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Chapter 44 - Akira's captive

Akira, the enigmatic and powerful leader of the Hotetsu Organization, stood in a dimly lit chamber within his secret underground base. Before him, bound and gagged, was a figure of great significance. Okane Kenji, one of the revered Knights of Hono, known as the Knight of Heavenly Restriction. Okane Kenji's power was a force to be reckoned with. It bestowed upon him a perfect body that exceeded the limits of human capabilities. His speed was so astonishing that even Ace himself would have struggled to track his movements when he ran at full tilt, often appearing as if he could teleport from one place to another. His physical strength was unparalleled, and a single strike from him could make the very ground quake. His durability was such that he could endure the explosive force of a thousand bombs.

As Akira observed his captive, his emotionless demeanor revealed nothing of the internal turmoil he felt. Capturing a Knight of Hono was a monumental achievement for the Hotetsu Organization, and Okane Kenji's power was a valuable asset. His abilities had the potential to shift the balance of power in their favor, and Akira had a sinister plan in mind. All the sudden the atmosphere was tense. The captive Knight of Heavenly Restriction, Okane Kenji, remained bound and watched with uncertainty as Akira, the enigmatic leader of the Hotetsu Organization, paced in contemplation. Suddenly, without warning, an inexplicable presence materialized within the dim chamber. The figure was shrouded in a black cloak, its face obscured by a white and black mask, and the eyes that peered from behind it burned with a mysterious magenta glow. It was Ace, but not the Ace that the world knew. Ace spoke in a voice that carried an air of intrigue and mystique, "Akira, I've been watching you from the shadows, and I believe we can be of mutual benefit to one another." Akira's cold and calculating eyes locked onto the mysterious intruder. "Who are you?" he demanded. The masked figure, whose true identity remained concealed, responded with a name meant to deceive, "Julius Helms. I am an Ex Knight." Akira, curious but cautious, raised an eyebrow. "An Ex Knight, you say? Show me your face." Ace, hidden behind his enigmatic mask, refused to comply. "I'm afraid I can't do that, Akira. My identity is a closely guarded secret, even from the Knights. But my intentions are genuine."

Akira, who had a reputation for cunning and mistrust, couldn't shake the feeling that this masked figure was different. His curiosity piqued, he decided to put the enigmatic stranger to the test. In an attempt to reveal the face behind the mask, he lunged forward with incredible speed, seeking to snatch the mask from Ace's visage. However, to Akira's astonishment, Ace moved with an agility that was almost supernatural. He dodged Akira's attempt effortlessly, his movements as fluid as a shadow, and his cloak billowed dramatically. The elusive figure's actions only deepened the mystery surrounding him. Akira, now intrigued and perhaps a touch wary, spoke with a note of curiosity, "You have my attention, Julius. What is it that you propose?"