arguing with me? You can be so insufferable sometimes, you know that?}

{Me}
{Why do I have to? I'm opening up normal shop today. We don't need more soil or watering cans. That's a waste of dennies.}

{Aigre}
{There you go again with the excuse of it's a waste of dennies! You know there's something wrong with the current soil we have in the shed on the top floor of your apartment! I told you that six times already! Stop arguing with me over text and go out to Lumina Square already! It's not like we're getting any clients right this second, you know! |Angry face emoji.| Please, just go. I'm sure by the time you're back, there will be clients lined up at the door with loads of dennies for you!}

{Me}
{Alright, fine, I'm going.}

Closing his phone, the hyena let out a groan. Who died and made Aigre boss? Who was the leader of this gang? He was. Why did she think she could boss him around? Heading for the closet, the chimera reached for his usual shopping bag. Wisty gazing at him, he scribbled away. Words on the note reading, want to sit in my bag like always? His pal hopped right in.

Aigre nowhere to be seen on the bottom floor, the young adult cracked his hyena knuckles. She had the galls to order him around when she wasn't even here herself. Who did she think she was? But, the hyena dialed it down a notch. What point was there in getting angry? Heading for the parking lot, he prepared himself for the most boring trip ever.

But, as the hyena drove through the streets, he could see a peculiar commotion up ahead. Multiple Bangboo sparking up like a holiday tree, a blockade awaited him. Green haired pigtail cop coming his way, the chimera puffed a sigh of relief. Oh, good it wasn't her. It was that mechanical lady from Public Sector.

"I'm sorry, but this road is closed," the robot cop lady said. "Could you please take another route?"

Hearing such, the chimera stared off into space. The main road was closed? How was he supposed to get to Lumina Square? This was the only way to get there. Writing such fact down, he slapped the note down into the mechanical lady's hand. Couldn't she let him through just this once? But, a quick head shake had come his way.

"All the traffic lights on this street have malfunctioned, so I am afraid I can't let you through," the mechanical cop lady said.

Letting out a groan, the young adult returned to the parking lot. Malfunctioning traffic lights? Had there been some Hollow nearby? Why wasn't anyone doing anything about it? Wasn't that something the Drill Dozers usually took care of, the jobs no one wanted to do? Shrugging, the chimera tossed such thoughts out. What did he care about other chimera factions?

Heading for the train station, the chimera waited for the locomotive freight vehicle to arrive. Scrolling through his phone, multiple messages about Rally Mission floated on through. Reading such, his fingers itched like a storm. Sweet dennies, how he missed them. The moola he could be getting right now if he had been given a hit to tackle such thing would be astronomical.

Reaching Lumina Square in a flash, the chimera almost wanted to turn around. Soil, schmoil, why did he have to go get this? He bet Aigre was just making excuses not to. Sure, her car was in the shop right now, what a load of baloney. Speaking with other shopkeepers was not his forte. But, he knew he had no choice but to do so. Cracking his paw knuckles, he steeled himself. Time for an annoying sales pitch to make his eardrums fall out.

"Hello, there, what can I help you with?" the saleslady asked, chipper.

Obnoxiously bright light ready to drown him, the chimera tried to look away. This woman ready to sell him something and take more dennies away from him than she needed. What a lovely piece of work she was. Claws out in front of him, he spelled out the word soil with his digits. Lady continuing to beam like the sun, he tried to not roll his eyes. Hurry up, and rip him off already!

"Bags of soil? Sure!" the eager saleslady cried. "And, if you want I can give you three extra for the lowly price of--." But a paw had soon been in front of her face.

Scribbling away, the gang leader wrote down, I don't need any extra soil, ma'am. One large bag of soil would be plenty, thank you. He resisted the urge to call out her pushy tactics. Shaking his head, he knew it wasn't in his place to do so. Everyone needed their dennies, after all. Lady heading in the back for a moment, he tapped his hyena feet upon the ground.

"Here you go!" the eager saleslady cried. "That'll be four thousand dennies!"

Coins handed off to her, the chimera removed the hatch on his satchel. Wisty taking the soil bag, the hyena exited the shop. Eager lady telling him to come back any time, his eye twitched. Nope, no way, he's never doing that again. Why couldn't Aigre deal with the people stuff? Yeah, right, sure, her car was broken, that was an excuse, and he knew it.

Heading back to the Veiled Whisper, a line of people had been waiting for him at the front entrance. Heading through the back, the chimera was ready to wring Aigre's neck out. Just how lazy was she today? He ought to fire her for this. But, he cut up such thoughts with a scissor. Maybe she wasn't here yet. It was only eight o'clock, after all.

Aigre sleeping at her desk along with Vidame, the hyena clapped his paws together. Girls yawning, he folded his hand into a fist. What were these two doing, sleeping on the job, huh? There were precious clients outside to get a sweet amount of dennies from! Eyes soon on him, Wisty popped out of his back speaking in their own language like storm.

<Wake up, everyone!> Wisty said in their own language.

"I wasn't sleeping!" Aigre cried. "What time is it?" She then turned towards Vidame. "Vidame, when did you get here? I thought you were busy with information broking until noon!"

"Well, I came early today," Vidame responded, yawning. "Mmm, but seems I dozed off. Siorc, where were you?"

Tired gang members asking him a million questions, the hyena was ready to pull his hair out. Did these two forget? Uh, hello, he had to go get the soil! Writing down, Aigre, you told me to go get the soil! No, demanded I do! Sighing, he scribbled away further, there's customers waiting at the door! They're going to go to another hit service if you keep them waiting!

"Ugh, I fell asleep, so shoot me!" Aigre cried. "Fine, I'll let everyone in!" Running towards the door, she opened the entranceway. "We're open!"

People barreling in, a rather strange group of people who looked rather meek came towards the counter. Twirling his twintails, the hyena held back a yawn. Okay, who sent the lowest gang members here to hire a hit, huh? Unbelievable. Strangers lips quivering, he almost wanted to send them away. Don't have the guts to ask for a hit? Don't come into his store.

"Um, hi! We'd like to order your most poisonous of pink hydrangeas please!" The nervous clients asked.

Hearing the magic code word, the chimera was practically giddying up to the horsey. There it was, the words he most wanted to hear! A hit for a Rally Mission. Wonderful, amazing, dennies, come to momma. Writing down, where is the hollow you need us to go to, he tried to hide his excitement. Come on, Siorc, professionalism. This is a client right in front of him, for crying out loud!

"I think, it's in the alleys of Sixth Street," the client said. "The traffic lights are out of whack there!" As they said such, the cleared their throat. "If you finish the Rally Mission, we'll pay one million Dennies. And, if you take out the Cunning Hares, we'll give you a two million bonus, how does that sound?"

Load of money sent through his eardrums, the hyena's eyes sparkled like the stars in the sky, excuse him, three million Dennies? Three million smackaroos? He could practically feel himself drool at that number! Done deal, he could see himself swimming in that money right now! Writing down, done deal, demanding glares had come Aigre and Vidame's way. Speeding off towards the alleys of Sixth Street, he practically threw himself into the Hollow.

Three million dennies, here he comes.

***

"Three million dennies, can you believe it? Can you believe it, annoying newbie?
Ha, see, I called you out this time, you're getting
Really lazy when it comes to hiding yourself from me, aren't you?
Eh, whatever! I can feel myself swimming in those dennies now,
Ehehe, lottsa money! I'm going to earn lottsa

Money! The Cunning Hares are going down! No,
I won't kill them, how rude of you assume something so horrible!
Listen, newbie, the only hits that are hit to kill are Ethereals.
Look, I'm not about to get human blood on my hands.
I may not care for Thirens that much because I constantly get mistaken for
One, but listen, I'm
Not gonna kill them! Just gonna scare them a little,

Defeat them in battle. This is my Rally Mission, not theirs! I had my
Eyes on the prize first. And, I'm
Not missing out on three million dennies!
Not a chance! Do you know how loaded
I'll be when I split the revenue between the three of us? I'll be rich! Rich, I tell you!
Eh, newbie, what nonsense did you just
Say to me?

It's not that much money? Maybe to you,
Loser, but it's a
Lot to me, what, are you rich or something?

Bet you are, ugh, quit bragging,
Eck, get out of here,

Rich nobody!
I can't stand that showoff,
Come on sweet, sweet, precious dennies, I'm coming for you right
Here, right now!"

Strange Hollow with a running set of train tracks off in the distance, the hyena rolled up his sleeves. It was time to get this Rally Mission started. Spotting the stupid Cunning Hares running around the Hollow like they owned the place, the chimera reached for a tiny little flower shaped explosive from the bottom of his bag. Say hello to Mr. Ghost Flower, annoying little bunnies.

Boom.

Tiny cloud of smoke coming from the corner, the hyena curled his fingers towards his gang members. Dashing off towards the commotion, the annoying pink haired lady with her suitcase let out a bunch of screams one after another. Seeing her struggle against the ghost flower, Siorc let out a giggle. Wow, this group fell right for it! Pathetic.

"It's the Flower Silencers!" the stupid busty pink haired lady cried. "Beat it, this is our Hollow!"

"Oh, what was that, hmm?" Aigre asked in a menacing tone. "You should know by now that the alleyways are the Flower Silencers territory!" As she said such, she let out a whistle. "Vidame, sick 'em up!"

"On it, Aigre!" Vidame cried, as she said such a little ghost flower had been in the palm of her hands. "Bye bye."

"Nic---, watch out!" the annoying grey haired girl asked. But, boom. It had been too late.

Pink haired girl and grey haired annoying pest dropping to the ground, the chimera swiped his fingers across his nose. That'll teach those two what happens when they stepped into his territory. He swore he could feel a camera lens on him as he thought such. What, it's not like they were dead, or anything. They were just knocked out. Stupid robot and catgirl screeching, he prepared another precious ghost flower.

"Boss, boss, wake up!" the annoying robot man cried. "Come on, wake up!"

"Nic---, wake up, nya!" the annoying catgirl cried. But, as she said such, boom.

Stupid little bunnies falling to the ground, the party of three ran deeper into the hollow. Train tracks fixed at a rapid pace, a strange facility soon awaited the group. Device needing to charge to one hundred percent, the chimera stood in the center of the area. So, he had to survive until the end of the time limit as described? No worries, no problem. He could do this in the blink of an eye.

Ethereals trying to come into the center of the ring, the chimera reached for his blade. Did these stupid monsters think they could get in his way? They had another thing coming if they thought that! Lighting striking from left to right, he could feel the defenses ready to kick it up a notch. No way was he letting these fiends get in his way!

Party of three pedaling to the metal, further Ethereals had been eliminated left and right, seeing them rot one after another, he could feel the strength through his fingertips and the decibels rise. If these creatures thought they were going to be allowed in this circle, they had another thing coming. Enemies dropping at full speed, the device had reached seventy five percent charged.

More Ethereals coming out of the woodworks, the hyena let his blade do the talking. Not today, stupid monsters, they were getting a nice little ghost flower. Boom. Explosives taking the stage, the hyena practically wanted to break into maniacal laughter as the monster's severed parts rained down from the dark skies above.

First mechanism fully powered on, the party of three dashed towards the next location. Second machine glaring daggers at him, the hyena held back the urge to bite his sleeves. This was a mission against the clock, alright! Where were the other missions besides powering up these dumb machines?

Standing in the center, further Ethereals came in front and center. Electricity stunning them dry, the hyena kept the momentum going. Wisty tapping into the race, he swore he could see some monsters get to the epicenter of the machine, seeing such, he ran towards it with all his might. Nope, not today! They could kiss their lives goodbye! Creatures whooped to their graves, he could hear a shout from behind.

"Siorc, behind you!" Vidame cried. "Big Ethereal with wings coming your way!"

Turning around, the hyena caressed his blade. Big Ethereal with wings? How pathetic, this thing was as puny as puny came. What a small fry. This thing will be eliminated in seconds, so long, farewell. They had messed with the wrong sister here. Reaching for a ghost flower, he let out a giggle.

But, no such defeat ever came. Creature laying down the law, the hyena dropped onto his knees. This fiend, they had a sword of their own? Unbelievable! This last creature, were they at the max level? He was outmatched, done for, going to become another member of the defeated pile. But, as he thought such, he could hear two familiar blades clash.

"Have a taste of my blades!" Aigre cried.

Aigre slashing up a frenzy, the chimera stood frozen in place. This annoying guppymaid had outdone him again. Had he gotten rusty from rotting in bed for so long a few weeks prior? Probably. He needed to stop slacking off. What kind of gang leader was he, falling over to a small fry like this? Standing up, words had come his way.

"Come on, Siorc, focus!" Aigre shouted.

Buckling down and focusing, the chimera leaped into action, timer beating downwards towards the minute mark, the hyena let down the strikes of lightning, small shield ready to take the stage, he prepared himself for the killing blow. Decibels ready to reach their maximum, the ultimate attack took the stage.

Final machine reaching maximum charge, the party of three ran towards the exit. Finding a lost briefcase, the chimera pocketed it. Hollow getting ready to collapse in on itself, the trio had soon been bolted out like a bottle of lightning. Job done and dusted, the chimera observed the area. Traffic lights up and running again, he could hear the disturbance of an annoying jam on the road ready to eat him up.

Dozens of vehicles congesting the road as he prepared his drive back to Veiled Whisper, the chimera tried to keep the rage of the road miniscule. Why were so many people going to Lumina Square today? How annoying. Heading towards the opposite direction as the pesky vehicles cleared away, home sweet home had soon been returned to. Briefcase handed off to the nervous duo, he could feel the stars align at any given moment.

"You even brought back the goods!" the nervous clients cried. "Excellent, and since you took care of the Cunning Hares, we'll give you the three mill, as promised!"

Sweet sweet moola handed to him, the hyena could feel himself ready to swim in his riches. Three million dennies, he was rich, loaded! Splitting one million between Aigre, Vidame and he, he giggled at his one million share of the revenue. He was rich. Wonderful, beautiful. Goodbye barely being able to pay rent for the next few months, goodbye boring poor people food. Clients leaving, the atmosphere soon got thicker than molasses.

"Siorc, since we injured the Cunning Hares, we're going to have to lie even lower for a little while," Aigre whispered. "Otherwise she might come here."

Her mentioned, the celebrations stopped. He could feel his body shake as she said such. No, not her, why would she come here? Letting out a laugh, he took out another sheet of paper. Writing down, if that's a joke, Aigre, that's not funny, he kept on shaking. If she was trying to get a rise out of him, she'd better think twice. Why was he friends with her again? He was starting to forget, honestly.

"Why would I be joking?!" Aigre cried. "Give me a little more credit!" She sighed as she said such. "Tell him, Vidame."

"One of the people who tried to buy information from me might have been your sister," Vidame said in a low tone. "I didn't tell her anything useful of course." Her tone was serious, drifting away. "I don't know if really was her, but it could have been. "Whoever they were, they were using a voice changer, and wearing a mask. I think we should avoid attacking other gangs that might be in hollows for awhile." She then turned towards the wall. "In fact, maybe we should go somewhere far away and take care of hollows there instead until the coast is clear."

Warnings coming his way, the hyena teetered back and forth. Why was she always trying to worm her way back into his life? Why couldn't she go away? Closing up shop for the day, the chimera slammed the door behind him in his room, muffled scream thrown through a pillow. The ponies were all rounding up to come and take him out back, wonderful. He didn't want to deal with her, that traitor.

Taking some deep breaths, a wave of tiredness had begun to flow through the gang leader. Thinking about what Vidame said, the hyena stared at the walls. Maybe he should take his hit business somewhere far away for awhile. Somewhere outside P.O.N.E.C.'s district. That was it, that was the ticket. Surely, that keep her away.

Sleepwear soon upon him, the young adult crawled underneath his covers. Letting out a yawn, he crawled up into a ball. Mumbling under his breath, he could feel the dream world ready to take him away at any given moment. Land of sleep sneaking up on him from behind, one last seed of thought grew a weed in the center of his brain as the zs crossed the finish line.

He'll go take hit missions in the Outer Ring for the next month, or so.

He couldn't let her catch him.

---

Someone about naming a bomb ghost flower is a little unhinged. Alright, next part is the third and last part of the second section of Flower Silencers anecdotes. That should be fun.

 

[Palamon]

Flower Silencers Incognito: Yellow Spider Lily

---

"It's me again! Everyone's favorite hithyena, Siorc Ingne! The best, smartest and strongest hit person in the business! You'd better remember that, newbie since you decided to come here again and stalk me again! Listen, I saw you coming from a mile away! What? What did you just say? Hyenas don't have supersonic vision? Shut
That mouth of yours up right now! How dare you say that about me, newbie! I have completely predicted your movements at this point that you're so easy to know when you're coming! See? I told you!

I'm the smartest, and most dangerous hithyena that this world should know! I know all your movements! I know pretty much all of your next moves! Ha! You definitely didn't at all see that coming, did you? What did you just
Say to me, you stalker freak?! Hurry up already and get on with what will be happening today? Oh, for the love of, who do you think you are talking to me like that, hmm? Hmm? I'm the top of the streets! Understand? I'm at the top, you're at the bottom! You

Might need to get those
Eyes checked! Do I have to say it again so you understand? I'm at the top! You're at the bottom! But, you just don't get it

At all, do you? That's right! You don't
Get it at all! I knew you wouldn't, since you're so stupid and all that!
Ah, whatever! Fine, you know what? You want to know what
I've been up to, huh? You're so annoying! You know that? So annoying it's almost
Noxious! Your annoyance is a contagious disease! I

Should stay away from you before you drop down and infect me! Because I know you will, newbie! Stupidity is contagious! I'm losing braincells with you being
In my space! You're ruining everything by being in here!
Oh, well, whatever, since you're so stupid, and have a million screws loose, I'll tell you what we've been up to, alright? Since you're so eager to know that you're
Rushing me to answer you! So, listen up you freak! If you
Can't hear me, I'll scream in your stupid deaf little

Ears! Got it? Alright here goes. You better listen
Very closely! For the past week or so, I've been packing
Everything to get out of here! Pony is on my
Radar, and I'm certain that they'll stomp through the door any day now,
Yes, any moment now! I'm
One day away from that happening! So I
Need to get away! Where will I
Even go? Don't people know what I lool like far and wide? You
Seriously need to shut up, newbie! What do you know?

Fool! You really don't understand
Anything at all, do you? You're
Very dumb! You need a lobotomy!
Okay, whatever, since you
Really can't grasp any of this,
I'll just tell you the plan. I'll be assuming
This disguise and talking my hit services to Blazewood!
Eh? I shouldn't go there? Why do you get to say that to me,

Huuuh, huh? I'd like to remind you,
I'm very dangerous when I'm angry! And you're making me
That right now, very angry! You
Have three seconds to apologize to me, or
You're going to get it! One, two, three...
Eh, you're really doing it! Grovelling at my feet! You have
No shame at all, do you? No shame
At all! Well, there goes

All your dignity! You have
None left now! See, I'm
Dangerous, and you shouldn't mess with me!

I can do a lot of harm to you, you'd better understand that!

Well, since you're so incredibly stupid and powerless and don't understand a thing, I'll just explain why your comment about not going to Blazewood is a stupid idea! Listen, you clearly are dumb and don't have any idea what the ponies are truly capable of! They're terrifying.
I've heard they've got a stun gun!
Look, I'm not trying to scare you, I'm telling the truth! They have a stun gun that can silence their victims! I've heard that the two lowest ponies on the totem pole, I don't know them, carry around stun guns! How do I not know of all the ponies by now?
Listen here, newbie! I'm careful to make sure I'm not on the ponies radar! You should really know that

By now that I'm smarter than them! I lie low, especially when I think they're about to catch me! And, so far, they never,
Ever, have caught me. Not even once! Do you get that? Ah, I see you still don't

Get it at all, huh? I see, you hardly understand anything! Not
One single thing at all!
I guess you're really
Not following along! So,
Get this into that thick skull of yours, okay?

The ponies won't be able to find us
Over in Blazewood! All the way out

There is just some dumb biker gangs! They'll
Hardly even understand a word of what we're doing!
Everything will be descript in the

Outer Ring. No one will even know what we're
Up to at all! And, no one will even question it, so why are you? We're already have our backstory planned out if people dare question what we're up to in the Outer Ring! And since I know you plan to ask me a million stupid questions regarding this backstory, and you won't let go of it, I'll just
Tell you, alright? Are you listening to the words I'm about to say? Well, open your
Ears! Or, I intend to do it for you! Honestly, I'll be say it again since you are
Really struggling to grasp pretty much any of this! I don't get you. So, we're going to tell the Outer

Ring losers that we're travelling flower saleswomen! Eh? What did you just say about me? Listen,
I'm not a man. I have never,
Not once, referred to myself as one. But, I am also not a lady, oh did I just
Go and fry that little brain of yours? Your poor stupid little brain! I'm neither. I'm just a hyena, alright? So, do not say that word again. Which one? Are you even listening to me?! Man! Do I have to spell it out for you? M-A-N. Do not ever refer to me as one again, and for

That matter, the other terms, either. I'm a hyena chimera. Feminine, yes, always been, but I'm a hyena chimera. Why do you think I always refer to myself as a hithyena, hmm? Well, now you know! And, if you ever say that word again, you won't be alive to tell the tale of how you called me a man! Because I'll sew that mouth
Of yours completely shut! You'll never be able to

Talk again! So scrub that
Awful three letter word with the wo in front of it out of your vocabulary when you enter this space! Just
Know that I am dangerous,
Especially when I snap!

So, you'd better watch what you say
Over here, or you
Might just regret it! Are you clear?
Ehe, good, you'd better be! It'd be so

Horrible for you if that event of lip sewing happened to you, now wouldn't
It? Glad we've come
To this understanding!
Since I'm sure you're probably curious, newbie, our

Flower shop, will be
On the move, that's our story. Most people don't
Really know that we're a hit service, so

They all just assume we're a normal flower shop. Yes, we
Have normal services, don't
Ever forget about the bit about

That, alright? We do sell normal flowers to go
Incognito, which is what we're doing right now. Well, it
Might not be the same, I guess. We're not
Ending our hit services temporarily this time

Because we have a lot of
Especially eager clients to fulfill hits for!
It's already begun to pile up
Now because we're packing and
Going away for awhile, but listen, we'll be back

At it like nothing happened!
It'll go smoothly because our clients
Go anywhere we go! Sure, Vidame will have to move her system to
Right outside of our pop up shop, but
Even still, I know

What I'm doing, okay? Don't
Act like I don't. Since you
Really think I'll screw up, I'm going to say this one last time: I'm
Not stupid, I'm the smartest and
Especially most intelligent, and
Dangerous hit person in the hit business!

Maybe your brain isn't screwed on all the way! But,
Eh, we knew that!

I'm the smartest ever, after all! You

Might as well give
It up now since you're so mind numbingly
Grotesquely stupid! I
Hardly understand how you even made it this far in life.
Though, I guess that's how things are!

Since you don't understand how my business works, I have repeat customers, who
Especially have a long hit list, and they need me to take care of
Everything. I'm held with quite high regard, and you

Don't get to question that! Since you're
Especially full of questions,
Maybe I should ask you
One question! Why do you
Never stop following chimeras around? You
Should be able to answer me

On that, right? Since you keep
Fooling around and coming into

My territory, after all! You should be able to answer my question with ease! So, tell me! Why are you here for? What's your goal? Please enlighten me! Eh? There
You go again trying to

Play the innocent card! I can't believe you! You're not innocent
At all! You go around New Eridu, and
Seemingly beyond to gather information on us!
That's what you're doing! Right, stalker? Heh, you didn't

Think I'd call you that, did you? Well, I
Have! And if that bothers you
Even a little, well, too bad! You
Really need to know the truth!
Eh, whatever, you'll just deny it no matter who

Brings it up, won't you? Well, guess what, you're about to be very, very
Unlucky because all
The chimeras will be calling you

It: a stalker! So you'd better get used to it quickly. I won't be backing down from

Here on out on using that word! Well,
Anyway, stalker, Aigre doesn't seem to think I should go to the Outer Ring!
Vidame is concerned, too.
Everyone seems to be holding

This strange
Opinion I'll see the skeletons, no demons, of my past there. Look, I get it, my team is just

Giving me their list of concerns. Listen!
Even if I run into
Them, I'll just avoid them! I'll

Avoid them entirely! I don't know
What you even take me for, newbie! I
Am pretty fast at running away,
You know! So, if I see those annoying Inferno Punishers I'll run away! I

Feel like you're not listening to me, newbie! You have a
Really bad habit
Of ignoring the things that
Might be too complicated!

Hah, whatever!
Everyone is worried I'll be
Run over by them if they lock
Eyes onto me! That traitor wouldn't hesitate, but I

Am able to outrun them! That
Nasty traitor can't catch me! What?
Don't you dare say they're in

A motorcycle gang, so of course they can! You're making me
Very angry now! Get
Out, get out of my store!
I'm sick and tired of you running your
Dumb mouth! You

Really want me to
End you, don't you? I'm
Done with you!
And if you're not gone by the time I
Count to
Three, this time, I'm
Ending you for good!
Do you understand? One, two--.

Ah, they ran! Good,
They're gone.

Anyway, I have to finish packing, so
Let's get to it. I'm
Leaving tomorrow, so I

Can't leave even
One thing behind.
So, let's fill up
This suitcase and head over to Vidame's place.
She's using her van to get us to Blazewood, after all."

It had been about a week since the hyena had decided to take missions in the Outer Ring instead of in the streets. Deciding it would be in his best interest to temporary open up shop as far away from his usual territory as possible, the Flower Silencers had begun to pack up. But, a few unneeded warnings had come his way throughout the seven days passing.

Aigre warning Siorc multiple times that going to the Outer Ring, especially Blazewood would be a bad idea, the chimera refused to listen. It's not like they were there twenty four seven. Ignoring that guppymaid's grating voice, slowly, but surely, everything needed was put away. Notice of business being temporarily moved everything was set into motion.

And, today was the day.

Alarm beeping on his phone for minutes on end, the chimera let out a groan. Ugh, what time was it? Gazing at the numbers on the screen, he rubbed his eyes. Four o'clock? Letting out a groan, he tossed and turned in his warm. Could he have ten more minutes, please? Shaking his head, he lifted himself up from the covers. He didn't have time to sleep in. He had to head to Vidame's place and hit the road.

Removing himself from his sleeping quarters, the chimera rubbed his eyes. Gazing out his dark apartment window, he let out a tired sigh. Who would ever willingly wake up at four in the morning, office workers? What a boring life to lead. Some people needed to live on the dangerous side a little.

Mirror in front of him, the chimera reached for his rubber band box. Spiky twintails becoming buns instead, a hairnet had been placed over his locks. Bright black wig going down to his buttocks soon hiding the purple, the gang leader held in a tired sigh. Would a different hairstyle really be enough to hide his identity? Shaking his head, he knew he had to do more.

Hyena spots staring back at him, the young adult strolled into the water closet. Blemish concealer in the palm of his hands, the slimy, disgusting substance had soon been plastered upon his face. Brown zits done away with, his ears bopped. Was this really enough? Maybe it wasn't. He had to take everything a step further.

Small hat slapped over his lobes, the shop owner sifted through the undesirable clothing drawer. Boring as ever denim dress upon him, the chimera could barely recognize himself. Who was this dull, boring girl staring at him in the mirror? Was this disguise even good enough? Maybe it wasn't. But, what else could he do, really? Wearing colored contacts was out of the question, for sure.

Door soon opening, the chimera's Bangboo pal tilted their little head. Wisty making a lot of noises one after another, the hyena shook his head. He didn't blame his mechanical pal for not recognizing him. Reaching for a scrap of paper he had begun scribbling away. Writing down, good morning, Wisty. No need to be alarmed, it's just me, the chimera wondered if that had been enough. Adding, Vidame, Aigre and I are heading to Blazewood today. You remember, right? Placing the sheet down into their mechanical hands, they soon nodded.

<I remember, Siorc,> Wisty said in their own language. <Aigre has a message for you! 'She says, look at the group chat right now!'>

Demand coming out his way, the chimera rolled his eyes off towards the ceiling. Here Aigre goes again, making demands of him. Who was the leader of this gang again, he was. The nerve of this woman constantly thinking she's the boss of him. Why were they friends again? He didn't know, that was for sure.

Reaching for his phone, the digital creature had soon been unlocked. Multiple unread messages awaiting him, the hyena let out a groan. Did Aigre know the meaning of quiet? How tiresome, she never knew when to keep her mouth or fingers shut. How typical of her. Group chat opened up, he knew all that would await him were complaints.

{Operation Escape}

{Aigre}
{Ugh, is Siorc awake yet? I can't believe he's still sleeping at a time like this! He remembers what we're doing today, doesn't he? I bet he up and forgot what we decided on! That's typical of him though, I guess! He never listens to me! I told him to wake up at four o'clock, and what time is it? Four thirty! We have to be on the road soon, you know! And yet, he's still asleep!

{Vidame}
{Aigre, maybe he's still putting on his disguise.}

{Aigre}
{And, take this long to put it on?! He should have been done in fifteen, no ten minutes! How long could it possibly take to put on a wig! It takes five minutes! Five! We need to get to Blazewood before the sun rises if he wants to avoid a certain biker! I swear, he can never get ready for anything!}

{Vidame}
{Look who is talking. Sometimes, you take a whole hour to get ready in the morning, and you text me, 'sorry, I'm going to be a little late today!' You know how many times you've texted me this, Aigre? At least fifteen times now. But, I don't blame you, patience isn't something you seem to have. Maybe he's putting on some makeup.}

{Aigre}
{Makeup for what?! It's not like he needs it to look more feminine, or anything!}

{Vidame}
{Either way, I ask you to be a little patient, alright? Besides, it could be entirely possible they're not here. I've heard a rumor the ponies have been busy with their side ponies lately, or something.}

<Siorc is typing...>

{Aigre}
{Took you long enough, Siorc! What's taking you so long to get ready?}

{Siorc}
{I was concealing my blemishes.}

{Aigre}
{What blemishes?! That took you thirty minutes?! We have to get out of here, you know! I'm waiting outside Vidame's home, and you're not even here yet! We have to get out of here as soon as possible, you know! But, you don't seem to understand that! I can't believe you!}

{Siorc}
{I'm leaving right now, alright? Calm down.}

{Aigre}
{I will not calm down! You're late!}

{Vidame}
{Aigre, just drop it, alright? He said he's coming.}


{Aigre}
{Ugh, whatever! But, you'd better get here fast before the sun rises!}

-This is the most recent message.-

Closing his phone, the chimera let out a tired sigh. Did Aigre ever know when to keep quiet? She was always finding something to be annoyed about. Exiting his home, a fat sign had been put on the front door on the door that read, We're Moving Temporarily, Follow Us To A Little Town in the Outer Rings if you want to find us. Wisty leapt into his handbag.

Heading into the parking lot, the hyena slammed the rust bucket's door from behind him. Engine struggling to start, for a moment the hyena slapped the steering wheel. This old little sedan was going to become a useless husk of nothing sooner than he thought. He needed to get it repaired as soon as possible when he came back to the streets.

Feeble vehicle finally starting up, the chimera headed upon the quiet dirt road path. Long alleyway pushed through, a familiar, yet barely recognizable place awaited him. Vidame's info broker home staring at him like always, the chimera stepped right in like it was his second home. Girls waiting on the couch watching the news, he could already feel multiple annoyances ready to rip his ear off.

"Those are the blemishes you were talking about?!" Aigre asked, tone annoyed. She pointed at his face as she said such. "Why go to so much effort to hide them? Who's gonna care?"

Aigre adorning an obnoxiously bright half pink, half purple short spiky wig, the chimera slapped his hyena paw on his forehead. Like she's one to talk right now. She was wearing the most ridiculous disguise out of the three of them. Vidame wearing a long black wig, he reached for a slip of paper once more. Writing down, I care, Aigre. We all have to look as different from ourselves as possible, he tried to not comment on her ridiculous wig. Adding, but let's get a move on already. We don't have time to sit around, after all. Turning towards Vidame one last line had been added. Words reading, Vidame, is your remote proxy vehicle ready? He turned the paper around.

"Yes, it's ready," Vidame responded, nodded. "But, let me ask you something before we go. Are you sure about this?"

Nodding, he could hear multiple warnings coming his way. Aigre adding in that the Inferno Punishers could be around today, the hyena tried to not laugh. Those side ponies, he sees. If they were in Blazewood, he would just ignore them. They had nothing on him, after all. It's not like they'd know who he was, in this disguise. Vidame pumping the brakes, a long journey was ahead of the party of three. Gazing out the window as the city was left behind, he stared off into space.

It was time to get knocking. New business opportunities awaited.

***

"To be honest, I really don't think going to Blazewood is a good idea, but
Of course, as usual, Siorc isn't listening to me!

Bet he's going to run into his old foes from his past!
Listen, I know
A lot of stuff happened between him, Yinlong, Loba and his sister, but I'm not going to tell you anything about that, stalker. Nothing, nada,
Zilch. Why are you
Even here anyway, huh?
What are you doing
Over here, anyway?
Oh, come on, it's not like you're going to Blazewood.
Don't follow us around, alright?!

Whatever, he's walking right into the Inferno Punisher's trap. I don't
Even understand him! I

Get he took it seriously when I told him to lie even lower, but I didn't mean leave the streets,
Okay?! Sometimes I wonder if he

Takes these extremes to make me mad?
I'm sure he's just doing it to
Make me mad!
Eh, whatever, he's always doing that, anyway!

For the love of, what did you just say? Why am I friend with him, then?
Oh, for the love of--. Just because I get
Really annoyed at him, doesn't mean I despise him, or anything! He doesn't either, okay?

But, whatever, this will not go well, I'm sure of it!
Ugh, you know, this is going to go
South pretty quickly. The
Inferno Punishers live here! They live here!
Not only that, they often do bike races with the Sons of Calydon who also, like, hello, happen to live here!
Eh, whatever, Siorc doesn't use his brain!
So, what was I expecting?
Stupid, stupid, stupid! He's so stupid sometimes!"

Reaching a western town far into the Outer Ring after hours of driving, the chimera swore he could see a tumbleweed blaze on through. Finding a cheese restaurant in the corner, something felt rather strange about the place, but he couldn't make out what. Getting out of the van, the shop owner looked around for a bit. Spotting a blond haired girl by a truck and a woman with long green hair, he reached for his phone. Who were these people again? He swore he had seen them countless times before. But, before he could look them up, the petit blond lady by the truck turned towards him.

"Hello there, haven't seen you 'round these parts before," the blonde girl said. "What brings you to Blazewood, youngin'?"

Girl that clearly looked much younger than him calling him a youngster, the chimera could not help but feel weirded out. Was this some sort of Blazewood lingo, or something? Wisty shaking in his handbag, a notepad had been handed to him. Writing down, we are a travelling flower shop, and we will be selling our products here for a few weeks. Please, don't mind us, he swore he could feel eyes size him up, for a moment.

"A travelling flower shop, aye?" the green haired lady asked. "Don't think I've ever heard of anything like that in the city."

Suspicious voice coming his way, the hyena broke into a sweat. Oh, great, was he already caught purple handed? What could he say to pry these eyes off him? Writing down, we don't advertise ourselves on the net. He knew that would not convince them. Great, the ponies were definitely going to come, and shortly.

"Ah, I see! You folks should spread the word 'bout your business more!" the green haired lady cried. "Good luck!"

Heading to the bottom floor, the chimera puffed a sigh of relief. At least, for now, they weren't suspicious, he supposed. Van set up on the bottom floor, the cat officer was nowhere to be seen seeing such, the second relief had flowed through him. Good, no annoying pests were here. Small flower cart set up, and proxy car hidden in the corner, Veiled Whisper West Edition had been set up.

But, for a few days on end, not a single customer came. Multiple tumbleweeds flowing on through, the chimera could not help but feel confused. Where were his clients, his precious Dennies? He was losing moola here! Putting an anonymous message up on the Interknot about a 'rumor' that the Veiled Whisper had moved to Blazewood, he could feel the money swipe away even further.

However, all would soon change, on the fifth day out in Blazewood. Familiar faces dropping by, the chimera smirked from ear to ear. There they were, precious, precious customers! How he longed for their dennies. How did they take so long to find their temporary operations? Maybe this wasn't such a good idea after all.

"Geez, I can't believe you guys came all the way out to this little dump," the customer said. "We've been looking everywhere for you, ya know! We're looking to buy some yellow spider lilies from ya! Your finest batch!"

Secret codeword said, the hyena's eyes practically glowed. They needed them to take out someone holding dangerous goods? Excellent, wonderful, count him in. Load on the dennies! Writing down, who do you need us to take out? He tried to keep himself together, professionalism, Siorc! Adding, and what would you like us to get for you? He rubbed his hyena paws together. Beautiful, he's going to be the richest hyena around after this!

"You know those stupid little bikers, the Inferno Punishers?" the customer asked. "Those dumb gazelles ceased our goods! Get 'em back for us, and we'll pay you five million, how does that sound?"

Five million price tag coming his way, the hyena could feel himself about ready to float onto the ninth cloud in the sky. Five million smackaroos? What kind of hithyena would he be if he refused? Nodding, inquiries about where the hollow was had come the customer's way at full speed. Give him the money!

"You're in luck, it's in Blazewood!" the customer cried. "It's by the racetrack! I'd hurry if I were you! Those good for nothin' side ponies might come back to their home!"

"You heard the man, Siorc, we have to hurry!" Aigre cried. She then turned towards Vidame. "Vidame, will you be able to reach us in the hollow from here?"

"Yes, I can," Vidame responded. "But, I might not be able to help you with Wisty." As she said such, she reached into her bag. "Take Magnolia with you."

Bangboo with a Magnolia petals on it, the party of two dashed off towards the top floor of Blazewood. Speeding off towards the racetrack, a large hollow soon awaited them. Leaping right in, the chimera prepared himself. Sweet, sweet, moola, he's going to get that five million, and he's going to swim in it when he gets home!

Strange, complicated hollow with large tumbleweeds and hundreds of obstacles everywhere, the chimera reached for his bag. Ah, great, this was another one of those hollows with objects to destroy everywhere. Yet another obstacle he had to take care of. Blade out in front of him, he slashed away, but a shout had soon bathed him deep.

"For the love of, Siorc, I'll destroy the obstacles!" Aigre cried. "You focus on getting the goods back!" As she said such, Magnolia powered on.

<Siorc, Aigre, are you inside the hollow?> Vidame's voice asked through the Bangboo. <I need you two to be very careful! I'm detecting a third bio signal inside there!>

Hearing such, the chimera's eyes opened wide. There was a third person in here? No, they were back, weren't they? No, why was that traitor here? He needed to make this job quick so they didn't see him. There's no way they wouldn't see through his disguise. They knew his breathing patterns, they knew everything. Everything blown up, and multiple Ethereals destroyed one after another, he could hear an annoying group up ahead.

Orange haired gazelle duo holding the goods, the young adult reached for his bag. These stupid pests, who did they think they are deciding what was and wasn't dangerous? Not on his watch, they didn't! They were getting a nice little smoky surprise from a good old, ghost flower. Eyes on him, hips were placed on the side stupid fawn people's sides.

"Would you look at that?" Damla asked. "The hyena rat is in disguise." They rolled their eyes as they said such. "Going to have to be more sneaky than that. You really think we can't tell who you are? You forgot to hide a few things."

"Should have hid your tail," Firat said. "Tch, you think we're going to just give you this dangerous contraband because you disguised yourself? Not happening."

Stupid side ponies yammering his ear off, the hyena caressed the ghost flower. These dumb little bikers, playing cop. Did they think he was scared of them? They had another thing coming. Time to teach them a little lesson for messing with their client's precious things. Smoking explosive tossed on the wind, the dumb little fawn's eyes opened wide.

"He's got a bomb," Damla said. "Firat, we have to-." Boom, but before she could finish that sentence, a little birdie had become one with their chest. "--Get out of the way."

Gazelle soon frazzled, the shop owner let out a giggle. That would teach these weakling who was the strongest hithyena in town. Second ghost flower tossed, the first obstacle had taken out of the picture. Masculine fawn twitching like a leaf, a twisted smile soon appeared on the gang leader's face. They're going next, stupid side pony.

"You know these goods you're trying to take back from us, are dangerous, right?" Firat asked with a sigh. "Stop trying to-." But, before they could finish that sentence, boom, off with their chest. Feeble pest dropping down, they whimpered. "-Interrupt our work of getting rid of it."

Stupid side cops becoming one with the ground, the hyena reached for the so called contraband. Aigre and tiny Bangboo running towards him, he heard something he did not expect, in a matter of moments. Shouts about a huge ethereal deeper in the hollow bathing him deep, the little flower showed him the way.

"It's a huge motorbike!" Aigre cried. But, as she said such, familiar footsteps ruined everything. "Siorc, we have to hurry, they're coming!"

Blade in the palm of his paws, the chimera slashed away with all his might. Ethereal losing its life faster as the seconds unraveled, he soon tagged Aigre in. Creature stunned after a few strikes of her guppy tail, two rounds of lightning were ready to deal the final blow, but something of further annoyance soon happened.

Creature shaking everything off, the chimera could hardly believe his eyes. This thing, did it intend to stand in his way? How annoying. Cracking his paw knuckles, the young adult let out a screech he needed to hurry and get this thing out of here. Right here, right now. Time was awasting. Magnolia Bangboo joining the battle, the bike soon sang its last hurrah.

Hollow soon crumbling around them, the chimera made a run for it. Hearing a familiar bike, the leaps and bounds grew faster. They were coming, they were coming, he had to get out of here, and fast. Returning to home base after what felt like five seconds, the goods had been returned in no time flat. Clients faces beaming like a holiday tree, he could feel his pockets ready to melt.

"Excellent, you got the goods back to us!" the client cried. "As promised, here's the five million dennies!"

Suitcase with loads of shiny, beautiful coins coming his way, the chimera practically drooled. Sweet, sweet moola, come to momma. Dividing the reward between the three of them, the time to leave Blazewood behind had come. They were coming. Vidame driving off through the streets, the chimera stared out the window. Motorcycle noises quieting down, a puff of relief flowed through him.

But, upon returning to his abode, a surprise guest awaited him. Those panda ears, that bikers jacket, he remembered it anywhere. Heart beating hard and fast in his chest, his palms grew sweaty. No, what were they doing here? Why were they in veiled whisper? How did they get here so fast? How dare this traitor think they could come in here like this?

"You, why did you come to Blazewood?!" Yinlong cried, pointing. "Stay away from my home, traitor!"

Thoughts boomeranged back towards him, the chimera held in the urge to laugh. Excuse him, traitor? Who did they think they were using that word against him? They were the ones that lied, turned on him. Past demons flashing through his mind of that moment, the chimera let out a scream. He was the traitor, as if, don't make him laugh.

"Have nothing to say to me?! Figures you wouldn't!" Yinlong cried. "I've heard all you've been up to, and you disgust me!" As they said such, rage built in their voice. "Maybe it's a good thing we blamed it on you in a panic like that."

Past coming on full blast, the hyena could feel his knees shake one after another. Palms shaking, nothing came out of his mouth. How could they remind him of that incident? Who did they think they were? Turning his back, he tried to wash his paws of it all it. Panda feet stomping on out, a paper had been tossed his way. Words reading, this establishment is on the Inferno Punisher Watchlist, the hyena dashed upwards towards his room.

Door slammed behind him, the chimera crumpled the paper up. Memories of the past flashing through his head, he let out a scream into his pillow. Why did that traitor have to bring that up? Warnings crawling through his mind like little ants on an anthill, he slumped his head onto his messy covers.

Aigre's reminders floating through him, he could feel himself fall apart. He should have listened to Aigre, he should have listened to Vidame. He shouldn't have gone to Blazewood. He shouldn't have entered their territory. Why didn't he listen? This was all his fault. Further flashes from time long gone pushing on through, the gang leader through the pillow across the room.

Huffing and puffing, the hyena threw the wig across the room. This disguise didn't do anything. He should have found a way to hide his tail. Rash decisions flying through his mind, he could feel the demons within him grow stronger. He had to get out of here and go somewhere far away. Somewhere no one would ever think to look for him.

Door locked, the hyena crawled into his bed. Pillow covered his face, he repeated such over and over again as the sleep world was ready to call him back in. He needed to start planning an escape. Somewhere those ponies would never find him. Aigre, Vidame, he couldn't let them in on this either. He had to get out of here, he had to leave this place before redacted were to come.

Feeling his energy drain, the thoughts repeated one final time. He had to get out of here, he had to plan a new escape. Get out of here, somewhere far away. A place no one would look for him. But, where? He didn't know. But, such thoughts had soon died as the land of sleep came from him from behind. Zes all caught, one final thought had reached the climax.

He had to get away from here, at all costs.

---

So, after this, there's another anthology with Maid in Heaven. Oh, man, things are getting interesting...

 

[Palamon]

Maid In Heaven, The Biker Queens

---

"Hello there, my name is Domini, and, huh? Oh, it's you that stalker always following
Every single chimera around
Like it's their job, or something.
Look, I'm not going to mince my words here, you should? Probably stop doing that. I don't think you know what might happen to you, but it
Obviously won't end well if you keep going up into our business like

This, but, I guess you don't care what ever
Happens to you, anyway, since you're all up here in my business now. Alright, so, what is it? Tell me what you want. Since you're here in
Everyone's faces. So, is it my turn to be watched? You
Really need to stop doing that, alright?
Every single one of us here, that is all chimeras of all kinds does not want to be watched.

I'm not even a leader, I'm just

A maid who is dragged into
My boss's shenanigans all the time. Lately, he's been watching a lot of

Drag race movies and wearing a low cut racer outfit for the theme
Of the month, and I
Must say, I'm not a fan
I have to slip raw chicken into a bra he gave me, I do
Not get it.
I don't get what boss sees in performing drag. I suppose I

Am androgynous enough, and can pull off looking womanly, but it's
Not like I enjoy this. I don't
Despise it, or anything,

But I don't get a thrill
Out of it like boss does.
Since I'm sure you're going to ask newbie, I'll tell you what's been up with us lately.
So, yeah, well, first off, boss is currently addicted to the idea of being a hot motorcycle babe in drag, or something.

Why? I don't have
A clue, he's on another planet.
Now, at present, it would seem
That he's been trying to get his biking licence, and I have nothing to
Say in regards to that. What about me? I am being dragged down into all this, too, I guess? He told us a few weeks ago, 'better get comfortable with your new motorcycle I bought the two of you, because this months theme is biker chick!'

Uh, so, that's what's been happening to me lately. I've been forced into the motorcycle
Space. I have honestly never been all

That interested in a need for speed. But,
Of course, boss is. And, I am just not sure anything that ever goes through that head of his, pretty much at all.

Guess he has his reasons for this. But, lately we have gotten anything related to Hollow Investigation. I think everyone has gone to that hit service,
Or the Drill Dozers. I don't know, if I knew any of

That, I would have said something to boss, but simply put, things have been going pretty slow lately around here.
Our business is busting, if you will. And, honestly, there's nothing I can do about

That. There's so many people a person can go to to have a
Hollow eliminated. Not just chimeras, even, there's an
Especially long this of other people who have a Hollow Investigators Licence that people would flock

Over to in pretty much a heartbeat. I know that hit person service
Ultimately gets the most requests out of all
The chimeras amongst us, but
Even still, we're not the only ones who deal with the Hollows.
Regardless of who the normal everyman goes to, I already know it's just a competition between us all. Human, chimera, thiren, none of that

Really matters. However, boss
Is panicking, he is thinking he
Needs to do something drastic in order to
Get traffic back to us

And get our customers back. And, of course, I don't blame him,
Newbie, we all need
Dennies to live. Of course, I know that money is important until the

Day I die, I'll need dennies to support myself. So, it a little frustrating we're not getting any clients.
Uh, so, my boss is about to
Especially take drastic measures, but
Let's hope he doesn't go ahead and

Take violent drastic measures. Do I
Have any faith he won't restore to violence?
Eh, no. I don't have any faith

In that he won't do that. I don't have any faith at all. It's
Not like he is a violent person or anything, but lately, I do
Feel as though he's changed. Or maybe I'm just being paranoid.
Err, whatever, point is, I
Really have absolutely
No idea what he's thinking about.
Okay, so, as I've already said, he expects us, as in

Peltro and I, to master the motorbike, and
Uh, can I just say? I have
No intention to master
It. I'm thinking he's going to have us join
Some motor race at the end of the week. Do I
Have any proof? Yes. I have
Every single morsel of proof
Right here, newbie.
So, listen to what I have to say.

For one thing, I think he wants to get revenge on the Inferno Punishers from our last squabble with them,
Or something. They, well, how do I say this without coming off as looking
Rather terrified? I don't think I can do that, actually, nope. I truly doubt it's possible. Just thinking about them is making me feel extremely

Shaky. Well, nothing can be done about that, because they're terrifying. What's the hold up, just say it? Newbie, shut up, please, I'm gonna to it.
Okay, so I'll start by saying, they're part of P.O.N.E.C. Which, I'm certain you're aware they're the defense force affiliated with those cops, don't you? I'm aware you already met them, they're always around.
Maybe they're even more active in the scene than the ponies are, or maybe I'm wrong about that, it's truly difficult to say. But, still,
Even so, they're just as dangerous and on the prowl as the ponies are, worse yet, they're a biker gang. They live in the Outer

Ring, which is just outside New
Eridu. But, it doesn't end there. Of course it doesn't, newbie. I hear they're pretty resilient and quick to take people out,
And they always win a bike race, they're unmatched. I just cannot understand why boss wants to face them. He
Stands pretty much no chance
Of winning against them pretty much at all. So, to be perfectly honest, I have no clue at all why he doesn't just drop this entire thing. We're
Not going to beat the side ponies in a bike race. I have heard

That they prioritize being a biker gang
Over being a cop, so we're going to lose,

But boss doesn't care, I don't think it matters to him.
Eh, well? To be perfectly honest, boss never listens to me. Also,

He always illegally speeds. And
Of course, he plays the hot bimbo card and
Never gets in trouble, it's
Especially a mystery to me how
So many cops fall for
The, 'I'm such a silly bimbo!' shtick.

I don't understand, he's

Always doing it, but
Maybe I shouldn't bother. I'll

Never understand. Well,
Oh, well. Once we lose
To the Inferno Punishers, I'm certain

Our reputation will go down the gutter and we'll
Never recover from our loss to them. I mean, why would we? They're top class

Bikers, and we are simply just beginners completely new to this scene. I don't think we stand a chance at all. This revenge he's seeking is pointless.
Of course, I'm not going to say that, I think I'll likely get fired should I tell boss how it is, so I will keep that
All to myself, and not say a word about it. Ugh, newbie, did you just say to tell him what's on my mind, anyway? You, honestly, you
Really have no understanding of how things work around here at all,
Do you? I don't think you do, you really are just uttering nonsense just because to throw me off. If that's what you're doing, that's just

Wrong. Please, do not do that, you know, newbie,
I really just don't get you. You're always stalking us, and acting like you don't know anything.
That's weird, you know that?
How can you act so ignorant all the

Time? It really isn't cute at all, if you enjoy pretending to be dumb, it's really annoying. So, please,
Halt that behavior of yours. It's not going to have people bow down to you.
Ah, what? That's not it?
Then, tell me what it is. Huh? You went silent. Honestly, forget it. You're always quiet about yourself. So, anyway, let me start by saying

That I am just so tired of boss's
Horrible ideas I don't know why he's
Even interested in this bike race, and I try to never question anything he wants to do,
You know? Because boss knows best, even though, let's be
Real here, he doesn't know best at all.
Eh, what did you just say to me? Tell you something besides the biker nonsense?

Please, tell me you're joking?
Ah, whatever, fine, since you
Really want to know, fine, I'll just
Tell you what is up in my world, too,

Okay? Not much, though, just my annoying
Former cousins pestering me for money. And, they keep on

Pestering me. I swore I blocked their number, but
Of course, as usual, they got a
New number to try and
Evade the fact I blocked every single one of them. I
Can't stand these people. Why do they go to such lengths to try and get money out of me?

It's always that annoying pest Earl, sometimes Baron, Malika, and occasionally Marquis and Esquire, but I've blocked all of

Them, but the cycle continues.
Hmm, what about Vidame?
I think you know the answer to that,
No? She's loaded. I
Know you're aware of

What she does. She's an information broker,
Everyone knows that already. So, you should

Stop pretending like you don't know anything because it's infuriating.
Hmm, whatever, newbie, it's pretty
Obvious to me you're a lost cause,
Ugh, why am even
Letting you lurk around here? I
Don't know why I'm even letting you lurk in this place.

You know what? This is the last thing I'll tell you, then you're
Out of here, do you
Understand? Out of here. I

Know you're going to lie and pretend you're lost, but I'm
Not playing this game with you anymore,
Okay? So, this is the last thing I
Will be telling you before I kick you out the door. Yes, we'll

Be joining that bike race, I guess. I don't have any interest, not
Even a little, but what boss says goes.

Ah, well, we're going to lose and be
Very humiliated and it'll be
Our boss's fault,
If our credibility will be shot
Down the gutter, that's not my fault.
I know that's how things are.
Now, I have told you everything, so
Get out, leave, or I'll

Take you out the back and--
Hah, well, they're gone now.
Eh. Like I said, I

Can't say I am interested in any shape
Or form in boss's current affairs, he's
Pretty much always dragging Peltro and I along into his
Shenanigans and

We just can never say anything about it. I cannot get myself fired, so I
Have to keep
All of my complaints
To myself, that's simply how
Everything works around here. I'm
Very much used to all that.
Even so, I have to compete in the
Race. I know all that by now. What

He says, goes. There's no
Ifs ands or buts about it.
So, here I go, once again, being

Lead down a path of chaos
Over and over again. It never
Stops, never will, and I know it'll
Start to get worse from here. Always does."

About a month or so had passed since Maid An Impact had won the second round of the Hollow Competition. Not much had really happened since then. Business busting, not a single customer had come through the doors to as for Hollows to be eliminated, in any capacity. Nothing but normal, boring everyman patrons coming for their daily tea, almost nothing of value was gained.

Boss getting tired of the monotonous nothing, something rather unusual had soon been announced at the beginning of the month. New theme chosen of motorcycle chicks, the three maids were tasked with a rather ridiculous mission only one of the three enjoyed in any shape or form whatsoever.

Tasked with earning a motorbike license for some revenge scheme against the Inferno Punishers, a lot of new tricks were learned for the usefulness of no one. License to drive gained on the last day, a predictable proposal had come out of the head maid's lips. Signed up for the next biker racing competition in the Outer Ring, uncertainty about what's to come flowed through two of the three members.

Starlight Knight theme song playing multiple times in succession for about thirty seconds, a high pitched tenor voice let out a groan. Who was texting him so many times this early in the morning? Was it his boss? How annoying. Lifted up from the covers, the man reached for his phone. Facial lock in front of him, the screen undid the lock.

Banner reading thirty unread messages, a groan released itself from the throat. Who could have possibly sent this many? It couldn't have possibly been boss, nor Peltro, the two of them slept until ten. Digital clock reading eight colon zero zero, the man opened up his camera app. Whoever it may have been who had been bothering him could wait.

Staring at the camera had been a short, androgynous male with short golden hair that went down to about his ears with a chaotic spikiness to it. Bright orange eyes bright as fire, the man's penguin crests were a mess. Sighing, he reached for a tiny metallic bristled comb. Stroking away, the ends stuck up like wildfire. Twitching, he let out a groan. Ah, great, he was a mess.

Putting the phone down, the penguin man's brush did its bidding. Locks continuing to get messier and messier, he threw the useless object down. Maybe he should shave his head. But, he knew his boss would fire him immediately if he walked in bald. Of course he can't do that. Especially not now. The biker race was today.

Realization washing over him, the penguin man flinched. Wait, that was today? It was happening already? Time was moving by too quickly. Starlight Knight theme song blast multiple times in thirty seconds, the penguin let out a groan. Arg, why were people still blowing his phone up? Who could possibly want him this early in the morning? Reaching for the device again, something annoying awaited him.

{You have forty unread messages.}

{Unknown}
{Yew, yeah, yew, Domini, gibbe munney.}

Horrible spelling mistakes gracing his eyes, Domini let out a groan. Oh, great, Malika got a new number to contact him about Dennies again. He could have sworn by now he had blocked every single one of her numbers she could contact him on. Why did she think getting another number would be any different? No way was he giving his ex-cousin a single coin. But, maybe he could give her one big last sixth letter and twenty first letter of the alphabet before hitting the big old cut off contact button once again. Fingers fluttering over the text box, he readied the blow.

{Domini}
{Oh, dearest cousin, whatever do you need my money for? Don't you make plenty of money on those rooster fights you're always doing in that good old little fight club of yours? That would make you rich, I'm sure! No need to buy yet another burner phone to get around a block! You sure are desperate, you know that?}

{Unknown}
{Gawd, come on now I juzt need a teeny tiny liddle bit of denniez. Can't we put aside owr differnzes for a today? I'll neva ask yew for munney again! Pweeze dearest cuzin. Just thiz onze be nize to me? I'll pay yew back, no, I'll gibe yew twipple back if yew just spot me dis onze. That's all I azk!}

{Domini}
{No. Why don't you learn how to spell before asking me for money? Money of which I don't have, by the way. You think I make a lot of money with my maid in drag job? You have another thing coming. I don't even have enough dennies to afford nice clothes, so why would I give you, someone I want no contact with whatsoever, any money? Forget it. I'm blocking this number, too, bye.}

<Would you like to block this number?>
|Yes.|
<Number will no longer be able to contact you.>

{Spam Likely}
{Congratulations, you won a new car! Just fill in this form with your information and we'll mail it to you!}

|Delete.|
<Would you like to delete this message? It will only be deleted for you.>
|Yes.|

{Unknown}
{Domini, you know you still owe me sixty two thousand dennies. Just because you cut us all off doesn't change the fact you still have to pay me back. You think blocking us all is going to stop us from trying to contact you, well, you're wrong. Hand over the dennies you owe Marquis and I from that time we spotted you!}

{Domini}
{No, Esquire. By the way, we're going to beat your stupid gang in the biker competition. And, if we win the monetary prize, neither of you are getting a cut from it. Bye.}

<Would you like to block this number?>
|Yes.|
<Number will no longer be able to contact you.>

{Unknown}
{I heard you got a motorbike license? How stupid can you be? How can you afford it when you owe Malika and I so much money? I knew it, you can afford to pay us back then, can't you? Stop acting like you're poor all the time, and hurry up and pay us back for the countless times we spotted your so called proclaimed poorness. Yeah, right, as if you're poor. Liar.}

{Domini}
{For Twilight Knight's Sake, that was five years ago, Baron. Five years ago. I don't have the kind of money you're asking for to pay you back, alright? Business has been slow lately. Also, my boss paid for my license. So, surprise, surprise, I don't have anything to give to you. So, you can shove this message right back where you sent it. I have nothing left to ever give you. Goodbye.}

<Would you like to block this number?>
|Yes.|
<Number will no longer be able to contact you.>

{Unknown}
{Yo wassup my little man?}

{Domini}
{I'm not dealing with you, Earl. Bye.}

Closing his phone for a minute, Domini let out a groan. Why did all of his ex-cousins think it was a grand idea to try and contact him to beg him for money. Like, hello? He doesn't have any. There's been barely any customers lately. Further spam messages thrown out the window, he could see one rather peculiar message with the subject line, Royal Penguin Information Broker Services. Seeing such, he almost wanted to crack his phone screen. Oh, great. Vidame, too? What did she want? He could have sworn he blocked her business number, too.

{Royal Penguin Information Broker Services}
{Look, Domini, I know you don't want to have any contact with me whatsoever, but this is really important. Sorry, I don't know who else to ask. But, have you seen a purple haired feminine person with hyena ears around anywhere? Please, it's very important.}

{Domini}
{No. Should I have? Why are you contacting me through your business number? Don't you have more important things to do, such as you know, doing your stupid job as an information broker? If this is you asking for money, you can forget it. First of all, I'm broke. Second, you make triple, no, probably quintuple of what I make in a year.}

{Royal Penguin Information Broker Services}
{That's not why I'm contacting you. Please, Domini, this is really important. I haven't heard from my friend in some time now. He's left Aigre on read. You remember Aigre, right from the academy? So, just answer my question, alright? Have you seen a person with short purple hair and hyena ears? I'm worried he might have gone missing.}

{Domini}
{I don't care about your friends, alright? Maybe that person ran away from you because you made them upset. I'm not getting involved, understand? Deal with your own problems. We are not family anymore. Go back to scamming people out of their money for information they already know. Goodbye.}

Every other message cleared out, Domini slipped on his biker uniform instructions in his pocket reading, make sure to slip on the chicken cutlets bra I gave you, a stupid little heart had been written at the very end. Groaning, he dashed into his dirty kitchen. Even this theme involved drag in some way. Was his boss just doing this because he enjoyed it more than he was willing to admit? Probably. Nibbling on a piece of beef jerky, he returned to the bedroom.

Stupid, food named false breasts slipped on, Domini held in another groan. Just what did boss enjoy about all this? He certainly didn't know, that's for sure. But, it was better to not complain about such things, anyway, or he would lose his job. Just grin and bear it. He was Dana, after all. He didn't have the guts to say his opinion on the matter, anyway.

Hearing a loud honk at the door Domini could feel every single hair on his head stick up. Who was making such a racket this early in the morning?! Reaching for his biker helmet, he bolted towards the door, but whom awaited him at the entrance was quite the unwanted surprise, quintuplefold.

"Boss, what are you doing here so early?" Domini asked. "It's only eight-thirty!"

"Didn't you read the work group chat at all?" Eclater asked. "I told you I was coming to get you early today!"

"Sorry, I was busy reading through annoying unwanted messages from my ex-family," Domini responded.

"Ignore them! I'm more important!" There was an irritated tone in his voice.

"There was a lot of spam, too." Domini turned away as he said such.

"Doesn't your smartphone have a spam filter?!" Eclater asked, tone getting even further annoyed. "At least use it!"

"This old thing? No way. It can barely run a webpage without crashing half the time." Domini rolled his eyes as he said such.

"After we win today, you have to get a new phone that actually works for more than just texting!" Eclater cried. "Whatever. Let's go pick up Patricia!"

Boss speeding on his motorcycle as usual, Domini lagged behind. As usual, no matter what vehicle he was on, boss never obeyed the traffic rules. But, what was he expecting, anyway? Not much, he supposed. Third member of the maids soon retrieved, their motorcycle had been on the road, as well. But, a warning had come boss's way, almost instantly.

"Boss, I would like to remind you that you cannot win today's competition speeding at illegal kilometers per hour," Peltro said in a serious tone. "Just, do this fair and square, that's all I'm asking."

"Don't tell me what to do, Patricia! I'm the boss today!" Eclater shouted. "Okay, girls, let's go, we're going to the Outer Ring! I'll get revenge on that stupid panda yet!"

Boss speeding off as usual, the party of two attempted to catch up to him. No cops anywhere in sight, Domini could not help but feel suspicious. Why wasn't Pub Sec here? How weird, but maybe boss just bribed them off, or something. That was definitely something he'd do. Of course, he would. He'd do anything to avoid that lot. But, it would only get him so far. Entrance towards the Outer Ring ready and waiting, Domini took a deep breath as the gates were ready.

It's race day.

***

"Well, I'm going to just go ahead and say it. Honestly, I don't
Have any interest in this biker race with all these biker gangs.
You know, the only reason I agreed at

All is because boss told
Me if we win, he'll give Peltro and I a big fat raise.

I'm certain that boss is very more likely than not going to try to win by speeding to the highest possible velocity his motorbike will

Even allow. Ugh, stalker, what do you want? I thought I made it
Very clear that I do not want you to
Ever come near me,
Nor the other maids. You

Really love pushing everyone's buttons, don't you?
At least find somewhere I
Can't see you if you're going to stalk me.
I can't believe you. You truly do
Not get this. I'm really trying to understand what you want. Just,
Go away already, alright?

At least stop spying on me. I have
Nothing interesting to provide for
You. Boss is going to probably cheat in this race.
What else is there to even say
About that? He's going to cheat, and
You're going to be disappointed

In just how much a loser

He can really be.
Ah, what I should say that about boss? I
Very much can, and I very much will.
Eh, so can it, will you? I have

No idea what your problem is,
Or why you keep stalking us, but

It's really annoying. And, I have
No idea what you even want from us.
This is going to be a biker race. And, nothing more.
Everyone in the Outer
Ring is taking this challenge, and
Everyone at this point
Should know that boss doesn't obey traffic laws.
That's how it's always been since he got his license, and

It baffles me that his license hasn't been revoked by now.
Not a single cop is doing their job properly. And, I swear

That's going to be proven further today after this.
He shouldn't be trusted with a motorbike, either.
I don't know why he wants revenge on the Inferno Punishers so badly, either. Why? What did they even do to him. We were the ones who invaded their territory, not the other way around.
So, I'm pretty puzzled by all of this. I don't care if we win or lose, I don't need a raise. Can't he at least try to ride normally?"

Reaching a boring old town with tumbleweeds everywhere known as Blazewood, a tall man with spiky green hair and sunglasses waited at the center of the area looking all fired up with nowhere to go. Pitch black biker jacket with a boar emblem on it, he could hear boss crack his knuckles. Hearing such, Domini had an epiphany. Ah, he sees, this was the motorbiker at the top of the gang. Probably, what did he know, anyway?

"You maids better prepare yourself," the sunglasses man said. "You're going to lose."

"Says who?" Eclater cried. "We'll humiliate you so hard, you'll never want to bike again!"

"We'll see about that." The man had a serious tone in his voice as he said such.

Everyone on their motorbikes in unison, Domini pondered. Where was this biker competition taking place in the Outer Ring, anyway? He knew it would take place here, but where exactly? Boss didn't tell him anything, so how was he supposed to know? But, as he continued to ride towards the racing area, he could see two pesky vehicles he did not wish to see.

Blazing bikes with multiple flaming stickers on them, Domini almost wanted to stop the motorcycle. Marquis and Esquire, his two ex-cousins. How could he forget these two were members of the Inferno Punishers? Bikes skirting towards him, he tried to avert their gaze. Could someone just bury him in a hole, please? That would be lovely right about now.

"Look who it is, Mr. I Don't Have Any Money!" Marquis cried. "Yeah, right, if you can afford a motorbike you can afford to pay back the dennies you owe us!"

"That's right, Ritchie Rich!" Esquire cried. "Pay up!"

"For the love of fire, could you shut up?" Domini asked, tone annoyed. "First off, boss bought my bike and forced it on me without permission." He turned the handle as he said such, speeding up. "And second, I want nothing to do with either of you, bye."

Speeding towards the racing area, Domini let out a huff. Did his boss forget who was a part of that stupid defense force? His former cousins he wanted nothing to do with. Didn't he ever do any research? He sure didn't. But, of course he didn't. All he cared about was getting revenge on that panda who beat him at his own game.

But, upon reaching the racing area, something wasn't right. Large Hollow swallowing everything up, Domini's eyes opened wide. Uh, hello, excuse him, what was that? Was that where the race was going to happen? What in the world? Who approved this? How was this safe? Sons of Calydon looking ready to go right in, he had so many questions as his ex-cousins had reached the starting line. Panda fiend soon coming, he could see the other two side cops soon join the mix, as well.

"Alright, you all know the drill," Firat said into a loudspeaker. "First faction who reaches the end of the Hollow wins the race."

"And, no illegal speeding," Damla said. "Those who go above the speed limit will be penalized."

"Hear that, my nemesis?!" Yinlong cried from their bike. "Don't speed. You may as well give me the win now!"

"Aren't you so proud of yourself little panda?" Cae--- cried. "Who says you're gonna win?"

"Me." As they said such, they bolted into the hollow.

Everyone going through the hollow. Domini could feel the gas pedal feel rather heavy. Oh, great, of all places for a race to be, it had to be in a hollow. Why? Who set this up? He knew his boss wanted revenge on this Yinlong person, or whatever, but couldn't he have beaten them in some other fashion?

Side cops demanding he head in there, Domini rolled on in. Peculiar race track with dropped oil barrels everywhere, he could feel his motivation start to die. Wait, hold on a second, wasn't this track a little dangerous? There was hazards all over the place. Come on now, who set this up? Whoever did should know people could get hurt here!

Start up whistle blowing, everyone was off to the races, literally. Sons of Calydon already way ahead of him, he could see the oil hazards only begin to get worse, from every angle. Youngest of the members motor vehicle slipping and sliding across the yellow greasy liquid of doom, she had soon become one with the wall.

Ethereals roaring from within the barrels, Domini groaned. Oh, great, there were monsters here, too? Just what he needed right now. Popping a wheelie, his blade had done all the talking. Beasts from who knows where slain multiple people had gotten further ahead. Pumping the breaks, the need for speed threw him for a loop.

Every member of the Sons of Calydon becoming one with the brick walls, Domini gazed at boss and Peltro from up ahead. Racing towards them, he could hear them conversing about something, but what? They weren't saying nasty things about him, were they? Disregarding such, he kept moving forward. Ah, who cares if they were? Coworkers trash talked about one another all the time.

"Took you long enough to catch up!" Eclater cried. "What, you afraid, or something?"

"Afraid of what?" Domini asked sighing.

"Afraid of winning," Peltro said.

"What makes you think I'm afraid of winning, huh?" He held back a gasp.

"Because you're going so slow?" Peltro asked. "Relax, the speed limit is three hundred kilometers per hour. You're fine. You want that raise, don't you?"

"Not really?" But, he could feel the dishonesty bug bite him in the butt.

"Oh, really?" Eclater asked, chipper tone of voice. "Then, I guess I just won't give you one, then since you don't want one.

"I was kidding okay?!" Domini shrieked. "Yes, I want a raise!"

"Then, you'd better help us win this!" He sped up as he said that.

Boss speeding up near the tipping point of the speed limit, Domini pumped the brakes. He was so going to get them all disqualified for speeding, wasn't he? Boss's panda nemesis driving straight over, he swore he could hear a battle cry honk come his way. Hearing such, he skirted off to the other side. Why was he even participating in this race, anyway? This was boss's battle, not his.

"When I win again, you'll be sorry!" Yinlong cried. "The Outer Ring is the Inferno Punisher's territory!"

"Hmph, go back to your little hole and eat your bamboo, stupid panda!" Eclater cried. "When I beat you, that's all you'll be able to afford to eat for months, no, years!"

"We'll see about that!" The side cop sped past the speed limit as they cried such.

Feeling a rather strong force up ahead as he kept racing along, Domini prepared his sword. Oh, lovely, whose idea was it to have a biking race inside a Hollow? Sometimes, he wondered who was in charge of things around here, because his boss sure didn't double check the racing track before he signed him up for all this!

Large doll monster dancing up a storm, Domini prepared himself. Maybe if he defeated this last Ethereal, they would all be declared the winner by default. Besides, that panda, they broke the speed limit, he saw them. Stupid ex-cousins on the battlefield, as well, he cracked his knuckles. They were on the same page as he was, weren't they? Disgusting.

"What are you doing here, Ritchie Rich?" Marquis asked, tone of disgust evident in his voice. "Who said you can attack our Ethereal? If we beat this, we'll kick your sorry butt!"

"That's right, little Richie!" Esquire cried. "Back off! This is our prey, got it?"

Tuning them out, Domini hopped of his motorbike. Back off? Not happening. This was his ethereal now, and they could suck on his toes if he thinks he's going to back down. They weren't even doing any damage on it, like, hello? These two thirty-somethings think they could order all the twenty-somethings arounds just because they were older. Well, too bad, so sad. This was his opponent now.

"Penguin slash!" Domini cried.

Ethereal sliced in two, he could see his ex-cousin's jaws drop open. Seeing such, he sped off. What, were these two so weak they couldn't do anything themselves? Of course they were. How in the world were they side cops again? They had failed as a defense force member twice over. That leader of the ponies should just fire them both. Readying to speed off towards the finish line, he could hear shouts come towards him.

"Ritchie Rich had a sword, can you believe this, Esquire?!" Marquis cried.

"Nope! What a cheat! I didn't even bring a weapon with me! All I had was my penguin charisma!" Esquire cried.

Stupid ex-cousins yapping, Domini revved up the engine. He wasn't about to let his dumb former kin act like he's a cheater. He'll show them, he'll show them all. Speeding on through just right below the speed limit, a ramp soon awaited him, velocity reaching the peak, he let out a screech. Who cares if this is boss's revenge plot? It's his turn to be the main character now! Not like he was in a story, or anything.

Finish line soon reached, the drones soon floated downward. Multiple blinding pictures of him taken, Domini covered his eyes. Ugh, who put those dumb little camera machines in here? Whoever was in charge of the Outer Ring, he wanted a piece of them right here, right now! But, he knew he didn't have the guts to do that. Loudspeaker blaring, a name was screeched.

"And the winner is, Maid An Impact!" the loudspeaker cried. But, a protest had come the loudspeaker's way.

"I don't understand, how?" Yinlong cried. "Who made it to the finish line already?"

"Domini."

"How? Did he break the speed limit?" Yinlong asked in an angry tone.

"No, but you did, Yinlong." The loudspeaker crackled as it said such.

Everyone heading towards the finish line after about ten minutes, Domini stared at his motor vehicle. Come to think of it, how did he reach the finish line first? Did space around him warp, or something? Maybe so, who knows? Panda shaking boss's hand, he swore he could hear the side ponies calling a truce. Squinting, he shook his head. It was that easy, huh? Leaving the Outer Ring behind, the open road had been upon the maid trio.

"You were lying when you said you didn't want a raise weren't you, Domini?" Peltro asked. "You somehow found a shortcut and won the whole thing."

"I really don't need a raise," Domini said. "I didn't even know I found a shortcut!"

"You keep telling yourself that." They sped up ahead as they said such.

Returning to the café, discussions had gone around for a few hours. Boss declaring they had earned themselves a five percent race, Domini rolled his eyes. Oh, boy, lovely, a whole five extra percentage in payments. That would give him a whole lotta nothing! But, he didn't have the guts to say that. Accepting the miserly little nothing, he returned to his home.

Suffocating leather biker outfit ripped off, Domini leapt onto his couch like he hadn't seen it in a thousand years. Starlight Knight playing through the tv speakers, he could feel himself begin to drift off as repeat after repeat played. Thoughts about boss looping on repeat as he almost dozed off, he flinched.

Credits playing, he rubbed his eyes. Ah, when had he drifted off? Maybe it was time for bed. Being a motorcyclist sure was a tiring adventure. He never wanted to do that again, that was for sure. Surfboard Onesie soon on, he scrolled through the news on his phone, for a moment. Missing persons report at the top about a particular person, he shut his phone.

Finding another text message from that former sister of his begging for help to find her friend, Domini shook his head. Why should he help her? She was the one who wronged him. And, if she thought for a second he would ever do anything for her again, she had another thing coming. No way, her friend could get eaten by an Ethereal for all he cares.

Feeling himself about ready to drift off, Domini flopped into his old, creaky bed. Closing his eyes, he could feel himself ready to leave the waking world for the late evening. But, for some reason, he could feel the most unusual of thoughts kick in as the world of three zes had dragged him down into the nightly darkness.

Maybe he'll help his ex-sister find her friend. But, after that, it was over between them again.

Forever.

Goodnight, world, zzz.

---

Next week, it's back to the Flower Silencers. The plot is hinted in this chapter.

 

[Palamon]

The Flower Silencer's Marigold

TW: ATTEMPTED SUICIDE, SELF HARM.

---

"Hello, there, welcome to Royal Penguin Information Broker Services--.
Eh? Oh, it's you, that stalker who is following everyone around! Alright, since you clearly don't understand anything, newbie, I am going to cut to the case here. So, you'd better
Listen, because I am not going to repeat this again. So, either
Listen up before I lose it, newbie.
One, following chimeras around all the time is just a bad look for

You. How many people have told you to cut it
Out? Well, I'll be the next one to say it! Cut it out! Do you know how mental you are, little stalker? Wait a minute, did you just,
Ugh! You just denied it, didn't you? You did, what a freak you are, you know that? You're a

Monster in sheep's clothing! What did you just say to me? You'