Chapter 51 — "Play It Safe" 2
(Parade Mission Begins)
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The Japantown skyline burned neon, buzzing with the pulse of the Parade's opening beats. Lanterns floated above the crowds like silent sentinels. From a rooftop perch, Alaric watched — arms crossed, eyes sharp.
Takemura stood beside him, his coat snapping in the wind.
"You're late," Alaric smirked, scanning the drifting floats.
Takemura didn't flinch. "Security is heavier than expected. Arasaka's eyes… everywhere."
Alaric's gaze swept across the rooftops — snipers on high points, Arasaka agents blending into the crowds. He clicked his tongue.
"Yeah. Almost like I've done this before."
Johnny's flicker glared beside him, arms crossed.
"Cocky bastard," Johnny muttered.
Alaric chuckled. "Takes one to know one."
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[System Alert — Mission: Play It Safe — Active]
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Takemura gave a short nod. "We strike when Hanako's float passes the bridge."
Alaric quirked a brow.
"And what… hope she's in the mood for a chat after we ice her security?"
Takemura's jaw set. "We need her alive. We convince her."
Alaric shrugged. "You better hope I'm as charming as I think I am."
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As they moved along the rooftop paths, Alaric's comm pinged.
Panam — ["Still breathing, hotshot?"]
He smirked, replying with a voice clip:
["Always. You worried?"]
Panam's soft chuckle buzzed back.
["Maybe. Knock 'em dead… but don't make me come save your ass."]
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Alaric climbed a scaffold, coming face-to-face with a sniper.
Before the merc could react, Alaric snapped his wrist, flipping the rifle aside and landing a crushing elbow into his faceplate. The body crumpled without a sound.
Johnny gave a low whistle.
"Show-off."
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Below, Hanako's float drifted into view — her face serene, veiled under a porcelain mask.
Alaric watched… and smirked darkly.
"Time to play it safe… my way."
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End of Chapter 51
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