A bustling city is seen from above, its streets alive with motion under the glow of city lights. The clock reads 19:31. In the midst of the chaos, a restaurant hums with frantic energy. Orders are shouted, customers demand attention, and chefs work furiously to keep up. It’s rush hour—every restaurant worker’s ultimate challenge.
Outside, away from the clamoring interior, a boy in a zipped-up black jacket, dark grey pants, and black All-Star sneakers stands beside a door. He wears a motorcycle helmet, his posture calm. The sounds of distant cars and barking dogs echo faintly in the background. A faint vibration comes from his pocket. He pulls out his phone, reads the notification on the screen, and then turns to the door. With a small push, he enters the kitchen.
“Daichi-kun, it’s ready to go!” calls a woman in a chef’s uniform, a bandana tied around her head. A cheerful smile lights up her face.
The boy, Daichi, nods as she hands him the order. He bows slightly. “Thanks, Yaki-chan.”
Before he can leave, a voice from the dining area calls out.
“Yaki-chan! Can I get one more ramen soup?”
“Coming right up!” Yaki responds, then looks back at Daichi. Her expression softens. “Be careful out there, and thanks for the hard work!”
Daichi gives her a thumbs-up and steps outside into the stillness. The quiet cityscape greets him again. He takes a slow step forward, his motorcycle parked ahead of him.
The sleek machine gleams under the dim streetlights. Its specs—649cc engine, a top speed of 108 mph, and a design that screams precision and power—are a testament to its engineering brilliance. A delivery backpack rests on the seat. Daichi places the order inside, secures the bag on his back, and gives his bike a quick once-over before mounting it.
The key turns. The engine roars to life like a growling beast. With the left turn signal flicked on, Daichi leans into a controlled 180-degree drift, the tires burning against the asphalt. He shoots off into the night, a streak of speed down the dimly lit streets.
Navigating the city with skill, Daichi takes shortcuts not even marked on his GPS. Tight alleys, weaving through traffic, every move precise. Soon, he reaches a straight road—wide and oddly quiet. Music hums softly through his helmet’s speakers, blending with the engine’s steady growl.
But then, something catches his eye.
A dark alley flashes by. A group of four figures looms in the shadows. Daichi presses hard on the brakes, his tires screeching against the pavement. He turns off the engine, sets his bag down, and walks toward the scene. The atmosphere grows tense.
Three against one. A man, cornered and trembling, braces for an incoming punch. A fist swings—but stops abruptly, caught mid-air. The attacker looks to his side, startled.
Standing there is Daichi, his hand gripping the criminal’s fist.
“Who the hell are you?” the thug snarls, jerking his arm free. “A cop?”
Daichi says nothing, his visor hiding his expression. His eyes scan the trio, analyzing their stance, their behavior.
“Hey, we found him first, shrimp,” growls another thug. “Don’t even think about butting in!”
Daichi tilts his head slightly. Then, with a flick of his visor, he reveals his face and leans forward, one hand on his hip, the other lifting the helmet slightly.
“Man… you guys are ugly. Had to get that out.”
The insult hangs in the air.
“What the hell did you just say?” the leader snaps, teeth clenched.
The three thugs step closer, their tempers flaring. Daichi lowers his visor, shoves his hands into his jacket pockets, and stands his ground. The cornered man seizes the moment and bolts from the scene, leaving Daichi to face the gang alone.
From above, the tense standoff looks like a chessboard. The leader steps up, his chest puffed out in an attempt to intimidate.
“Say that again,” he hisses, his voice low and threatening. “Right to my face.”
Daichi doesn’t hesitate. His voice drops an octave, serious now.
“You’re ugly as f@#k.”
A roar of anger bursts from the leader. He swings a punch, but before it lands, three sharp sounds cut through the air—a swoosh, a swish, and a PAH! The thug collapses forward, stiff as a board, face-first into the pavement. Daichi stands over him, his posture relaxed as he slips his hand back into his pocket.
The two remaining criminals freeze, their confidence shattered. They exchange glances, unsure of their next move. But Daichi is unfazed. He tilts his head ever so slightly, silently daring them to make the next move.
They lunge at him in tandem. One tries to tackle him; Daichi sidesteps with ease, spinning gracefully. The second swings wildly; Daichi ducks, the punch missing him by inches. In the chaos, one thug accidentally lands a kick on the other, knocking him out cold.
The last man standing stumbles back, fear taking over. A dark stain spreads down his pants. He drops to his knees, trembling.
“I’m sorry! I’m sorry! Please have mercy!”
Before Daichi can respond, a slow clap echoes from the darkness.
“Bravo,” a voice says, amused. “The fluidity, the precision, the speed… truly incredible.”
A boy, no older than 18, steps into view. His grin is wide and playful, his presence unsettling.
Daichi’s mind races. …The hell? How didn’t I notice him?
“Are you new?” the boy asks casually. “Never seen you before.”
Daichi flicks up his visor, confused. “Uh, no? I’ve been here a couple of years.”
The boy chuckles. “Not what I meant. You’re here for him, right?” He gestures to the unconscious man leaning against the wall.
Daichi’s head jerks toward the victim, his surprise evident. “Wait, what?” He looks back at the boy. “Why would I—?”
The boy bursts into laughter, barely able to speak. “You… You don’t even know! Oh, man, this is rich!”
“Know what?!” Daichi snaps, scratching his head in frustration.
The boy calms himself, wiping a tear from his eye. “You’re not a bounty hunter, are you?”
“Bounty hunter?” Daichi repeats. “No, dude! I’m just a delivery guy!”
The boy leans to the side, peering at Daichi’s motorcycle. The delivery backpack catches his eye. His grin falters.
“You’re kidding.”
Before Daichi can explain, his phone buzzes. He glances at it, panics, and mutters, “Crap! Gotta go!” Without another word, he hops on his bike and speeds off.
The boy watches him disappear, a mix of amusement and curiosity on his face. He snaps a picture of the unconscious man and texts someone under the contact name “Payday.” The message reads: Got the guy. On my way back.
As he puts his phone away, a sinister smile creeps across his face. “Who was that guy…?”
Daichi arrives at his destination just in time. A wide shot reveals a towering, luxurious apartment complex, its presence almost intimidating. Daichi pulls the delivery order from his bag, approaches the entrance, and presses the doorbell.
Intercom Voice (distorted):
“Hello? Who’s this?”
Daichi flips open his helmet visor and leans toward the intercom.
Daichi (cheerful):
“Hello, ma’am! Your order from MisoHungry Ramen is here.”
Woman (irritated):
“Took ya long enough. I’ll be right there.”
Daichi lets out a nervous chuckle, waiting at the entrance. Moments later, the door opens. A woman steps out, looking mildly annoyed. He hands her the meal and bows politely.
Daichi (optimistic):
“Sorry for the wait! Enjoy your meal!”
As she heads back inside, Daichi walks to his bike, a sense of relief washing over him.
Daichi (to himself):
“Ah, mission complete.”
Flicking his visor shut, he pulls out his phone, snaps a picture of himself giving a thumbs-up, and sends it to “Yaki-chan” with the caption: “Mission Complete.” He gets ready to head back to the restaurant, but in the shadows, two mysterious figures are seen watching him from a distance.
Scene: Back at the Restaurant
Inside the cozy ramen shop, a young woman sits at a table, enjoying her coffee. Her eyes flick toward the door, a subtle sign she’s waiting for someone.
Yaki-chan:
“Tanaka-san, he’ll be here soon. That lil’ rascal was nearly late again.” She sighs, shaking her head.
Tanaka (smiling kindly):
“Oh, it’s fine. I understand he’s busy.”
The camera shifts to Tanaka Miyuki. Freckles decorate her cheeks, complementing her warm smile. Her curly brown hair is tied back in a ponytail, and she wears a beige coat over a black turtleneck, paired with blue jeans and black Mary Jane shoes.
The sound of the restaurant door creaking draws both women’s attention. Daichi enters, removing his helmet to reveal his curtain bang-styled black hair and a noticeable scar running along the left side of his face.
Yaki-chan (teasing):
“Ah, speak of the devil.”
Miyuki’s face lights up.
Miyuki (cheerful):
“Daichi-kun! You’re finally here.”
Daichi:
“Miyuki-san! What’s up? It’s good seeing you again.”
Miyuki (shy):
“S-same…”
Daichi places his delivery backpack on a table, letting out an exhausted sigh.
Daichi:
“Aah, today was tiring.”
He steps behind the reception counter, turning on the coffee machine.
Miyuki (concerned):
“Today seemed like a long day for you.”
Daichi (smiling):
“Fridays always are. Busiest day of the week, but also the most fun.”
He pours himself a cup of coffee and joins Miyuki at the table.
Daichi:
“So, how was your day?”
Miyuki:
“Oh, it was fine. Not many customers came by, though. It was a little boring.”
Resting her head on her hand, she watches him intently.
Daichi (teasing):
“Well, if you ever get too bored, just call me. My nails could use a bit of polishing.”
He mockingly inspects his fingers. Miyuki giggles softly, her cheeks tinting pink. She lifts her coffee cup to hide her blush, but Daichi catches the sight, making him glance away, his own cheeks slightly reddening.
Yaki-chan strolls over, patting Daichi on the head.
Yami-chan:
“Alright, kid. You’re done for the day. Thanks for your hard work!”
Daichi (smiling warmly):
“Thank you for today, Auntie.”
Standing, he grabs his helmet.
Daichi:
“I’m heading out to grab a drink. Miyuki-san, want anything from the store?”
Miyuki:
“Oh! A mocha, please.”
Daichi:
“Got it. Be right back!”
Scene: The Store
Daichi parks his bike, grabs the drinks, and heads to the counter.
Store Clerk:
“Good evening. Would this be all for today?”
Daichi:
“Yes, ma’am. Thank you.”
As Daichi steps outside, he freezes. A tall man with long, tied-back hair and fancy clothes blocks his path. Beside him stands a woman with short, messy black hair, her green-dyed tips standing out. Headphones hang loosely around her neck.
Man (smirking):
“Wait right there.”
Daichi glances at them warily, leaning back slightly.
Daichi (mocking):
“B-back off, you perverts. My body’s not even that great.”
The woman stifles a laugh as the man’s smirk falters.
Man (irritated):
“Tsk. Don’t flatter yourself, kid.”
Woman:
“Relax. We just want to talk. Care to take a seat over there?”
She gestures toward a bench outside the store. Daichi sighs dramatically, scratching the back of his head.
Daichi (deadpan):
“Sorry, I respect your religion, but I don’t go to church.”
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The woman clenches her fists, muttering under her breath.
Woman:
“This kid’s pissing me off already.”
The man chuckles before his tone turns serious.
Man:
“We saw what you did in the alley earlier. Saving that guy.”
Daichi freezes. His expression hardens as he realizes he’s been caught. Moments later, the three are sitting on the bench.
Daichi:
“So? Did I get in your way or something?”
Man:
“Let’s start with introductions. I’m Matsunaga Ren.”
Woman:
“Moriyama Sayuri.”
Daichi nods at them both.
Daichi:
“I’m Daichi.”
Matsunaga:
“Daichi… what?”
Daichi:
“Just Daichi.”
Matsunaga and Moriyama exchange a glance before shrugging.
Daichi:
“Alright, enough small talk. What do you want?”
Matsunaga:
“Straight to the point, huh? We’re bounty hunters. And we need your help.”
Daichi raises an eyebrow.
Daichi:
“Help? With what?”
Moriyama:
“Our executor quit on us. We need someone who can act while we handle the planning and support.”
Daichi (suspicious):
“Executor? And you want me? Yeah, no thanks.”
He stands, ready to leave.
Moriyama:
“1.5 million yen.” ( $ 10,000 dollars )
Daichi stops in his tracks. Slowly, he turns back.
Daichi:
“Continue.”
Moriyama: “If you take this job for us, we’ll pay you 1,500,000 yen—but there’s one condition.”
Daichi: “And what’s that?”
Moriyama: “You have to consider joining us. Think of it as a… free trial. You try the job, and if you like it, you join. Simple as that.”
Daichi stands still, his back to them, lost in thought. The weight of the decision seems to settle on him.
Matsunaga: “It’s a pretty sweet deal, don’t you think? We won’t force you to join, but we need this one job done.”
Daichi turns, his eyes meeting theirs.
Daichi: “Why me?”
Matsunaga: “Well, we saw what you did earlier—actually, Vandal saw you.”
Moriyama: “He told us about you. Said what you did was impressive.”
Matsunaga: “The way he talked about you—it’s like hearing him talk about his favorite movie. He never gets that excited about anyone.”
Moriyama: “Which means you’re perfect for the job. We need someone who can fight.”
Daichi steps closer to them, his gaze serious.
Daichi: “I see… but is this going to put my identity at risk? My friends…?”
Moriyama: “Not if we plan it right and support you. That’s why we’re here.”
Daichi exhales sharply, his hand rubbing the back of his neck as he weighs the decision.
Daichi: “Alright… I’ll do it.”
Matsunaga and Moriyama exchange looks of excitement.
Matsunaga: “You’re a lifesaver.”
Moriyama: “We’re really grateful.”
They all shake hands. Daichi grabs the drinks and places them in the bike’s cup holders.
Daichi: “When does this job happen?”
Matsunaga: “Today.” He gives a blank smile.
Daichi: “Today?! What time?”
Moriyama: “You’ve got three hours to get it done.”
Daichi rushes to his bike.
Matsunaga: “Is that a Triumph?”
Daichi: “Yeah, she’s a beauty, huh?”
Matsunaga: “Mm-hm, a true masterpiece.” He nods, impressed.
Moriyama: “Guys, we can talk later. Let’s move.”
Daichi flicks his visor down, and takes off, heading back to the restaurant. Moriyama’s voice comes through his helmet.
Moriyama: “Hey, Daichi-san, it’s me, Moriyama.”
Daichi: “Wait, how’d you know about my Cardo?”
Moriyama: “I was going to hack your phone to reach you, but the Cardo was easier.”
Daichi blinks, slightly taken aback. Hacked..? he thinks.
Meanwhile, Matsunaga and Moriyama receive a call from the boss.
Voice from phone: “You really going to do this without an executor?”
Matsunaga: “We got someone last-minute.”
Boss: “Last minute? Do you even trust this person?”
Moriyama: “Don’t worry, boss. Just trust us.”
Boss: “Why I oughta—”
Moriyama hangs up, smirking.
Matsunaga: “Heh, she’s gonna be mad.”
Moriyama: “She’s always mad.”
As they ride through the city, Moriyama’s sharp eyes catch sight of the target’s car, driving by. Time seems to slow as their gazes lock. She presses the button in her earpiece.
Moriyama: “Daichi-san, turn back now!”
Matsunaga looks confused, panic rising.
Matsunaga: “What? What’s wrong?”
The target speeds up, noticing the hunters behind him. Daichi looks back, his voice tinged with concern.
Daichi: “What’s going on?”
Moriyama: “Our target just passed us. Turn around now!”
With lightning reflexes, Daichi and Matsunaga execute a perfect 180-degree turn, burning rubber as they give chase. Daichi thinks to himself, Sorry, Miyuki, I’ll bring you the mochas next time.
The high-speed chase begins. Inside the target’s car, he curses under his breath.
Target: “Tch, damn feds.”
He swerves between cars, desperately trying to lose the hunters, while Matsunaga accelerates, not losing sight.
Daichi: “So what’s the plan?”
Moriyama: “First rule: no killing, no collateral damage. We keep the city intact.”
Daichi: “Got it.”
Moriyama: “We need to corner him, then you make the move. I’ll hack into the traffic lights and funnel him into a dead-end.”
Daichi: “Understood.”
Matsunaga nods, focusing on the road as Moriyama pulls up her laptop. Traffic lights change to help guide the target into a trap. The target doesn’t notice until it’s too late.
Target: “What the—”
Suddenly, he’s forced to swerve, slowing down just enough for Daichi to catch up.
Daichi: “He’s turning left!”
Moriyama: “Exactly as expected.”
She types faster on her laptop, the traffic lights changing in her favor. Suddenly, cars block the target’s path, forcing him to swerve yet again. Daichi is right behind, focusing on the target.
Target: “What the hell? This guy’s serious.”
Back in the restaurant, Miyuki looks worried.
Miyuki: “I hope he’s alright…”
Meanwhile, the chase rages on. The target maneuvers through the streets, dodging traffic while Daichi stays hot on his tail. The tension rises as Moriyama and Matsunaga work together, calling out orders.
Moriyama: “Daichi-san, get ready!”
Daichi: “Yes, ma’am!”
Matsunaga chuckles at the formal response, but the situation is tense. As the target nears a sharp turn, Daichi prepares to act.
Moriyama: “We can’t risk losing him. We have to stop him, but without casualties.”
Matsunaga’s eyes widen as the target speeds closer.
Matsunaga: “Sayuri, what’s the plan?!”
Before Moriyama can answer, a dog runs into the road. Matsunaga instinctively drifts, narrowly avoiding it. The target, seeing his opportunity, makes a sharp left back onto the highway.
Daichi: “Dammit, he’s escaping!”
With a surge of determination, Daichi makes a split-second decision. He heads toward the elevated highway to avoid the traffic jam below.
Moriyama: “Huh, Daichi? What are you doing?”
Daichi: “You plan on giving up? Not on my watch!”
Matsunaga quickly follows, and Moriyama sets her sights back on the screens.
Moriyama: “Not yet. We can still do this.”
Matsunaga: “Wait, Daichi—what’s the plan?”
Daichi guns the throttle, heading straight for the elevated highway to make up lost ground.
Daichi: “Too much traffic down there. We’ll catch him from up top.”
Moriyama: “He’s right.”
Matsunaga hesitates for a moment but follows suit, flooring the gas pedal. Daichi’s risky move starts paying off as he catches up to the target, who is desperately trying to shake him.
Target: “Get the hell out of my way!”
Daichi edges closer, his heart pounding as the moment of reckoning nears.
Moriyama and Matsunaga exchange glances, tension rising. The target, too, seems to sense Daichi’s approach, and the hunt is on.
Moriyama: “Daichi, whatever you’re thinking, DON’T DO IT!”
Daichi leans his head against the motorcycle, thinking to himself, I’m going to regret this. I love you, my precious girl. He hugs the bike tightly. With a deep breath, he turns the motorcycle toward the edge, but his tires roll off the barrier, and he tumbles to the ground, his nervousness getting the best of him. Below, the target collides with another car, significantly slowing his pace. Without wasting a moment, Daichi uses the momentum from his fall to spring back to his feet, charging forward with all his strength, determined to catch up. Matsunaga, Moriyama, the boss, and a few bounty hunters from the organization watch the scene with tense shoulders, each of them anticipating what will happen next.
Moriyama and Matsunaga watch in horror and awe.
Moriyama and Matsunaga (simultaneously): “HOLY SH*T!”
Target: “Sh*t, sh*t, sh*t! Move, MOVE!” Panic fills his voice.
Daichi is shown running from above, momentarily passing the target, but the target begins to close the gap. Daichi vaults onto the edge of the wall and dashes forward with incredible speed. For a brief moment, time seems to slow down. Everything is shown in exquisite detail: the target, smiling as he flees; Matsunaga and Moriyama, bracing for what’s about to unfold; and Daichi, preparing to do something daring, something insane, something… VALIANT! Without hesitation, Daichi leaps, grunting with effort. As he soars through the air, Moriyama and Matsunaga’s jaws drop in disbelief.
“HOLY SH*T!” they exclaim in perfect unison, while the boss watches, her eyes wide in shock. Daichi tucks his arms to his chest and straightens his legs, preparing for impact.
PAAHH! A thunderous crash rings out as Daichi slams into the target’s car’s sunroof, glass shattering everywhere. The target? Completely baffled, terrified, and gripped by panic. He stares in disbelief as Daichi casually sits in the backseat, his hand resting on the target’s shoulder, leaning forward to meet his eyes.
Matsunaga: “No freaking way! This kid’s CRAZY!”
Moriyama: “Perhaps we found the jackpot.” She wears a confident smile.
Boss: “Who the hell’s this kid? Where’d you even find him?!”
Moriyama: “Hm hm, I guess it was fate. He’s pretty good, don’t you think?” A smirk plays on her lips.
The boss palms her forehead in frustration.
Boss: “No… look at what he’s causing, you IDIOTS!”
Matsunaga and Moriyama look ahead and see the target’s car swerving dangerously, barely avoiding an accident. Inside, Daichi and the target are in a struggle for the steering wheel. The target throws punches, but Daichi dodges them with impressive agility, focusing solely on controlling the car.
Moriyama: “Daichi-san, whatever you’re doing in there, stop it!”
Hearing her voice, Daichi snaps back to reality. With one final elbow to the target’s face, he knocks him unconscious. Grabbing the wheel, Daichi attempts to regain control, but the car’s speed continues to rise, the target’s foot still pressed firmly on the accelerator.
Daichi: “He’s knocked out. I’ve got the wheel for now.” Strain is evident in his voice.
Matsunaga: “Try to get full control of the car and steer it to safety.”
Daichi: “I… can’t…” His voice trembles, laced with embarrassment as his head lowers.
Matsunaga: “What, why?”
Daichi: “I don’t… know how to drive…” His admission is filled with shame.
Moriyama: “What?! You can ride a motorcycle but not a car?” Frustration bubbles in her tone, while Matsunaga smirks awkwardly.
Daichi: “They’re not the same, okay?!” His voice is defensive, yet full of defeat.
Matsunaga: “Uh, guys, we’ve got a problem!” He shouts in panic, looking ahead.
Everyone turns to see a line of cars ahead, stuck at a red light. Moriyama grabs her laptop, typing furiously in panic.
Moriyama: “Listen, Matsunaga will try to get ahead and stop his car. In the meantime, I’ll open up the traffic to buy us some time!”
Matsunaga: “My precious baby…” He groans in sadness, knowing his car will soon be damaged.
Daichi looks forward, seeing the cars drawing closer, while Matsunaga is still too far behind.
Daichi: “Matsunaga, slow down! There’s no opening!”
Matsunaga: “What? What do you mean?!”
Moriyama starts to panic but doesn’t want to believe what Daichi is saying.
Moriyama: “Wait, wait! We can fix this! Just let me—”
Daichi, eyes scanning the surroundings, suddenly spots an empty construction site to the side. His reckless idea begins to take shape.
Daichi: “Guys, don’t worry! I’ve got this!” Confidence fills his voice, but with a hint of dangerous excitement.
Matsunaga: “Here we go again.” A sheepish grin crosses his face.
Moriyama: “Don’t freaking risk it, kid!” She shouts, trying to stop him.
Daichi notices a lever with a button above it and presses it, glancing up at the accelerating cars ahead. There’s no time to think—only act. He pulls the handbrake, sits back, fastens his seatbelt, and kicks the steering wheel to the right with all his strength, causing the car to veer sharply into the construction site. The car slides, wrecking parts of the site as it slows down, narrowly avoiding further disaster. Moriyama and Matsunaga scream in terror, jaws dropping. The boss, back at the base, fumes with rage.
The car finally comes to a stop at the entrance to the construction site. The chaos subsides, but the tension is far from over.
Moriyama: “Damn it, I told him not to!” Her voice shakes with worry.
Matsunaga: “I’m going to check if he’s okay.” He unbuckles and jumps out, but freezes in surprise. Moriyama follows suit. Footsteps echo, growing closer and closer. From the shadows, a figure emerges… It’s Daichi, carrying the unconscious target with ease. They both exhale in relief.
Daichi: “Phew, that was a close one, huh?” He grins, trying to lighten the mood.
Moriyama: “You know, I’m not even mad anymore. You didn’t really have a choice…” Her voice is tired.
Matsunaga: “Yeah, good job, kid. You were freaking awesome.” He extends a fist-bump.
Before Daichi can respond, Moriyama’s laptop pings with a voice from the boss.
Boss: “Good job my ass! You nearly got yourself and everyone else killed, you imbecile!”
Matsunaga and Daichi exchange sheepish grins as Moriyama’s expression grows weary.
Daichi: “You guys hungry? I can grab us some ramen.” He smiles warmly.
Matsunaga: “Hell yeah, that’d be great—”
Moriyama: “Sorry, no time. We’ve got to take this guy back to the boss.” Her voice is final, leaving Matsunaga with a disappointed expression.
With a resigned sigh, Moriyama drags the target to the car and throws him inside, preparing to leave.
Daichi: “What about the destruction I… caused?” His voice is full of embarrassment.
Moriyama: “It’s fine. Our boss will take care of it. As for your payment, I’ll just deposit it straight into your account.” She waves her phone dismissively.
Daichi: “Oh, my account—hey! Don’t hack my stuff!” He immediately turns defensive, holding his phone protectively.
Moriyama: “Relax, kid. I have no reason to mess with your stuff.” She chuckles lightly.
A monstrous engine roars behind them as Matsunaga arrives with Daichi’s bike, fixed up and ready to go.
Matsunaga: “Here you go, man. I fixed it up for you.” He smiles warmly, patting the bike.
Daichi’s eyes light up with pure excitement as he runs to his bike.
Daichi: “T-thank you so much, dude! Oh, my precious baby!” He bows and hugs the bike, overwhelmed with joy.
The three exchange contacts, preparing to part ways.
Moriyama: “Think it over, kid. If you’re interested in the job, give us a call. Oh, and keep your mouth shut.” She gives a warning, zipping her lips.
Daichi: “F-for sure, heh.” His voice is fragile as he nods.
The trio bows to each other before going their separate ways. Daichi, exhausted from the long day, heads home. Meanwhile, Moriyama and Matsunaga speak to the boss.
Matsunaga: “So, what’d you think of the kid?”
Boss: “He’s good, I’ll give him that. But he’s still reckless!” Her tone remains scolding.
Moriyama: “Of course he is. It was literally his first day, and even then, he got the job done.” She smiles confidently.
A voice cuts in unexpectedly.
Vandal: “I told you he’s good!”
Matsunaga and Moriyama: “Vandal…”
Moriyama: “The hell are you doing in this call? Nobody called you.” She sounds exasperated.
Vandal: “My, my. Is that your way of thanking me after I found you such a useful tool for your little insignificant group?” His voice drips with mockery, a grin spreading across his face.
Moriyama: “Huuuh, you tryna fight, you little shrimp?!” Her voice grows louder, her temper flaring.
Vandal: “Did I strike a nerve?” He taunts, his voice rising provocatively.
Boss: “Enough! Jeez, it’s like I’m watching a bunch of children.”
Matsunaga: “Hey, thanks, Vandal. You might just be our lifesaver. I mean it.” He steps in to ease the tension between the two.
Vandal: “Just make sure you hire this kid… I like him.” His voice grows darker, his smile filled with bloodlust.
Matsunaga: “Gee, pal. I didn’t know you swung that way.” He teases, a grin playing on his lips.
Vandal: “Oh, you tryna fight, pal—”
Boss: “I’m hanging up. Just bring the target.” A beep sounds as she disconnects the call.
Moriyama closes her laptop and puts it away, finally able to relax as the duo drives back to the organization. Meanwhile, Daichi finally arrives at his restaurant—his home. As he steps inside, he’s greeted by Yami-chan and Tanaka. Tanaka rushes to him, his face filled with worry.
Tanaka: “Daichi-kun! Where have you been?!” Her voice trembles with concern.
Daichi: “Miyuki-san… sorry I took so long, there was a slight prob—”
Before he can finish, Tanaka’s hand reaches out to his face.
Tanaka: “What happened? Why are you hurt? Are you okay??” Her voice quivers, filled with worry.
Suddenly, a paper cone hits Daichi on the head.
Yaki-chan: “Damn it, kid! How dare you make me and Tanaka-san worry like this? Look at your face! I told you those damn motorcycles aren’t safe!”
Daichi: “S-sorry, auntie…” He pouts, looking guilty like a child holding back tears.
Tanaka: “Daichi-kun, just be more careful next time, please.” Her thumb gently rubs his cheek as a worried expression lingers on her face.
Daichi: “Uh, o-okay… I will…” His face flushes as he awkwardly tries to react, not sure how to handle the sudden tenderness.
Realizing what she’s doing, Tanaka quickly pulls her hand away, her face turning bright red.
Tanaka: “S-sorry. Um, I think I should head home now.” She grabs her purse and bows to both Yami-chan and Daichi.
Daichi’s eyes widen as he suddenly remembers the mocha.
Daichi: “Miyuki-san, I’m so sorry about the mocha! I’ll make sure to get you two next time.” His voice is full of guilt.
Tanaka: “Oh, it’s fine. Please don’t worry about it. I thank you for even offering.” Her voice is shy as she turns to leave, waving goodbye.
Daichi and Yami-chan both wave back with warm smiles, and the door shuts. Immediately, Daichi slumps into a chair, utterly exhausted, letting out a loud sigh.
Daichi: “Aah, I’m beat! What a long day.” He rests his head on his arms.
Yaki-chan: “You really okay, kid? You look beat, literally.” She places her hands on her hips, her expression a mixture of confusion and concern.
Daichi: “Oh yeah, I’m fine. This is just the result of some minor miscalculations.” As he finishes his sentence, images of the chaotic car chase flash through his mind, recalling all the reckless decisions he made.
Yaki-chan: “I see… Go take a shower, so we can eat dinner.” She lets out a light sigh, as though trying to ease the tension.
Daichi: “On it.” He removes his helmet and heads to his room.
During his shower, Daichi can’t stop thinking about the bounty hunter organization. It seemed interesting… no, it’s dangerous! The thought repeats in his mind.
As they sit down for dinner, Daichi’s mind wanders back to the job offer. After eating, he heads to his room and starts scrolling through his phone. His thoughts continue to swirl in his mind.
Daichi: “Damn it, I can’t stop thinking about it. Get. Out. Of. My. Head!” He hits his head lightly, trying to shake the thoughts away.
Finally, Daichi lies down on his bed and pulls the blanket up.
Daichi: “Go to sleep,” he mutters to himself.
Meanwhile, in a simple room, Moriyama is preparing for bed. She turns off her lamp, pulls the covers up, and just as she’s settling in, a phone chime sounds. She picks up her phone to check the message: “So when’s the next job?”
A wide smile spreads across her face, as though she had been expecting this message. The sender? Daichi, AKA The MotorBoy. Matsunaga, too, receives the same message, his confident smile revealing his anticipation.
Matsunaga: “Soon, kid, soon.” His voice carries excitement.
In Daichi’s room, he lies facing the ceiling, holding his phone to his chest, contemplating his decision. He turns quickly to his side, slips the phone under his pillow, and mutters to himself.
Daichi: “Man, I’m already nervous…”
He tucks himself in and finally goes to sleep.
And there it is. With a single message, a whole new chapter in his life begins. A mighty choice has been made. How will the next job unfold? Is Daichi truly ready? And just who is this Vandal boy? Daichi will find out, one way or another, as each new day brings fresh challenges.
