As the dust settled, Kazuichi struggled to steady his breathing, his muscles trembling with the aftermath of the fierce clash. The air crackled faintly with the lingering energy from their battle, a testament to the power that had been unleashed. Shingen's hand remained extended toward him, a silent gesture of mutual respect that resonated with unspoken understanding. Kazuichi grasped it firmly, and as their hands clasped together, there was a palpable sense that they had bridged the gap between rivals and potential allies.
Shingen's eyes met Kazuichi's, his expression unyielding but not unfriendly. "You fought like a true warrior," he acknowledged, his voice firm but lacking the arrogance he had shown before. "You've proven yourself, and it's clear you're not here just to show off your strength. There's something more you're after."
