☀️ Arselia and Akonia

Having reached the location indicated by the compass, the group dispersed according to the pre-agreed strategy.
The criminal sat in the center of the clearing, his head in his hands, muttering to himself and occasionally tearing at the grass around him. It took him only a few seconds to notice them, jump up as if stung, and draw his sword.
Trying not to pay attention to Keliandra's whimpers, Aiyano meets the madman's gaze:
- Koi.
The madman runs, almost stumbling, foaming at the mouth and roaring wildly, easily jumping over the ground that is splitting open and waving his named blade, but in his rage, he loses control of his hand and manages to make only one lunge, barely missing the priestess's belt, which would certainly have led to an unpleasant situation.
The scattered squad follows Ayko's commands, clearing the area for the fight and providing all possible support, until finally, the madman is struck by divine punishment.
Pushing the mask to the side, Aiyano exhales.
- An open mind is like a fortress whose gates are open and unguarded, she replies to his roar.
"Okamisama-tachi, I thank you for protecting everyone present," the miko prays.
From the outside, it might have seemed that the battle was quite simple and quick, but that is exactly what it was in reality, while the real, exhausting battle took place before it began, in the minds of the opponents.

— I am, of course, glad for our victory, but what was the point of our presence if this fight was as easy as counting to ten for Miss Aiyano? — Keliandra asks, tilting her head. — Never mind, let's finish him off while he's helpless.

- See, Keliandra-dono. Her Highness's trust in all of you was completely justified. Thank you for your invaluable contribution, which caused our opponent to lose control of himself, despite decades of combat experience, - a polite nod.

-- Phew. Disarm and bind him, said the Burrow Queen to the team. -- Miss Aiyano, how are you feeling?

- Tolerable. It's nothing compared to Tsukiko and Seliad, Aiyano replied. - We were very lucky to have Kami's patronage in this battle. An incredible number of factors depended on pure luck.
She glances at the criminal and prepares a gohei.
- I must perform a purification ritual on him. Perhaps it will clear his mind, or perhaps not. We'll see, she says to all the "killers" at once.