Ayato stood frozen in shock as the leader of the Phoenix Brigade stepped forward from the shadows. It was none other than his former roommate, Eishiro Yabuki.

"Eishiro? What are you doing here?" Ayato asked, trying to wrap his head around the situation.

"I'm sorry, Ayato," Eishiro said, his voice tinged with regret. "But I had no choice. The Phoenix Brigade offered me power and a chance to change the world, and I couldn't resist."

Ayato shook his head in disbelief. "This isn't the way to change the world, Eishiro. You're hurting innocent people and causing chaos."

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Eishiro's expression turned cold. "Sometimes sacrifices must be made for the greater good. You'll understand one day, Ayato."

Ayato gritted his teeth. "I'll never understand using violence and destruction to achieve your goals. I'll stop you and the Phoenix Brigade, Eishiro, no matter what it takes."

Eishiro's eyes narrowed. "Very well. If that's the way it has to be, then so be it. We'll settle this in the arena, Ayato. The winner takes all."

With that, Eishiro disappeared into the night, leaving Ayato to contemplate the gravity of their situation. The Phoenix Brigade was no longer just a vague threat, but a real and dangerous enemy, and Ayato knew that he and his friends were the only ones who could stop them.