The Eminence in Shadow: The Dark Swordsman

Chapter 21: Theatrical Intrigues and Daring Rescues

Kirito and Cid strolled casually to the academy, both yawning simultaneously. "Long night?" Kirito asked, and Cid nodded. "Yeah, had some things to take care of," he replied with a knowing smile.

"These days have been incredibly busy for me," Kirito admitted with a slight sigh.

Cid chuckled, "You're lucky, Kirito. I've got nothing to do lately." (LYING!)

"Well, let's hope today turns out to be another peaceful day for both of us," Kirito said optimistically.

As Kirito and Cid continued their casual stroll, a booming voice echoed, "Halt! In the name of the Knight Order, stop right there!"

Both friends froze and turned to see a group of stern-looking knights surrounding them. "Well, there goes our peaceful day," Kirito muttered under his breath.

Simultaneously, they lamented, "It is ruined!"

Kirito leaned in and whispered to Cid, "Hey, did you happen to sell potions on the black market or something?"

Cid smirked, replying in hushed tones, "Nah, Kirito, I might love gaining wealth, but dealing in shady business? That's a hard pass on my list."

Before they could continue, a stern-faced Knight interrupted, "Silence, you two!"

Suddenly, Zenon appeared in front of them, a smirk playing on his lips. Kirito felt a sense of unease, realizing something was amiss.

"Wait a minute, what's going on?" Kirito questioned, his brow furrowing in concern.

Ignoring Kirito's inquiry, Zenon sternly asked, "Are you two aware of Princess Alexia's kidnapping?"

Kirito's eyes widened in shock, and he exchanged a puzzled glance with Cid. "Kidnapping? No, we had no idea," Kirito replied, genuine shock in his voice.

Before Kirito could delve further into the situation, Zenon commanded, "Silence! Surrender yourselves."

"But we didn't do anything!" Kirito protested, frustration evident in his tone.

Ignoring Kirito's defence, Zenon pointed at him, declaring, "You, Kirito Kuroha, are the most suspicious person throughout Midgar. The Knight Order have reason to believe you might be involved in the princess's disappearance."

"I swear, this is all false! I had nothing to do with Princess Alexia's kidnapping!" Kirito shouted defiantly, his frustration palpable.

Ignoring Kirito's protest, the knights proceeded to tie him up as he resisted, struggling against the restraints.

Watching the scene unfold, Cid couldn't help but feel intrigued by Kirito's predicament. Inwardly, he acknowledged, (No matter how hard I try to be an NPC, Kirito always surpasses me. He's the epitome of the Background Character with bad luck.)

A smirk played on Cid's lips as he whispered to himself, "Well, if he's going down, I might as well do something too."

Cid, with a mischievous grin, proudly shouted, "I confess! I am the mastermind behind Princess Alexia's kidnapping!"

The knights and Kirito stared at Cid in disbelief, their expressions a mix of shock and confusion. Cid extended his hand and casually said, "Well, go ahead, tie me up, please."

The knights, still processing the unexpected turn of events, hesitantly secured Cid in restraints. Kirito shot him a sceptical glance, clearly not buying into the act.

As Cid winked at Kirito with a sly smile, he thought to himself, (This is my chance to shine as the ultimate Background Character—doomed to be vanquished offscreen!)