Chapter 31: Chapter 31: Shadows of Betrayal

Lio felt the world around him spin as he rushed toward Kaito, adrenaline fueling his every instinct. But as the Hunter lunged forward, a chilling realization settled over him: this was no longer just about survival; it was about trust—trust in friends that now seemed dangerously misplaced.

"Kaito, watch out!" Lio shouted, his voice echoing down the corridor.

But before he could reach him, Kaito raised his hand, and a surge of dark energy erupted from his palm, colliding with the Hunter in a flash of blinding light. Lio stumbled back, momentarily blinded by the brilliance, then shielded his eyes as he regained his footing.

When the light faded, Lio blinked, his heart pounding. The Hunter had been thrown back against the wall, but Kaito's expression was different—determined, almost… triumphant. "It's too late for you, Lio. You should have stayed out of this."