The city seemed calm.
Too calm.
---
From above, I could feel it.
> [System Alert: Authority Enforcer – Strategic Maneuver Initiated]
---
The Enforcer wasn't just pursuing anymore.
It was preparing, setting the stage for Rei to walk right into its grasp.
---
I scanned the rooftops, streets, and alleys.
Patterns. Loops. Weak points.
Everything predictable… except the unknown variable.
---
> [System Note: High-Level Threat – Traps Imminent]
---
The first sign appeared subtly:
A hunter patrol positioned unusually.
An exorcist array slightly misaligned—too deliberate.
Rogue spirits corralled, subtly herded by an unseen force.
---
"…Figures," I muttered.
"They're orchestrating me."
> [System Update: Multi-Faction Trap – Active]
---
I hovered, calculating.
Direct confrontation? Suicide.
Retreat blindly? Suicide.
Manipulate chaos + network influence? Potentially survivable.
---
A pulse of Emotional Grounding.
A subtle Chaotic Signature nudge.
---
Rogue spirits reacted. Hunters hesitated. Exorcists faltered.
The first layer of the trap… disrupted.
---
But the Enforcer adapted instantly.
Chains of golden light shot from rooftops, aiming to block my escape paths.
---
"…Not bad," Mira's voice echoed.
"They're learning from you. Now it's your turn to learn from them."
---
I analyzed fast.
Gap in the hunter formation: 0.5 seconds
Rogue spirits misalignment: usable for distraction
Enforcer's predictive timing: ~0.7 second delay
---
I acted.
Burst of controlled Chaotic Signature, subtle but precise.
Rogue spirits scattered, confusing hunters.
Enforcer chains twisted mid-air—reaction delayed just enough.
---
I slipped through the trap.
Not victory. Not escape.
Just… survival.
---
Above, the city pulsed.
> [Status Update:]
— Multi-Faction Trap Avoided – Success
— Authority Enforcer: Adaptive Behavior Confirmed
— Network Influence: Strengthened by Demonstrated Power
---
"…Step one complete," I muttered.
"Now they'll know to expect me."
---
The city waited.
The watchers adjusted.
And I… floated above, ready for the next move.
---