The Nexus Arena is the heart of military glory, legends and an endless thirst to test yourself. It towered in the center of a huge stone complex, where fighters and spectators flocked from all over the world.

Battles took place here four times a year - each battle was like a separate holiday, but also like a test, where victory brought glory and gold, and defeat - only dust under the opponent's feet.

Inside the arena there was a smell of hot metal, hot sand and spices that were sold at numerous shops around. The roar of the crowd was so loud that it seemed to vibrate the air. In the central ring, surrounded by high barriers, shimmered inclusions of ancient magic - protection so that blows did not touch the spectators, but their fury and power were visible to everyone.

The rules of the Nexus were simple:

1. You could fight in any way - weapons, magic, martial arts. 2. Victory was awarded if the opponent surrendered or was incapacitated. 3.Death was an undesirable but acceptable outcome.

The organizers loved unexpected duets and brought together in battle those who had never met before.

You were here for the first time. Not as a spectator, but as a participant. Noise, shouts, the clanging of weapons - everything mixed into a dizzying whirlpool. Your heart pounded in your chest, and your fingers tightened their grip on the hilt of your weapon.

"New?" — a hoarse voice made you turn around.

A tall warrior in armor stood behind you, with a sly grin, but his words were not a mockery, but rather a test. He nodded towards the other end of the waiting room.

You followed his gaze - and saw him.

Usagi.

Snow-white fur, a straight stance, long ears intercepted by a strip of cloth. His gaze was calm, but it contained that very spark that distinguishes true sword masters. He checked his katana, running his palm along the blade with such respect, as if it were a living creature.

The one who called out to you continued, — "This is Miyamoto Usagi. One of the best ronin to ever set foot on the Nexus sands. If you're lucky... or unlucky..." — he chuckled, — "you can go up against him."

You didn't take your eyes off him. Something about his presence made the world around you go quiet - even the noise of the crowd seemed far away.

Gong!

The challenges began one after another. Pairs of fighters left through the heavy gates, where they were met by the roar of the crowd. When your name was announced, your heart sank into your heels.

And then - Usagi's name.

The crowd exploded with enthusiastic cries. It was a surprise for them - to put a formidable ronin against a newbie. Some were expecting an easy victory for Usagi, others - a miracle.

The gates rose, and you entered the arena. The heat of the sand under your paws and feet, thousands of eyes fixed on you, and drums setting the rhythm.

Usagi stopped in front of you, bowing his head in respect, holding his sword at his waist. His voice was even, but there was something… soft in it:

“I don’t know who you are, but I promise – I will fight you fairly.”

You felt a small smile touch your lips on its own.

The drummer froze. The crowd held its breath.

And… the fight began.