Chereads / Aeon Enigma / Chapter 89 - CHAPTER 88: Veil of Uncertainty

Chapter 89 - CHAPTER 88: Veil of Uncertainty

The echoes of culinary satisfaction lingered as Kaito and Aria found themselves at the conclusion of their meal, content and satiated. In the aftermath of the flavorful journey, a moment of tranquility settled between them. Words became secondary, and the subtle sounds of the restaurant ambiance took center stage.

As Kaito initiated the transition from the culinary haven back into the bustling world, he remarked, "It's time to pay the bills and leave..." Aria, in agreement, responded with a simple, "Yes." The symphony of their dining experience gracefully culminated, leaving room for the practicalities of settling the bill.

With purposeful strides, Kaito made his way to the payment counter, ready to fulfill the financial aspect of their dining escapade. Aria, meanwhile, took a moment to reflect, perhaps savoring the remnants of the culinary journey they had shared.

Once the bills were settled, the two emerged from the Steak House, stepping back into the streets of Kyoto. The transition from the cozy atmosphere of the restaurant to the open streets marked a shift in the narrative of their shared experience.

Meanwhile, in the eerily quiet streets of Shinagawa, Tokyo, a trio moved with an air of calculated nonchalance. Enishi, flanked by Haruka and Ayame, navigated through the empty thoroughfares, observing the deserted cityscape. The absence of life in the once-vibrant metropolis intrigued him. Haruka confirmed the exodus of Tokyo's citizens, affirming the impact their actions had on the urban landscape.

Haruka, ever the discerning leader, turned her attention to Enishi, inquiring about his intentions. "Are you going to stick with us, or do your own thing?" she questioned. Enishi, with a casual yet enigmatic demeanor, expressed his inclination to stay with them, at least for the time being. The prospect of a formidable opponent, particularly Altharion, captivated him. Enishi craved the thrill of a challenging confrontation, a sentiment reflected in his words, "I've not had a decent fight in a long time."

As the trio continued through the vacant streets, Enishi revealed his desire for Altharion to seize control and engage in battles that piqued his interest. The notion of potential adversaries wielding enough power to enthrall him added a layer of complexity to his motivations.

The dichotomy between the quiet streets of Tokyo and the unspoken anticipation for impending confrontations underscored the intriguing dynamics at play. Enishi's presence, an enigmatic force in the desolate urban landscape, hinted at a storm of challenges and clashes yet to unfold in this peculiar chapter of their journey.

In the muted streets of Shinagawa, a moment of contemplation arose among the trio of Enishi, Haruka, and Ayame. The silence was broken by Enishi, his inquiry cutting through the stillness like a blade. "Do you think the government, or the Divine Council will reveal the information about what we caused to Japan, or the world?" he queried.

Haruka, with a thoughtful demeanor, responded, "To the Japanese people? Maybe they will. They'll probably hide some information, for example, the extent of the power of Enes, the existence of practitioners and spiritual beings scattered all around Japan, and more." His words hinted at the delicate balance of disclosure and secrecy that often defined such situations.

Ayame, chiming in with a perspective of her own, remarked, "It's a positive that Japan has the monopoly of Enes." Her observation touched upon the unique position Japan held in the revelation of Enes, emphasizing a certain advantage that came with the country's specialized knowledge.

Enishi, ever nonchalant, expressed his indifference to the unfolding circumstances. "I don't really mind," he stated, suggesting a detached acceptance of whatever revelations or consequences might follow. Haruka, with a knowing nod, acknowledged this sentiment. "We know," he replied, acknowledging Enishi's characteristic disinterest in the broader implications.

As the trio navigated through their private contemplations, the wider world outside their immediate sphere began to stir with curiosity and concern. News of the mysterious events in Tokyo rippled across the globe, prompting a collective inquiry from people worldwide – "What happened?" The lack of awareness regarding the intricacies of Enes and the existence of practitioners and spiritual beings left the global populace in a state of perplexity.

Unbeknownst to them, the world beyond Japan grappled with a veil of uncertainty, casting a shadow of intrigue over the unfolding events.

As the trio of Enishi, Haruka, and Ayame traversed the silent avenues of Shinagawa, a question rippled through the empty air. Enishi, seemingly nonchalant yet ever-curious about his own prowess, turned to Haruka with a query that carried the weight of a challenge. "Do you think there's anyone who can rival me?" he inquired, his gaze holding a glint of anticipation.

Haruka, reflecting on the vast repository of knowledge and power at Enishi's disposal, responded with unwavering certainty. "No," he asserted, succinctly encapsulating the unassailable nature of Enishi's might. Ayame, slightly taken aback by the swiftness of his response, remarked, "That was quick."

Intrigued by Ayame's comment, Haruka turned his attention to her, inviting her perspective on the matter. "Why? Do you think there's anyone who can rival Enishi in any way?" he questioned, seeking to unravel the threads of her thoughts.

Ayame, considering the possibilities, posited an intriguing notion. "No, not at all. Unless it's multiple people, couldn't multiple talented practitioners oppose a challenge?" Her words introduced a nuance to the discussion, acknowledging the potential strength that a collective force of skilled practitioners might muster.

However, Enishi, with an air of finality, interjected with a resolute "No." His response, echoing through the vacant streets, underscored the indivisible nature of his supremacy. Haruka, aligning with Enishi's perspective, reinforced the notion that singular prowess eclipsed the potential of a collective challenge. "I agree with Enishi. If there's not a single practitioner or spiritual being that can rival him, then no one can," Haruka affirmed.

Ayame, accepting their consensus, simply said, "Okay, I see." The trio, locked in a tacit understanding of their unrivaled standing, continued their unhurried stroll through the quiet thoroughfares of Shinagawa. The echoes of their conversation lingered in the air, a testament to the unyielding confidence they shared in the unmatched might of Enishi, unchallenged and unassailable.