A Mystical Slayer?

Despite the successful rescue of the researchers, the loss of the vaccine data weighed heavily on him.

The researchers, visibly shaken by the ordeal, followed the team closely, grateful for the Slayer Knights' intervention.

Hobe scanned the surroundings, his unease growing as he contemplated the implications of the failed vaccine retrieval.

"Anna, we're about to ascend to the first floor. Open the access door," commanded Christopher.

"Uh, we have access cards," stammered one of the young assistant researchers nervously.

"Don't worry, whether you use your access card or Anna opens it from the control room, it makes no difference," Jenny said with a sweet smile, just as the heavy steel door swung open.

Suddenly, Hobe felt that familiar sense of urgency. He gazed down the corridor stretching directly toward Anna's location.

Feeling a strong impulse, Hobe sprinted swiftly toward where Anna was.