You thought your neighbors were bad...but at least they're not aliens trying to kill you! Destroy thy Neighbor! A gate to another dimension has burst open, and invincible monsters called Neighbors invade Earth. Osamu Mikumo may not be the best amon...
Whispers filled the corridors as news of the irregular gates spread. Everyone knew that things were escalating and that the stakes were higher than ever.
In a quiet corner of the command center, Yamada Taiki stood alone, his sharp eyes fixed on the digital map displaying hotspots around Mikado City.
"Tonight," a voice broke the silence.
It was Shūji Miwa, the team leader who rarely showed his true concern. "We have a mission. One that can't wait."
Taiki didn't turn to face him. "I know."
Miwa sighed. "We underestimate this Neighbor at our own risk. His Black Trigger isn't just a weapon it's adaptive. Learning from our Triggers."
Taiki's lips twitched into the faintest smile, barely noticeable. "If that's true, then it's a dangerous opponent."
"You've been watching the training simulations?" Miwa asked.
Taiki nodded once. "He's practicing with the A-rank team. He's no beginner."
From behind, Kei Tachikawa approached, exuding calm authority.
"As always, Taiki, you're one step ahead," Tachikawa said approvingly. "The longer we delay, the more trouble for those on watch Yoneya and Kodera included."
Sōya Kazama appeared beside them, folding his arms.
"Let's get this over with quickly. The sooner, the better."
Taiki turned to meet Commander Masamune Kido's gaze when he entered the room.
"You take command of the squad for this mission, Yamada. I'm counting on you. Don't disappoint."
Taiki gave a firm nod. Words were unnecessary.
⸻
One hour later
En route to the target zone
The squad moved quietly in a sleek Border transport.
"Distance to target: 1000 meters," the operator announced calmly.
Tachikawa leaned back with a smirk.
"Hey, Miwa, run slower, we're not immortal."
Miwa grunted in response, but his focus never wavered.
"Distance to target: 500 meters."
Suddenly, the transport halted.
"Stop!" Tachikawa shouted.
Standing before them was Yūichi Jin, cool and composed as ever.
"Jin!" Miwa said in surprise.
Jin smirked. "Seems you're making a bold move. But where's your captain?"
"Toma Fuyushima's out - seasick," Kazama replied.
"Don't say more than necessary," Sōya warned.
Jin glanced at the squad. "If you're here, you know what we're after."
"We're here to protect our agent," Miwa said firmly. "Our kohai's been bonding well with him, so back off."
From the shadows, a familiar voice cut through.
"Taiki, Border summoned you too. Seems they want that Black Trigger badly."
Taiki's dark eyes flickered briefly.
"Always quiet," Jin teased. "Then it's on me to protect my kouhai."
"Jin-san," Miwa's voice dropped. "You won't win this, even with your side effect."
Jin's grin widened.
"Even if you defeat everyone else, I'll be the last standing."
The night deepened, and the inevitable clash between Border's best and the mysterious Neighbor drew close
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