Checkmate

"Great galactic goulash!" the Ringmaster exclaimed, ducking as a stray bolt of phantom energy sizzled past his head.

"Folks, I've seen some underhanded tactics in my time, but using your opponent's own imaginary army against them?

That's the kind of backstabbing brilliance that would make Brutus himself green with envy!"

The Ringmaster said as he winked at Caesar.

In the stands, the reaction was mixed.

Some cheered Catiline's cunning, while others booed what they saw as a dishonorable tactic. But all watched with bated breath as the battle reached its climax.

Atenzi, however, noticed something that others seemed to miss.

Even as Nobunaga fought against his own creations, his movements had changed.

There was a fluidity to his actions, a purpose that went beyond mere survival.

The construct shimmered with urgent realization: "He's not just fighting.

He's gathering energy.