Rex halted his path toward Luna, not expecting the unwelcome disruption in the quiet alley. He slowly walked towards the opening of the alley, not knowing what to expect from the shadow, moving cautiously.
Without warning, the silence of the alley was suddenly shattered by the swift arc of a baseball bat, cutting through the air with decisive force. It connected with Rex Maddox's head with a resounding thud, eliciting a yelp of surprise and pain from the rugged motorist. "Hey! What the hell!" Rex exclaimed, the shock of the unexpected assault momentarily breaking through his veneer of control as he spun around to confront his assailant.
image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/d/de/Jake_Harada_Profile.png] image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/1/1d/Harada_baseball_bat.png]
From the depths of the shadows stepped out a young teenage boy, a youthful defiance in the dimly lit corridor of conflict. His appearance stood in stark contrast to the dismal backdrop of the alley, his vibrant aura seeming to challenge the darkness itself. His lean, athletic frame was subtly hinted at beneath the casual ensemble of brown cargo pants paired with an oversized white tee, all accented by a light-colored zip-up hoodie with a blue inner lining that fluttered ever so slightly in the night's whispering breeze. His blond hair, styled in a manner that straddled the line between youthful exuberance and practicality, added to the dynamic air that surrounded him. His face, a harmonious blend of diverse heritage, was framed by bright blue expressive eyes. Clutched in his hands, a wooden baseball bat was no longer just a piece of sporting equipment but a testament to his courage and a symbol of his readiness for non-lethal conflict resolution. The boy's name was Jake Harada.
With a voice that resonated with firm resolve and an unspoken promise of protection, Jake declared, "I won't let you hurt her. Back off!" His stance, though relaxed, was unmistakably that of a protector, ready to defend against further aggression.
Rex Maddox, his tone dripping with disdain, tried to dismiss Jake with a lie. "She is my girlfriend; we're just having fun together! You're interrupting," said Rex, lying without blinking an eye, smiling, trying to get his way out without needing to fight Jake.
"He is lying! Please help me!" shouted Luna, hoping to get Jake's attention.
Rex Maddox spat again as Luna's words halted his plan to lie through it. Changing his tone, he challenged the young interloper with a sneer, "And what will you do with that, kid? You're out of your league." The dismissiveness in his voice was palpable, a verbal sneer aimed to intimidate and belittle.
Yet, within Jake Harada's gaze, there lay an unwavering determination; he would not be just a passive observer in this unfolding drama. With a sternness that cut through the tension, Jake demanded, "Let her go!" His voice, though calm, carried an authoritative demand for justice, a clear indication that he would not stand idly by.
Rex, momentarily taken aback by Jake's audacity, recovered quickly, his sneer deepening. "Mind your own business, kid, or you'll regret it," he retorted. Releasing the chain from entangling Luna, he started to swing it, showing his readiness to start a battle. It was a clear attempt to dismiss Jake, to dissuade him from intervening further.
Yet, Jake was determined to stop Rex. He firmed up his grip on his trusty wooden baseball bat. "I'm not afraid of you!" he declared, his stance unyielding, his determination clear. It was a bold challenge to Rex's authority, a refusal to back down in the face of danger.
Rex Maddox, his face twisted into a sneer, regarded Jake with a mix of amusement and annoyance. "So, the kid wants to play hero? This is no game, boy," he taunted, attempting to undermine Jake's resolve with his disparagement.
Jake, undaunted, responded with steady conviction, "It's not about playing hero. It's about doing what's right." His words were a declaration of his principles, a refusal to stand by in the face of injustice.
image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/9/98/Slide_Dodge.png]
Without warning, Rex lunged forward, his biker chain slicing through the air with lethal intent. But Jake, his reflexes sharpened by countless hours on the baseball field, executed a nimble Slide Dodge. He sidestepped the attack with such agility that the chain's crushing force missed him by mere inches.
Rex, observing Jake's adept maneuver, couldn't hide a grudging admiration. "Not bad, kid. But you're way out of your league," he conceded, his respect forced by Jake's unexpected skill.
image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/f/fb/Whiplash_Snap.png] image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/6/62/Bunt_Block.png]
Unfazed, Jake prepared for the next onslaught. Rex, with a menacing grin, launched his Whiplash Snap, the chain whirling towards Jake with renewed ferocity. In a display of quick thinking and reflexes, Jake raised his bat in a swift motion, performing a Bunt Block that met the chain with a resounding clink.
image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/9/95/Batter%27s_Intuition.png]
In this moment of heightened tension, Jake harnessed his Batter's Intuition, a skill finely tuned on the baseball diamond, allowing him to anticipate Rex's movements with uncanny accuracy. As Rex unleashed his chain in a formidable arc, aiming to ensnare or incapacitate, Jake, with the nimbleness of a seasoned athlete, predicted the chain's path and sidestepped with remarkable precision, evading capture or harm.
Rex Maddox, his irritation palpable in the charged air, conceded grudging respect to Jake's agility. "You're quick, I'll give you that. But how long can you keep dodging?" he challenged, his voice a mix of annoyance and begrudging admiration.
Jake, undaunted and fueled by a determination as unwavering as it was fierce, responded, "Long enough to stop you." His words were not just a retort but a vow, a promise to stand in defense of what he believed was just and right.
image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/1/14/Home_Run_Swing.png] image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/7/71/Chain_Parry.png]
In a display of sheer will and power, Jake executed his Home Run Swing, his bat slicing through the air with a force that was both awe-inspiring and formidable. Rex, caught off guard by the sudden offensive, was compelled to resort to his Chain Parry, a defensive maneuver executed with desperation rather than finesse, narrowly averting a direct hit.
image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/9/99/Chain_Cyclone.png] image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/9/91/Stealing_Bases.png]
As the battle escalated, Rex, driven by mounting frustration and a desire to overpower, initiated his Chain Cyclone. He brandished his chain in wide, menacing arcs, orchestrating a veritable whirlwind of metal aimed at ensnaring or incapacitating Jake. Yet, Jake, with his innate agility and keen sense of timing, employed his Stealing Bases maneuver, moving with a swiftness that rendered Rex's aggressive tactics ineffective, dodging the relentless assault with a dancer's grace.
Rex, his anger boiling over, snarled, "Stand still, you little..." His words trailed off into the night, a testament to his growing desperation. But Jake remained ever elusive, a testament to his adaptability and resolve, always maintaining the upper hand, always anticipating.
image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/1/1c/Grand_Slam.png]
Spotting a fleeting opportunity, Jake unleashed his Grand Slam, a leap coupled with a downward arc of his bat, channeling all his strength into a singular, decisive blow. The impact on Rex's shoulder was palpable, forcing him to stagger, a momentary lapse in his otherwise unyielding demeanor.
The author's narrative has been misappropriated; report any instances of this story on Amazon.
image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/3/30/Anchor_Throw.png]
Rex, grimacing in pain, vowed retribution, "You'll pay for that!" His resolve hardened, fuelled by both pain and rage, as he prepared his Anchor Throw, a maneuver designed to ensnare and immobilize Jake, to bring an end to this unforeseen challenge.
image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/a/a2/Curveball_Confound.png]
Yet, Jake, ever resourceful, executed a Curveball Confound, employing a handful of debris in a clever distraction. This unexpected move forced Rex to momentarily shield his eyes, buying Jake precious seconds.
image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/9/95/Maddox%27s_Lash.png]
Capitalizing on this advantage, Jake advanced, his weapon poised for another decisive strike. But Rex, a seasoned fighter versed in the unpredictable rhythm of street brawls, was not so easily subdued. He launched into Maddox's Lash, a flurry of chain strikes designed to overwhelm, forcing Jake into a strategic retreat.
Breathing heavily, Jake acknowledged Rex's resilience, "You're tough. But I'm not backing down." His resolve was a shining beacon in the dim alley, a declaration of his unwillingness to yield.
Rex, his wicked grin a harbinger of the chaos to come, taunted, "Then let's see how you handle this!"
image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/9/99/Chain_Cyclone.png] image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/0/01/Fielder%27s_Choice.png]
With a thunderous roar that seemed to shake the very foundations of the alley, Rex Maddox unleashed his signature technique – the formidable Chain Cyclone. The air was filled with the ominous sound of metal links whirling at a ferocious speed, creating an impenetrable barrier of spinning danger that threatened to engulf anything in its path. Jake, recognizing the futility of a direct assault against such a maelstrom, knew he had to rely on cunning rather than brute strength to overcome this challenge. With a calculated feint to the left, he captured Rex's attention, only to dart right with the agility of a seasoned outfielder. His maneuver, dubbed the Fielder's Choice, was a masterclass in strategic evasion, allowing him to outflank the cyclone's wrath.
image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/c/c4/Jake_Harada_performing_Home_Run_Swing%2C_swinging_his_baseball_bat_with_exceptional_power%2C_aiming_to_knock_out_opponents_or_send_projectiles_back.png]
As the momentum of Rex's chain began to wane, Jake seized the moment. Channeling all his focus and strength into a final, decisive Home Run Swing, he targeted Rex's hand, the point of vulnerability. The impact resonated through the alley as the chain was knocked away, clattering to the ground and leaving Rex disarmed and glaring with undiminished defiance.
Jake stood firm, his voice resolute as he declared, "It's over! No more." The finality in his tone left no room for negotiation, a clear signal that the battle had reached its conclusion.
Rex, caught in the grip of frustration and defeat, snarled back, "You little punk, I'll make you pay for this!" His threat hung in the air, a bitter testament to his unwillingness to accept defeat.
As the tension grew in the charged atmosphere, with neither Jake nor Rex willing to back down even after Rex was disarmed, two figures representing law and order stepped in. Hearing the unusual sounds of metal chains clashing with a wooden bat, they approached the typically quiet alley to investigate the commotion. Upon arriving, they immediately drew the attention of everyone present.
image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/c/cd/Ethan_Zhang_Profile.png] image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/b/b5/Ethan%27s_Zhang_Retractable_Baton.png]
Leading the duo was Ethan Zhang, an Asian man of medium stature. His long-cut hairstyle added a touch of nonconformity to his otherwise formal appearance. His black irises surveyed the scene with a serious and focused expression. He wore formal attire consisting of a crisp blue shirt and neatly pressed grey pants. On his belt was a retractable baton, symbolizing his role in law enforcement and his duty to maintain peace and order.
image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/8/89/Tyler_Jenkins_Profile.png] image [https://static.wikia.nocookie.net/swordbound-the-heros-journey-to-silence-the-seven/images/8/89/Tyler_Jenkin_Nightstick.png]
Close on his heels was Ethan's partner, Tyler Jenkins, who was a complete contrast to him. Tyler was robust and short, with meticulously groomed blond hair that suggested both strength and discipline. His clean-shaven face, known for his affable nature, bore expressions that were warm and inviting, often accompanied by a friendly smile. His attire—a standard law enforcement short-sleeve blue uniform prioritizing practicality over flair—further emphasized his approachable nature, contrasting with Ethan's more serious appearance. Tyler's choice of armament was also different from Ethan's; he carried a simple yet effective wooden baton, devoid of any ostentatious features, symbolizing his role as a peacekeeper.
Ethan Zhang, embodying a perfect blend of composure and authority, stepped forward. Observing both Rex and Jake and noticing Luna kneeling with a wary look, he quickly understood that this encounter required intervention. His voice, resonating with unyielding authority, demanded attention and made his presence felt. "What's happening here? Break it up, now!" The clarity and firmness of his command left no room for ambiguity, serving as a clear directive for the skirmish to cease immediately.
Rex, quick to perceive the shift in dynamics brought about by the law enforcement officers' arrival, adeptly modified his stance. Attempting to downplay the gravity of the altercation, he offered a dismissive explanation, "Nothing to see here, officers. Just playing around with the kid." His words, slick with feigned innocence, were a transparent effort to diffuse the situation in his favor.
Tyler, however, was skeptical about Rex's explanation. He gazed sharply at Rex, but his expression was softened by his congenial demeanor. His blue eyes conveyed doubt and concern. Ignoring both Jake and Rex, he focused on Luna, addressing her first. "Are you alright, miss? You can tell me what happened." His inquiry, gentle yet probing, sought to peel back the layers of the incident, offering Luna a chance to voice her experience.
Rex, realizing the situation might not favor him and could place him on the wrong side of the law, quickly assessed his options. Before Luna could speak, he interjected, "Officers, if there's nothing else, I'm going to leave," he declared, his voice a mix of defiance and haste. Without waiting for a response from anyone, Rex grabbed his biker chain from the floor and fled the scene, his departure as swift as it was unceremonious, leaving a trail of unanswered questions and unresolved tensions in his wake.
Luna, visibly shaken yet bolstered by the presence of law enforcement, felt a sense of safety with the two dynamic police officers, Ethan Zhang and Tyler Jenkins. The officers' composed and authoritative demeanor made her feel secure after the harrowing encounter with Rex, which she hadn't expected during her mission to find the seven swords.
As Luna slowly regained her composure and became relatively calm, she shared the crux of her quest with the officers. She spoke about her relentless pursuit of the seven legendary swords and how it had unexpectedly led her into the path of Rex's nefarious schemes. "And that's how I got lured into the alley by the biker guy with the chain and was saved by the boy with the baseball bat," Luna concluded. Her narrative, though it might have sounded unbelievable to people of this era, was delivered with a tone of hope and desperation, as she clung to the possibility of finding answers about the seven swords.
After hearing Luna's ordeal, Ethan responded with the wisdom of experience and a hint of skepticism born from years on the police force. He advised caution, "You shouldn't trust strangers blindly, especially when they're leading you somewhere secluded. It's a clear sign they're up to no good. And the swords... well, they're probably just myths." His words, intended to temper Luna's expectations, inadvertently deepened her sense of despair. Her disappointment manifested in tears that traced silent paths down her cheeks, as her quest seemed to hit yet another dead end.
The police officers and Jake, witnessing Luna's distress, were at a loss for words and unsure how to react. Feeling a sense of duty and compassion, Jake decided to step in. He offered a comforting smile, trying to ease Luna's tension. "Hey, if you need help, my parents might be able to assist. Our house is nearby if you want to ask them?" Jake offered, despite being unsure if his parents could actually help answer Luna's questions, providing her with a lifeline.
On the other hand, the police officers, thinking Luna might be experiencing delusions or mental health issues, offered a different kind of assistance. "How about we bring you to the hospital for a check-up? The seven swords don't exist, and seeing a doctor might help you," Tyler suggested with his usual jovial smile.
Luna felt lost, torn between the options presented to her. She was wary of trusting Jake after her encounter with Rex, fearing he could have similar intentions. On the other hand, the officers' suggestion to take her to the hospital for a mental health check-up, despite knowing she was perfectly fine, left her feeling misunderstood. Weighing her options, she decided to take a leap of faith and trust Jake. "I will follow the boy," she told the officers.
Respecting Luna's choice and not wanting to pursue the matter further, the police officers agreed to allow her to follow Jake. However, to ensure Luna's safety and verify Jake's intentions, the duo offered to give them a ride to Jake's house. "We'll drive you both to your household, if you don't mind. This is to ensure the girl's safety and that you're not up to any no good," Ethan said in a serious tone, subtly warning Jake.
Jake responded confidently, "I'm cool with it, officers! I really want to help her. You can drive us to my house and talk to my parents if need be."
Agreeing to the police officers' request, Jake and Luna boarded the patrol car as they headed towards Jake's house. Luna hoped she could find the answers she sought about the seven swords.