The Phantom Strikes Back

Kai staggered back, gripping his ribs. Blood Moon’s hit had been solid—too solid.

He tasted iron in his mouth.

This guy isn’t just strong—he’s a monster.

Blood Moon didn’t waste a second. He charged, his twin blades spinning in a deadly arc.

Kai exhaled slowly. No more playing around.

[System Alert!]
[Phantom Mirage Lv. 1 → Lv. 3]
Mirages can now attack and absorb one fatal strike before shattering. Maximum illusions: 5.

Five Kai’s appeared.

Blood Moon hesitated, his instincts screaming at him.

Then—they attacked.

An Army of Phantoms

The first illusion clashed blades with Blood Moon. The second struck from behind. The third swept low. The fourth leapt from above.

And the real Kai?

He wasn’t anywhere to be seen.

Blood Moon slashed through the first phantom—it exploded into mist.

Then the second. Then the third.

But they weren’t just illusions anymore.

Each one moved, dodged, and struck as if it were real.

Blood Moon was being outmaneuvered.

His breath turned ragged. “This isn’t possible…”

Kai’s voice echoed from the mist. “It is. You just don’t know how to fight a ghost.”

Then the final illusion struck—its blade sinking into Blood Moon’s shoulder.

But it wasn’t an illusion.

It was the real Kai.

Blood Moon’s Last Stand

Blood Moon gritted his teeth, ignoring the pain.

With his last ounce of strength, he grabbed Kai’s arm—and twisted.

Kai felt his shoulder pop.

CRACK!

He gasped, but Blood Moon wasn’t done.

He slammed Kai into the ground, pinning him down.

His dagger pressed against Kai’s throat.

“Checkmate.”

Kai just smirked.

Blood Moon’s eyes widened.

His hand—was sinking through Kai’s body.

It was another illusion.

The real Kai stood behind him, dagger at his neck.

“No.” Kai whispered. “Checkmate.”

Blood Moon exhaled sharply. He had lost.

For the first time in his career.

But instead of fear—he laughed.

“Alright, Phantom,” he muttered. “You win.”

Kai smirked. “Glad you understand.”

Then—he knocked Blood Moon out cold.

One of the strongest bounty hunters had fallen.

But Kai knew… more were coming.

And the real war?

Hadn’t even started.

TO BE CONTINUED…