The countdown echoed through the inferno like the beating of a dying heart.
02:59… 02:58…
The chamber shook violently. Molten stones peeled from the ceiling and crashed into the lava around them, each impact a reminder that time itself was slipping away.
"Keep the formation!" Allen's voice boomed over the roar of fire. His emerald aura ignited, surrounding the group in protective light. "We only get one chance before it reaches full corruption!"
Yuki's wings unfurled, blazing with divine wind. [Divine Shield—expand! Hold on, everyone!]
A wall of swirling, translucent air burst outward from Yuki's form, shielding them from a fresh wave of flame that erupted from the colossal demon. The Ifrit Sovereign towered over them now, its molten body twisted with shadows and eyes glowing like miniature suns.
Orielle extended her hand. [Pure Flame Healing—resonating!]
Golden fire danced across their wounds, mending burns and cuts in seconds.
