The Hollow Creed (Zenless Zone Zero x Male Reader)

Chapter 14 - Trouble The Double

The Black Bonfires were having a meeting. They were discussing the Doppelganger. And their latest attempt to find it.

"So, you've failed." Smokescreen remarked. "Again."

"I'm sorry." The person bowed their head.

"Sorry isn't good enough. You've wasted our resources, and put us at risk. If you can't deliver results, then you're of no use to us." Smokescreen snarled. "What happens if the New Eridu Public Security finds us? What then?"

"I-I don't know."

"Exactly. We're running a dangerous game, and we can't afford mistakes. So, what do you have to say for yourself?"

"I'm sorry. I-I'll do better next time."

"Yes, you will. Because if you don't, I'll have you replaced." Smokescreen sighed. "Dismissed." The person hurried out, and Smokescreen rubbed his hand. Maybe it was best if he let the Doppelganger get away. Maybe it was best if he stopped looking for it. Maybe it was best if he focused on the Black Bonfires.

They were his priority, after all. Not the Doppelganger. The Black Bonfires were his family. They were his home. They were his responsibility. And, he would do anything for them. Anything.

Even if it meant letting a dangerous creature run loose. Even if it meant putting the citizens of New Eridu at risk. Even if it meant betraying his ideals. Even if it meant betraying himself.

He would do anything for the Black Bonfires.

Anything.

**************

"Alright, you got this. You can do this." Y/N tried to convince himself. But, the truth was, he wasn't so sure. The Staff Only room at Random Play was empty and quiet. A perfect spot to get thoughts straight.

He was just...thinking. About how easily Victor and his cronies had found the Cunning Hares. About the threat that was hanging over their heads. About the fact that the Hares had almost been killed.

He couldn't believe it. They had almost died. If he hadn't stepped in, they would have. It was terrifying.

"Hey, Y/N." The door opened, and Belle came in. "You okay? You look a little pale."

"Yeah, yeah, I'm fine. Just, thinking."

"About what?"

"About the Hares."

"Oh, right. You're their advisor now, huh?"

"I guess. It's not like I had much of a choice. Besides, it's only when they need me. Kind of like the stint I got up in here."

"Fair enough. But, are you really sure you're okay? You seem pretty stressed."

"Well, that's what happens when a bunch of idiots try to get you killed."

"Right. But, the Hares are tough. They can handle themselves."

Y/N sighed. "You're right. I'm worrying over nothing." He growled. "It's just....I don't know."

Belle stepped closer to him, and hugged him. "You can tell me."

"I-I..." Y/N stopped, his voice cracking. "I haven't cared about people for...as long as I can remember." He laughed. "Then you came to visit me on the rooftop the morning after the Blazewood party. After my fight with the Master."

Belle was silent, letting him continue. "I don't know why. I-I never really wanted to talk to anyone before. Not unless I had to. But, then, you came along. You sought me out. And you were nice. And you were funny. And you were...different. From everyone else."