As he wiped down the last few tables before opening for the day, something outside caught his attention. Through the front window, he noticed a lone figure leaning against the wall of the building.

It was still far too early for customers.

Why would someone be waiting outside at this hour?

Without making a sound—a habit forged through years of relentless training—Kenji walked toward the entrance. He eased the door open with practiced precision before stepping outside.

Then he turned the corner.

The figure was gone.

His single eye narrowed.

— "...Impossible."

There hadn't been enough time for anyone to simply disappear.

With growing suspicion, he moved closer to the corner. The mo