[center][img]https://i.imgur.com/irN6cNK.png[/img][/center][@Rune_Alchemist]

Cracking and crunching sounds rumbled through the building, drowning out Shiro's clapping, telling Kaida there was no time. As Natsumi launched herself forward and scooped Kaeru up, Kaida darted close behind on a wind current, coughing violently from the cloud of smoke and soot she inadvertently whipped up. Landing outside, she rubbed her stinging eyes, wincing and biting back a yelp as the blisters on her hands flared up. Behind her, the telltale cacophony of the building crumbling to rubble sounded through the area.

[color=53C6FF]"Ack... Everyone safe?"[/color] Opening her eyes and glancing around the area, she gave another splutter and a strained smile. [color=53C6FF]"Sorry about the smoke."[/color] Her gaze settled on Natsumi, who'd landed in a rather unfortunate position on top of Kaeru, and was currently blushing while apologising profusely. [color=53C6FF]"Well, that's awkward."[/color] This would give Kaida plenty of ammunition to tease both of them with. [color=53C6FF]"Both of you ok though? Anyone need healing?"[/color]

A quick examination revealed that, as much of a close call the battle had been, nobody was badly hurt. With a sigh of relief, she made water bubble up around both her arms, the pain fading along with the red marks. With her hand still encased in water, she gave the team the thumbs up, her attention mostly focused on the two newcomers. [color=53C6FF]"Great job, everyone!"[/color] Even if that stick in the mud Ayako didn't agree, admonishing Kaeru with a bonk on the head, what mattered was that they'd succeeded.

The city was safe. For now.

[hr]
The journey back didn't take long. Kaida, now in her regular de-transformed state, climbed out of the car and stretched to ease her aching muscles. Following Kaeru, she gave a wary look around for Ayako before whispering, [color=53C6FF]"Don't let our boss get to you. She's like that."[/color]