Mission and Motives

After their differences were set, before Ose declared the purpose behind Leo's arrival, an apology was offered for the manner in which Leo was invited. Ose acknowledged that his method may have went too extreme on him.

Leo didn't mince his words. "Yeah, it did" he responded bluntly. "But you're lucky I'm in a somewhat calm mood right now, or else I don't know what I would do to this place." Leo added.

As Leo's confusion grew when he casually looked around the confined space they were in. He noticed the absence of windows and roofs, and he questioned Ose about it. "Why is this place so enclosed? No windows, no roofs," he inquired.

Ose remained composed and began to explain. "This is an underground facility, hidden from prying eyes. Very few people, including yourself, know about its existence. Mainly we operate in utmost secrecy, which is why the invitation method had to be somewhat questionable."

Leo's brow furrowed, his understanding of the gravity of the situation deepening. While he acknowledged the highly confidential nature of the Blue Dragon Yakuza, he couldn't help but express his dissatisfaction. "You could have invited me in a more discreet manner, perhaps using a concealed vehicle," he declared.

Yoshino, speaking on behalf of Ose, responded, "Yes, that may seem reasonable, but we had to prioritize caution. Some individuals possess extraordinary memories and senses that could detect the route we took, even if they were blinded. We couldn't risk exposing our base, especially considering your augmented senses, Leo. We still have much to discover about your augmented senses' true potential, so we opted for this unconventional method."

"Still I don't see the reason to knock me out and drag me into this unknown space without my consent," Leo ranted.

"Yes, and that is why I apologized to you on behalf of my subordinate, Yurei. He was supposed to discuss the details with you before bringing you here. However, he might have been provoked by your dangerous presence or perceived an imminent threat, causing him to lose his temper. But please do forgive him, he's always been sensitive one, heightening his vigilance under no circumstances."

"Fine," Leo sighed, "Then tell me why am I here,"Leo reverted his ear back to Ose as he was done with his assertion, finally Ose revealed the purpose behind Leo's invitation to the underground facility. It was a mission, one that Ose hoped Leo would assist them with. Intrigued, Leo couldn't help but ask why they sought his help instead of reaching out to Spider-Man.

Ose paused for a moment before responding, "Spider-Man is undoubtedly a man of justice, but he has a strict code of conduct. He may not be willing to aid us, considering our involvement in some questionable activities."

Leo nodded, understanding the dilemma. While he himself had reservations about aligning with criminals, as long as he recognized that their goals didn't cross the line he set. And he had already decided to reserve judgment until he had more information about their mission.

Ose, aware of the questions swirling in Leo's mind, continued, "You see, Leo, we understand that you are not only driven by justice but also have a thirst for rewards. Rest assured, if you lend us a hand in this mission, you will be handsomely compensated."

Leo's curiosity was sparked when Ose mentioned compensation. His eyes brightened, and he eagerly asked, "Compensation? What kind of price are we talking about?"

A subtle smile danced on Ose's lips as he observed Leo's reaction. "It's a substantial sum, but that's all I can disclose."

"Are we talking six digits?" Leo inquired, his eyebrow raised.

"Maybe," Ose replied, tilting his head slightly.

Leo's excitement grew at the prospect of a substantial reward. He had always relied on his own means to support his crime-fighting endeavors, and the promise of compensation was always a welcome proposition.

Leo eagerly agreed to assist Ose and his Yakuza faction before even knowing the details of the mission. The allure of the potential reward outweighed any reservations he may have had.

Seeing Leo's willingness to cooperate, Ose's smile widened. He knew he had just gained a valuable ally, one who willing to fight for them, a heightened chance of succeed.

"Now that we have an agreement," Ose began, "let me explain the specifics of the mission."

Leo's attention was fully captured as Ose Takeshi explained the details of the mission. "The job is simple," Ose began, his words translated by Yoshino. Leo's focus sharpened as Ose revealed that his task was not to eliminate a target but rather to escort someone.

As Ose delved deeper into the details, Leo's curiosity intensified. Ose revealed that the individual Leo was to escort was none other than Funai Akihiro, a prominent scientist who happened to be a family member of their Yakuza faction. Moreover, Ose disclosed that Akihiro was the genius and co-lead scientist behind the creation of the Spider-X0315, the very spider that had bitten Leo and granted him his extraordinary spider-like capabilities.

Leo's eyes widened in astonishment upon hearing this revelation as it struck Leo like a bolt of lightning. He felt a mix of astonishment and apprehension. Funai Akihiro's association with the Spider-X project meant a connection to Wilson Fisk. Leo's tone shifted as he questioned Ose about his organization's affiliation with Fisk.

Ose met Leo's gaze steadily and admitted, "Yes, we have had dealings with Fisk in the past, but our involvement is limited to mutual trading. We have no part in his acts or anything he has orchestrated."

Leo's displeasure at their association with Fisk was evident, but he decided to set aside his personal grievances for the time being. He urged Ose to continue with the details of the mission, wanting to know more about the man he was being asked to save and, more importantly, why.

Ose revealed the image of the man Leo was to rescue. A picture then slid across the floor, coming to rest at Leo's feet. Leo picked it up, examining the image of the man he was now tasked with saving. He couldn't help but question why he should rescue someone who was already guarded by Fisk's men.

Ose's expression grew serious as he revealed the truth. Dr Akihiro had defected from Fisk's project. Despite being a co-lead scientist of the Spider-X project, he had discovered Fisk's true intentions and wanted no part in them. This made him a target, and his defection made him a valuable source of information.

Ose emphasized that if Leo assisted in Dr Akihiro's escape and recovery, he would have the opportunity to speak with him and extract any information about Fisk's motives and other pertinent details. This revelation shifted Leo's perspective. The opportunity to gain critical information and potentially dismantle Fisk's operations became a powerful motivation.

Leo nodded, his decision made. "I will help you," he declared. "Not only for your sake, but also for my personal vendetta..."

With the details of the mission discussed, the room filled with a newfound determination. As they were ready to move forward and devise a plan of action, but before they did, Leo added after a moment of silence,

"...and the cash you promised."