[COMBAT – Final Phase: Steelbind Devil]
The air inside the factory felt suffocating, as if every breath collided with the heat radiating from the shimmering steel sheets, creating an oppressive atmosphere that weighed heavily on Fitran's mind. Sweat dripped from his temples, emphasizing the intensity of the situation. "Feel that," he said firmly while staring at the retreating creature, "It's preparing to strike." His left leg dragged behind him, the mechanical joints in his leg releasing sparks, symbolizing his nervousness amidst the tension that enveloped them.
Makima stood tall, feeling adrenaline coursing through her veins as her contract chains emitted a faint glow, shimmering in the sunlight filtering through the gaps in the roof. "In that case," she declared confidently and decisively, "Make sure it doesn't have time to close its circle." Her steady voice resonated in the eerie silence, underscoring her deep uncertainty about the formidable creature blocking their way and the potential consequences of their next actions.
🖥 [SYSTEM – Chain Balance Finisher Available]
Skill: Sever & Bind: Overlimit
Effect: The leader severs the vital point, while the supporter locks the core function.
Cooldown: Once per mission.
"We start on the count of three," Fitran announced as he spun his Voidlight Blade, the black-golden light adorning the edge of the blade growing more intense, vibrating with eagerness as if anticipating a command. "One... two... three!" The urgency of the moment pulsed in the air, amplifying the thrill of their impending strike.
"We don't need to count if we're already in sync," Makima replied, ready with her hand moving the chains as if calling forth hidden energy. Her expression showed sharp focus; she knew time was not a luxury they could afford.
The [Chain Balance] tightened around Fitran, who felt the flow of contract energy channeling from Makima into his sword, a sensation akin to hot electricity coursing through his arm. "I can feel it, Makima!" he shouted, a burning enthusiasm igniting within him. "It's time to finish this fight!" The tense sound of steel reverberated in his ears, and suddenly the world around them seemed to slow, enhancing the tension that filled every passing second as they prepared for the climax of their battle.
Fitran charged forward, his body swiftly gliding low beneath the gap of the massive wire arm. "Watch out!" he shouted as his Voidlight Blade struck precisely at the right joint of the creature, sparks igniting in the hot air. In a coordinated movement, Makima calmly threw her contract chain with impressive composure. "Catch that core!" she commanded, her chain wrapping around the pulsing red core nestled in the chest of the Steelbind Devil.
"Pull!" Fitran shouted, trying to solidify his determination amidst the chaos of the battle, strengthening the voice of his heart as the tension peaked.
Makima yanked the chain with all the strength she possessed. "Get him out!" she yelled, forcing the core halfway out, revealing the hot wire network that restrained it and creating a sharp crackling sound as the metal scraped against each other. Fitran gripped his sword tightly, summoning all his energy for a final maneuver, striking with Over Sever. His blade brutally cleaved through the core, and the intensity of their efforts peaked in that moment.
The sound of metal exploding echoed through the air, sending sparks flying into the sky and creating a stunning sight amidst the chaos. "Yes! We can do it!" Fitran shouted, his voice infused with enthusiasm as confidence surged within him, along with a wave of heat that scorched his face. The smell of burning wires and machine oil mingled in the air, intensifying the moment and painting an image of their victory. Fragments of the core fell, crashing onto the steel floor with a loud thud, fracturing briefly before crumbling into black dust that swirled around like remnants of their fierce struggle.
🖥 [SYSTEM – Boss Defeated]
Steelbind Devil – Eliminated
Rewards:
Affinity +6% (75% → 81%)
Passive Upgrade: [Chain Balance+] – Synchronization duration +5s
Item: Tempered Devil Gear x2
EXP: +1,400
Makima released the chains that still shimmered in the empty air, her breathing slightly labored, indicating the intensity of their recent efforts. "You led… without making me feel trapped," she remarked, her gaze scrutinizing their work. A mix of satisfaction and amazement brightened her face, reflecting the complex emotions woven into the aftermath of their battle.
Fitran sheathed his sword, his breath beginning to steady even though the hot air still bit at his skin. "And you followed… without trying to take control," he replied, his expression challenging, filled with both respect and confidence as he looked at Makima. All the tension seemed to pause as they understood each other without needing to say much.
Makima stepped closer, the distance between them now only a single step. "Don't get used to wins that come easy," she stated, her voice firm yet carrying a challenge that couldn't be ignored. Her eyes sparkled like embers, embodying the fiery spirit that burned strong amidst the swirling smoke and remnants of the battle. "Next time, I'll be the one holding the chains," she added, conveying an unwavering certainty that established a barely restrained competition between them.
Fitran sheathed his sword again, one hand touching his back while his breathing remained steady. "You're doing an incredible job," he said, his eyes attentive as he assessed the situation around him. "But are you sure you don't want to take control of this?" he asked, his tone revealing deep interest, as if inviting Makima to reflect on the competitor within her.
Makima stepped toward Fitran with determination, the distance between them only an arm's reach. "You know I've always preferred to lead," she said, her challenging smile making her eyes shine with ambition. "Don't get too used to smooth victories. Next time, I'll be the one controlling this chain."
"But, Makima," Fitran replied firmly, "if that happens, who will oversee our steps?" He moved his feet with agility, preparing for the potential need to act quickly. "I'm not here just to protect you, but also to ensure we don't get trapped."
Makima raised an eyebrow, looking impressed and slightly provoked. "How bold of you to think like that. But remember, I have no tolerance for uncertainty." She glanced around, sensing an aura of threat lurking, like a shadow ready to strike at any moment.
Fitran offered a slight smile, his teeth gleaming in the dim factory light. "We'll see later what we will learn from this experience," he said, stepping forward with muscles tensed and ready, prepared to do whatever it takes to ensure their safety. The vibrating sound of the machines around him added to the tense atmosphere, the metallic and oily scent permeating the air and intensifying the pressure of this critical moment, a reminder of the ever-looming threat that awaited outside.