THUNDER tore across the heavens, smashing into the island.
Lightning struck buildings, flames erupting across rooftops, painting the battlefield in flickering crimson and gold.
The world shook, as if the storm itself had joined the fight.
Kaoru Hibuko's eyes gleamed red as he dashed forward with lightning speed toward Taren Touka.
Taren's eyes widened, sword raised, but it was already too late.
"Scarlet Piercer," Kaoru murmured, driving his blade straight through Taren's shoulder.
TCK!
Blood spurted as Taren coughed violently, collapsing to his knees.
"You… devil…" he gasped.
Kaoru's grin widened, eyes cold as steel.
"That's the obedience I need from slaves like you — kneeling before me."
As he yanked his sword free, Taren crumpled to the ground.
From the sea of fallen samurai, one figure rose — Ashura Shin.
His black cloak fluttered violently in the chaos, blood streaking his lips and hands.
He walked forward, eyes locked on Kaoru with a deadly calm.
"You're dead… today," he declared.
Flames enveloped Ashura's sword as he swung, the blaze scorching the air with a hiss — SWISH!
Kaoru dodged effortlessly, eyes glittering with malice.
Kaoru leapt forward, sword brimming with sharp crimson energy.
"Hibuko's Judgement!"
BOOM!
Their blades collided with a shockwave that hurled the bodies of samurai aside like ragdolls.
The air thickened, burning with heat and tension.
Ashura didn't flinch.
"Is that all you've got?" he growled, blood dripping, unwavering.
Kaoru's grin widened further, a storm of energy swirling around him.
The battle had only just begun.