NOVEL ONLINE FREE Chapter 52: Is This Guy Really Reliable?
A Complex Decision
Joining the investigators?
Drake Myers froze for a moment.
The bluntness of Kureo Mado's invitation surprised him.
For a brief second, he considered it—but the mention of Bang and Atomic Samurai had shifted his priorities.
"Apologies, senior. I'm not interested in joining any organization right now," Drake replied with a polite smile.
Exploring the Bigger Picture
Drake's thoughts raced as he processed the revelations.
So, this world isn't just about kaiju and ghouls. We've got human powerhouses like Bang and Atomic Samurai. That changes everything.
The idea of the "strongest humans" filled him with anticipation.
His gaze sharpened.
If there are such formidable warriors among humanity, then why should I lower myself to anyone else's rules?
"I'll gladly assist in combat if needed," Drake added, "but as for joining, I'll remain independent for now.
"There's still a month before the Defense Force's recruitment ends. I'd like to keep my options open."
Mado's Disappointment
Kureo Mado's enthusiasm visibly dimmed.
"Young man, it seems you haven't decided on your path yet," he said, his tone tinged with disappointment.
"Working with us is fine, but against the current batch of ghouls? I'm afraid your strength might not suffice."
An Unexpected Threat
"S-rank ghoul... Yakumo Oomori," Mado said grimly.
Drake's eyes widened.
"Wait, the Yamori? The 'Jason' ghoul?"
The name brought back memories of the infamous antagonist from Tokyo Ghoul. The brutal ghoul had a penchant for torturing victims and asking unsettling riddles like, "What's 1,000 minus 7?"
He's alive in this timeline? Drake thought.
The Complex Web
Drake's mind raced further.
Yakumo Oomori was supposed to have been defeated by Rize Kamishiro.
And hadn't he recently encountered a doctor with the surname "Kamishiro" at Yokohama General Hospital?
Could she be related to Rize? This world is more tangled than I thought.
A Debate About Strength
"S-rank ghouls aren't comparable to kaiju," Mado continued. "They're intelligent and blend seamlessly into human society.
"Kaiju may be devastating, but ghouls? They're predators hiding in plain sight."
Drake narrowed his eyes.
"And you think you're equipped to handle someone like Yamori?" he asked, unable to hide his skepticism.
Mado paused, his face darkening. "Truthfully, we're waiting on reinforcements from headquarters.
"But I'll admit, facing an S-rank is no small task."
An Offer Revisited
"Would you reconsider joining us?" Mado asked again.
Drake shook his head, smiling wryly.
"I'm honored by the invitation, but I'd rather fight alongside you as a collaborator. No strings attached."
Skepticism
Akira Mado frowned.
"Father, is this guy even reliable?" she whispered.
To her, Drake's unwillingness to commit felt like arrogance.
Temporary Allies
"Reliable or not, we'll see," Kureo Mado said quietly.
Then, to Drake: "Fine. You're welcome to fight alongside us—for now.
"But remember, this isn't a game. If you can't keep up, we won't risk our lives to cover for you."
"Fair enough," Drake replied, handing them his contact information.
Parting Words
As Drake ascended the stairs back to his apartment, he couldn't help but smirk.
The world was indeed larger than he'd imagined, filled with mysteries and powers he had yet to uncover.
For now, he would play along.
But his sights were set higher.