The Dark Knight Of Another World

Bruce stood in his dimly lit room, the flickering candle casting long shadows across the maps and notes sprawled on the wooden desk. He adjusted his gloves, feeling the snug fit of his newly modified suit. It wasn't the full armor he was used to, but it provided enough mobility and protection for now.

He flexed his fingers, testing the dexterity of the lightweight material covering his arms. The adjustments he'd made over the last few nights allowed him to blend better with the environment without sacrificing utility. The bat emblem across his chest was faint, almost shadowed, ensuring it didn't draw unnecessary attention.

He shifted his gaze to the system interface, scanning his stats:

[Shadow Points: 10 Remaining]

Strength: 13 → 15

Agility: 14 → 16

Vitality: 12 → 14

Perception: 15 → 17

Intelligence: 18 → 19

Skills:

• Shadow Cloak (Level 2) – Improved stealth and invisibility in darkness.

• Interrogator's Edge (Level 1) – Enhances persuasion and intimidation.

• Grappling Hook Mastery (Passive) – Increased control and range.

Bruce's eyes narrowed. Despite distributing his points logically, he could still feel the difference in his younger body. His reflexes were sharp, but his muscles lacked the hardened strength they once carried.

"Batmite," he muttered under his breath. "I swear, when I see you again…"

He stopped, inhaled, and refocused. Complaining wouldn't help.

[System Quest Notification]:

[Daily Workout Quest Completed!]

• Reward: +200 XP, Iron Shard Dagger (Rare), Gold Coins (x10).

Bruce smirked at the dagger materializing in the inventory screen. It wasn't as advanced as his old weapons, but he'd take whatever advantages he could get.

....

Lyra's POV.

Lyra moved through the crowded market, weaving effortlessly between vendors and patrons. Her nimble fingers flicked a coin into the air, catching the attention of a merchant.

"Back again, Lyra? Didn't think nobles would let you out so often."

She leaned against the counter. "You know me—always looking for trouble."

The merchant chuckled nervously, but Lyra's sharp eyes caught the slight hesitation.

"So," she said, dropping her voice, "what's Valtor been up to lately?"

The merchant froze.

"Come on," Lyra coaxed, flashing a grin. "You wouldn't hide anything from me, would you?"

"I don't know what you're talking about."

Her smile thinned. "Really?"

She leaned closer, lowering her voice. "Because the people in this market don't look too happy these days. And I'm guessing Valtor has something to do with that."

The merchant glanced around, then whispered, "Valtor's men are collecting 'fees.' Call it protection, but it's robbery."

"And the shipments?"

"I've said too much."

Lyra grabbed his wrist before he could back away. "Relax. I'm not here to make trouble."

He hesitated, then muttered, "The next shipment leaves tonight. North gate."

She let go, tossing him a silver coin before disappearing into the crowd.

.....

Nightfall.

Bruce crouched on the rooftop, shadows coiling around him as he scanned the alley below. He adjusted his mask, feeling the familiar rush of adrenaline as the night wrapped around him.

Two men stood near a wagon loaded with crates bearing the black viper symbol. Their conversation was low, but Bruce's enhanced Perception caught every word.

"Boss said we move this quick. No delays."

"Relax. The guards are paid off."

Bruce dropped silently behind them, stepping forward just as one of them turned.

"What the—"

Bruce's fist connected with his jaw, dropping him before the second man could react. The second thug swung a dagger, but Bruce caught his wrist, twisting it until the weapon clattered to the ground.

"W-who are you?" the man stammered.

Bruce didn't answer. Instead, he hoisted the thug against the wagon.

"Who's behind the shipments?"

"I-I don't know! Valtor handles it!"

"What's inside?"

The man shook his head. "I don't know, I swear!"

Bruce dropped him, knocking him out with a quick strike. He inspected the crates, prying one open.

Inside, strange dark crystals pulsed faintly with energy. Abyssal corruption.

His jaw tightened. This wasn't just smuggling—it was something far worse.

...

Lyra's POV.

Meanwhile, Lyra tailed one of Valtor's men through the winding backstreets. Unlike Bruce's silent approach, she relied on misdirection, chatting with guards and blending into groups to follow her target unnoticed.

She eventually cornered him near a secluded alley.

"Going somewhere?" she said, stepping out from the shadows.

The man froze, reaching for his weapon.

"Don't," she warned, twirling a dagger of her own. "Talk first."

Despite his resistance, Lyra's sharp tongue and a few well-placed threats broke him down.

"They're moving the crystals tonight! North gate!"

She grinned. "Thanks for the tip."

....

Back at the Inn.

Bruce returned just as Lyra barged into the room, both of them speaking at once.

"Crystals," Bruce said.

"North gate," Lyra added.

They paused, exchanging looks before Bruce folded his arms. "Looks like we're heading to the same place."

Lyra smirked. "Race you there?"

Bruce shook his head. "We need a plan, not reckless competition."

"Boring," she teased but nodded. "Fine. What's the plan, boss?"

Bruce moved to the map, already sketching out the layout.

"We hit the north gate. Quietly. No casualties unless necessary."

Lyra arched an eyebrow. "You're no fun."

Bruce didn't smile. "We're not here to play games, Lyra."

She huffed but followed his lead.

[System Update]:

[Main Quest Updated: Unraveling Corruption.]

• Objective: Investigate and Stop Valtor's Smuggling Operation.

• Reward: +500 XP, Skill Unlock, and Mystery Item.