Chapter 12: The Crossroads
Le Wai's hands tightened into fists as he faced the figure before him. The moonlight glinted off the stranger's eyes, revealing determination that mirrored his own. Every instinct screamed at him to strike—but hesitation held him in place.
"Le Wai," the figure said, voice low but firm, "you can't do this alone. The shadows are growing stronger, and time is running out."
Le Wai swallowed hard. He had survived countless battles, yet the weight of past mistakes now pressed heavier than any blade. "I don't need help," he said, his voice sharper than intended. "I've always done this alone."
"You think alone will save you?" The figure's gaze cut through him. "The darkness doesn't care about pride—it only feeds on isolation."
A sudden roar echoed from the alley behind them. Shadowed figures emerged, their forms flickering like smoke, eyes glowing with malice. Le Wai's heart leapt—he wasn't just facing his past, but the threat that had been creeping closer all this time.
Without hesitation, Le Wai drew his weapon, the familiar weight steadying his resolve. The figure beside him mirrored his movements, their stance perfectly synchronized.
Steel clashed against darkness as the creatures lunged. Le Wai moved with precision, each strike cutting through shadows, yet their numbers seemed endless. Beside him, the figure fought with equal skill, a reminder of a bond he had long forgotten.
For a brief moment, Le Wai met the stranger's eyes. No words were spoken, but an understanding passed between them: survival meant trust, even if it came late.
The last shadow fell. Silence returned, heavy and suffocating. Le Wai lowered his weapon, chest heaving, mind racing. The figure looked at him, expression unreadable.
"Today, you chose to fight with me," they said. "Tomorrow, the real test begins."
Le Wai nodded, feeling a flicker of hope amidst the lingering darkness. He knew the path ahead would be perilous, but for the first time, he didn't feel entirely alone.