An Idol Daughter's Group Chat

Hunting Dogs

Perplexed, Necro arched an eyebrow.

"Allow me to present myself as Kimura Haruki. We function as a collaborative organization, given specific circumstances... We, originating from the CIRO, are interested in extending an offer for your recruitment. The compensation we propose is comparable to that which your 'companion' here provides."

CIRO? Wasn't that tied to Japan's intelligence Agency? The Cabinet Intelligence and Research Office (CIRO) stands as a governmental agency in Japan responsible for matters related to foreign intelligence and analysis.

(A/N: Basically, CIRO of Japan had the same function as CIA in the USA.)

In reality, it wasn't an entirely unfavorable proposition... When you're aligned with the government, one of the most enticing benefits is a degree of immunity.

The remuneration appeared attractive, and the tasks seemed secure, mainly involving my expertise in gathering intelligence. Yet, one couldn't help but entertain doubts; such a proposition seemed almost too good to be credible.

"You... What a strange approach..." I transmitted my voice through their speaker.

Infused with skepticism, I mumbled, "Does the CIRO genuinely believe I'm some sort of a modern-day Robin Hood?"

Adjusting his glasses, the agent cast a resolute gaze upon the screen. "Indeed, that was what we hope it to be," he affirmed.

Their basis for seeking my recruitment stemmed solely from my assistance in solving crimes? That assertion seemed implausible.

Their intentions were transparent.

Unfortunately I am not a Hunting dog.

This isn't something I need.

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"Kimura Haruki-san, is it?" I stated firmly. "Our conversation concludes here. My apologies, but I must decline your proposition."

In response, the agent released a deep sigh, his disappointment evident. "We had hoped for a different outcome, yet it appears circumstances leave us with no alternative... Nevertheless, I'm confident your perspective will alter after this," he concluded, wearing a composed smile.

*Bang*

"This is the police! Open the door!" Through the hacker's microphone, the resounding sound of forceful banging reverberated.

Upon the rooftop, the police hammered at the stairwell door. They had converged on the specific building once Kimura Haruki initiated contact with the hacker. The vintage flip phone's communication trace had led them to this location.

This constitutes their strategy – an ultimatum to either collaborate or face criminal charges.

"Heh, is that really what you think?"

However... something felt amiss. Right after "Necro" said his last words, Kimura Haruki and his agents discerned an unexpected sound emanating from the still-connected phone...

*Buzz*

"You're rather disappointing, Yamamoto..." Necro's voice pierced the air suddenly.

"Hm? Necro-san?" Kimura Haruki's eyebrow raised inquisitively.

"You still haven't grasped the situation, have you?" Necro's voice retained an unnatural quality.

Finally comprehending the situation, one of the agents muttered, "It's... repeating?"

"You're associated with the PSIA, am I correct? You... What a strange approach... Does the CIRO genuinely believe I'm some sort of a modern-day Robin Hood? Kimura Haruki-san, is it? Our conversation concludes here. My apologies, but I must decline your proposition." All of Necro's words echoed incessantly from the ongoing call, as though replayed from a recording.

"What the heck is going on!?"

*Bam!* On the other side, the police attempting to breach the rooftop door finally succeeded.

"Hands in the air!"

Haruki finally heard one of his men from the opposite side.

However, on the other side, the officers found no one. Only a vintage flip phone remained in an ongoing call alongside a looped recorder.

"The first half and the loops share the same frequency... It wasn't a real-time conversation at all! So... I've been talking to a recording this entire time!?"

A curious rumor inevitably spread to the authorities – that Necro had communicated with a high-ranking CIRO executive solely through a recording... As if he had not only predicted the organization's plans but also anticipated their exact words in their conversation. As if he can predict the future.

"Just how far can he see!?" The man's voice held both frustration and awe.

Of course, in reality, I had quickly escaped via wall walking and masking my presence...

Meanwhile, within Hoshino's residence,

"Ame! While your tech skills are impressive, please be mindful of where you place things! First a MacBook, and now a Gaming Laptop... These items aren't cheap, you know!?" (Miyako)

"Ame-chan... It's time you realize the importance of looking after your belongings." (AI)

I found myself on the receiving end of affectionate admonishments from both of my mothers.

I will never forgive those hunting dogs.

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To be continued

(A/N: 1315 word counts)