"Wha...?!" Mia couldn't stop a small scream of surprise.
Someone managed to sneak up on her. That alone Mia would be willing to accept, clearly aware of her own lack of expertise in the areas of tailing, hiding, or scanning the surroundings.
But that someone... not only gave up on the advantage of a possible surprise attack... but he even managed to stop Mia's punch without any noticeable effort!
'Danger!' Mia's senses screamed out as she leaped to the back.
'I know I didn't use all my strength for that attack, but still!' Mia's thoughts turned chaotic while she jumped to the back. 'I practiced that punch for so long, and it doesn't look like he was expecting it!'
Mia's legs touched the ground again, allowing her to stabilize her position.
And as if her mind followed the state of her body, Mia's thoughts calmed down in an instant.
'Retreat,' she thought, the look behind her eyes darkening. 'I need to retreat!'