The flames licked the air as the arena solidified, a battlefield sculpted in blood-red marble and glimmering obsidian. Above, the ceiling melted away into a swirling vortex of crimson skies, thunderclouds groaning with latent power. Runes danced under Renji's feet like serpents, responding to the madness in the air.
"No rules," Seriath whispered, her tongue flicking across her lips. "Show me what makes you worthy of the Nightmare."
Renji cracked his neck, Exile System humming at full power beneath his skin. His fingers twitched as shadowy glyphs danced up his arms. "Don't blink, serpent queen. You'll miss your own end."
And then he vanished.
A sonic boom cracked through the arena. Renji reappeared behind her, swinging his obsidian blade with violent precision. But Seirath spun with inhuman grace, parrying with a smirk. Sparks flew. Shadow met shadow, force met finesse.
