A tense silence fell over the courtyard as Shingen, the stronghold leader, sized up Kazuichi. His gaze was sharp, like the first flash of lightning before a storm, and a faint smirk tugged at the corner of his mouth. "You know," he began, his voice echoing in the open air, "I've always found that the best way to understand someone is through a fight." His eyes sparkled with anticipation. "So, how about it, Kazuichi? Care to show me what you're made of?"
Kazuichi's muscles tensed, but a slow grin spread across his face. There was no mistaking the challenge in Shingen's voice. "I thought you'd never ask," he replied, his tone a mix of excitement and confidence. Lightning crackled around his fingertips as he readied himself, the air already thickening with static. "Let's see if you can keep up."
