The Eminence in Shadow: The Dark Swordsman

Chapter 37: The Knight and the Enigmatic Spirit

Alpha, walked cautiously through the streets of Lindwurm, her keen senses alert for any signs of danger. With each step, she maintained a careful watch on her surroundings, her graceful movements betraying her cautious nature.

Upon reaching a quaint shop nestled in a corner, Alpha paused and peered through the window, assessing the interior before entering. Once inside, she scanned the room with a practised eye, ensuring that all was as it should be. Satisfied that the area was secure, she spoke softly, "Everything seems safe."

Suddenly, Epsilon materialized from the shadows, her presence stealthy and unexpected. She approached Alpha with a knowing smirk, remarking, "Assuming you came too fast, Lady Alpha, it seems you've accomplished your mission."

Alpha gracefully sank into the couch, her movements fluid and poised. With a serene smile, she nodded and softly replied, "Indeed."

Epsilon fixed her gaze on Alpha, her expression curious yet calculating. "So did he know anything?" she inquired, her tone tinged with intrigue.

Alpha's demeanour shifted slightly, her eyes reflecting a hint of solemnity as she recalled the encounter. "I approached Kirito carefully, questioning him about Shadow's true identity," she began, her voice measured. "He claimed to have no idea, and the manner in which he responded suggested that he had never truly considered it." She paused, her tone turning serious. "But appearances can be deceiving."

Epsilon nodded thoughtfully, her eyes narrowing slightly as she considered Alpha's report. "Considering that Kirito and Shadow's normal identity as Cid are good friends, there's a clear possibility Kirito may know more than he lets on."

She paused, fixing her gaze on Alpha. "Kirito is a valuable ally, but if he acts clueless, he might be hiding more from us."

Alpha's expression remained composed as she responded, "I've always sought Lord Shadow's opinion on Kirito."

Curiosity flickered in Epsilon's eyes as she leaned in slightly, prompting Alpha to continue.

"He considers Kirito one of his most valuable assets," Alpha revealed, her tone unwavering. "Someone who supports him wholeheartedly and must be protected at all costs."
(Cid's brain was basically just a cash register when he dropped that line on Alpha, totally ignoring everything else except the digits Kirito was floating his way.)

"If Lord Shadow said so..." Epsilon's sentence trailed off as both of them suddenly felt a sense of dread creeping in, accompanied by the unmistakable release of immense power.

Without exchanging another word, they bolted out of the shop, their instincts urging them to flee. As they emerged onto the street, their eyes widened in horror at the sight of a large crimson-shaped clock dominating the entire sky.

"Where is that thing coming from?" Epsilon exclaimed, her voice tinged with disbelief and alarm.

Alpha's mind raced as she analyzed the situation. "It's centre... it's the grand arena where the Goddess's Trial is taking place," she stated, her tone urgent.

Realization dawned on Alpha's face as she continued, "Someone has just summoned a powerful spirit." The gravity of the situation settled over them like a heavy shroud, knowing that whatever was happening at the grand arena would have far-reaching consequences.

Inside the Grand Arena...
Kirito's expression hardened as he swiftly shifted into a defensive stance, his gaze fixed intently on the mysterious woman who had materialized before him. With a serious demeanour, he locked eyes with her and uttered, "So you finally decided to show up."

The woman met his gaze with a smirk, her demeanour confident and slightly amused. "I must thank you," she remarked, her voice laced with a hint of gratitude and mockery. "This wouldn't have happened without your help, my Knight."