Chapter 17:

The air was electric with tension as the two groups faced off. Ryuuken sneered at the trio and Lila, confident in his own power.

"You're no match for me," he taunted. "I have the artifact, and with it, I'll control the world."

Kaito drew his sword, its blade shining in the dim light. Akira stood ready, her device charged. Master Shinji cracked his knuckles, preparing for hand-to-hand combat. Lila smiled, her eyes glinting with a fierce light.

The battle began.

Ryuuken unleashed the artifact's power, sending waves of energy crashing against the group. Kaito and Master Shinji fought back with their martial arts skills, while Akira used her device to absorb and deflect the attacks. Lila darted between the shadows, striking from unexpected angles.

The fight raged on, the outcome hanging in the balance. Ryuuken's powers seemed limitless, but the group refused to yield.

Just when it seemed the tide was turning in their favor, Lila made a sudden move. She snatched the artifact from Ryuuken's grasp and turned to face the group.

"Sorry, friends," she said, her voice dripping with malice. "I've been playing you all along."

Kaito's eyes widened in shock. "Lila, what are you doing?"

Lila's smile grew wider. "I'm taking the power for myself. And with it, I'll rule the world."

The group stared at her in horror. They had trusted her, and she had betrayed them.

What happens next?

Would you like me to continue with:

A) The group's desperate fight against Lila

B) A shocking revelation about Lila's past

C) Akira's device malfunctions, causing chaos

D) Something else (please specify)