Chapter 38: Energy Shortage
The world around him seemed to shift, the arena blurring into muted shades of gray.
A pile of jagged metal springs materialized in front of him, their design crude yet brimming with potential energy.
Dot's voice cut through the haze, confused and startled. "What did you just say?! Why did you—"
Even Yui stopped, his stance momentarily faltering. "That was... strange," he muttered, narrowing his eyes.
Elias ignored them both, his focus locked on the vision in front of him. The words in his mind echoed louder now: "Break the cage." He turned to Dot, his voice steady despite the chaos. "It's time to lock in, Dot. I need—"
Before he could finish, Dot interrupted, her tone suddenly filled with clarity. "I see it!" she exclaimed, pressing her small hands against the shard embedded in his chest. Energy coursed through her as she clapped her hands together. "Just like last time. Let's do this!"
Four large metal springs materialized out of the air, wide and heavy. Their surfaces shimmered faintly, and Elias felt an odd resistance as he caught them. It wasn't just their weight—there was a subtle pull to the springs, as though they carried a force waiting to be unleashed. He gripped them tightly, his arms straining slightly against the tension.
Yui wasn't idle. He surged forward, his speed blurring as he closed the gap. His fist shot toward Elias's chest. Reacting on instinct, Elias slapped Yui's arm aside. The impact jolted up his arm, but it was enough to deflect the blow. For a brief moment, Yui's expression flickered with surprise.
Elias's eyes remained dark black, with the single red dot glowing faintly in their center. He shifted the springs in his grip, holding three tightly while the fourth coiled itself around Yui's arm. "I... I see it..." Elias murmured, his voice distant, almost mechanical.