A Fiery Clash

Ruby trembled in terror as she faced the fearsome appearance of Rakaza, the king of the desert. Shorta, however, remained unfazed.

Shorta (calm and confident): "So, you're the final boss of this operation, huh?"

Seeing Ruby's fear, Shorta quickly issued a command.

Shorta (serious tone): "Ruby, go hide in a safe spot."

Ruby obeyed, taking shelter beside a massive statue. Meanwhile, Shorta confronted Rakaza head-on, ready to engage in battle.

Shorta (determined): "Now, then. King of sand, tell me, why did you get involved in this matter?"

Rakaza (smirking): "I just love the taste of power. And you, everyone calls you the Flame Pillar, right? Show me what you're capable of!"

Shorta's eyes blazed with fiery determination, and his blades radiated intense heat. He lunged at Rakaza with lightning speed. Rakaza, taken aback by Shorta's swiftness, narrowly dodged the attack. He swiftly moved behind a massive pole, dislodged it, and hurled it toward Shorta.

Shorta (grinning): "Sand gives you power, doesn't it?"

Shorta, realizing the source of Rakaza's strength, continued to engage in combat. They clashed relentlessly, exchanging blows until Shorta landed a solid hit on Rakaza's ribs. The king of the desert recoiled in shock.

Rakaza (confused): "Why are your attacks effective now?"

Shorta (smirking): "The more you use your mutation, the more it affects your body. Sand is your power, right? I'm going to make sure these sands become your grave. Flame Breathing, Final Form: Rengoku!"

With his technique, Shorta conjured a colossal dragon of flames that struck Rakaza with devastating force. The mighty king's head was severed from his body, and his remains began to crumble into ashes.

Shorta (triumphant): "Hahaha, that's worth more than any night with any girl."

Turning to Ruby, Shorta adopted a gentler tone.

Shorta (compassionate): "Alright, Ruby, we should head off. I have bigger prey to hunt, but first, I need to ensure your safety. Your father ordered it."

Ruby nodded, her eyes filled with curiosity and concern.

Ruby (worried): "How are my father and brothers?"

Shorta (assuring): "They're fine. They've been through worse than this, Ruby. Don't blame yourself. They don't blame you, either. Trust yourself."

Ruby's eyes welled up with tears, and she looked down in regret. Shorta offered comfort.

Shorta (teasing): "Crying, little princess?"

Ruby (defensive): "It's because of you!"

Shorta chuckled.

Shorta (teasing): "Whatever, princess. But I must say, even while crying, you look cute."

Ruby blushed furiously.

Ruby (embarrassed): "Shut up, you idiot!"

Shorta laughed heartily as they continued on their journey together.