Riku, ever the first to act, was already moving before Makoto could even speak. His sword was drawn in a flash, the blade glowing with the ethereal light of his Celestial Blade class. He was faster now, his body reacting with the speed of a seasoned warrior, and with one swift slash, he cleaved through the first demon's chest, sending it crumpling to the ground. The power of his strike was infused with divine energy, cutting through the monster like a hot knife through butter. The light from his sword glowed brightly, banishing the darkness around them for a moment.
"Don't let up!" Makoto shouted as he assessed the battlefield. His voice was calm but urgent, knowing that if they allowed themselves to become overwhelmed, they'd lose their advantage.
Daichi, the Titan Warrior, was already in the fray, his massive axe swinging with a force that shook the earth. He had become an unstoppable force, and now, with his new strength, his Titan's Roar was a weapon of immense power. As he swung his axe down onto one demon, the ground beneath him quaked, and a shockwave erupted, sending enemies flying. It was as if the very earth responded to Daichi's call, reinforcing his dominance as the group's primary tank.
Daichi's roar shook the forest, and the demons faltered for a moment, clearly disoriented. "Nothing will stand in my way!" he yelled, his voice booming.
Tenma and Ichiro, standing back, were quick to add their support. Tenma, the Pyromancer, was already conjuring fire in her hands. The energy crackled around her as she cast a Fireball that soared through the air, exploding on contact with a group of demons, their bodies turning to ash almost instantly. Her magic had become more than just a tool—it was an extension of her will, a manifestation of her inner strength.
Ichiro, the Stormcaster, moved with fluid grace, his hands raised to the sky. Lightning arced from his fingers, and a thunderous roar followed as his Stormfront Fury unleashed a series of rapid strikes of electricity. The demons were struck in rapid succession, unable to avoid the brutal force of his magic. With each bolt, the ground around them cracked, as if the very atmosphere had been shattered.
Makoto, standing at the back, took in the scene. His companions had become more than just trained fighters—they were true heroes, each with their own strengths and skills. And though they were only beginning to tap into their potential, Makoto could see the power growing within them. They were a unit now, one that would rise to any challenge that came their way.
---
As the last demon fell to the ground, its form dissolving into a cloud of smoke, the team took a collective breath. The battle had been intense, but it was just the beginning. Makoto was proud—his companions had acted with precision, relying on each other and their unique abilities.
"Good work, everyone," Makoto said. "But this is only the beginning. We'll face much greater dangers ahead. Stay sharp, and remember, our strength is in our unity."
With each victory, they grew stronger. Their bond was becoming unbreakable, and they were beginning to understand just how much their power had grown.