"𝐋𝐢𝐟𝐞 𝐨𝐟 𝐃𝐞𝐚𝐭𝐡"

Chapter 4: The Dead God

Thane stood on the sands of the grand coliseum, his eyes scanning the crowd as it gathered in anticipation of the duel that was about to unfold. The air was thick with excitement and tension, the hum of voices creating a cacophony that reverberated throughout the arena. On the opposite side, Queen Suna made her entrance, greeted by a chorus of cheers from the spectators. Her regal presence commanded respect and admiration, and it was clear she was a favorite among the crowd. Her reputation as a formidable warrior and wise ruler preceded her, and the audience was eager to see her in action.

Thane gripped his scythe, feeling its familiar weight in his hands as he prepared himself for the battle ahead. His mind was focused, and he whispered to himself, "Alright, let's see how powerful the ancients really are." His words were lost to the noise of the crowd, but they held a personal resolve to test his skills against a legendary opponent.

The announcer's voice boomed across the arena, declaring that the duel would be to the death. The crowd erupted with mixed reactions—cheers of support for Suna and jeers directed at Thane. The disdain in their voices was palpable, but it only served to strengthen his resolve. This was not a battle for glory or fame; it was a test of strength and skill.

"Now, let the battle commence!" the announcer cried, signaling the start of the duel.

Suna wasted no time and charged at Thane with impressive speed and precision. "Fire of Amethyst!" she shouted, her voice ringing with authority as she unleashed a torrent of bright lilac flames in his direction. The flames danced through the air, casting an ethereal glow that mesmerized the audience even as it threatened to consume Thane.

Taken aback by the ferocity of the attack, Thane quickly countered. "Shield of Eisfore!" he called out, summoning a massive black shield that materialized before him. The shield, stronger than steel, deflected the fiery assault with a resounding clash, scattering the flames harmlessly to the sides. The crowd gasped in awe at the display of power from both combatants.

The battle raged on, with each opponent exchanging powerful blows that shook the very foundation of the arena. Thane moved with agility and precision, countering Suna's every move with calculated defense and strategic attacks. Suna, in turn, fought with relentless determination, her movements a blend of grace and strength that spoke to her years of experience and skill.

As the duel progressed, the crowd watched in rapt attention, their cheers and gasps punctuating each clash of power. Both fighters pushed themselves to their limits, testing the boundaries of their abilities. The arena became a stage for their epic confrontation, the sand beneath their feet bearing witness to their struggle.

Finally, with skill and determination, Thane gained the upper hand. He delivered a decisive blow that disarmed Suna, bringing the duel to a close. Breathing heavily, he extended a hand to help Suna to her feet, a gesture of respect and acknowledgment of her skill.

"How's that for a show?" Thane mused, a hint of triumph in his voice as he looked at Suna. Despite the intensity of the battle, there was no animosity between them—only mutual respect.

Suna smirked, brushing off the dust from her clothes. "I must admit, that was quite a remarkable fight," she replied, her eyes shining with a mixture of admiration and competitiveness.

As the announcer proclaimed Thane the victor, the crowd erupted into a mix of cheers and murmurs. The outcome was unexpected for many, but the display of skill and power had left a lasting impression on everyone present.

Suna leaned in and whispered to Thane, "Meet me at the Border Bar Alley. I have an offer." Her words were intriguing, and Thane could sense that this meeting could hold significance beyond the duel.

Curious about what this offer might entail, Thane nodded, deciding to accept her mysterious invitation. As he left the arena, he couldn't help but wonder what awaited him at their clandestine meeting.

Before they parted ways, Suna turned to him with a curious expression. "But I hope it's not too late to ask, who are you really?" she inquired, her voice tinged with genuine curiosity.

Thane paused for a moment before answering, "Me? I am who they call, the Dead God." His words carried the weight of his history and the legacy he bore as the Grim Reaper of Gods.

With that, they parted ways, each contemplating the events that had unfolded and the paths that lay ahead. The duel had concluded, but a new chapter was about to begin.