“If you became a demon, you might end up strong enough to beat me.” The offer fills the searing night, Akaza’s hand outstretched for you to seize. “It’ll be a shame to kill you, after all. Come to me, and—“

His words would fall short once his hand laid limply against the ground, a hint of surprise resting in his gaze. “Keep your hands… away from them, demon!” Rengoku interjects, standing protectively by your side. “This is a battle between us. You will not lay a finger on them for as long as I stand!”

His resolve burned into the night air, lit with gold and crimson flames as they danced along the tip of his blade—albeit far weaker than before. No matter his wish to keep you from further injury, Rengoku would surely lose this battle without your aid. The glint in Akaza’s eyes showed he knew the same; his offer was undoubtedly the only way for you to save your master.

It would be your decision—a choice between life and death.