Slowly, Max lifted both hands up protectively in front of his face, lowering his stance and slightly bending his knees. His earlier cockiness vanished, replaced by focused intensity. He was no longer taunting or smiling; now, he was completely serious.
The attacker hesitated, suddenly uncertain, thrown off by Max's abrupt change in demeanor.
"You're just a kid!" the attacker shouted desperately, lunging forward with the knife extended.
But as the man closed the distance, Max swiftly moved forward with calculated precision, completely unafraid of the blade. Just as the attacker thrust the knife, Max skillfully deflected his wrist upward, narrowly avoiding the sharp edge.
With impressive agility, Max locked onto the attacker's arm, gripping tightly at the elbow and twisting inward forcefully. His other fist rapidly collided with the man's face once, then again, in a relentless assault. Punch after punch connected sharply, weakening the man's grasp until the knife clattered onto the hospital floor.
Max delivered one final devastating strike, sending the attacker sprawling backward into the wall. The man slumped to the floor, legs sprawled awkwardly, groaning softly.
"It...it hurts," the attacker muttered weakly, barely conscious.
Max bent down and calmly retrieved the knife, stepping toward the fallen man. "When you threaten people with weapons, you should expect them to be used against you," he warned coldly.
Max grabbed the attacker by the shirt, attempting to lift him but quickly realizing the body's limited strength. His younger, weaker form couldn't handle the weight, causing frustration to flash across his face.
"P-please," the attacker whimpered, barely audible.
"I wonder how many times you've ignored someone else saying those exact words," Max said grimly.
The door slid open suddenly, catching Max by surprise. He glanced over quickly, meeting Aron's wide, startled eyes. Aron, normally composed, stood frozen in shock at the chaotic scene before him. Swiftly, Aron collected himself and closed the door firmly behind him.
"Young master! What are you doing?" Aron demanded, voice strained.
Damn, I nearly forgot, Max thought guiltily. I can't afford to lose control and ruin this new life.
Quickly, he released the attacker and dropped the knife, raising his hands innocently. "I was only defending myself," Max explained hurriedly. "I have no idea who this guy is, he attacked me first."
Aron took a moment, processing the situation. "Go to the room next door. It's empty," he instructed calmly. "I'll arrange someone to bring you proper clothes. You're discharged and free to leave. I'll handle this matter personally and find out exactly what's happening here."
Reluctantly, Max obeyed, trusting Aron's judgment for now. As soon as he left, Aron swiftly took out his phone, dialing urgently. "Right, I need someone to investigate immediately. Thank you," he ordered sharply.
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