Life Gallery 36 - Black Flame of Satan

Scene: Debrief in Class – Second Years Mid Term Result

INT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – SECOND-YEAR SUPERPOWER BRANCH CLASSROOM – MORNING

The room is filled with the buzz of students exchanging excited whispers, some still riding the thrill of passing their Mid-Term exams. At the front of the class, Professor Roderick stands with his usual calm, observant demeanor, and beside him, his ever-energetic assistant, Yaya, is setting up a projector. Once the class settles down, Professor Roderick clears his throat, and the murmurs fade to silence.

Professor Roderick: "Good morning, everyone. First of all, congratulations. I'm pleased to announce that all of you have passed the Mid-Term exams."

A wave of relief and pride washes over the class, some students letting out quiet cheers, others sharing high-fives. Professor Roderick raises his hand for silence, and the students quickly quiet down.

Professor Roderick: "Now, I know you're all eager to know the details. The highest score goes to… Ludociel."

The room erupts in gasps and murmurs of surprise. Most students glance towards Yue, who usually takes the top spot. But Yue merely leaned back in his chair, arms crossed, wearing a knowing smirk.

Professor Roderick: "Yue, do you know why you didn't receive the highest grade this time?"

Yue shrugs nonchalantly, his smirk growing.

Yue: "Because I wanted to destroy the city to win, right?"

Professor Roderick (nodding): "Precisely. Your strategy was effective, yes. But in your eagerness to achieve victory, you lost sight of one critical aspect: the spirit of what it means to be a hunter. Hunters are protectors. We face monsters to safeguard people, not to cause as much destruction as they do. Mass destruction is never an option for us."

Yue's smirk fades a little, and he listens intently, the weight of the lesson settling in. Professor Roderick turns his gaze to the rest of the class, sweeping his eyes over each of them.

Professor Roderick: "And Yue is not alone in this. Linda Gaouin, Hao Mingzhe—your teams demonstrated remarkable power, but you also relied on high-collateral damage attacks. Remember, as hunters, defeating monsters is your primary duty, but reducing collateral damage is equally essential. We're not just warriors—we're guardians."

Yaya taps the projector, and a series of holographic images appear at the front of the room, capturing snapshots of each team's performance during the exam. Each image highlights areas where destruction was excessive or the surroundings were ignored in favor of brute force.

Yaya (pointing at the images): "As you can see, while many of you demonstrated impressive offensive capabilities, some strategies would have left the city or innocent civilians in serious danger. Think of every attack you launch as a double-edged sword."

The students watch the slideshow in silence, some visibly uncomfortable as they see the extent of their "successful" attacks causing hypothetical damage to buildings, roads, and bystanders. The lesson sinks in, and the room fills with a sober understanding.

Professor Roderick: "You are all talented individuals—each of you with unique abilities and potential. But talent alone doesn't make a good hunter. Strength without restraint is as dangerous as the monsters we face. A hunter who cannot protect what they aim to protect has already failed."

He pauses, allowing his words to linger, as the students digest the message. His tone softens slightly.

Professor Roderick: "I have no doubt that each of you will continue to grow. Take this as a learning experience. Refine your skills, hone your judgment, and remember—power tempered by control is what will make you truly great."

Yaya clicks off the projector, and the room returns to quiet anticipation. Professor Roderick offers a rare smile, a glimmer of pride in his eyes.

Professor Roderick: "You all passed because you have the potential to become extraordinary hunters. But passing is only the beginning. Keep pushing your limits, but never lose sight of what makes a hunter—a true guardian."

The students, visibly moved by the lecture, exchange looks of determination. Yue, still slightly pensive, glances towards Ludociel, a silent promise to refine his approach sparking in his eyes.

Professor Roderick gathers his notes, signaling the end of the debrief.

Professor Roderick: "Class dismissed. And remember… power is nothing without purpose."

The students rise, each one carrying a newfound respect for their role and a reminder of the responsibilities that come with their abilities.

As they leave, the room hums with a quieter, more serious energy, each student taking the lesson to heart.

Scene: Thoughts of a Talent

INT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – ACADEMIC BRANCH – PRIVATE LOUNGE – LUNCH

The lounge is elegantly decorated, with framed paintings and polished furniture that give the space a refined yet cozy atmosphere. Lysander is sprawled across Kimhyun's lap, munching on snacks with a slight frown.

Lysander: "When I asked you to help me nap, I didn't expect… this."

Kimhyun raises an eyebrow, his wolf ears twitching in response.

Kimhyun: "What's wrong? Too soft?"

Lysander (sighing, lightly poking Kimhyun's thigh): "More like too tough. Your legs are all muscle, you know?"

Lysander pokes Kimhyun's thigh experimentally, feeling the firmness of his muscles. Kimhyun just grins, his tail wagging a little in pride.

Kimhyun (innocently): "Well, I am a hunter. Comes with the territory."

As they settle back, Lysander's fingers absentmindedly trace along Kimhyun's thigh, a soft gesture that brings a slight blush to Kimhyun's cheeks. Lysander smirks, enjoying the reaction.

Lysander: "Guess I shouldn't be surprised."

Kimhyun's tail wags faster as he picks up a new topic, hoping to distract himself from Lysander's touch.

Kimhyun: "Oh, right! The mid-term results came out today. Guess who's just above average instead of at the top?"

Lysander (raising an eyebrow): "Yue? Really? Even after he almost took down the Hero?"

Kimhyun nods, his wolf ears perked up in excitement.

Kimhyun: "Yep. Professor Roderick said it was because he tried to nuke the whole city. Collateral damage doesn't exactly win points when you're supposed to be protecting people."

Lysander (sighing): "Haizz… so we're supposed to think about minimizing damage too?"

Lysander leans back, scratching his head in frustration, but then a realization dawns on him.

Lysander: "That means Ludociel must be at the top, right?"

Kimhyun (impressed): "Yup! How'd you guess?"

Lysander: "I'm the one who strategizes most of the tactics for your year. Ludociel's plans are all about defense and escape, no need for destruction. It's like she was made for exams like this."

Kimhyun chuckles, admiring Lysander's insight, but his tail gives a little swish as he tilts his head thoughtfully.

Kimhyun: "True… Professor Roderick even said he was surprised by the Queen's performance."

Lysander: "Not just him. Ludociel's powerful, but the burden of being a knight holds her back. Elegance and bravery… they're good in theory, but in front of real monsters and demons? Those things won't save you. To be honest, I too am surprised that she was willing to go with this plan. Escaping has never been in the book of knights."

Kimhyun smirks, but his tail stops wagging as he catches the hint of bitterness in Lysander's words.

Kimhyun: "You sound… oddly pessimistic."

Lysander reaches out and places a reassuring hand on Kimhyun's head, scratching lightly between his wolf ears. At this, Kimhyun's tail resumes its happy wagging, his eyes softening as he leans into the touch.

Lysander (smiling gently): "Maybe. But that's just how it is."

The two of them sit there in silence, Lysander's hand continuing to pet Kimhyun, grounding both of them in a quiet moment of understanding. Kimhyun closes his eyes, his tail a steady rhythm of happiness as Lysander's fingers scratch gently.

Lysander: "Oh, right. What about you? How'd you do in the rankings?"

Kimhyun: "I came fifth in the class."

Lysander (surprised): "Fifth? That high?"

Kimhyun (smirking): "Feeling guilty?"

Lysander shifts a bit, a small smile tugging at his lips yet his voice is as calm as ever.

Lysander (calm): "Were you sad that I betrayed you in the test?"

Kimhyun (still smiling): "Of course I was! But you're my super cool partner. I can't stay mad at you for long."

Lysander (chuckling): "Aww… good boy~"

He ruffles Kimhyun's hair again, scratching behind his ears in that spot that makes Kimhyun's tail wag even faster. Kimhyun practically melts under the attention, his eyes half-closing as he enjoys the affection.

Kimhyun: "Oh, right. Remember Mona?"

Lysander: "Hendrickson's toy?"

Kimhyun snickers, nodding.

Kimhyun: "Yeah, her. Turns out she's actually some kind of magic genius."

Lysander (raising an eyebrow): "For real? I thought she could barely use magic because of her low mana pool. And her innate power doesn't exactly help her out either, since it stops her from using shortcuts like sacrificial magic."

Kimhyun pauses, looking at Lysander with a hint of suspicion.

Kimhyun: "Wait… how do you know all that?"

Lysander (smirking): "My sister is the academy's 'queen bee.' She hears just about everything with a little bit of gossiping. Plus, I like to keep tabs on the Knights of Orleans. Their so-called 'knighthood' philosophy causes more problems than it solves."

Kimhyun (shrugging): "Alright, fair enough. Anyway—"

Lysander's fingers continue rhythmically petting Kimhyun's head as Kimhyun leans into his touch, his wolf ears twitching happily.

Kimhyun: "So, Mona didn't exactly make it through her dungeon trial. She tried to take out a swarm of ad rats with an arrow rain spell, but she passed out right after casting it. Completely drained herself."

Lysander: "So she failed, then?"

Kimhyun: "Yep. But here's the weird part—she somehow got a max grade on the mid-term."

Lysander's hand stops mid-pet as he frowns, processing what he just heard.

Lysander: "A max grade? How does that make any sense?"

Kimhyun: "Apparently, she submitted a report with detailed research on how to use magic more efficiently. She included ways to conserve mana and optimize spell casting. Professors Velorum and Roderick were so shocked by her discoveries that they gave her full marks."

Lysander (narrowing his eyes): "Huh. That's unusual. Especially with the guilds pushing the academy to focus on practical hunters over researchers."

Kimhyun: "Right? But the report was so thorough, they couldn't ignore it. She basically created a guide to mana conservation. Not bad for Hendrickson's 'toy,' huh?"

Lysander hums thoughtfully, his hand resuming its gentle strokes on Kimhyun's head, causing Kimhyun's tail to wag in contentment. They sit in comfortable silence for a moment, Lysander processing the odd turn of events.

Lysander: "Interesting…"

Kimhyun closes his eyes, leaning fully into Lysander's touch, his tail flicking rhythmically behind him as they both sink into their thoughts.

Scene: Temple of The Rose

INT. LICHTE, LIEBE, LEBEN TEMPLE – FOYER – AFTERNOON

Angela, Elena, Rina, Vivienne, and Eloise step into the entrance hall of the temple, where the air is heavy with an ancient, almost regal atmosphere. Ruby-red and gold decorate every surface: red velvet drapes with golden embroidery hang from the high walls, and the pillars are wrapped in intricate patterns of red roses entwined with gold-leaf vines. The scent of roses mingles with incense, creating a heady, almost intoxicating fragrance.

The walls are adorned with alchemical symbols, each glistening as if painted with molten gold. Light from tall windows casts a soft glow, reflecting off ruby-red crystals embedded in the walls, which catch the light and send beams of crimson and gold scattering across the room. 

Angela holds her gift tightly, her eyes wide as she takes in the splendor and power radiating from the temple. Rina, noticing her friends' awe, smiles knowingly.

Rina: "The Temple of Lichte, Liebe, Leben is a sacred place for the Rosicrucian Order. My family has been responsible for its upkeep and protection for generations. The Rosicrucian Order isn't just a magic organization – it's the largest, most ancient magic order in the world."

Eloise's eyes widen as she takes in the grandeur, her voice laced with both admiration and curiosity.

Eloise: "Wow… Rina, I didn't realize your family had this much influence. With your knowledge of magic, why didn't you join the Superpower Branch at school? They practically worship talented mages."

Rina shakes her head, a faint smile playing on her lips as she examines a red rose carved into the nearby column.

Rina: "The Rosicrucian Order has a different approach. We only teach magic to those who have reached adulthood. Until then, our training is focused on alchemical philosophy, meditation, and purity of mind. When the time is right, we can learn the 'Magic of the Rose,' which requires a clear, disciplined mind. This approach keeps us 'pure' in the realm of alchemy, which makes us more suited to learning higher magic later on."

Elena raises an eyebrow, clearly impressed.

Elena: "So… you're basically training yourself to be a blank slate for magic? Like, staying 'pure' until you're ready to dive in?"

Rina (nodding): "Exactly. In terms of Alchemy, it is pure white. The highest order of alchemy is either gold divine or red of the Philosopher's Stone. By keeping myself white until adulthood, it is easier for me to be dyed in the color of red or gold."

Vivienne looks around at the elaborate decorations, clearly impressed but a bit overwhelmed.

Vivienne: "So, when you do start learning magic, will it be… stronger? More refined?"

Rina: "That's the idea. The Rosicrucian approach believes that only a disciplined mind and spirit can channel magic effectively. This temple, and our teachings, are all structured to remind us of that. Ruby red represents the Philosopher's Stone, the final transformation. Gold symbolizes divinity and purity. And roses… well, they're at the heart of everything."

Angela's gaze lingers on the golden roses carved into the door frames, a soft smile on her lips as she remembers the high priestess's recent assistance.

Angela: "Well, I'm grateful to your order, Rina. Without the high priestess's help, my family might still be dealing with… unsettling disturbances."

Her friends exchange curious, slightly concerned glances.

Vivienne: "Unsettling disturbances? Angela, are you talking about those grave robbers?"

Angela: "Yes. There was a… malevolent energy surrounding our estate after that incident. The high priestess came, performed a ritual, and everything has been peaceful since."

Elena: "It's amazing that your family has this kind of support from the Rosicrucians, Angela. I'd probably be terrified if something like that happened at our place."

Angela nods, her face solemn, but there's a glimmer of relief in her eyes.

Rina: "The order exists to preserve knowledge, protect those who seek wisdom, and act as a bridge between this world and the next."

Elena suddenly brightens, remembering her own "important" mission.

Elena: "Well then, if they're so good at making wishes come true, maybe they can help me with my love life? I need all the help I can get before Sōshun-senpai graduates!"

Vivienne gives her a slightly exasperated look.

Vivienne: "Elena… we're in a temple dedicated to alchemy and divine wisdom. You're going to ask for help with romance?"

Elena (huffing): "My love for Sōshun-senpai is not a small matter, Vivienne! It's just as worthy as any alchemical quest."

Rina chuckles softly, shaking her head in amusement.

Rina: "Elena, you might be surprised. Love is a transformative force – just like alchemy. The Secret Chiefs, whom the high priestess communicates with, often look kindly on requests that come from the heart."

Elena (grinning): "See, Rina understands! A little divine intervention might be exactly what I need."

Vivienne sighs but smiles, clearly amused.

Vivienne: "Well, I guess the Secret Chiefs will have their hands full with your request."

Angela (looking toward the grand inner doors): "Let's go. I don't want to keep the high priestess waiting."

The group moves deeper into the temple, the solemnity of the surroundings settling over them as they pass through halls filled with red roses and golden symbols. Every step echoes, reminding them of the sacredness of the place and the depth of the order's history.

INT. LICHTE, LIEBE, LEBEN TEMPLE – INNER SANCTUM – AFTERNOON

They finally arrive at the inner sanctum, where the high priestess, Anna Sprengel V, stands by an altar covered with red roses and golden artifacts. Her presence is calm yet commanding, with an air of mysticism and wisdom that instantly commands respect. Angela steps forward and bows, presenting her gift with reverence.

Angela: "High Priestess Anna… I brought this as a token of thanks for all you've done for my family."

The high priestess accepts the gift with a gentle smile, her eyes warm.

High Priestess Anna: "It was my honor to assist. The Gentoshi family holds an esteemed place in our order, and protecting our members is part of our purpose."

Rina nudges Elena forward with a mischievous smile.

Rina: "High Priestess, Elena here has a… heartfelt request, one she's hoping the Secret Chiefs might bless."

Elena blushes but takes a breath, stepping forward boldly.

Elena: "High Priestess… I know this may seem trivial, but my heart feels it's important. I… well, I would like a blessing, or some kind of guidance… in matters of love. Before my senpai graduates."

The high priestess studies her with a kind, discerning gaze, then nods.

High Priestess Anna: "Love is indeed a powerful force, child. Though it may seem simple, it can lead to profound transformation. I shall offer a prayer to the Secret Chiefs for clarity on your path. But remember, the truest guidance often comes from within."

Elena's face lights up, and she bows deeply.

Elena: "Thank you, High Priestess. Truly!"

The girls exit the sanctum, their minds filled with thoughts of alchemical mysteries, higher powers, and their own dreams and ambitions. As they leave, the temple's rose-covered halls seem even more beautiful, each red petal and golden gleam reminding them of the power and wisdom hidden within the Rosicrucian Order.

Angela (thoughtful): "Rina, is there a way I could access some documents about Rosicrucian magic? Maybe just an introduction to some of the foundational concepts?"

Rina turns to Angela, her expression shifting to one of surprise, though a glimmer of happiness shows in her eyes.

Rina (smiling): "You're interested in learning magic? That's amazing, Angela! I would love for us to start learning together."

Angela smiles in return, a bit shyly.

Angela: "I'd like to understand more about it. It's such a rich tradition… and I think it would also help my brother, Lysander, who's been exploring Kabbalah and other mystical studies."

Rina's expression softens with understanding, but a hint of caution flashes in her eyes.

Rina: "That's a noble reason. I would love nothing more than to learn it together. It's important to keep a pure focus until you're ready, though." (she smiles) "In our tradition, waiting and keeping that 'purity' maximizes our potential and prepares us for the advanced teachings. That's why I haven't started yet, either."

Angela nods, considering Rina's words, but then speaks up, her curiosity still evident.

Angela: "I understand, Rina, and I respect that. I just want a glimpse of the basics—just something for guidance, nothing too deep."

Rina pauses, thinking for a moment before nodding with a gentle smile.

Rina: "Well, in that case, I think it's fine to get a few introductory documents. Let's not dive too far, though. When we both begin, we can go in with clear minds together—keeping that purity you mentioned."

Rina gestures to a nearby priest.

Rina: "Brother Philip, could you bring a few introductory documents on the basics of Rosicrucian magic? Nothing too advanced, just foundational insights."

The priest nods and selects a few carefully chosen scrolls and small, beautifully bound booklets, handing them to Angela.

Brother Philip: "These documents offer an introduction to alchemical principles and Rosicrucian philosophy. They're meant for beginners, so they're safe for study."

Angela takes the documents, a sense of excitement and gratitude shining in her eyes.

Angela: "Thank you, Brother Philip. And thank you, Rina. I'll keep your advice in mind—I promise."

Rina (smiling warmly): "I'm glad, Angela. Let's keep each other grounded until we're ready for more. We'll learn magic together when the time is right."

Scene: Planting the Seeds

INT. LYSANDER'S APARTMENT – EVENING

Lysander, Angela, Alexei, and Floria sit gathered around the spacious living room of Lysander's apartment, their expressions tense as they finalize the steps of Lysander's plan. The atmosphere in the room is intense, shadows playing across their faces as Lysander leans forward, calm yet steely.

Lysander (calmly): "Angela, Alexei, Floria—did you finish the tasks I asked of you?"

Angela, Alexei, and Floria (in unison): "All done."

Lysander (smiling): "Wonderful. Then, first, Alexei and Floria, mind enlightening us what Andrea has in mind?"

The couple exchange uneasy glances before Floria, looking determined, steps in to speak.

Floria (heavy, almost apologetic): "I've got the video recording here, but… here's the gist. Your brother… he's clinging to a dream, an impossible one. He's convinced that all of you—every one of us—can live peacefully together again, as if what Hugo did never happened. As if we could somehow just… forgive him, move on. He imagines some ideal where we all live in harmony, like a family should."

Lysander's eyes narrow, shifting briefly to Alexei, who unusually remains silent, sitting tensely beside Floria. Sensing something off, Lysander addresses his brother.

Lysander: "Is that right, Alexei?"

Alexei (quietly): "Yeah… it is."

Lysander sighs, closing his eyes and pressing a hand to his temple, as if fighting off a sudden headache.

Lysander: "That's… an insane dream. He expects us to forgive the bastard who destroyed our family, murdered our parents… and even had the audacity to desecrate them with that cursed flame. Just how delusional is Andrea?"

Floria (firmly): "I can't forget it either. The emptiness, the sorrow after the incident, after… we lost Alexei and Angela in the original timeline." (her voice hardens) "I know you're all his family, but I'm not. I can't see Andrea as anything but a fool who's blinded by his delusional wish to rewrite a nightmare that happened. I can't let him do that to me… or to you."

Alexei (soft): "Babe..."

Lysander: "Thanks for your insight, Floria."

He then turns to Angela, who holds a set of documents in her hands.

Lysander: "What about you, sis? Is everything in place?"

Angela (softly): "Yes. I've got the Rosicrucian Order's documents right here. I also slipped the papers you asked for into Professor Roderick's files for the midterms. It won't be long before he comes across them."

Lysander: "Perfect. Now let's go over what we know about Hugo's Hellblaze ability."

Lysander picks up a remote and displays several files on the large screen behind him. Images and data gathered from the National Power Registry fill the screen, including analysis and visuals of the black flames that characterize Hugo's unique and dangerous ability.

Lysander: "The files I got from bribing the National Power Registry has shown us some physical property of that black flame. First, despite the fire is black, it can illuminate an area by the white light... How is it possible? Well, it seems that the flame itself does not illuminate anything but the heat it carries creates another kind of flame around it which illuminate. The temperature of the black flame is... well, around the temperature of the sun, 5000℃ to the room temperature. Its property is chaotic so it is unknown about its average temperature. It seems that the more emotional unstable the bastard is, the hotter the flame is."

Angela (raising an eyebrow): "The temperature of the sun... that is something powerful... I don't think even Yue could create that heat."

Alexei: "Yue's power isn't pyrokinesis, sis. He is strong but directly creating heat isn't what he is capable of."

Lysander: "Well, those are just the physical aspects of his flame. Now, for the mystical properties. You remember what Anna Sprengel V explained?"

Floria: "Yes, she said that his flame—Hellblaze—is tied to the lowest depth of the Qliphoth, specifically to Thaumiel."

Lysander: "Right. Thaumiel is the opposite of Keter, the crown of the Tree of Sephiroth. In terms of magic, it's… essentially the Satanic equivalent."

Angela and Alexei exchange shocked glances.

Lysander : "Now, I do not think the bastard is Satan... he might be, we don't know but he sure did not act like one. At least, not the one who was destroyed in the Church history. It is possible though that he carried Satanic flame with him as a remnant of Satan or a lesser Satan. So let's start with what we know about Satan... Satan is one of the Seven Great Demon, the Demon King of Wraith. His ideology is that human's society must come to an end. As all species have to abide by the law of creation. Satan viewed himself as the one who will carry out The Day of Judgement in Christianity. He will destroy the most prosperous society. Only through the death of one society, one species that other more prosperous society will come. He is the end of a cycle, the destruction, the Tower in Tarot." 

Alexei (rolling his eyes): "That is a lot of words…"

Angela: "So, we're moving forward with this test to see if he really has this… Satanic essence?"

Lysander: "Yes, but this is just a test... I want to see if this fucker is truly Satanic. If he is... well, we have to change our method of dealing with him." 

The others nod in understanding, each of them feeling the weight of the plan's implications. With the pieces in place, the Gentoshi siblings prepare to see if their suspicions are true and if Hugo's connection to the demonic is as real—and as deadly—as they fear.

Scene: Sea Witch VS Hell Blaze 2

INT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – SUPERPOWER BRANCH – ARENA – STAGE

The arena buzzes with energy as the crowd anticipates a fierce battle.

Zing Zing (jumping up, grabbing the microphone): "Oh my gosh! I cannot believe this! Right after the mid-term exam, we have an all-out match!! The Sea Witch Shizuka Maidono versus Hugo Gentoshi! The strongest first-year hunter facing off against the strongest first-year ability user. A grand rematch! Let's see who will win!!"

INT. STANDS – OBSERVING

Fenix (chuckling): "Whoa… talk about energy! They jump right into battle after the tricks you taught them..."

Mona (blushing, modestly): "I just offered some insights… it's their intense training that's paying off here."

INT. ARENA – STAGE

Facing off, Hugo and Shizuka exchange grins.

Hugo (smiling): "First time we're fighting with our weapons, huh?"

Shizuka (smirking): "Don't get too confident just because you've powered up since last time, okay?"

Hugo: "I wouldn't dream of it!"

Zing Zing (voice booming): "And… let the battle begin!"

Hugo (roaring): "Snapdragon!!"

He thrusts his sword, The Umbra's Edge, forward, channeling his Hellblaze into a fierce black flame beam that surges toward Shizuka like a dragon's breath.

Shizuka (thinking, amused): "Starting with raw firepower? You've learned a thing or two in the last few months… but so have I!"

In an instant, Shizuka leaps into the air, conjuring multiple small waves of water that crash into Hugo's flame, redirecting it just enough to steer the scorching beam off-course.

Hugo (eyes widening): "She's countering my direct attack with just a few waves?"

Shizuka (smiling): "Don't look so shocked! Icicle Swords!"

She summons a dozen glistening ice swords and launches them at Hugo with precise aim.

Hugo (roaring): "Inferno!"

A cyclone of black flames erupts around him, incinerating the ice swords as they make contact. But instead of dissipating, the swords explode into clouds of icy mist, blanketing Hugo's flame cyclone and dampening its intensity.

Hugo (coughing, struggling to see): "What the…?!"

Amid the haze, Shizuka dashes forward. Her wakizashi, Yoishigure, extends with a sheath of fast-flowing water, elongating and sharpening her reach.

Shizuka (thinking, smiling): "Your raw power might be unmatched, but your control is still weak. The mist from my swords has disrupted your cyclone, creating weak points in your fire. Now… to find the weakest link."

Shizuka (smiling): "Fast Flowing Blade!"

Hugo (grinning): "Oh? Coming at me head-on? Alright, let's do this!"

Hugo channels black flame along The Umbra's Edge, prepared to clash with Shizuka. The two charge toward each other. At the last second, Shizuka deftly sidesteps and slashes through one of the weakened points in Hugo's flames. Her water-infused blade cuts cleanly through, slicing Hugo's torso as he stumbles back.

Hugo (stunned, falling to one knee): "Damn… you're still as strong as ever."

The crowd erupts in cheers as the match comes to a close. Zing Zing can barely contain her excitement.

Zing Zing: "Incredible! A masterful victory for the Sea Witch! Shizuka Maidono has bested the Hell Blaze in an explosive rematch!"

Scene: Sea Witch VS Hell Blaze 2 Aftermath

INT. ST. ALARIC ACADEMY – SUPERPOWER BRANCH – INFIRMARY

Hugo lies in the infirmary bed, potion salve covering his torso as it works to heal his injuries. Shizuka and Fenix stand by his bedside, and Mona stands nearby, still a bit shy and uncertain.

Fenix (teasing): "Deadly as always, Sea Witch. Looks like you've secured your spot as the top first-year again. Cyclop's no easy opponent."

Shizuka (smiling, scratching her head): "Heh, thanks! But… I still don't think I could beat the Jack with just these techniques."

Hugo chuckles from his bed, glancing at her with admiration.

Hugo: "We still have time. Don't worry—I'm sure you'll defeat him eventually. You've already developed these new moves that threw me completely off balance. I didn't even know a few small waves could actually hold back my firepower."

Shizuka (grinning): "Yep, it's all thanks to Mona! Right, girl?"

Mona blushes under the attention, glancing down shyly.

Mona: "Y-yeah… I based it off my theory in the midterm report. I studied it after watching how Miss Angela fought Drole. It's about exploiting small but consistent weaknesses in powerful techniques, like when a strong attack leaves small gaps. With precise, smaller attacks, we can break down and weaken even the strongest moves."

Hugo (raising an eyebrow, impressed): "Wait, you came up with that from just watching that brief fight of my sister?"

Fenix (whistling): "Seriously, that's next-level. You've got some genius-level insight."

Mona (blushing even more): "Oh… thank you, but… even if I understand these concepts, I don't really have the mana to pull off the techniques myself."

Suddenly, Shizuka wraps her arms around Mona in an encouraging hug, making her blush even harder.

Shizuka: "Hey, don't say that, Mona. You're amazing. Without your theory, I would've spent way too much mana countering Hugo's Snapdragon—and might not have even managed to get past his Inferno. Thanks to you, I figured out how to win!"

Mona (smiling shyly): "Oh… I'm glad I could help."

Hugo: "She's right. You really are awesome, Mona. Don't underestimate yourself."

The four friends share a warm, grateful smile, each one inspired and encouraged by the other's skills and support. The path ahead may still hold challenges, but for now, they're all grateful for the progress they've made together.