The temple's core crackled with raw energy as the towering figure stepped forward. His presence was overwhelming—an amalgamation of Akira's determination and Kuroo's darkness, yet twisted by fear and regret. The Ultimate Echo, the embodiment of everything they feared in themselves, grinned coldly.
"You think your unity makes you strong," he said, voice echoing like thunder. "But you are fractured. Broken. Just like the timelines you fight to save."
Akira tightened his grip on his weapon, eyes blazing with resolve. "We fight not just for ourselves but for everyone who believes in a better future."
Kuroo's shadows flickered, swirling like a storm. "And we will burn down any illusion standing in our way."
The Echo laughed—a sound both chilling and familiar. "Then come. Show me the truth of your strength."
The battle erupted with a force that shook the very foundations of the temple. Energy clashed in dazzling displays of light and shadow, each strike sending shockwaves through the air. Akira and Kuroo moved in perfect sync, their styles complementing one another as they pushed the Ultimate Echo to his limits.
But this opponent was unlike any before. He anticipated their moves, adapting instantly, exploiting even the smallest hesitation.
As the fight dragged on, Akira felt the weight of his doubts pressing down. The Echo's words echoed in his mind—fractured, broken. But then, a calm voice within reminded him of the gods' teachings: strength was more than power; it was balance, acceptance, and unity.
Drawing on that, Akira surged forward, his light blinding and pure. Kuroo followed, shadows swirling like a shield around them both.
Together, they struck the Ultimate Echo with a combined attack, a brilliant fusion of light and darkness.
The figure staggered, his form flickering. Then, with a final roar, he shattered into countless fragments—each one dissolving into the temple's radiant core.
Silence fell.
Akira and Kuroo stood side by side, breathing heavily but victorious.
"This… is only the beginning," Akira said quietly.
Kuroo nodded, a rare smile tugging at his lips. "Yeah. The real battle for the timelines starts now."