Chapter 119 – THE MASTER'S TRIUMPH
The air between them shimmered with killing intent. Shen's aura rippled—black fire, crimson sparks, and the pulse of the Terminal Curse. Lare's eyes narrowed, emerald light dancing around his frame.
"So that's it," Shen said, his voice sharp. "One final fight. No holding back."
Lare smirked. "Yes. But let's raise the stakes, boy. Whoever loses—" his gaze hardened, "—will become the student of the victor."
Shen's heart pounded, but he did not hesitate. "Fine. If I win, you'll kneel before me. If I lose… I'll learn from you."
The castle quaked as their powers collided. Shen unleashed torrents of Dark Magic, waves of shadow-fire tearing through the halls. His Terminal Curse form surged, wrapping his body in destructive energy.
But Lare… did not flinch. With a flick of his wrist, he summoned a radiant blade of pure light. Symbols carved from ancient runes glowed across his body. His aura exploded outward, and Shen was nearly crushed under its weight.
"This… this pressure…!" Shen gritted his teeth, forcing himself forward. He swung with everything he had, blades of shadow meeting Lare's radiant sword.
The battle stretched for hours—each strike carving fissures into the timeless prison. Shen poured his rage, his will, his strength into every blow. But every time he thought he gained the upper hand, Lare revealed yet another layer of power. His true strength, untouched for a century, flowed like an endless ocean.
Finally, with a devastating slash of his radiant sword, Lare shattered Shen's defenses. Shen crashed to the ground, his body trembling, blood dripping from his lips.
He struggled to rise, but Lare's foot pressed down on his chest, pinning him.
"It's over," Lare said calmly. His eyes burned with authority. "You are strong, Shen. Stronger than any I've seen in decades. But you are still unpolished. Raw. Reckless."
Shen clenched his fists, fury boiling inside him. But deep down, he knew—it was true.
Lare stepped back, lowering his blade. "From this day forth, you are my student. I will mold you into something far greater than a mere 'King of Drifters.' You will learn what true power means."
Shen's breath was ragged. He looked up, eyes still burning with defiance. "…Fine. But I won't be your servant. I'll learn… only to surpass you."
Lare's grin widened. "Good. That's exactly what I want."
And so, in the silent halls of the white castle, the legendary King of Drifters took Shen Karguro as his disciple.
To be continued…