"We need to mark this target down, if left unchecked it could cause a lot of danger." The bearded worker explains quietly to his co-worker who nods while typing away at her tablet.
"I'm sure we'll be able to prevent a lot of deaths and property damage with the new information we acquire." Sekingar comments with a hopeful expression toward the future as others around him nod in agreement.
Worst case scenario the Caped Baldy would be able to handle anything so they truly had nothing to worry about. Knock on wood.
Suddenly a bystander points toward the two as all the citizens stop running. "Look! It's King! King's right over there!"
"You're aware that I'm King… A Class S Rank 7 hero, and the strongest man on Earth?" The hero questions with his usual stone cold tone.
"Pfh, looks like karma caught up with you, huh fraud?" Tatsumaki snickers out a bit evilly while King just stares down at his lap with a hidden face.
Before looking back up with a complete stoic and unbothered expression.
"Yeah I'm pretty sure that's just normal to be honest." King answers back with a neutral expression while sounding completely unaffected by Tatsumaki's attack.
"Hah? What do you mean?" The Tornado of Terror questions in a judgmental tone mixed in with a tiny hint of intrigue.
"Like I said earlier I for some reason attract a lot of monsters… so I get caught up in a lot of trouble similar to this. To be honest, it's a miracle I haven't died yet. You wouldn't believe how many insane situations I get caught up in." King mutters out dejectedly while the mini group around him just stares.
A wheel on the back of the robot spins before unlatching a sword as the machine god unsheathes its weapon and points it at King menacingly. "Killing you is the reason I have come!"
The loud thumping of the King Engine could be heard pounding as the scar faced hero stands unbothered by the threatening display.
"I still can't believe that every time we heard that it was his anxiety kicking in." Metal Bat scoffs while glaring at the screen with irritation.
"I for one can't believe I never noticed anything odd about King… It's like I was blinded by sheer stupidity." Child Emperor mutters in genuine befuddlement while staring at the mentioned former hero.
"Well it's not just you, he pulled one over all of us, so don't worry kid." Zombie Man speaks to the young prodigy with a tone of understanding. As if he was trying to reassure Child Emperor on the matter.
"What the heck's that noise?"
"You've never heard of the King Engine? It's the sound you hear once King's in combat mode! It's said that there's been no monster that made it out alive after hearing that sound!"
"Listen well. This is also a test of my combat AI. I need you to fight at full strength so I can gather data." The robot states while still pointing his weapon toward the hero.
"Organization? So this must be that 3rd rate group attempting to replicate my technology… Shoddy craftsmanship." Metal Knight thinks to himself while analyzing the screen a bit more carefully. Unbeknownst to anyone, Drive Knight's lone red eye narrows slightly at the screen. What could be going through that cyborg's head?
"Is this robot from the same people who created that rampaging cyborg? No… it appears too mechanical… But I shouldn't rule out the possibility." Genos notes down the appearance of the robot and its following conversation with King.
"Is this thing a robot? What the hell is this organization? I have no idea what it's talking about."
"All right, but let me go to the bathroom first. I'll only be able to fight at about half-strength if I'm holding it in. That won't give you accurate data, will it?" King explains while staring up at the mecha.
"I shall wait here for ten minutes. For every minute that you're late, I shall kill ten people. Understood?" The robot responds while pointing its sword at the people.
As the citizens begin running away again, Genos and Saitama peek around a corner of a lamppost to gaze at the robotic monster. "That monster seems pretty strong."
"I can't believe that worked…" Tatsumaki mutters while facepalming at the sheer simultaneous luck and unluck of the former hero.
"Oi Genos, you think you can handle that robot guy?" Saitama asks while turning to his disciple with a curious expression.
"I am unsure, Master. Its frame seems highly advanced, but I have also received the latest upgrades from Dr. Kuseno." Genos responds with an analytical tone while clenching his fists, carefully watching the screen for any important information or future mistakes he could make.
Genos begins to scan the robot before going into explanation for his Sensei. "Master, that appears to be a robot. A very powerful one at that. Its performance might be higher than mine. I estimate that it is at least threat level Demon and will be quite troublesome. What will King's strategy be against such a foe?"
Inside a Public Bathroom…
"It came to kill me? How did things end up like this?!" The camera pans to show King's extremely terrified expression as he cowers against the bathroom stall.
"I'm scared... I'm so scared! I'm not strong! I'm a 29-year-old unemployed otaku and antisocial loser! What the hell is the 'King Engine'?! What a load! It's a bunch of bullcrap! I'm just twice, no, dozens of times more cowardly than other people!"
A few of the audience member's eyes widen at the sheer shock factor of King's panic attack. The fact that they had been led to believe that this man was the strongest made them feel idiotic.
"At least you know you're pathetic, tch." Tatsumaki scowls in irritation while watching the embarrassing moment.
"Relax Tats jeez." Saitama mutters while sighing tiredly.
"Since you didn't exact any punishment I'll be sure to attack verbally, you idiot baldy! I'm not letting him go scott free! Be happy I didn't send him into the sun!" Tatsumaki's annoyed tone is made clear along with her body language, mini anger marks appearing on her head as she glares at the fraud.
Meanwhile Mumen Rider just glances at the former hero with a sympathetic look. He was just a normal person who had made bad mistakes. But it didn't seem like he was an irredeemable monster of some kind. It was truly an unfortunate situation.
A scene begins to play as King is shown standing over a dead monster looking extremely confused. "An evil monster just happened to appear in front of me once and someone defeated it while I had my eyes closed. That coincidentally happened over and over again! That's all it is! But then the Hero Association sent me a Class S certificate, saying that I was the ultimate rookie. I mean, it's also my fault because I didn't deny it, but I never thought it'd come to this! Aw, man... I want to quit being a hero so bad."
Now it's the association's turn to receive many stares as they hide away from the embarrassing mistake.
"Man this is too funny, it just keeps getting better and better kyahaha!" Garou laughs out in amusement while Zenko just shoots the rude martial artist a glare.
Sonic just continues to glance at his seatmate with a judgmental expression while Flashy Flash simply simmers in annoyance.
A large explosion is suddenly heard going off in the distance as King looks up from his wallowing. "It's starting! Think! Think about how to get through this! No! It's impossible!! It's not like my name's gonna intimidate a robot!"
The scene cuts to the outside briefly as King begins running away from the fight. "I'm sorry! I'm so sorry!"
"I'm so sorry." King silently whispers in shame despite not having committed the act yet while Genos glances over to his direction, having heard his quiet mumble.
Another explosion goes off in the distance as King glances over to the battle to find Genos in the thick of it.
"Someone's fighting it? I'm saved!" King cries out in his mind as he continues to run and hold his hoodie over his face.
The camera pans to Genos breaking the machine god's sword, causing it to crumble into pieces before the cyborg charges up a punch and shoots his fist, rocketing it into the robot monster while forming an explosion right in its face.
"It seems I may have a chance, Master." Genos smiles very briefly before returning to his stoic expression.
"Yeah, I'm sure you'll do fine." Saitama responds while giving a thumbs up.
Meanwhile Saitama just watches the battle go on a few meters away. "What is that? A rocket punch?"
The machine god leaps into the air giving Genos no time to respond as he takes on a massive stomp from the giant mecha.
A few of the non-combatants cry out and wince while hoping that the Demon Cyborg would be ok. Now that they were watching the future they had no clue if the heroes would survive their battles. It was both oddly frightening and exhilarating.
The Demon Cyborg holds the foot up with a bit of strain as Saitama continues to watch on with a neutral expression. "Oi Genos, want help?"
Genos wears a look of determination on his cracked face as electricity arcs around his body. "No. In order for me to achieve your assignment to me and rank in the top ten of Class S, I need to be able to defeat something like this on my own!"
Genos exclaims valiantly as he bursts through the foot of the machine god before pummeling it with his signature Machine Gun Blows.
"Hoh, what excellent teaching. Saitama-kun made sure that Genos would be alright while giving him the opportunity to gain experience… how splendid." Bang comments while grinning slightly as he watches Genos continue to vigorously fight on.
"Yeah he's got some potential. Though, I'm pretty sure he's not doing any of that on purpose." Atomic Samurai mutters off-handedly while staring at Saitama with a judgmental expression.
"Okay. Well, see ya. Make sure you don't lose." Saitama turns to leave as he walks away with his groceries in hand.
"And he puts quite a large amount of trust in his student. Subarashi." Bomb also adds on with a chuckle as the viewing continues while Tatsumaki and Fubuki stifle the urge to shoot questioning looks at the old men behind them.
"Emergency evacuation warning. A robotic weapon is rampaging near Central Park in City M. Residents of the area should immediately evacuate." The sound system continues to blare as citizens run for their lives.
Inside of a building, King slams the door behind him as he breathes heavily in relief. "I somehow made it home safely, but… That scary robot is probably going to haunt my dreams." The camera pans around the messy room as King walks over to his T.V. "I'll just play some games and try to forget about it."
The scar faced coward proceeds to turn on his T.V as the game boots up with its intro. "They put so much work into the openings of the Heartthrob Sisters series. I can barely contain my excitement."
"Input your name, Big Brother!"
"My name, huh? It'd be too embarrassing to use my actual name. I wonder what I should use…" King contemplates while staring at the screen when suddenly.
"Why not just use King?" Saitama questions with minimal interest from behind the hero.
"PFHHH, he followed your ass to your apartment haha!" Metal Bat yells out gleefully while chuckling at the hilarious image when Zenko suddenly glances at her brother with a disappointed glare to get him to shut up.
"I forget how creepy you can be baldy, jeez." Tatsumaki mutters under her breath while feeling a shiver up her spine.
"I didn't even do that yet, how can you blame me?" Saitama questions incredulously while deadpanning at the short esper.
"Master has a valid argument Ms. Tornado." Genos adds on supportively while Saitama shoots him a thumbs up.
Tatsumaki just sighs while flicking the bald hero in the head to get him to turn back around as Mumen Rider chuckles in the background.
"Yeah, I'm not sure about using my hero name. I mean, having someone call me 'Big Brother King' is just... " King instantly turns around. "Eh?"
Saitama just stands with a small smile on his face while looking straight at King.
The scar faced man just sits with the most confused expression on his face while staring at the bald hero. "Eh... What? Who the hell is this guy? What are they doing here?"
"Your window was open." As Saitama speaks the open balcony allows a wind current to blow through comedically.
"We're on the 22nd floor…"
"You know normally I'd be surprised, but I think Mr. Saitama has changed my perspective on everything…" Tareo mutters with a dejected look as Garou just snickers at his amusing expression.
"Onii-chan can you jump that high?" Zenko questions with a curious and expectant expression as Metal Bat just nervously sighs.
"Uhhh… maybe? We can test it later if you want Zenko." Metal Bat attempts to appease his sister's intrigue while wondering if he could actually jump that high, her response being a simple hmph.
"He jumped up to the 22nd floor??" Suiryu questions while gazing at the screen with wide eyes. Could he do that if he really tried?
"Despite knowing his strength I still find it hard to believe how many events have revolved around him… It's almost like the universe is getting dragged toward his strength." Amai Mask silently thinks to himself while staring at the bald hero's shiny head.
"Hey, listen! You can't just come in here uninvited! Ahem. D-Do you know that I'm a Class S hero?" King attempts to recollect himself while facing his intruder, but fails miserably.
"Of course, I do. You're King, right?" Saitama replies with the most mundane expression on his face.
King's eyes widen as he comes to a realization. "Th-This guy is the Class B hero that was at the Class S hero meeting for some reason!"
"Could I get some tea?"
"I almost forgot Saitama was there too." Tank Top Master mutters while wondering how inconspicuous such an inhumanly strong person could be. It was like nobody even realized he was there. In hindsight, someone that strong going unnoticed for so long was truly frightening.
"Yes I even answered a few of his questions yet I never realized or thought for a moment that he could be such a strong person." Puri Puri comments while recollecting the memory of the odd conversation with the severely uninformed bald hero at the time.
The camera pans back to Saitama looking over to King's T.V screen still displaying the anime avatar. "I had no idea you were interested in games like this, though."
"Input your name, Big Brother!"
"YAMETE!" King officially dies on the inside.
"You are one sad sad man, I hope you know that fraud." Tatsumaki mutters with a glare as King wilts into his chair.
Meanwhile, Saitama picks up a game with a curious expression painting his face. "Hey, what game is this?" The bald hero flips the cover to show a mecha game. "It looks fun."
Battle Robot Galgangal
"Oh, that's an action game." King quickly explains, trying to change the subject of the conversation.
"Well that explains why he's so damn good at video games. I still couldn't believe he beat all of us…" Metal Bat mumbles dejectedly while remembering his challenge against King previously.
"Even I was surprised, I'm not a video game player, but it was pretty damn impressive." Zombie Man comments with a monotone while reminiscing the devastating defeat King's challengers had faced.
"I bet I could beat him if I run a few calculations. Nothing math can solve!" Child Emperor smugly brags with a smirk as Zombie Man, Zenko, and Metal Bat all give him an odd look.
"Do you think the kid is always like this?" Mosquito Girl whispers over to her seatmate while glancing at the child prodigy. Armored Gorilla just rolls his eyes before shrugging.
"You operate a robot and stuff?" Saitama questions.
King thoroughly nods his head while wearing a funny expression. "Yeah, exactly!"
"I see." Saitama wears a small grin.
"That's the kind of game I'm really into! I bought this thinking it was an action game, but what the heck? It's a dating sim! I guess I bought it by mistake!" King flounders on while trying to save his sinking ship as he slams the game case down onto the floor.
Saitama simply deadpans while staring down at the cover. "It totally says Heartthrob Sisters."
"Knowing how dumb you are, I would've thought you'd fall for that baldy." Tatsumaki remarks in a bored tone, prompting Saitama to just sigh.
The camera swaps to King's incredibly embarrassed expression as he yells out. "Seriously?! I totally thought it said 'Hurt the Haughty Starbusters'!! Damn, they tricked me! I'll throw it away!"
"Then let's play this one." Saitama responds while holding up the mecha game and smiling.
King quickly whips around and points a finger at the game. "Yeah! That's a great idea! That one's... Er, wait… You wanna play that?"
Saitama quirks an eyebrow while looking toward King. "What? I can't? I mean, you've got time, right?"
"Who the hell is this guy? He's only a Class B, but he's super pushy and way too casual with me. I mean… I outrank him…"
Returning to Genos' battle against the machine god.
Genos' theme music plays in the background as he jumps into the air while flipping before landing on top of the robotic monster's head. "Incinerate!"
"Go Mr. Genos!" Tareo shouts out in excitement, desperately hoping the poor cyborg could get a win once again, prompting an eye roll from Garou.
"Yes! Some action!" Zenko giggles with anticipation while watching the screen with gleaming eyes, prompting a sweat drop from Metal Bat.
Genos just wears a small smile at Tareo rooting for his victory. It certainly helped his previous losses bite a bit less. He truly hoped that his Master's trust was not misplaced and that he would win this battle.
The ensuing blast bursts outward from inside of the mecha as Genos pulls off a Polnareff and backflips away before landing heroically.
"Your internal components are slag now. Your big body brought upon your downfall." The machine god's melted body slides off in heaps of liquid composites as Genos stands up from his crouched position while observing the massacre.
"Nice job Genos." Saitama praises his disciple, though receives no response, causing the bald hero to glance toward his student who just appeared to be analyzing the screen with caution.
"It is not over yet, Sensei." Genos replies, prompting a surprised look from Saitama who just turns back to watch the screen.
Suddenly, a smaller body could be seen moving from amongst the wreckage as Genos' eyes widened. "The pilot? No... Its true form?"
The true form of the machine god's head and shoulders open up to reveal blaster holes as Genos tenses. "Not good!" The blaster holes then ignite and shoot our purple laser beams at the Demon Cyborg.
Back to Saitama and King's escapades.
A bunch of groans sounded out in annoyance as the exciting battle was halted in favor of watching Saitama and King.
"Whoa, King. You're super good at video games." Saitama mutters while sounding slightly impressed.
Both Saitama and King were currently sipping from juice boxes while the scarred man played nonchalantly as the bald hero watched. "I mean... I've won a few tournaments for some fighting games, but…"
"Really? So not only are you strong in real life, you're a winner in video games, too?" Saitama questions with a quirked eyebrow.
King silently side-eyes the bald man as he grows slightly annoyed. "How long does he plan on being here? Hurry up and—"
"So, why did you run away earlier?" Saitama randomly asks, causing King to spit take.
"I mean. Genos is fighting the monster now. But you're a super strong Class S hero, right? Why did you run away from the robot monster then?" King begins sweating profusely as Saitama continues to question the nervous man.
"I came here to ask you that, but you were playing video games. Did you get bored with the monster? Could it be that you're so strong that you don't want to fight anymore? Please, talk to me." Saitama's expression seemed lackluster, but a small hint of suspicion could be found as the bald hero continued his questioning.
"Damn baldy, didn't know you could put on the pressure. Color me surprised." Tatsumaki snickers while watching the on screen King's anxiety filled expression in mild amusement.
"Don't look at me, I haven't done anything yet." Saitama responds with a monotone while King just stares at the screen with a neutral face.
"Emergency evacuation warning. A giant bird has appeared above City M. Threat level Demon. Please do not go outside." The alarm begins to sound once more right outside of King's apartment.
"Another one." Saitama mutters while picking up his groceries before standing.
"I repeat…"
"That's the third warning just today. What are you going to do? I'm gonna go."
Suddenly, out of nowhere, the demonic bird comes straight toward the building and busts through.
A few eyes widened at the sheer amount of misfortune that had occurred for King. It seemed that he truly wasn't lying about the numerous monster attacks just seemingly finding him.
"That startled me. Guess the threat decided to come right to you. Maybe there's something about you that attracts monsters." Saitama mutters to himself while holding back the bird with a casual hand as King shivers with his back up against the wall.
"Hmm. Perhaps Koshigaya-kun truly is unlucky… or maybe, is it something else?" Bang muses quietly while watching the screen with intrigue.
"Is it because of god's intervention? This definitely isn't normal…" Blast wonders to himself while gazing at the screen in slight befuddlement. 2 monsters had outwardly found him with purpose. And if what Koshigaya said was true then this happened often. What a strange oddity.
"Yeah... I've always been super unlucky." King thinks to himself while closing his eyes tightly and looking away as the bird slowly but surely opens its mouth.
"What do you do in situations like this?" Saitama questions, still completely unbothered by the giant monster bird.
"But lately, it's been getting worse." King laments inwardly at his terrible luck.
"I mean, if these things are showing up at your house, you have to fight, don't you?" Saitama turns his head back nonchalantly as King just watches in pure fear.
"Uh baldy, what exactly is your future self's plan?" Tatsumaki questions with a dumbfounded expression. Why was the bald hero trying so hard to get the fraud to open up when it was already obvious?
"I dunno, but maybe the me in the future sees something else too." Saitama responded offhandedly, prompting a confused look from the Tornado of Terror. "Too?"
"So it is true… Master was observant enough to find something that we are too blind to see. Is it due to his unparalleled strength?" Genos questions to himself while silently observing his Sensei.
Not too far away…
Countless purple lasers could be seen shooting into the sky as Genos continues to dodge.
"Damn it. I have to do something about these lasers!" Genos lands roughly in a stairwell as he begins looking around for a solution when his eyes land on a pair of fire extinguishers.
"Come down. My only target is King. I have no time to waste on you." The mini machine god states as it scans for Genos within the stairwell.
The camera pans back to King and Saitama.
"Please, just give me a break! That one time, then that other time, and then that other time! I just got dragged into those messes! I'm always running away." Images of various monsters defeated by Saitama show up on the screen as King cowers before them.
Suddenly, a yellow suited red gloved hero walks past the scarred man. "And then someone else shows up to beat the monster!"
The aftermath of Saitama's punch is shown as King gets up with blood covering his face. "I just happened to be at those places, but everyone ends up thinking I'm the one who defeated those things! I've never even been in a fight!"
The scene comes back to the present as King cowers against his kitchen table top in fright. "King… The hero's hero. The strongest man on Earth. How do I deserve those titles? What a joke… I'm basically nothing but a giant ball of lies!"
"Damn… this is so embarrassing… But I guess I do deserve this huh?" King wonders to himself silently while recognizing that he was simply paying his dues. If anything this was a cheap price to pay for his life. He was going to make sure to pay Saitama back for his kindness.
Returning to Genos' fight, the mini machine god blasts its lasers at Genos' hiding spot, but misses as the Demon Cyborg leaps out of the smoke before throwing a fire extinguisher.
The robot quickly shoots at the projectile, causing the extinguisher to burst into a smoke cloud. While the tiny robot is distracted Genos pulls at what appears to be a hydrant in the wall before ripping the cover off and sending a torrent of water into the battlefield.
"How innovative." Bang smiles while watching the young cyborg battle his opponent in a more intelligent manner. It seemed he had grown after his past battles.
Meanwhile Genos just writes down his future self's actions while nitpicking them before noting his mistakes internally. "Reminder, inform Dr. Kuseno of a fire suppression system upgrade…"
With this, Genos shoots out his arm and wraps the mini robot with his wire.
"Stop your infernal—!" The machine god attempts to shoot its lasers before widening its eyes in shock as its systems fail. "The steam is diffusing my lasers—!"
The Demon Cyborg reels in his fresh catch as he prepares to pummel it. "It appears that you're after King, but I know someone that's stronger.
"Don't we all?" Metal Bat chuckles at the hilarity of everyone within the room having missed the insane powerhouse amongst them by just pure chance.
"It's weird to think that if we didn't come here we'd probably never find out about Saitama." Child Emperor mutters out loud while holding a thinking pose.
Mosquito Girl leans forward a bit too close for the Zombie Man's liking while looking over to the young prodigy. "Speak for yourself! I had to endure a slap from him! It was horrible!"
The monster cries out dramatically as comedic tears fall down her face while the undead hero just moves to the side with an annoyed expression.
"Woah… you're alive? I thought Mr. Saitama beat you up." Zenko stares up at the monster, somehow not having noticed the two behind them when her brother had brought her to the seating.
"Uh… I'm alive, yes. I'm no longer a villain so no need to worry, little girl." The genetically enhanced monster wears an unsure expression before silently glancing at the older sibling with a what should I do look, only to receive a shrug in response.
"Hmm. Ok, but I have my eyes on you Ms. Mosquito Girl! I'll send onii-chan to defeat you if you cause any trouble! And if he's too lazy, then I'll defend the people myself!"
Zenko confidently points a finger toward the surprised Mosquito Girl's face, prompting some laughter from the monster and a deeply hurt look from Metal Bat.
"Hai hai, I won't do anything while you're around you brat." Mosquito Girl huffs while returning herself to her seat as Dr. Genus just glances at his creation with a peculiar expression.
Zenko promptly turns around in her seat to retort the monster with an annoyed expression. "I'm not a brat!" The young girl yells back with an irritated tone as Metal Bat just sighs while placing a hand on his head.
Mosquito Girl just laughs evilly while holding Zenko back from attacking her with her tiny fists as Armored Gorilla side-eyes the exchange warily.
"Aren't you gonna fight, King?" Saitama questions, the monster bird's mouth opening wider.
"You've got the wrong idea! I'm not the King that society looks up to so much! I have to say it! I have to say it! If I don't say it now, he's—"
"You see, I'm actually—!" King attempts to explain when the bird monster finally lunges.
Without even a second passing Saitama nonchalantly turns back to the still terrified King. The enormous bird monster no longer in sight as the hole in the wall reveals the bright blue sky.
"Well that never gets old…" Mumen Rider chuckles while scratching the back of his head at Saitama's casual nature when dealing with threats.
"Awe… I guess it didn't last too long." The bald hero sighs in disappointment while Genos notes down the monster carefully.
"Did you really think a giant crow would provide a challenge for your crazy ass strength, baldy?" Tatsumaki questioned incredulously though felt tired from continuously asking when already knowing the answer.
"Eh, I like to be optimistic." Saitama shrugs back in response.
"I believe there is optimism and then there is simply being overly unrealistic, Saitama." Fubuki mutters in response while facepalming at the blank expression the bald hero gives.
"Seriously? So your strength and battle history are all lies?" The scene switches to show the dead bird on the pavement as King's eyes open wide.
"I guess it must be true if you pissed your pants over that bird." Saitama mutters as the camera pans to King's soiled garments.
"Wait, how is he just standing there? What happened to the bird? He…?"
"You okay?" Saitama's simple words suddenly invoke a memory in King's mind as he flashbacks to a certain day.
A silly looking pink octopus monster with sharp claws appears as citizens flee from the beast. A younger looking King obtains a slash from the monster as he cries out in pain. "Someone! Someone! HELP!"
Suddenly, a calmer voice calls out to the man. "Hey, calm down. I defeated the monster. Is your eye okay? Try opening it slowly."
Prompted by the man's voice, King slowly opens his eyes while calming down. "Can you see?" The voice calls out with a cheery tone.
King turns to look upward at his hero. "Wh-Who are you?"
The camera pans slowly to reveal the face of a younger Saitama with a bunch of bloody wounds and a gleaming fire in his eyes. "Me? Hm… I guess I'm just a guy who's a hero for fun.
"Wow you really weren't kidding about the near death experiences…" Tatsumaki mumbles in a tiny bit of shock at seeing the bald hero so injured.
"I didn't lie! I keep saying that, jeez." Saitama responds with faux anger while the others also gaze at the screen in surprise.
The origins of both Saitama and King seemed ironically similar yet different. Both were weak, but while one silently fought to become stronger with no recognition while the other adopted the mirage of being the strongest and reaped the benefits.
"Brother, do you see his eyes? Is it not like before?" Bomb questions while looking over to his sibling who just nods.
"Yes, it is like a fire that rages with a seemingly infinite fuel source. But now… has died out. A truly interesting detail for the Screen to highlight twice…" Bang responds while holding a thinking pose directed toward the screen.
"I think you both are overreaching, it's just the light from the sun you geezers." Atomic Samurai sighs while fiddling with his wheat stalk.
"You're so hurt…" King mutters in awe and worry, but Saitama just smirks at the man confidently. "This is nothing. Plus I scored a big win today!"
Slowly, but surely, the image of the younger Saitama gets replaced with the bald hero in front of King as he realizes who the man is.
"This guy is…" King mumbles out as tears fall down his face once more.
"Hey, what's the matter? Hey!" Saitama calls out to the sobbing man.
But King can only respond with three words. "I'm so sorry!"
"Huh, I guess it played out pretty much the same." Saitama mutters while watching the screen with a neutral expression.
"Yeah… I'm glad I was able to apologize to you Saitama-shi. You saved my life, literally." King chuckles slightly while wearing a grateful expression toward the bald hero.
"No problem, King." Saitama just smiles a bit while giving a thumbs up to the former hero who just stares at him with surprise.
Some time passes as the camera pans to the two sitting down amongst the rubble of King's apartment.
"Are you having fun? Being a hero who lies and cowers in fear?" Saitama questions, though without a stern voice, just a curious one.
"No…"
"I mean, it's none of my business, so I'm not going to lecture you or anything."
"But uh... I may have been taking credit for your deeds, Saitama."
"Credit isn't the issue here. You're everyone's hero now." The bald hero replies, but only receives a guilty expression from King. "No, I'm…"
"No matter what you think, they think that you're the ultimate hero. King, are you going to continue with your lies? Or are you going to quit being a hero?"
"I can't find the courage to decide…" King mumbles in response dejectedly.
"In that case, why don't you just get strong?" Saitama answers back simply as King finally looks up at the man once more. "Huh?"
"I'm going now. See ya."
"Hold on! Aren't you angry with me?" King calls out while throwing out an open hand. "You worked so hard to become a hero, and yet, I…" King's expression twists as he clenches his hand and faces downward.
"I'll be coming by now and then to play some games. Peace." With that, Saitama simply jumps out of the hole in the wall, leaving King to watch in a mix of emotions.
"Hey! Yeah… ok." King mutters out, unsure how to feel about what had just occurred.
"Wow, that was surprisingly cheesy jeez." Tatsumaki mutters out while wearing a small smirk for some reason.
"Maybe you should do that King. Keep the title and become stronger." Saitama randomly says aloud, causing the small group around him to doubletake in his direction.
"Hah!? You want him to keep his position in the S-Class!? Hell no! He's still a damn fraud!" The Tornado of Terror yells out in pure befuddlement and anger.
"That doesn't make sense Saitama, why would you want him to keep your credit? Even then it wouldn't be safe for Mr. Koshigaya if he continues to be known as the strongest. It will only attract unwanted attention." Fubuki mutters with a bewildered expression while Mumen Rider just watches silently.
"I do not believe he should continue to live the way he has, Master! There is no point to it!" Genos faces his teacher with a look of pure disbelief.
"What are you talking about Saitama, I can't do that!" King stutters out in confusion while wondering why the hell the bald hero wanted him to keep what was rightfully his.
"I mean, future me has a point. If he gets outed as a fraud won't the association look bad? Don't you guys lose face if things like this happen?" Saitama questions while turning to the back room of associates and looking toward Sitch.
"Uh… well yes, we would probably lose the trust of many, but if we explain the situation and reveal that you were the actual person behind all the heroic feats we can blame it all on Mr. Koshigaya and avoid severe backlash." Sitch explains carefully while staring at the bald hero's blank expression.
"Yeah I'm fully ok with that. I deserve to take the blame after all I've done." King replies dejectedly as he questions to himself why Saitama had thought of such a thing, even in the future. What was the point of his random kindness?
"Eh. I dunno, it seems like a bunch of unnecessary work to be honest. And I kinda don't want all the attention anymore. Seeing Koshi go through all that made me a little relieved." Saitama responds with a sweat drop while thinking about how difficult his grocery runs would be.
Sure he liked recognition and thanks, but being as popular as Tats or King would be a nightmare.
"I cannot believe you are seriously considering this, you idiot baldy!" Tatsumaki whines out in sheer disbelief as she smacks him in the back of his bald head.
"Oi! I just think it'd be easier this way, you don't need to smack me." Saitama retorts while rubbing the back of his head with a slightly annoyed look.
"Oh don't give me that bull you didn't feel a damn thing!" The Tornado of Terror responds while rolling her eyes at the bald hero's dramatics.
"Maybe we can discuss this another time?" Bang questions aloud while everyone just continues to watch the debacle unfold.
"He wants to make the fake a hero again? Is he kidding?" Garou wonders to himself in absolute confusion while others think along the same lines.
"Hey I think it's a good idea, let King be King and add Saitama to the roster. You'll still get money from King's reputation and Saitama will become another S-Class. Your profits will skyrocket. And if you ever need the quote on quote King's help you can just call on Saitama. The problem fixes itself if you ask me."
Blast casually adds himself to the conversation while leaning back in his seat as his shades glint in the dim light, causing everyone to stare at him in surprise.
Inwardly, Blast really only wanted to see King's secretive ability. If the Screen was going to such a length to keep it hidden then it must've been important.
"You can't actually be thinking about this! All of you! He cannot retain his status as an S-Class! This is unbelievable!" Amai Mask yells out with a somewhat desperate tone mixed with rage.
"Ok can everyone silence themselves? You can discuss this after the episode, it's almost done anyways." The Screen interrupts the discussion with an annoyed tone.
The theater goes promptly quiet themselves while still glancing at each other with varying expressions. Was Saitama and Blast truly serious about this?
"I can't believe those two WANT me to keep this damn title… What is going on in their heads?" King runs his hands down his scarred face while ruminating on this crazy day.
The scene swaps to a familiar laboratory. "Dr. Kuseno, these are parts from a robot calling itself the machine god G4. It had immense power and superb AI. If there are any parts from it that I can use, please allow me to do so."
"Th-This is... Genos, how did you obtain this thing?"
The camera pans upward to reveal Genos' damaged body. "Doctor, I want to get stronger."
The doctor sighs as he lifts his head up to face Genos. "All right. Let's give it a try. I believe I can still make you stronger."
"Thank you."
"But, Genos, while I know you became a cyborg for the sake of justice, you shouldn't push yourself too hard." Dr. Kuseno warns with a concerned tone.
Genos shakes his head while looking down at his remaining clenched fist. "No, I have to push myself. Right now, I'm trying to rank in the top ten of Class S."
"It'll be an upward battle, kid, you better have what it takes to challenge us." Atomic Samurai smirks toward the stoic cyborg who just nods while Bang smiles, clearly amused by the interaction. "Hoh hoh, how spry the youth is."
"Yeah you'll need all the luck if you plan on getting to me! Let's see what your Dr. Kuseno can cook up for you!" Child Emperor pridefully points at himself as a mechanical arm pops out a candy for him to eat.
"Eh you can take my place, more work for you buddy." Zombie Man waves his hand in dismissal while grinning slightly.
"You gotta get past me first, Demon Cyborg!" Metal Bat cackles while loading his bat onto his shoulder cockily before getting poked in the side by his sibling, causing him to instantly lose his tough demeanor.
Armored Gorilla chuckles slightly while Mosquito Girl stifles a laugh as they gaze at the conquered Metal Bat, defeated by tickles.
"Be wary of my climb to the top." Genos then turns to look at Tornado who just raises an eyebrow. "You as well Ms. Tornado. Do not believe you are safe at number 2."
"Tch, the audacity of an overgrown microwave. Come at me I dare you! See what happens you delusional tin-can!" Tatsumaki responds with a growl to her tone as she hmphs in the opposite direction while crossing her arms.
Fubuki promptly sweat drops while simultaneously wondering if Genos had actually been serious or if he was just teasing her sister.
"That reckless goal set by your mentor, yes? I had a feeling you'd mention that. More importantly, Genos, have you gathered any clues about the cyborg? That rampaging cyborg that destroyed your home? You seem to be completely focused on your hero activities lately."
"I haven't been able to track it down at all."
"I see... But—
"The rampaging cyborg that's destroyed many towns and taken countless lives… I will track it down, no matter what, and destroy it with my own hands. Whatever it takes." Genos mutters with anger filling his voice as his eyes gaze deeply into his savior's eyes.
"Despite becoming a hero and gaining a master, it appears that his hatred hasn't disappeared. Genos, I'm worried. I've been pursuing this cyborg longer than you, and I know just how dangerous it is. If you do end up finding it, don't do anything rash and report back to me. You are calm and intelligent, but the passions of youth can lead one to ruin. Do not fight it alone."
"Doctor Kuseno, I understand. That battle… we will fight together." Genos' eyes gleam with a bright red.
At the new main headquarters in what was formerly City A, a meeting was currently taking place.
Sitch was currently addressing a large room filled to the brim with nasty looking individuals, all most likely criminals. "I am Sitch, the leader of Earth in the Danger Prophecy Emergency Countermeasures Team. I am deeply grateful that denizens of the underworld like yourselves would heed our call. Let me just say that we will not be looking into your criminal history or activities at this time. This is not a trap. There are a few heroes here, but they are just serving as my bodyguards."
"Hah!? What the hell are you doing!? You really think I can't handle everything myself!?" Tatsumaki yells out in pure irritation while floating in front of Sitch who just leans backwards with a fearful expression.
"T-This is the future! I haven't even done this yet Ms. Tornado!" Sitch responds with a terrified voice while glancing at his co-workers who just sweat drop while looking away.
"Yeah, but you probably had plans for this already! The future stuff is only like a day into the future! So that means you were going to do this tomorrow!" Tatsumaki retorts Sitch's argument, prompting a wince from the guilty association executive.
"When did you guys start planning on hiring thugs?" Zombie Man questions with a slightly surprised expression, not having realized that the association was struggling with the increasing threats.
An executive looks over to Sitch who just nods in confirmation, prompting said executive to begin explaining.
"The increasing monster attacks have forced our hand. Despite having many strong heroes within the S-Class there are just too many threats to deal with. Even Ms. Tornado can't be everywhere at once. That is why we created a plan to bring in as many people we could use to mitigate the threat. We apologize for not informing any of you."
The heroes all glance at each other while wearing wary and concerned expressions. None of them had realized it was getting that bad, it was honestly a bit surprising since they fought monsters on a day to day basis. Were they really being overrun?
"Well why didn't you request Metal Knight to create a mini army to cover more ground? It wouldn't be that hard, they could probably handle the lower level stuff pretty easily." Child Emperor questions with a semi-confused expression while pointing at the drone in front of him.
An executive raises a finger to answer, but suddenly gets interrupted by the drone himself.
"I am already building an army for that exact purpose, but I have run into several issues and therefore have been halted in production. I was one of the few who prompted the association in hiring the criminals. It is an easy and relatively unharmful solution. If they become too rowdy we can simply show them their place to dissipate any issues."
A few of the heroes wear tense expressions while hearing Metal Knight's statements. If the cold calculating Metal Knight of all people had come to the conclusion that the monsters were becoming even a slight issue then they truly were blind to the problem.
Suiryu just watches the entire thing with a worried expression. "There's more monsters now? I wonder if the tournament will go smoothly… Wait, is that why that weird Screen talked about me being semi-important? Am I gonna be fighting monsters too? Is lil sis gonna be alright…?"
The young martial artist ponders on the possible events that could happen while getting slightly concerned.
"I wonder if I finally take the stage in this damn viewing? Can't wait to see what heroes I hunt." Garou grins maniacally while watching the screen with great intrigue, though his evil expression goes unnoticed by Tareo. As per usual.
A random thug grins widely. "Heroes? Bring them on! I'll murder all of them!"
"They won't act as long as you don't do anything reckless." Sitch continues.
"Why don't we just take over the place?" Another random criminal cackles out.
"Wanted men with huge bounties and top assassins. Even prison escapees. What is Sitch thinking, inviting these ruffians here?"
Class A Rank 7 Magicman
"I don't give a crap why they're here, but seeing'em laughing it up is pissing me off."
Class A Rank 5 Heavy Tank Loincloth
"I'll burn them to cinders if they make even the slightest suspicious move."
Class A Rank 6 Blue Fire
"I have three Class A rank heroes, each with S Class combative skills. No one here is stupid enough to lose control in front of them."
"All right, let's begin."
A familiar outfit and face show up as he questions Sitch. "Wait. Where's the hero named Saitama? Doesn't he live in these headquarters?"
Sonic's eyes widened momentarily, slightly surprised that he had decided to join the meeting, but then remembered that this version of himself hadn't experienced all of the theater's events.
"It seems your vendetta against the bald man is as strong as ever." Flashy Flash chuckles sarcastically while Sonic just rolls his eyes while shoving a hand into the cocky ninja's face. "Shut up."
"Who are you? I'd appreciate it if we could hold off on anything off topic until later. This is rather important."
"He isn't here? Then I'm leaving." Sonic mutters with a slightly irritated tone.
"Think you can leave without hearing us out? You came, so you're staying here." Blue Fire essentially demands with no room for argument. Though he doesn't realize who he's talking to.
"Level Tiger or higher disasters are happening more often lately. This month, the rate is six times the last three years' average. This could indicate the Earth Doom prophecy foretold by the Great Seer Madame Shibabawa is approaching. Or perhaps that it has already begun. If this continues, the current heroes will be exhausted and unable to deal with the disasters. The prophecy said the greatest disaster in history will occur within six months, and clearly, it hasn't passed. Even Class S heroes are dealing with some of these incidents, but there are so many disasters happening, there aren't enough heroes to go around." Sonic proceeds to throw out the papers nonchalantly.
A few of the heroes turn to glance at Sitch who just sweats anxiously. "H-how did he?"
"Pfh, too easy." Sonic snickers while holding a hand to cover his mouth in a mocking manner.
"In other words, in the increasingly intense fights to save humanity that lie ahead you want help from both the good and bad, as long as they know how to fight. Does that pretty much sum it up? Well, I refuse." Sonic mutters in a bored tone.
Sitch wears a slightly panicked expression while looking toward the falling papers. "H-How did he get his hands on papers I never even handed out?"
"The thought of playing hero with you losers nauseates me." With Sonic's final words he disappears.
"The feeling's relatable." Garou nods in agreement comedically while Tareo watches him with confusion.
On the outside, the speedy ninja could be seen walking away with an annoyed expression. "Damn it. What a waste of time. This was a great opportunity for outsiders to enter the Hero Association HQ, but all I know about him are his name, his face, and that he's Class B Rank 33."
In City Z a certain duo of new characters show up at the entrance of the abandoned district.
"Seriously? A guy like him?" Eyelashes questions with a dumbfounded expression.
"Oh no." Fubuki softly mumbles while praying to the heavens that she was not there as Tatsumaki glances over to her sister with an eye roll.
"Unbelievable." Mountain Ape mutters under his breath.
A pair of heels clacking could be heard walking up to the two. "Yes. In the physical exam portion of the Hero Test, he crushed every record for every event."
"Lady Blizzard!"
Class B Rank 1 Hellish Blizzard
"Huh, I guess we meet soon too, that's cool I guess." Saitama comments randomly while Fubuki just dies on the inside. She knew Saitama most likely wouldn't care, but she still felt incredibly guilty for her future self's actions.
Genos turns his head slightly to side-eye Fubuki while realizing what her reason for being there would most likely be. "The Screen did remind us to not be unforgiving toward Ms. Fubuki's actions… Perhaps this is what it was speaking of."
"Despite having no notable record of his actions since then, he managed to climb up from Class C to Class B. Right after his debut, on top of that. There has to be something about this man." Fubuki explains as she focuses on the image of Saitama on the sheet of paper.
"There has to be something about him. A secret behind his strength." Sonic mutters while continuing his walk away from the Hero Association.
"How many times do I have to say I have no secret? Jeez." Saitama mutters in slight annoyance while picking at his ear.
Fubuki breaks the lock on the gateway to City Z as she glows a faint blue. "First, we're going out to find where he is."
"Yes, ma'am!" The two heroes cry out in unison.
"I'm going to hunt him down, and I'm going to make him regret the fact that he managed to embarrass me, Sound-o'-Speed Sonic."
"Just you wait…"
"You better be prepared…"
"...Saitama!" Both Fubuki and Sonic exclaim in annoyance.
"Oh, were you coming to challenge me? I guess I don't mind." Saitama wonders aloud obliviously while shrugging as Tatsumaki facepalms.
"I apologize for my future actions in advance, Saitama…" The Blizzard of Hell bows her head slightly as the bald hero turns to the esper with a befuddled expression. "Huh?"
Meanwhile…
Saitama and King sit side by side with serious expressions as they face an unknown threat. Until the camera pans down to reveal their controllers.
"Hey, why are you taking all the items? What the hell, man?" Saitama questions in minor irritation.
"First come, first serve." King mutters back.
The increasingly annoyed Saitama slowly grows a bit red. "This is co-op, you moron. I haven't gotten one power-up! How can we beat the boss? I'm still in my default gear!"
"Don't worry. I can beat them by myself." King nonchalantly responds.
A cracking sound is suddenly heard. "Whoops. The controller broke.
"What?"
"Wow I think that's the second time I've seen you lose control over your strength baldy and both times were over dumb games haha." Tatsumaki snickers while watching the amusing interaction play out.
They had all seen how frustrated the bald hero had been when playing video games with the fraud earlier along with his mini game with Bang.
"Leave me alone, I didn't do that yet so you have no proof I would do that." Saitama shamelessly responds while turning his gaze toward a wall.
"Master, I shall order more controllers for your future gaming sessions." Genos remarks while setting an internal reminder for himself while Saitama just nods in neutral thanks.
"Aw man, I think that was one of my favorite ones." King mumbles under his breath while Saitama mumbles a small apology, to which the former hero quickly shakes his head while waving a hand in dismissal. "Don't worry I think future me will let anything slide at that point haha."
"Onii-chan did you get to play video games here?" Zenko asks her brother with an extremely interested expression.
"Yeah, we played a few games during a break. I think we still have the stuff in the white room." Metal Bat mumbles in response while holding a thinking pose and trying to remember the events.
Zenko's eyes just gleam while Metal Bat sweat drops. "I guess you want to play later too?" The bat wielding hero only receives an adorably small nod, to which his heart melts.
"I think my eyes just got blinded for a sec." Zombie Man mutters under his breath while glancing to the side as Child Emperor just looked up at him with an innocently confused expression, prompting a defeated look from the undead hero. "I'm surrounded…"
Back to the Hero Association…
"Guess we'll be compensated for our time, yeah?" A random thug chuckles out while the villains all laugh.
A mysterious white haired individual picks up a paper dropped by Sonic. "Oi oi oi. This great prophecy's pretty sweet…" The face of Garou appears on the screen as he grins menacingly.
The in theater Garou smirks just as menacingly as his on screen counterpart when Tareo suddenly pulls on his sleeve, prompting the future hero hunter to look toward the young child. "Uncle, why are you there with the criminals?"
"Uh…" The martial artist's mind blanks, not really knowing why he was currently hesitating in just saying that he was planning on hunting the young Tareo's precious heroes. This was going to be an awkward next couple of episodes… wasn't it?