"So that's it. I think I've given you enough information. Be safe. These creatures even have the power of shapeshifting. They can look like normal humans, but they're not. Stay alert," said Cyrus, handing the teen a card. "This has my number on it. If you find yourself in danger, call me. Now you can go."
The boy stared at the card, hesitation clear in his eyes. "Wait! Can you please tell me more?"
Cyrus sighed, his expression growing stern. "No, it's against our community rules. We've already told you a lot. That's enough. Stay out of this mess and take care of yourself."
He turned to leave, but the teen's voice stopped him. "I hope the next time we meet, you don't have to kill me…" His words carried a mixture of fear and determination.
Cyrus paused, glancing back. "I hope so too. Goodbye."
"Wait!" the boy called out again, desperation creeping into his voice. "Actually… I want to join your community."
The group turned to face him, their expressions ranging from surprise to disbelief.
"You want to join us?" Cyrus asked, raising an eyebrow.
"Yes," the teen said firmly. "This isn't about catching a petty thief or stopping a normal gangster. These creatures are stronger—dangerous. I understand that. And if I die in the fight… and my clone is created… then kill me without hesitation."
Cyrus smirked, a hint of amusement playing on his face. "Kid, you've got guts, I'll give you that. But this isn't a joke. You're young. You've got an entire life ahead of you. Go find a good girl, settle down, and live your life. And hey, if you find a pair of twins, don't forget to recommend them to me."
The boy shook his head. "I have nothing left to lose. My mom is gone, my brother is gone… please, take me in. I'll do anything you ask."
Hearing this, the group fell silent. Cyrus exchanged a look with Ana, his second-in-command, whose skeptical gaze hardened further.
"You're serious?" Cyrus asked.
"Yes. I'll do anything."
Cyrus leaned forward slightly, his eyes narrowing as a mischievous grin spread across his face. "Alright. Can you cook a delicious pancake?"
The boy blinked, caught off guard. "Pancake? What does that have to do with—?"
"You heard me," Cyrus interrupted, his voice suddenly excited. "If you can make a delicious pancake, you're hired from now on!"
For a moment, the boy stared at him, then let out a faint laugh despite the tension. "Fine. I'll make you the best pancake you've ever had. Deal?"
"Deal."
"Cyrus, are you out of your mind?" Ana snapped, her voice sharp. "This isn't a joke. He can't just join because of some stupid pancake!"
"Relax, Ana," Cyrus said casually. "It's just a little test."
Ana folded her arms, glaring at him. "Fine, but don't forget the rules. If he becomes a clone, we kill him—no hesitation. You better make that clear."
Cyrus turned back to the teen, his expression serious. "She's right. If you ever become a clone, we won't hesitate. Do you still want to join?"
The boy's resolve didn't waver. "I'll do whatever it takes."
Cyrus smirked again. "Alright, then. Welcome to the team. But first, you'll need training. And you'll have to sign a waiver acknowledging that we can kill you if it comes to that. Understood?"
"Understood," the boy replied firmly.
"Good. Let's go," Cyrus said, turning on his heel and leading the way.
As they walked away, Ana muttered under her breath, "This is a mistake…"
The boy ignored her, determination burning in his eyes as he followed Cyrus into the unknown.