As I and Emi were surrounded, I struggled to find a way to free us from this tense situation. Honestly, I had no idea who these people were or what they might want. Initially, I assumed they were after me due to my reputation after revealing myself as X.

However, upon observing them more closely, it seemed that their interest was not related to that. I was left with one last option, to try negotiating with them. I had no choice but to confront the situation head-on. Emi was behind me, and I feared what they could do to her if I made any mistakes.

"So... given the situation, can I assume you didn't come on good terms?"

I asked cautiously, holding Emi's hand tightly behind me. I felt her hand tremble slightly, which made me realize that Emi had also grasped the gravity of the situation we were in.

"Don't worry, Emi. I promise nothing will happen to you"

I whispered so that only she could hear. In response, Emi squeezed my hand even tighter, conveying mutual trust and support. As we waited, attentive to the actions of the three hooded figures, a voice emerged from the darkness, catching my attention. The voice carried a tone of happiness, as if the person behind it found the whole situation amusing.

This peculiarity in the voice heightened my caution even more, making it clear that we were dealing with someone who seemed to enjoy our discomfort. I maintained my firm posture, ready to react and protect Emi at any moment.

"You're calmer than I expected. Is this a common situation for you?"

Said the voice, whose exact origin I couldn't determine among the three hooded figures. However, considering the direction from which the voice seemed to come, it was likely from the hooded figure in front of me. They say that in the dark, our other senses, such as hearing, intensify to compensate for the lack of vision.

It seemed that this statement was true. Listening to that voice, I maintained my firm posture, determined not to show any signs of tension. Although my heart raced, I focused on controlling my breathing and staying calm.

"If you're referring to being surrounded by a bunch of crazy hooded individuals, then no, fortunately, this is the first time. And I sincerely hope it's the last"

I stated confidently in my voice, aware that provoking them might not be a good idea. However, if they believed I had some sort of plan or strategy, perhaps they would be more cautious about me. This uncertainty could buy us valuable time to think of a way to free ourselves from this situation.

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"Ahhahahaha... you're truly interesting! Admirable courage indeed. Let me tell you something intriguing, though we act out of our own interests, know that someone has desired your death before. However, we decided to come together to offer you help. After all, as the saying goes, one hand washes the other"

The voice echoed through the shadows, revealing a malicious tone, as the hooded figure looked directly at me. In his voice, I could sense clear mockery, indicating that he was enjoying the situation. As his words reached my ears, a thought began to form in my mind. I had an idea of who could be behind these men sent to pursue me.

(Edward, you son of a bitch)

In my thoughts, I cursed him fervently, unable to think of anyone else but him who could be responsible for such an action. His arrogant personality and inflated ego were evidence enough to assign the blame to him. It was hard to imagine that anyone other than him would have an interest in harming me in this way.

"Are you sure it's a good idea to reveal this information to me?"

I questioned, staring at the hooded figure with determination. My intention was to extract more information, seeking to understand the truth behind their obscure plans. However, in response to my questions, I was met with mocking laughter from the hooded figure.

"Oh, that won't be a problem"

The hooded figure replied with an ironic laugh, echoing through the surroundings. The tone of derision was evident in their voice.

"After all, the dead don't tell tales, do they?"

After those words, slow footsteps began to echo in our direction, drawing nearer with each step. Even in the darkness, I could distinguish the silhouettes of the hooded figures. They were advancing, intensifying the sense of imminent danger. At that moment, reality imposed itself, and there was the possibility of a terrible outcome for both me and Emi.

However, based on the conversation I had with those individuals, it became clear that I was their main objective. I refused to allow Emi to suffer any harm due to my own situation. With determination, I tightened my grip on Emi's hand and whispered to her again.

"Emi, when I give you the signal, I want you to run to the entrance and ask for help"

I whispered with a mix of urgency and determination.

"No matter what happens, Emi, your safety is my priority"

I added firmly.

"Trust me and stay alert for the signal"

Hearing my words, Emi's grip on my hand intensified.

"N-No, and what about you? You heard them. They want you, they'll kill you if you stay"

Emi replied with a trembling voice, revealing the fear that overwhelmed her at that moment. The anguish in her words weighed heavily on my heart, as I knew we were facing a dangerous and unpredictable situation. However, I understood that we had no choice but to act with courage.

"Don't worry about me. I promise I'll be fine, but it's crucial that you go. I wouldn't be able to forgive myself if something happened to you. Since the moment I saw you, I imagined you stunning in a beautiful white dress"

I said, capturing the surprise in Emi's eyes as she understood the meaning behind my words. Observing her reaction, a smile formed on my lips.

"I don't intend to leave without fulfilling that dream"

I stated. Upon hearing my words, Emi fell silent for a few seconds before whispering back to me.

"Do you promise?"

Emi asked, squeezing my hand firmly.

"Absolutely"

I replied, as a determined smile spread across my lips.