Unbowed

As the two figures stepped into the building, Rei’s instincts screamed at him. These men weren’t here for idle chatter or negotiations. Their presence carried a weight—one that spelled danger.

He stole a glance at Haru, slumped on the worn-out sofa, his chest rising and falling heavily. The countless battles had taken a toll on him, and this one might just be the last straw. His once-pristine clothes were in tatters, stained with both his own blood and that of his enemies. His white hair, though disheveled, still framed his face in a way that made him look more menacing than weak.

Rei’s thoughts raced.

Can I take both of them on?

No. That wasn’t even a question. How could he take them both on?

His fingers twitched, itching for a weapon, but the reality of the situation was clear—Haru was exhausted, and Rei himself wasn’t exactly in peak condition. Retreating, just this once, seemed like the smartest option.

“Haru,” Rei muttered, keeping his voice low but firm.