As the guards observed the unfolding situation, they initially maintained their relaxed stance, trusting in Aadi's capabilities and his parents' belief in his independence. However, their complacency was short-lived, as they soon sensed an unsettling shift in the atmosphere. It dawned on them that something was amiss, but by then, it was too late to intervene.
Meanwhile, Aadi, deep in thought, formulated his plan of action. With a focused determination, he summoned his dual katanas and the symbiotic armor, their presence materializing effortlessly before him. Displaying a remarkable level of skill and confidence, Aadi began a warm-up routine, executing each move with fluidity and precision. It was as if he had not a single worry in the world, a display intended to unnerve his assailants.
Koden, catching sight of Aadi's effortless display, felt a surge of resentment. He despised being perceived as inferior, and Aadi's nonchalant demeanor only fueled his disdain.
Koden's mocking laughter echoed through the air, his words dripping with sarcasm.
"Funny," he sneered, his amusement thinly veiled. "Let's see how long you can maintain that relaxed facade."
Undeterred by Koden's taunts, Aadi confidently stepped forward, his casual stride bringing him face to face with the three assailants. He assumed a self-taught stance, drawing inspiration from the various martial arts he had observed, studied, and learned from. With his dual katanas pointed towards his adversaries, Aadi's determination shone through his eyes.
A bitter smile played on Aadi's lips as he contemplated his plan of attack. His gaze fixated on the assailant on the left, and with a swift motion, he adjusted his grip on his swords to a reverse hold. In a split second, Aadi lunged forward, catching the left attacker off guard and initiating the battle before they could react.
Aadi's movements were swift and his footwork steady, leaving the assailant in light armor bewildered by his agility. The attacker barely had time to comprehend how Aadi could move with such grace. However, instinct kicked in, and the left assailant swiftly maneuvered, using his dagger to counter Aadi's blade. In a matter of seconds, the clash of their weapons created a tangled web of steel and determination.
Koden's surprise was evident as he witnessed Aadi's remarkable speed and accuracy, displayed through the clash with his teammate. He couldn't help but wonder if Aadi had grown stronger since their last encounter, but it seemed implausible considering it had only been five days. Nevertheless, Koden remained resolute, confident in the effectiveness of his plan.
Aadi, seizing the opportunity, rushed towards the less experienced assailant on the left. He knew that this opponent would likely reveal an opening if pressured and forced to retreat. Exploiting this knowledge, Aadi executed a swift strike with his left sword, causing the assailant to instinctively take a step back while attempting to counter the attack. It was precisely the opening Aadi had anticipated, and with a decisive slash, he swiftly ended the assailant's life.
Koden's momentary freeze did not go unnoticed by Aadi, but he remained composed, refusing to reveal any sign of noticing. As the assailant in heavy armor charged towards Aadi, Koden discreetly signaled for something, catching the attention of the guards who sensed that something was amiss. However, their realization came too late to prevent the unfolding danger.
The heavily armored assailant, still reeling from the shock of his comrade's swift defeat, underestimated Aadi's abilities. As he advanced towards Aadi, a sense of impending danger washed over him, but it did not originate from Aadi himself. Suddenly, a bolt of lightning pierced through the air, piercing through the assailant's body and continuing its path towards Aadi's chest.
The impact sent Aadi sprawling across the floor, his body convulsing from the electric shock. His muscles tensed, temporarily paralyzing him and rendering him unable to move. In the shadows, his vigilant guards swiftly reacted, positioning themselves defensively, ready to defend their fallen master.