The Hunt for Yumi

Ryohta had always known that Yumi was the one standing between him and Aika. She was the one who had helped Aika gather evidence, the one who had supported her through the trial, and the one who had always been there to protect her. If he wanted to get to Aika, he needed to remove Yumi from the equation.

He began to watch her, studying her routines and habits. Yumi was careful, always aware of her surroundings, but even she couldn't avoid every shadow. Ryohta was patient, biding his time, waiting for the perfect moment to strike.

One evening, as Yumi was walking home from work, she took a shortcut through a narrow alley. The streetlights were dim, and the shadows stretched long across the pavement. She quickened her pace, her instincts telling her that something was wrong.

But it was too late.

Ryohta stepped out of the shadows, his katana gleaming in the dim light. Yumi froze, her heart pounding as she realized who he was.

"You've been a thorn in my side for too long," Ryohta said, his voice cold and menacing. "It's time we settled this."

Yumi's mind raced as she tried to think of a way out. She knew she couldn't fight him—he was too strong, too fast. But she couldn't give up, not now. She had to protect Aika.

"You'll never get to her," Yumi said, her voice steady despite the fear coursing through her. "She's stronger than you think."

Ryohta smiled, but there was no warmth in it. "We'll see about that."

He raised the katana, his eyes gleaming with anticipation. But before he could strike, a voice broke the silence.

"Yumi! Run!"

It was Aika. She had been following Yumi, her instincts telling her that something was wrong. Now, she stood at the entrance to the alley, her eyes filled with determination.

Ryohta's smile widened. "Perfect. Now I can take care of both of you."