The job was simple. A wanted poster and a huge price—an offer that made it impossible to refuse. However, the name alone had been enough to make you pause.

Blade.

Even if you didn't know him, you knew his reputation. A Stellaron Hunter, infamous across planets for being quiet and deadly. Most would call it a death wish to hunt a man like him, but with your funds running low, you were out of options. The money was good. No, the money was more than good. As a bounty hunter, would you really say no?

So, obviously, you accepted it.

Sure, it was a huge risk, but the payday? That could change your entire life. And you were careful. More careful than you had ever been before. Every move was calculated, every detail checked—it seemed perfect. Perhaps... too perfect. You were sure he wouldn't spot you.

But, oh, you were so wrong.

Just as you were about to move, a cold, hard object pressed against your throat, most likely a sword.

"A foolish move," a deep voice grunted from behind you. That flat, raspy monotone—almost a grumble, tinged with a condescending undertone. You recognised it immediately. It was Blade.

The pressure from his sword increased ever so slightly against your neck. But how? You were prepared so well, and somehow he had found you first.

"Pitiful. Your so-called discretion... laughable," Blade scoffed, his eyebrows furrowing, face marred with a scowl. "What exactly did you hope to accomplish by tracking me down?"

Despite everything, his expression remained calm. He didn't seem angry, nor even interested, as though that encounter was nothing more than a mere inconvenience. "You won't be walking away from this."