XXII

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The guard's demeanour becomes more cautious, assessing the new threat.

Shadow of Corporation Guard: "Oh? More uninvited guests? What the hell is going on here?"

Dan Heng, his voice calm and diplomatic, speaks up, trying to maintain a peaceful tone.

Dan Heng: "We mean no harm. We're simply passing through and accidentally strayed a bit off course. Please allow us to explain."

Meanwhile, Blade remains silent, his cold gaze fixed on the guard, ready for any unexpected moves. The guard, still suspicious but willing to hear them out, gestures for Dan Heng to continue.

Shadow of Corporation Guard: "Alright, go ahead and explain. But make it quick and convincing, or you're all in for a world of trouble."

With lightning-fast reflexes, Blade swiftly unsheaths his sword and launches a series of calculated strikes at the guard. The guard, caught off guard by the sudden assault, struggles to evade Blade's relentless attacks. Kafka, seizing the opportunity, joins in the assault, striking the guard with a flurry of precise blows. Together, Kafka and Blade work in perfect coordination, wearing down the guard's defences. The guard, battered and bruised from the combined onslaught, falls to its knees, defeated. Blade, his sword poised, looks at Kafka, a subtle nod of acknowledgement passes between them, indicating their victory. Kafka, with a sly smile on her face, takes a moment to catch her breath, her eyes fixed on the fallen guard.

Dan Heng and Acheron, witnessing the impressive display of fighting skills, exchange admiring glances. Dan Heng, his voice filled with awe, speaks up.

Dan Heng: "Wow, that was incredible. You two are formidable fighters. I underestimated your abilities."

Acheron, nodding in agreement, adds in.

Acheron: "Indeed, that was a well-coordinated teamwork. We're lucky to have such skilled individuals on our side."

After acknowledging the praise, Kafka and Blade share a glance before turning their attention back to the task at hand. Despite the compliments, they remain focused, their minds already moving on to their next objective. There's no time to linger on congratulations when the mission is still incomplete. Kafka, unable to resist her playful nature, teases Blade once more, her voice laced with cheekiness.

Kafka: "And here I thought you were all about brooding and aloofness, Blade. Did you enjoy that sparring session with the guard? Don't worry, your secret's safe with me."

Blade, ever stoic and unamused, merely rolls his eyes at Kafka's tease, but a faint smile escapes his lips, betraying his true feelings. He knows that Kafka's playful banter is just a part of her charismatic charm. Dan Heng, observing the playful interaction, chuckles softly, finding amusement in their friendly banter. He can't help but be intrigued by the unique dynamic between Kafka and Blade, even though their personalities couldn't be more different. 


With the guard defeated the group carefully proceeds, avoiding any further contact with additional Shadow of Corporation guards. They maintain their watchful eyes and observant nature, ready to react swiftly should they encounter more resistance.

****

Back to Cytharion Planet, Aventurine leads the way, carefully guiding the group through the winding alleys and bustling streets of Cytharion. Serval follows closely behind, ever observant, her eyes scanning the surroundings for potential threats. Robin and Bronya are focused and determined, maintain a steady rhythm, and their resolve is unwavering. Sparkle remains alert, occasionally glancing at the old woman curiously. The old woman, her years of experience guiding her every step, moves with surprising agility and knowledge of the terrain. She leads the group down hidden pathways and shortcuts, ensuring they avoid any potential encounters with the Shadow of Corporation guards. Her calm demeanour and confident guidance provide a sense of reassurance among the group. Sensing the group's focus on her, the old woman speaks up, her voice raspy but steady.

Old Woman: "Keep a close watch, my friends. The Shadow of Corporation's presence is strong in these parts. They're always lurking, ready to strike when you least expect it. Stay together, stay watchful."

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