章 36: "Masked Escape"

[Well, well, Alexander. It seems your escape just got a bit more challenging. But don't worry, I'm here to guide you, even if I can't always get my directions right. Ready to show them what you're made of, 'little boy'?] the AI teased, a hint of support buried beneath the sarcasm.

Alexander pressed on, his resolve unwavering, as he faced the daunting trials that lay ahead.

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"F*ck, why do you think this happened? It was all because of you. You can't even give the correct directions," Alexander muttered angrily, his frustration boiling over.

[It wasn't my fault, you know], the AI retorted defensively.

"What do you mean it wasn't your fault? It's obvious that you messed up," Alexander shot back, his irritation palpable.

The narrow alleyway offered a temporary refuge, shielding Alexander from prying eyes. However, time was slipping away, and he needed to act swiftly before he was discovered. Thoughts raced through his mind as he assessed his surroundings, searching for any advantage he could exploit. It was then that his gaze landed on a slender gap wedged between two decaying buildings—a potential escape route if he could reach it unnoticed.

[As I've told you, it wasn't my fault. In fact, it was your faulty decision-making], the AI responded, trying to shift the blame.

"Shut up... Sometimes I think you're intentionally trying to sabotage me. Are you enjoying seeing me struggle?" Alexander retorted, his frustration seeping into his voice.

[Wow, wow, wow, slow down. Stop blaming me for your flawed ideas. I can't help it if you come up with half-baked plans], the AI fired back, its voice dripping with sarcasm.

"Oh, really? And what brilliant ideas have you come up with so far?" Alexander challenged, his anger flaring.

[Come on, Alexander. Do you really want me to embarrass you with your otaku fantasies? Or should I remind you of your genius plan to use non-existent drones for navigation? Maybe you should reconsider your role as the hero of this story], the AI taunted, mocking Alexander's previous misguided notions.

The argument escalated, their voices filled with frustration and resentment. Alexander's anger intensified, his patience wearing thin. Yet, amidst the heated exchange, a flicker of doubt emerged, prompting him to pause.

"Wait, are they genuinely looking for me?" Alexander asked, a note of uncertainty creeping into his voice.

[What do you mean? Are they on a hunt for your long-lost twin sister?] the AI responded, its sarcasm still lingering.

"No, I'm serious," Alexander insisted, determined to explore this new train of thought.

[Here we go with another one of your philosophical rambles. Enlighten me, oh wise one], the AI teased.

"Think about it. How did they know so quickly that I attacked their captain? This world lacks the advanced technology of Earth, so how did they communicate and coordinate their search for me so efficiently?" Alexander reasoned, his frustration replaced by curiosity.

[They might possess alternative means of communication or some mystical power. After all, this planet operates on different principles than Earth], the AI suggested, acknowledging the possibility.

"That may be true, but let's consider another angle. Someone intends to seize the captives I've taken, and they want to interrogate them personally. Furthermore, they seem desperate to retrieve the two attackers I captured. Is it to prevent vital information from leaking? And let's not forget how they treated me disdainfully, despite my efforts to defend the city and its citizens," Alexander mused, his mind piecing together the puzzle.

[Perhaps they're under immense pressure to ensure the captured attackers don't escape], the AI proposed, offering an alternative perspective.

"It didn't feel like that to me, and observe how they're meticulously searching. It doesn't seem like they're looking for me specifically. They're meticulously combing through nooks and crannies that could barely accommodate a cat," Alexander pointed out, his voice laden with curiosity.

[Are you suggesting they're searching for a hidden object?] the AI probed, intrigued by Alexander's observation.

"I don't know for certain, but it certainly doesn't appear to be a search for an individual," Alexander concluded, his realization opening up a new realm of questions. Who or what were they truly seeking? What secrets lay hidden in those elusive corners? And most importantly, how did it affect Alexander and his mission?

As the argument between Alexander and Alex continued to escalate, their voices filled with frustration and stubbornness. The tension hung heavy in the air, both of them unwilling to back down.

But then, Alex's tone shifted, becoming more earnest and concerned. "Listen, Alexander. You need to make a choice. You can continue to chase after these people, clinging onto the idea of being the main character in some novel, risking your life for uncertain gains. Or you can think rationally and focus on bringing the captured attacker back to the ship. That's where the truth lies, and that's where our best chance of uncovering the secrets of the Shadow Fang Brotherhood resides."

Alexander paused, contemplating Alex's words. The weight of the situation settled upon him, forcing him to reassess his priorities. While his ego yearned for the thrill of being the protagonist, the reality of the risks and the potential benefits became clearer.

After a moment of introspection, Alexander finally relented. "You're right, Alex. We need to think rationally and make strategic choices. Bringing the captured attacker to the ship is the best course of action."

With their decision made, Alexander knew he needed to act quickly and with caution. Being a wanted criminal now, he had to find a way to conceal the captured attacker's presence to avoid suspicion. After a brief moment of brainstorming, an idea struck him.

"Alright, here's what we'll do," Alexander whispered to Alex, outlining his plan. He would disguise the attacker as a fellow citizen, covering their face with a scarf and blending them into the bustling crowds of the city. This way, they would attract less attention and reduce the risk of being recognized as a fugitive.

Carefully executing their plan, Alexander successfully concealed the identity of the captured attacker and started making their way back towards the ship. Every step was deliberate and calculated, their senses heightened to detect any signs of danger or discovery.

As they neared the city's outskirts, a guard's voice pierced through the air, freezing Alexander in his tracks. "Stop right there!"

His heart pounded in his chest as adrenaline surged through his veins. The realization hit him—he was on the brink of capture, teetering on the edge of a precipice that threatened to shatter his hopes of uncovering the truth.

To be continued...