Mio sensed the danger but knew it was too late, as she glanced up to find Hyakkimaru trying to outrun the blast of power heading her way.
It was as if time stood still and she felt a calmness within her. A small smile on her lips as she accepted her fate. She only wished this time that Hyakkimaru wouldn't have to endure the same pain of losing those around him.
She protectively covered Rengoku, covering his head still on her lap, but was surprised to see that his eyes were wide open. He returned an encouraging smile before he left her in a blink of an eye and she found him protecting her instead, a wall of flame acting as a barrier that deflected the silver power that Artemis had sent their way.
The slow pace of time disappeared and Mio found herself back in the present, with Rengoku charging forward, joining Hyakkimaru.
"Come, my friend. Let us protect our loved ones." He exclaimed, his stance ready as his bright gaze pinned a shocked Artemis who was frozen in place.
Hyakkimaru gripped the sword in his hand and after noting that Mio was safe, he charged forward with Rengoku.
Mio watched them charge off and she found herself standing up despite not understanding how Rengoku could have moved so quickly. She stood beside Mika, who reached out to clasp hands with her.
"Our friends will be fine. We will win this fight." Mika vowed, glancing up at Mio who shook off her daze.
In response, Mika squeezed her hand and then touched the chest of Akaza who still lay beside her.
His eyes flew open and he sat up instantly. He raised his hands and observed them as he tightened them into fists before opening them wonder. He touched his chest, where Mika had placed her hand and gazed at her in wonder.
"You are like Lord Muzan. I could hear you while I was unconscious, calling me back." He murmured in wonder. Then he corrected himself and shook his head. "No, you are more than even Lord Muzan."
Mika shook her head, raising her hands in surrender. "I only wanted to give you back what was yours. Please help the others."
Akaza looked to where Hyakkimaru sidestepped while Rengoku took a turn to attack Artemis with his sword.
He stood up slowly, still amazed at the surge of power in his body.
He felt himself and yet more.
"I wish to speak with you after this all over. I suspect Lord Muzan will be even more interested in you, Mika." He murmured, walking away before she could answer.
He narrowed his eyes at Artemis, rolling his shoulders with a grim look on his face.