Chapter 279: Mio's Shock

The owl-masked Anbu briefly diverted his gaze before responding in a flat tone, "We're not sure. However, about eighty percent of the entire Southern District is likely to be affected."

"That much?" Mio's voice rose, clearly shocked. The expression of surprise was also evident on the faces of those around, both outside and inside Mio's eatery. Some even began to whisper anxiously to each other.

"That's why we asked you to leave here," the owl-masked Anbu continued, ignoring the commotion that was starting to unfold. "Whether you want to leave or not is up to you. If you die, that's your own choice." The Anbu's tone remained cold and indifferent.

After saying that, the owl-masked Anbu turned and walked away with the other Shadow Clones. The movements of the Shadow Clones were calm, as if undisturbed by the chaos beginning to arise around them.

Seeing their departure, the atmosphere around Mio's eatery immediately turned chaotic. People who had previously stood in confusion began to panic. They hurriedly rushed away, some appearing to run to inform their families, hoping to save their loved ones before disaster struck.

Meanwhile, Mio remained standing in her place, her expression serious. It was clear that Mio was deep in thought, her brows furrowed. Then, Mio glanced at her subordinates, who also looked confused and anxious.

For over twenty years, Mio had lived and run her business in the Southern District. This place had become a part of her life, where she built everything from scratch. However, now Mio was faced with the bitter reality that she had to leave it all behind.

Mio clenched her fists tightly, trying to suppress the heavy feelings that were beginning to overwhelm her. However, she knew that the options were very limited. Mio had to act quickly, not just for herself, but also for the people who had trusted her all this time.

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Meanwhile, the Shadow Clones who had taken on the identities of the guards had successfully infiltrated the hidden Soul Collector headquarters underground. Their steps were calm and measured, ensuring that there were no suspicious movements. They acted as naturally as possible, blending in with the other guards wandering inside the headquarters.

While maintaining a neutral stance, the Shadow Clones began to move towards various strategic locations within the headquarters. Some of them carefully attached Explosive Tags to vital points, such as support walls, main pillars, and near the storage area of explosives belonging to the Soul Collector. They worked silently, each movement carefully considered to avoid raising suspicion.

On the surface, the first group remained alert. They observed every movement occurring around the Southern District, ensuring that no sudden threats could disrupt their plans. Their eyes were sharp, scanning every corner, making sure that neither the Soul Collectors nor other groups made any unexpected moves.

In addition, the first group was also busy monitoring the evacuation process. They knew that every second was precious, and any undetected threat could lead to a major disaster.

On the other hand, the third group was still struggling in the field, spreading warnings to the residents of the Southern District. They visited homes, shops, and narrow streets, helping anyone who was having difficulty leaving. Weak elderly people, small children, even those who had initially been reluctant to believe the warnings were beginning to understand the serious situation they faced.

Although Haruto was not a hero, he had instilled the principle in his Shadow Clones that as long as there was an opportunity to help, they should do so as long as they wished.