Alter Ego

Within that serene landscape, an unexpected noise resonates through the air: hurried, loud footsteps.

"H-help!"

To create a sense of urgency, the person cries out and rushes hurriedly, heading deeper into a nearby forest. 

...

Even a distance from him, albeit devoid of any presence, the ragged man wasted no time and ran as they could with all their might.

Presumably, due to a 'warning' issued in every corner of the area, only the sound of the person's heart, breaths, and somehow their steps echoed throughout that area.

This tale has been unlawfully lifted from Royal Road; report any instances of this story if found elsewhere.

Furthermore, the sun has begun to set when he reaches a dead end. With each passing second, shadows deepen, making everything close in on them.

With no means of escape, his mind races, trying to think of a way to end the chase. Their eyes darted around, only to hear that familiar sound.

...

With no way else to flee themselves from the masked identity, the person braces themselves for the unavoidable encounter.

* * *

The word madman, if spoken, undoubtedly referred directly to the unknown youth—unkempt dark hair that swayed around in an untamed manner, framing a foreign face diverse to its actions.

At first, the youth stood there motionless—in a tattered outfit, his body covered in plaster all over.

With nothing else but the held dagger, within a few seconds of meeting, he leapt through the air.

* * * 

Under the same night, in the darkness of the night sky, the focus of the moonlight remained at the boy's side, acting as his spotlight.

Each swing of the dagger made graceful motions that resulted in the once-group of people now dropping to a single person.

Accompanied by a mixture of frenzied laughter and the sound of slashes—two things that echoed throughout the tranquility of the forest.