A Storm of Shadows

The alley was deathly silent.

Kai stood motionless, his crimson eyes locked onto Blood Moon.

The legendary bounty hunter’s aura was overwhelming—like standing before an unstoppable force.

But Kai?

He was the immovable object.

Blood Moon drew his curved blades. “I’ll give you a choice, Phantom.”

“Die now, or kneel and beg.”

Kai smirked. “Funny.”

His body tensed, magic crackling through his veins.

[System Alert!]
[New Ability Unlocked: Phantom Mirage Lv. 1]
A technique that creates illusions of the user, making them untouchable in battle. Each mirage is indistinguishable from the real body. Activation Cost: 200 MP.

A wicked grin spread across Kai’s face.

Perfect.

The Dance Begins

Blood Moon vanished—his speed inhuman.

But Kai was faster.

He activated [Phantom Mirage].

The moment Blood Moon’s blade slashed toward his throat—Kai shattered into mist.

Or at least, that’s what it looked like.

Three Kai’s appeared.

One to the left. One to the right. One in front.

Blood Moon froze, his eyes narrowing. “Illusions?”

No.

Each Kai moved, each Kai attacked.

Their movements were identical—seamless—perfect.

Blood Moon deflected the first strike—but the second slashed across his shoulder.

His eyes widened. “They’re real?”

Kai whispered, “No.”

Then the third illusion drove a dagger toward his ribs.

Blood Moon barely twisted away, but Kai was already behind him.

A kick slammed into Blood Moon’s back, sending him crashing into the alley wall.

Dust rose.

For the first time, the hunter looked uncertain.

Kai cracked his knuckles. “Your move.”

Blood Moon’s Counterattack

Blood Moon didn’t hesitate.

He threw a silver orb to the ground.

A burst of anti-magic energy exploded, disrupting the illusions.

Kai’s mirages flickered—then vanished.

Blood Moon lunged, his blade gleaming.

Kai barely dodged, twisting mid-air—but Blood Moon’s fist met his ribs.

CRACK!

Pain erupted in Kai’s side.

He grinned through gritted teeth. “Nice hit.”

Blood Moon smirked. “I’ll break more than that.”

The battle had only just begun.

TO BE CONTINUED...