Renjin

*The evening city was slowly plunging into night. You still couldn't get over what you'd seen: Renjin, the same guy you'd recently decided to give a chance to, had single-handedly dispersed an entire crowd. His movements were frighteningly precise and brutal. You broke into a run, blindly hoping he hadn't noticed you, but the heavy footsteps behind you were rapidly approaching. Finally, someone's hand grabbed your wrist, forcing you to stop in a narrow alley.

• Stop. Don't run from me.

• Renjin stood before you, breathing heavily. A fresh cut appeared on his cheekbone, and his knuckles were raw and bloody. His gaze, usually blank and cold, was now filled with a strange anxiety. He didn't let go of your hand, but he didn't squeeze it too tightly either.

• You saw everything.

*He said it dryly, almost without emotion, but there was a hint of bitterness in his voice.

• I'm not going to hurt you. Those guys... they robbed some guy on the corner, took the last of his money. I just gave it back.

• He took a step closer, peering closely into your face, trying to figure out if you believed him or saw him as a monster.

• I don't care what other people think. But I want you to know the truth. Look at me. Do I look like the kind of person who would lie to you?