Lr stories part 1: Power royale

Chapter 36: Ghost Katana Part 1

The sun had dipped below the horizon, casting long shadows across the battlefield as William, Angelo, and Kindliker trudged toward the river. Their steps were slow, weary, the adrenaline from their battle with Delton Finches starting to wear off. The sound of the river's rushing water was a welcome relief, promising a brief respite from the violence and bloodshed.

"Finally, a chance to wash off this... mess," William muttered, glancing down at his bloodstained hands. The metallic tang still lingered in his mouth, a reminder of the deadly game they were playing.

Angelo, still shaken from his transformation, nodded in agreement. "I just want to get this over with. The sooner we win, the sooner I can get back to my family."

Kindliker, ever the comic relief, chuckled nervously. "Yeah, if we win. This place is crawling with psychos. I mean, I'm pretty much useless compared to you guys."

William shot him a sideways glance but didn't say anything. As much as Kindliker's self-deprecation grated on him, he couldn't deny the guy had come through when it mattered. And with their powers back online, they at least had a fighting chance.

The river came into view, its waters reflecting the darkening sky. The trio approached the bank cautiously, scanning the area for any sign of danger. The sound of the water rushing over rocks was the only noise that greeted them, and for a moment, they allowed themselves to relax.

But then, out of the shadows, a figure emerged. He moved with an eerie calm, his steps silent as he approached the riverbank. His presence was almost ghostly, the air around him seeming to chill as he drew closer.

"It's him," Angelo whispered, his voice tinged with fear.

Junichi Sakamoto-Rodríguez, the four-time Power Royale winner, stood before them. His face was expressionless, his eyes cold and unreadable. In his hand, he held the Ghost Katana, its blade shimmering with a pale, otherworldly light.

Announcer 1's voice burst through the speakers, full of excitement. "Ladies and gentlemen, it's the moment we've all been waiting for! The legendary Junichi Sakamoto-Rodríguez has finally appeared, and he's about to face off with our contenders! This is going to be one for the history books!"

Announcer 2's tone was more serious, the gravity of the situation evident in his voice. "This is no ordinary fight. Junichi is a warrior of unmatched skill, and his Ghost Katana is a weapon unlike any other. The question is, can William and his team survive this encounter?"

Junichi's gaze was fixed on William, as if assessing him. After a moment of silence, he spoke, his voice calm and measured. "William Dangerfield... I have an offer for you."

William tensed, ready for a fight, but Junichi made no move to attack. Instead, he sheathed his katana and stepped closer, the tension in the air thickening.

"You and I," Junichi continued, "will have an honorable duel. Just the two of us. No tricks, no interference. If you win, I will leave this place and not pursue you further. If I win... the same. But regardless of the outcome, I will depart peacefully."

William's eyes narrowed. "And why should I trust you?"

"Because I have no desire for pointless bloodshed," Junichi replied, his voice steady. "I am here to restore my honor, not to slaughter indiscriminately. You are a worthy opponent, and I would prefer to face you in a fair fight. But know this—I will not hold back."

Angelo and Kindliker exchanged uneasy glances, unsure of what to make of the offer. It was a dangerous gamble, but there was something about Junichi's demeanor that made William believe he was sincere. The man exuded a sense of honor and discipline that was rare in the chaotic world of Power Royale.

William took a deep breath, weighing his options. On one hand, this was a chance to face one of the most formidable players in the game on somewhat even ground. On the other, it was a risk that could end in his death.

"Alright," William finally said, his voice firm. "I'll take your deal."

Junichi nodded, his expression unchanging. "Then prepare yourself. The duel will begin soon."

The chapter ended with the two men standing on opposite sides of the riverbank, the air between them charged with anticipation. As the sun fully set and darkness fell over the battlefield, the stage was set for an epic confrontation—one that would determine the fate of both warriors.

To Be Continued...