Mecha Unleashed: The Fighter's Journey | Booster Fighter Arc

THE BFWC FINALS!

James was left shaken but alive, grateful for Sam's timely intervention and the arrival of the police. As the officers took their statements and secured the area, the enormity of the encounter began to sink in. The threat was real, and it was clear that the world of Booster Fighting held its share of dangerous secrets.

James chose not to disclose the cloaked man's ominous words to Sam or the approaching police, opting instead for a more cautious response. As they stood in the dimly lit alley, Sam's anxiety was palpable.

"What the hell was that about?" Sam asked, his voice fraught with concern, his eyes searching James's face for answers.

James didn't want to alarm Sam unnecessarily. He replied carefully, "I don't know, Sam. It could have just been some random mugger, maybe trying to rob us." He tried to keep his tone measured, not wanting to cause panic.

Their parting was equally sombre, the weight of the strange encounter hanging in the air. They exchanged goodbyes and went their separate ways, their minds still racing with questions.

Without further delay, James made his way to Mr Otomi's apartment, his heart heavy with concern and confusion. As he entered the apartment, Mr Otomi noticed the unease in his protege's eyes.

"James, something happened, didn't it?" Mr Otomi inquired, his concern evident.

With a deep breath, James began to recount the events in the alley, from the cloaked assailant's gravity-defying movements to the menacing dagger. He relayed the ominous message that had been delivered.

Mr Otomi listened attentively, his expression growing more serious as James's narrative unfolded. "This is troubling, James. It seems like someone wants to interfere with your progress in the tournament. You did the right thing by not revealing our training techniques or your motivations to that person."

James nodded, feeling a sense of reassurance from Mr Otomi's steady presence. "I thought it was better to be cautious, Mr Otomi."

Mr Otomi placed a comforting hand on James's shoulder. "You did well, James. Now we need to focus on your safety and the upcoming match. We'll take extra precautions to ensure your security, and I'll contact some of my connections to investigate this further."

James felt anxious but relieved. The arena was meant to be the proving ground for his abilities, but now it seemed a shadowy threat loomed over his path.

In the days following the disturbing alley encounter, James decided to maintain a low profile. He doubled down on his training with Mr Otomi, channelling his apprehension and determination into every practice session. The fight loomed ever closer, and the atmosphere was charged with anticipation.

During this time, James kept in contact with Amy, his trusted friend. He relayed the unsettling incident in the alley and assured her that he would be laying low to ensure his safety.

As the days passed, the tension grew heavier, like a storm on the horizon. Three days before the much-anticipated fight, a mandatory press conference was scheduled. It was the perfect platform for James and Paul Jones to field questions from the media.

James and Mr Otomi entered the grand hall designated for the press conference. It was a cavernous space filled with the hum of expectant reporters and the glare of countless camera flashes.

As they advanced towards the stage, the reporters unleashed a flurry of shouts, waving their microphones and jostling for position. The flashing camera lights transformed the room into a dazzling spectacle.

With Mr Otomi's guidance, they found their seats, and the atmosphere hushed in anticipation. The moderator, a poised figure amid the tumult, raised a hand to restore order, and the room fell into a heavy silence.