Chapter 206: A Broken System

The Merc Hybrid saw his hesitation and grinned, sensing an opportunity. He moved in for the kill, his fists clenched and ready to deliver the final blow.

Kazuichi shook his head, trying to clear the fog that had settled in his mind. He couldn't let it end like this—not now. He forced himself to focus, drawing on every ounce of willpower he had left.

The Merc Hybrid's fist came at him like a sledgehammer, aimed squarely at his head. Kazuichi reacted on instinct, ducking low and twisting his body to the side. The punch sailed past him, missing by inches.

"Whoosh!" The air crackled with the force of the missed blow.

Kazuichi knew he had to act fast. Ignoring the strange sensation still lingering in his body, he countered with a low sweep kick, aiming for the Merc Hybrid's legs.

"Thwack!" The kick connected, and the Merc Hybrid's legs buckled beneath him. He stumbled, his balance momentarily lost.