The Kaito monster didn't waste a single breath.
In an instant, its body twisted into its Kaito form, muscles sharpening, aura rising like a storm.
Kaito Monster: "Bloodthirsty Spike."
A wave of crimson spikes exploded forward.
Everyone was thrown back, brutally injured — except for Jeisuke.
Jeisuke stumbled, bleeding, but still planted himself in front of his friends.
Kaito Monster:
"Impressive… a brave little human.
Shame you're dying because of these fools."
Jeisuke clenched his fist, refusing to fall. Without thinking—
Jeisuke: "Wooden Wall!"
Thick wooden pillars erupted from the ground, forming a dome around the group.
The monster grinned.
Kaito Monster: "Dusty Flame."
A wave of burning ash hit the wooden wall.
The dome caught fire instantly, flames crawling inwards.
Inside, smoke thickened.
Heat wrapped around them like death itself.
Akaimo was shaking.
Shino covered his mouth, eyes darting for any escape.
Shizuku gave up, everyone was coughing.
Everyone was waiting for the flames to swallow them.
Then—
Momoshimo's eyes—
for the first time—
sparkled.