Kael and Akira finally test their strength against each other in a training match — but one far more serious than either of them expected.

  Both launch their peonzas with determination.

  Axiom and Shadow Cyclon immediately clash.

  The first impact echoes across the arena.

  Akira starts aggressively. Shadow Cyclon jumps from shadow to shadow, striking with fast and unpredictable movements. Dark flashes and sudden direction changes keep constant pressure on Kael.

  Whispers spread among the onlookers.

  The tale has been stolen; if detected on Amazon, report the violation.

  “Akira is pushing him hard…”

  But Kael refuses to step back.

  Axiom spins faster and faster, pushing its own energy beyond its limits. This fighting style is dangerous — not only for the opponent, but for the arena itself.

  The surface of the stadium trembles from the repeated impacts.

  Akira realizes he must finish the battle quickly.

  He activates his special technique.

  ?? “Midnight Vortex!”

  The light around Shadow Cyclon fades as if night itself is twisting into a vortex.

  Dark energy pulls Axiom into its center, and for a brief moment everyone believes Kael’s peonza has been destroyed.

  The arena falls silent.

  Axiom disappears inside the darkness.

  But then—

  A shockwave bursts from within the vortex.

  Axiom’s inner power destabilizes the dark energy, forcing the vortex to collapse in on itself. The attack shatters as the swirling shadows disperse.

  Shadow Cyclon loses its momentum.

  Akira drops to one knee.

  But he smiles.

  It is his first defeat — and his first real lesson.

  Kael walks over and offers him a hand.

  “You were strong.”

  Akira accepts it and stands.

  “Next time… I’ll win.”

  By the end of the match, they are no longer rivals — but warriors who respect each other