Chapter 12

### Chapter 12: Kenji and Poko on Duty

#### 1. **A New Mission**

It was a calm evening when Birdman contacted the Perman team with a new mission. Kenji and Poko were assigned to work together, their task to intercept a group of criminals planning to steal valuable technology from a high-security research facility. As they prepared for the mission, Kenji could sense that something was bothering Poko.

Poko, known for her strength and determination, seemed unusually quiet and tense. Kenji decided it was best to address the situation directly, hoping to resolve any underlying issues before they headed out.

#### 2. **Tension Rising**

As they flew towards the research facility, Kenji glanced at Poko, noticing the tightness in her expression. "Poko, is everything alright? You seem a bit off today."

Poko didn't meet his gaze, her eyes fixed on the horizon. "I'm fine," she replied curtly.

Kenji frowned, not convinced by her response. "You don't seem fine. If something's bothering you, we should talk about it."

Poko finally turned to face him, her eyes flashing with irritation. "Why do you even care, Kenji? You're always so busy with your superstar life, how can you possibly understand what the rest of us go through?"

Kenji was taken aback by her outburst. "Poko, that's not fair. I might have a busy life, but that doesn't mean I don't care about the team or what you're going through."

#### 3. **The Mission Begins**

Before they could continue their conversation, they arrived at the research facility. The building was surrounded by high fences and security cameras, with guards patrolling the perimeter. Kenji and Poko quickly shifted their focus to the mission at hand.

Using their superhero abilities, they silently approached the facility, avoiding detection by the guards. They communicated through hand signals, coordinating their movements as they infiltrated the building.

Inside, they discovered a group of criminals loading high-tech equipment into unmarked vans. Kenji and Poko sprang into action, engaging the criminals with precision and skill.

#### 4. **Working Together**

Despite the tension between them, Kenji and Poko worked seamlessly as a team. Poko's strength and agility complemented Kenji's speed and strategic thinking. Together, they managed to subdue the criminals and secure the stolen technology.

Once the mission was complete, Birdman arrived to take custody of the criminals and the recovered equipment. With the immediate threat neutralized, Kenji turned to Poko, determined to address the underlying issues between them.

"Poko, we need to talk," he said firmly.

Poko sighed, knowing that Kenji wouldn't let the matter rest. "Fine, let's talk."

#### 5. **The Confrontation**

They found a quiet spot away from the facility, and Kenji faced Poko, his expression serious but concerned. "What's really going on, Poko? Why are you so mad at me?"

Poko crossed her arms, her frustration evident. "You just don't get it, Kenji. You have this glamorous life, everyone loves you, and you're always in the spotlight. Meanwhile, the rest of us are stuck balancing our ordinary lives with our superhero duties. It's like you don't even realize how hard it is for us."

Kenji's heart sank as he listened to Poko's words. He had always tried to be a supportive teammate, but it was clear that he had overlooked the challenges his friends faced. "Poko, I'm sorry. I didn't realize you felt this way. You're right, I have been caught up in my own life. But that doesn't mean I don't care about what you go through."

#### 6. **Finding Common Ground**

Poko's anger softened slightly as she saw the sincerity in Kenji's eyes. "It's just... sometimes it feels like you're living in a different world. We all have our struggles, and it would be nice if you acknowledged that more."

Kenji nodded, understanding the depth of her frustration. "I promise to do better, Poko. I don't want you to feel like I'm disconnected from the team. We're all in this together, and I value each of you."

Poko sighed, her shoulders relaxing. "I appreciate that, Kenji. It's just been tough lately, and I needed to get that off my chest."

Kenji smiled, relieved to see the tension between them easing. "Thank you for being honest with me. I'll make sure to be more mindful of what everyone is going through. We're a team, and I want to support you just as much as you support me."

#### 7. **Moving Forward**

With their conversation concluded, Kenji and Poko returned to their duties with a renewed sense of understanding and camaraderie. The mission had not only been a success in terms of stopping the criminals but also in strengthening the bond between them.

As they flew back to join the rest of the team, Kenji felt a sense of determination. He knew that being a hero meant more than just fighting villains; it also meant being there for his friends and acknowledging their struggles. He was committed to being a better teammate and friend, ensuring that they all felt valued and supported in their shared mission.

For Poko, the confrontation had been a necessary release of pent-up frustration. She appreciated Kenji's willingness to listen and understand, and she felt more confident in their partnership moving forward.

Together, they knew that they could face any challenge that came their way, united by their shared purpose and strengthened by their mutual respect and friendship.