The performance was fast approaching.
The Science Kingdom's counterattack plan had never stopped moving forward.
Under cover of darkness, several members of the Science Kingdom slipped into Harem's residential area, their movements swift and discreet as they successfully avoided every patrol.
Following Senku's precise instructions, Chrome had brought a small bag of purified petroleum.
Holding his breath, Chrome tied the small packets of petroleum to hidden corners of the roof beams in the adjoining thatched houses, one by one.
Every spot was a concealed blind spot that routine patrols would never notice.
Homura stayed beside him, her gaze sweeping the alleys in every direction.
Gen Asagiri, keeping watch on the perimeter, leaned behind a tree with a casual, relaxed air.
Just as he was idly surveying the situation, two familiar figures slowly came into view.
It was Li Xiang, with Shrike at her side.
The two walked side by side through the breezy evening alley, very close together.
Gen's gaze instantly locked onto them. An amused smile flickered in his eyes as he stood quietly in the shadows.
Meanwhile, Li Xiang, who had been strolling along casually, seemed to sense someone watching from the darkness and instinctively looked toward the shadow of the tree.
The instant their eyes met, Li Xiang froze.
It's Gen!
What's he doing here?!
Li Xiang's heart lurched.
Overwhelming tension and sudden panic flooded her. Her throat tightened, and she couldn't help coughing softly, her body swaying a little.
Seeing this, Shrike's eyes filled with concern. He instinctively raised a hand and gently rubbed her back.
"What's wrong? Are you feeling unwell?"
His voice was concerned.
Li Xiang forced down her emotions, using her cough to hide her loss of composure, and took the opportunity to speak in a soft voice.
"My lord, I'm fine. The