Magic Abyss So Far

The alley's ruins were still smoldering from the soul-kiss resonance.

Justin's coat fluttered in the rising heat, but his gaze never wavered from Akira, who now stood, slightly glowing, his aura stabilized by Sera's kiss. Kurumi stood protectively at his right, thunder licking her fingertips. Sera was on his left, chest heaving with exhaustion, but still shielding him with her body.

"Kill all three of you together," Justin had said. And he meant it.

Kirara licked her lips, stepping back. "Okay, maybe time to not die for once. I'll be in the shadows if anyone needs me!"

She vanished in a puff of dark smoke.

Justin's eyes didn't flicker. "Cowardice doesn't suit you, Kirara."

Then he vanished.

"SERA, MOVE!" Kurumi screamed.

Too late.

A burst of red light cracked the pavement where Sera stood, but her reflexes kicked in. She twisted, arms out, and snapped her fingers—

"Crystalline Veil!"