The aftermath subsided.
At the center of the clashing blades, the white sand across dozens of miles had been completely erased, replaced by a glass-like expanse that gleamed with crystalline light.
Crimson magma-like patterns spread from the blades onto the sand, extending to the very edge of sight.
A reishi storm raged, swallowing up every remaining grain of white sand and sweeping it high into the sky, where it vanished into the thinning clouds.
The two remained locked in confrontation, not a trace of color left on their faces.
Until...
Crack!
A crisp sound rang out. The blade in Azashiro Soya's hand split with countless cracks before turning into innumerable fragments of reishi, emitting a faint glow.
Uro Zakuro appeared behind him. Unlike before, she displayed a demeanor she had never shown in the past, gently supporting Azashiro Soya in her arms.
"Those whose names begin with 'Ken' really do risk their lives..."
She spoke softly, as if reminiscing about the past. "Since the day I gained memories, this is only the second time I've seen you like this."
"Now that I think about it, it really is nostalgic..."
Azashiro Soya remained silent, his gaze lowered, his thoughts unknown.
At the same time, Kurosaki Maki stepped through Hirenkyaku and appeared behind Su Feng in an instant, supporting his swaying body in the same manner.
Their final clash had clearly drained the last of their spiritual pressure.
Su Feng was in even worse condition than before. He did not even have the strength to draw his sword.
"Mr. Su Feng."
Kurosaki Maki leaned close to his ear and whispered, "I'm stronger than I was when we last met. Do you want me to make a move...?"
As she spoke, she made a slicing gesture across her fair neck.
"Hey, hey, you