Finally, Jaisurya decided to challenge Luna to a duel, for his own sake. He knew that if the duel were to happen, he would definitely lose the fight. Yet, he resolved to face her, not to win but to overcome his fear and break free from Craken’s spell. Boogiman, too, wanted this fight to happen, believing it would be the key to Jaisurya's awakening.
The fateful night arrived. Jaisurya formally proposed the duel to Luna. He thought she would be shocked, but to his surprise, Luna remained calm, as if she had expected this moment. The tension in the air was palpable.
The battle began with intensity as their swords clashed. Sparks flew with every strike, and the sheer force of their powers caused the clouds to tremble and the sky to split apart, revealing streaks of moonlight breaking through the darkness. Each move felt like a thunderstorm, shaking the ground beneath their feet.
Summoning all his strength, Jaisurya unleashed a powerful attack. He believed it would end the fight. But Luna, with her unmatched grace and composure, blocked his attack effortlessly. Her sword movements were as fluid as water, yet as unyielding as steel.
Now it was Luna's turn to strike. Her attacks were swift and precise, and Jaisurya struggled to keep up. His stamina waned, and his movements grew slower. Finally, Luna disarmed him with a decisive blow and slashed at his leg, forcing him to kneel before her.
As Jaisurya knelt, defeated, Luna spoke, her voice calm yet filled with warmth. "You are a great friend of mine. I don’t often speak to other clan members because of how I was raised, but you made me feel comfortable enough to do so. I don’t think poorly of you or your cause. In fact, I admire your courage to face your fears."
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She paused, her eyes softening. "I’m sorry," she said gently, raising her beautiful sword. It gleamed under the moonlight, an elegant weapon adorned with intricate patterns resembling the phases of the moon.
In one swift, graceful motion, Luna slashed across Jaisurya, her strike as precise and ceremonial as a samurai delivering a final blow. The air stood still, and time seemed to freeze.
After the strike, she stepped back and said, "I also want you to acknowledge that I am a member of the Moon Clan. I live by my principles and pride. Once again, I’m sorry." Her words carried both an apology and a reminder of her unwavering honor.
Jaisurya, though battered and kneeling, was left speechless. Despite coming so close to killing him, Luna had shown him kindness and respect. Her gentleness in such a harsh moment moved him deeply.
Summoning his strength, Jaisurya said, "Thank you, Luna, for accepting my duel. I knew I would lose, but I was afraid I might leave a bad impression on the other clan members. You, Luna, are so mature and strong. I feel I have failed as a friend, and I feel guilty for my actions. But thank you... thank you for everything. You are the kindest person I have ever met."
Luna, preparing to vanish, gave him one last look. "Thank you for understanding," she said softly. Then, like a fleeting shadow, she disappeared into the night.
As the battle ended, the clouds began to clear, revealing the full moon shining brightly in the sky. Jaisurya, lying on the ground, stared at the moon. But for the first time, it no longer seemed beautiful to him. Not anymore.
After a long pause, tears began streaming down his face. He wasn’t crying for his defeat, but for the sacrifice he had made—the cost of his actions weighed heavily on his heart. In that moment of vulnerability, something within Jaisurya awakened. A newfound power surged through him, but the cost felt unbearable.
He lay there under the full moon, contemplating the price he had paid, wondering if he would ever find peace again.
