Ziz spread its wings, letting out a shrill, resonating cry that shook the energy field. "You've grown bold, little human," it roared, the sound echoing like thunder. "You think you've earned the right to stand equal to me?"
Orion's lips curled into a faint grin. Sweat dripped from his forehead, but his eyes glowed with calm focus. "If you're still holding back," he said, his voice steady despite the strain, "then you won't defeat me today."
The golden arms behind him rotated like a great mandala. "Use your full demigod strength, Ziz. Otherwise… you'll lose."
The divine bird's eyes narrowed, feathers flaring outward, a gale rushing from its wings. "You are too arrogant, human!"
The next instant, a streak of light split the hall.
Orion darted forward with his thousand arms moving in perfect synchronicity, meeting Ziz's hydro blast head-on.
BAM! KRAAANG!
