Chapter 13 : The King's Duel

Arthur was oblivious to the ancient tales of Atlantis and had little exposure to Marvel comics. His understanding of reality stemmed from the tangible world of flesh, blood, individual thoughts, and personal histories.

This unfamiliarity, however, offered Arthur a distinct perspective.

Concerned about his outsider status in Atlantis, he grappled with uncertainties. He had never fully embraced his Imoji identity, yet it seemed his thoughts compensated for this absence.

Considering a potential duel against Namor, he pondered his odds of victory.

Arthur's confidence wavered.

Despite inheriting the Sea King's physique, he perceived his strength and abilities as on par with Namor's. Yet, Namor, now at least forty years old and an established ruler of Atlantis for two decades, had resided in the depths, engaging in numerous battles, amassing extensive combat wisdom.

Reflecting on his journey, Arthur recently acquired the Sea King's abilities but lacked significant combat experience to handle the trident competently.

Comparatively, Arthur found himself at a disadvantage.

Nevertheless, a sense of defiance simmered within him.

"If you don't accept it, do it; whoever persuades is the coward."

"Sacrifice to the patron saint," Namo declared decisively. Witnessing Arthur's acceptance of the challenge, he directed his men to supply Godzilla with nuclear materials. Turning to Arthur, he proposed resolving their duel in the ancient tradition.

"Agreed," Arthur replied, brandishing the trident with unwavering resolve.

Moments later, Atlanteans brought five colossal barrels filled with hazardous nuclear waste before Godzilla. Atlantis, having mastered nuclear technology inspired by Titan monsters like Godzilla, maintained a nuclear power plant, serving as both an energy source for their city and as a tribute to Godzilla.

The scene unfolded, reinvigorating Godzilla with the offered nuclear waste. Radiation spilled but remained contained within his vicinity.

Mindful of the risks posed by nuclear radiation, Arthur, despite his Sea King physique, wisely maintained his distance. He leaped away from Godzilla's dorsal fin with the trident, stating, "Feast at your leisure; I'll duel Namor first."

Swimming to the edge of the duel area, Arthur seized control of an orca and followed Namor to the arena amidst the ancient ruins of Atlantis. As they prepared for battle, Atlanteans assembled to witness the clash between these potential rulers.

In the tense anticipation before their confrontation, only Arthur and Namo remained in the arena.

Visually similar, the two bore resemblance, primarily differing in skin color, resembling brothers compared to the blue-skinned Atlanteans.

Atlantean longevity endowed Namor with a youthful appearance despite being 42, slightly taller than Arthur. Arthur's gaze conveyed a mix of emotions.

Legends proclaimed Godzilla as the king of monsters, a power that, if harnessed, could potentially grant dominion over Atlantis and the realms above and below the sea.

Namor addressed Arthur, "Your father's actions were disgraceful. I don't seek your demise, Imoji, or Arthur. Depart Atlantis for good; this duel is unwinnable for you."

"Let's find out," Arthur retorted, determination gleaming in his eyes, realizing that only one could claim the mantle of Aquaman.

Drums echoed, signaling the commencement of the duel. The doors opened, and they swam into the arena.

The battleground retained the ancient aesthetics of Atlantis, resembling the Roman colosseum—crumbling stone pillars, colossal statues, and circular stands. Thousands of Atlanteans had gathered to witness this royal showdown.

Namor raised his trident, rallying the crowd, proclaiming, "People of Atlantis, declare who your king is. Long live the king!"

"Long live the king!"

"Defeat the usurper's descendant!"

"Traitor!"

The crowd erupted, vehemently supporting Namor and scornfully denouncing Arthur, rejecting the pretender.

Arthur accepted their hostility, realizing the weight of his aspirations for the throne.

Atlantis had seen five wars of kings, where power was determined by strength. Despite their advanced technology, Atlantis adhered to this primitive method of succession.

For Arthur, this duel held the promise of an immediate ascent—if he could best Namor.

As they assumed their positions in the arena, holographic displays showcased their royal lineages. To outsiders, both held Atlantean royal blood, but a victory for Namor would cement his reign.

Most wagered against Arthur, yet some pondered the prospect of a shift in power.

As Arthur stepped into the arena, a prompt emerged from the check-in system.