Chapter 116 - 113: Fight With The Non-Killing Owl [2]
The battlefield trembled as Shinohara Yukinori and Kuroiwa Iwa activated their Arata Proto suits, the living armor enveloping them in a seamless fusion of man and kagune. In their hands, they wielded their secondary Quinques—Shinohara's demon yamada 1 and Kuroiwa's Kuroiwa Special—each a testament to their relentless training and mastery.
"Shinohara, are you ready?" Kuroiwa's voice was steady, eyes locked on the towering figure ahead.
"Yes," Shinohara replied, his gaze unwavering.
Together, they launched forward, a synchronized assault against the One-Eyed Owl. The ghoul responded, unleashing a barrage of blade-shaped ukaku kagune, but the Arata Proto suits absorbed the impact, allowing the investigators to close the distance. Their Quinques struck with precision, aiming for the Owl's head, yet the ghoul's massive kagune arms deflected each blow with calculated ease.
Yoshimura, the Owl, remained composed. His human hands, untouched by kagune, hinted at restraint. Suddenly, he retaliated, firing a shotgun-like blast of black kagune that sent Shinohara and Kuroiwa flying. They crashed into the walls, debris scattering, but their grips on their weapons remained firm.
"These suits... they're formidable," Shinohara muttered, catching his breath.
Kuroiwa nodded. "But the Owl's versatility is unmatched. Long-range, close combat, regeneration—he's the epitome of a perfect ghoul."
From the shadows, Hirako observed, recalling his years alongside Arima Kishō. Despite his unassuming demeanor, Take Hirako had learned much from the Reaper. Seizing an opening, he darted behind the Owl, launching a surprise attack. But Yoshimura's reflexes were uncanny. He spun, his kagune arm slicing through Hirako's helmet and severing an ear. Hirako's counterattack barely grazed the Owl, a stark reminder of the ghoul's resilience.
Mado Kureo, ever the strategist, exploited the distraction. Coordinating with Shinohara and Kuroiwa, they targeted the Owl's neck, their combined assault causing significant damage. Yet, the ghoul's regeneration was swift, rendering their efforts futile.