The sudden attack on the 11th Ward Branch had utterly shocked the entire CCG. After all, this was the first time a Ghoul organization had launched such a bold assault on one of their branches. And based on the enemy's "declaration," every Investigator in that branch was likely already dead. This was no mere hostility—it was outright provocation!
In response, the CCG had urgently summoned every available Investigator. At a glance, there were at least three Associate Special Class Investigators, more than ten First Class Investigators, and over thirty Rank-1 Investigators. As for Special Class Investigators… it would depend on who could make it in time.
But most importantly, this was still not the final count. More vehicles continued to pull up to CCG Headquarters, each Investigator wearing a grave expression. The solemnity spread throughout the entire lobby on the first floor.
However, many rookie Investigators working at HQ took this opportunity to familiarize themselves with their seniors.
Generally, those stationed at headquarters were either strong enough to form a mobile response unit—like those previously sent to the 20th Ward—or rookies who, despite passing the exams, had displayed too many flaws in actual combat. These rookies underwent "re-education" at HQ before being redeployed. Of course, the final group consisted of injured veterans. Fighting Ghouls was a brutal affair, and even survivors often lost their combat ability. Whether to provide for their families or simply to continue serving, they chose to stay behind.
At the moment, one such veteran, a bald middle-aged man standing in a corner, was proudly introducing prominent Investigators to a group of rookies:
"The one at the front with the expressionless face is First Class Investigator Hirako Take. Though not particularly talkative, he once served as Arima-san's partner and is one of the most likely candidates for promotion to Associate Special Class. Behind him is First-Class Investigator Itou Kuramoto, Hirako-san's assistant."
His voice brimmed with pride, especially when Hirako-san nodded briefly in his direction. The admiring gazes from the rookies only deepened his sense of satisfaction. Ever since his injury had forced him off the front lines and into desk work, opportunities to feel admired were rare. Leading these rookies allowed him to satisfy his small vanity.
Just then, another group walked through the doors.
"Senpai, who is that?"
"Mado? He's a Senior Investigator directly affiliated with HQ. Recently, he was dispatched to oversee the 20th Ward cleanup. He and I go way back—"
He cut himself off abruptly, distracted by the figure following behind Mado Kureo. Unlike most Investigators who were dressed casually, the young man behind Mado wore a black combat suit, wrapped tightly with stark white bandages stained conspicuously with blood.
"Lancer, do you want to visit the Medical Division first, or come with me directly to the conference room?"
"It's fine. I'll head straight to the meeting."
Though he looked terrible, thanks to the Ring of Recovery, Lancer still retained some combat capability. Attending a meeting wouldn't be an issue.
"Then let's go directly. If I'm not mistaken, this meeting won't take long. After all, there's only one possible choice."
Due to the attack, Mado Kureo's mood had been particularly dark. His sinister appearance and gloomy expression gave off an eerie vibe, easily misunderstood by others. Yet Lancer, accustomed to Mado's mannerisms, understood perfectly.
This time, the Ghouls—Aogiri Tree in particular—had crossed the line. Not only had they attacked the branch, but they had also deliberately sent provocative videos. The fragile balance previously maintained through tacit understanding had been shattered completely. Aogiri, once merely labeled a "Ghoul organization with extremist tendencies," had now become a clear enemy organization. From this moment onward, the two sides would fight until one was eradicated.
On their way, Lancer's bloodied, bandage-wrapped figure attracted countless stares. Initially, there were whispers about him, but when they learned he'd come directly from the Ghoul Restaurant battle in the 20th Ward, their gazes grew complicated.
"Listen carefully during the meeting, don't speak casually. And afterward, if there's a chance, interact with the others around you."
Although Lancer had arrived with Mado, as a Rank-2 Investigator he had to sit in the back rows, alongside other Investigators' assistants. Essentially, anyone who survived long enough would eventually become a Senior Investigator or higher. Mado's advice was clearly meant to remind Lancer to start building his network.
Of course, Lancer understood his own circumstances. Almost four months had already passed out of his five-month limit. In less than a month, he'd leave this world. While building relationships wouldn't benefit him personally, he still appreciated Mado's goodwill and chose not to reject it.
Normally, before meetings, there'd be friendly chatter, but today the hall was deathly silent. Almost every seat was occupied ten minutes ahead of schedule.
Clack—!
The conference room door suddenly swung open, revealing a tall, stern-faced man striding in. With his appearance, everyone understood: the meeting had officially begun.
"I'll skip unnecessary introductions. Before we begin, there's only one thing I want to say—this is war!"
Despite his grim, somewhat sinister appearance, his words were like a spark, igniting everyone's suppressed fury.
"Now, onto specifics. You've all likely heard by now why this meeting was called. The 11th Ward branch was attacked by Aogiri Tree. The enemy has temporarily occupied the location. According to the police report, the number of survivors is… zero."
Though they'd been mentally prepared, the entire hall plunged into a tense, oppressive silence. Those with excellent self-control showed no visible reaction, yet unconsciously, their murderous intent slipped through. Others clenched their teeth or tightened fists, visibly shaken.
Bang—Bang!
Suddenly, the sound of fists slamming on the table snapped everyone back from their rage-filled reverie.
"Because this incident was sudden, our estimates remain conservative. The enemy has multiple S-rated Ghouls. Considering so many powerful Ghouls are gathered without internal conflict, their leader is very likely an SS-rated Ghoul. We believe their numbers exceed 200. Pay attention: although they're still Ghouls, this time they aren't scattered individuals but a coordinated force capable of strategic cooperation. They're exceptionally dangerous!"
To reach Special-Class Investigator status required not just personal strength, but sacrifice and dedication. Marude Itsuki, who spoke now, clearly embodied these traits. As the commander for this operation, he undoubtedly felt immense anger, but as a leader, he had no choice but to suppress his rage and convey the enemy's threat clearly.
Like Mado Kureo, though stern-looking and difficult to approach, Marude-san was a seasoned CCG veteran who didn't want to lose too many of his subordinates.
Just as the atmosphere reached a fever pitch—
"Is this the right place for the meeting?"
An innocent, childlike voice echoed through the room, catching everyone completely off guard.
What the hell is going on?
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