Chapter 17: Bloodied Encounter

In the dark abyss of conflict, Kael faced Tatsuya, their clash of wills manifesting in a relentless duel. Despite Kael's unwavering determination, Tatsuya's overwhelming might proved insurmountable. Each strike from Tatsuya was like a thunderous echo, leaving Kael reeling in agony and desperation.

"The Darkness Unleashed... Shadow Dominion!" Tatsuya's voice reverberated, punctuating the air with a menacing declaration. The encompassing darkness swirled and converged at his command, culminating in an ominous surge of power.

With calculated precision, Tatsuya's final strike landed, its impact resonating with devastating force. Kael's body, now a canvas of crimson, bore the marks of a merciless onslaught. His limbs lay twisted, contorted, and battered, and the remnants of his once steadfast resolve waned amidst the overwhelming pain.

The relentless assault inflicted severe damage on Kael's form. His limbs suffered fractures, twisted and mangled, and his visage bore the signs of a fierce struggle—a face marred by bruises, a swollen eye, and cuts that painted his skin in a gruesome mosaic of blood.

With an air of finality, Tatsuya withdrew, leaving behind a bloodied and broken Kael. The aftermath of the confrontation lay heavily upon him, the pain and defeat seeping into every fiber of his being.

As consciousness began slipping away, a fleeting image caught Kael's fading sight—a glimpse of a crimson-hued robe fluttering in the distance. Darkness descended upon him, and he succumbed to unconsciousness, enveloped in the shroud of defeat and uncertainty.