The arena trembled violently, shards of stone and dust swirling in the wake of Akira's crimson aura. Every heartbeat pulsed like a drum, echoing through the ruins as if counting down to some inevitable clash.
Temaki hovered near Akira, aura flickering, eyes fixed on the shadowy figures emerging from the corners. "Akira… this isn't just about fighting them," he warned. "They're testing everything—our limits, our teamwork… maybe even us."
Akira's eyes narrowed, crimson fire flaring across her blade. "Then we show them what we're made of," she growled. "No holding back."
The intruder stepped from the shadows, violet aura blending with dark tendrils that seemed alive. Her smirk was cold, precise. "You've grown strong… but strength alone won't win this fight. Timing, strategy… and a little chaos—that's what will break you."
Akira lunged, energy trailing behind her blade like living fire. Sparks erupted as the intruder countered with blinding speed, their clash sending shockwaves through the crumbling arena.
Temaki tensed, fists clenching. Every strike Akira landed, every evasive maneuver, pulled at him in conflicting ways—pride, fear, helplessness. He wanted to step in, but he knew Akira's skill was unmatched… at least if she stayed focused.
The intruder laughed, a sound both melodic and cruel. "Ah… that fire. That determination. He does seem devoted. Such a shame if it all comes crashing down."
Akira's aura surged, pushing her beyond Rank 15 limits. Crimson flames enveloped her like a living shield, enhancing her speed, reflexes, and strength. "I'm not afraid of you… or anything else you throw at us!"
Then, with a sudden ripple of violet energy, the intruder's backup revealed itself—a cloaked figure, aura darker and heavier than the shadows themselves. The arena floor cracked beneath its presence.
Temaki's eyes widened. "Backup… it's not alone. Akira, stay ready!"
Akira's gaze hardened. "Then we fight. Together."
The intruder's smirk widened. "Yes… together. Let's see if you can survive what's coming next."
A surge of dark energy erupted from the shadow figure, forcing Akira and Temaki to brace themselves. Dust, rubble, and raw energy swirled violently around them. Light clashed against shadow, crimson against violet, as the battlefield erupted into chaos.
Temaki's aura flared as he readied himself. "Akira… stay close. We survive this, we survive everything."
Akira met his gaze, fierce and unwavering. "We'll survive… and we'll make them regret underestimating us."
The shadows writhed, the arena shaking under the collision of power. And above the roar of the storm, the intruder's voice echoed, chilling and playful:
"Only the strongest will remain… and only one will claim the throne."