The Eminence in Shadow: The Dark Swordsman

Chapter 26: Veiled Prophecies

Kirito sprinted through the bustling streets of Midgar, his eyes darting anxiously as he searched for any sign of Sherry in the early morning light. The city's labyrinthine layout added to his urgency, each passing second fueling his concern.

As Kirito raced through the streets, he muttered under his breath, "It's my fault she's disappeared. Did she get teleported to another world because of me?"

Suddenly, a girl stepped out in front of him, her face breaking into a smile. "Good morning, Kirito-kun," she greeted.

Kirito paused, locking eyes with Alexia, who seemed more cheerful than usual.

Kirito blinked in surprise, momentarily distracted from his frantic search. "Ah, good morning, Alexia," he said, catching his breath. "I'd love to chat, but I'm actually in a bit of a rush. I'm searching for someone."

Alexia's eyes widened, a hint of disappointment flashing across her face. "Oh, Kirito-kun, I was hoping we could spend some time together," she began, her voice trailing off hesitantly. "I mean, I want to help you!" she quickly corrected herself, trying to hide her true feelings.

Kirito raised an eyebrow, intrigued by her sudden change of heart. "Well, if you insist," he replied, nodding appreciatively.

"Great! So, who are we looking for?" Alexia asked, eager to be of assistance.

"It's a girl named Sherry Barnett," Kirito explained.

The moment the name escaped his lips, Alexia's cheerful demeanour evaporated. Her eyes narrowed, and she crossed her arms indignantly. "Another girl?" she exclaimed, clearly displeased. "I refuse to help!"

Kirito stared at her, dumbfounded by her unexpected reaction. "Wait, it's not like that—" he began, but it was too late.

Alexia let out a sigh, her once cheerful demeanour now replaced by a cold, distant expression. "As helpless as you seem, Kirito-kun, I can't help but pity you," she remarked, her voice tinged with a mix of frustration and sympathy.

"I'll assist you in your not-so-noble quest," she continued, uncrossing her arms and taking a step closer. Her eyes locked onto his, searching for any sign of resistance. "But I want something in return."

Kirito nodded slowly, sensing the gravity of the situation. "Alright."

Alexia raised an eyebrow, "Have you asked others or heard any rumours about her disappearance? Sometimes people know more than they let on."

Kirito frowned, realizing he hadn't considered gathering information from others. "No, I haven't. I've been too focused on searching the streets. I'll try asking around and see if anyone has seen or heard anything about Sherry."

Alexia shook her head, looking at Kirito with a smirk. "You really are helpless, aren't you? Fine, if we're going to get anywhere, we should start by asking the clients in some taverns."

Just as Alexia finished speaking, a mischievous grin spread across Kirito's face. He looked at her and said, "Actually, I have a better place in mind."

Alexia's eyes widened in surprise, "Oh? And where would that be?"

"We're heading to where I live," Kirito replied with a confident smirk.

Alexia's face immediately turned a deep shade of red. Her eyes widened, and she took a step back, pointing an accusing finger at Kirito. "You indecent pervert!"

Kirito raised his hands defensively, to protect himself from Alexia's exaggerated reaction. "Whoa, whoa! It's not what you think!"

Later on...
As Kirito and Alexia walked through the vibrant streets, the awkward tension between them lingered. Alexia couldn't help but voice her concerns, "Just so you know, Kirito-kun, I hope you don't get any wrong ideas while we're at your place."