As Ayato and the others trained hard for the upcoming Gryps Festa, rumors of the Phoenix Brigade's activities continued to circulate. There were reports of skirmishes breaking out in various parts of the city, and some of the less reputable news outlets were reporting that the Brigade was gathering allies and preparing to make a major move against the establishment.

Ayato and the others knew they needed to be careful, but they were also determined not to let the Phoenix Brigade disrupt their preparations for the Festa. They continued to train hard, putting all their energy into honing their skills and perfecting their strategies.

But despite their best efforts, it soon became clear that the Phoenix Brigade was not to be underestimated. One day, while Ayato and his friends were practicing their swordsmanship, they were suddenly ambushed by a group of masked fighters.

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The fight was brutal and intense, with Ayato and the others struggling to keep up with the Phoenix Brigade's advanced techniques and tactics. They fought valiantly, but they were ultimately forced to retreat, battered and bruised.

After the skirmish, Ayato and the others regrouped to discuss their next move. "We can't let the Phoenix Brigade continue to disrupt our training," Ayato said, his voice grim. "We need to find out more about them and figure out a way to stop them."

Julis nodded in agreement. "I'll see what I can find out through my own contacts," she said. "But we should also be prepared for more attacks."

Ayato clenched his fists, determination burning in his eyes. "We'll be ready for them," he said. "We won't let the Phoenix Brigade get in our way."