Endless Evolution: Last Star Chapter 1614 1614: Path of Darkness

Previously on Endless Evolution: Last Star...
Adam defeats the haunting nightmare in his trial, stabilizing his aura and preparing to claim the Dark Energy that has long eluded his control. A majestic pillar of darkness erupts from him, shattering the red barrier and drawing unwanted attention from threats like Morok's approaching squad. Emerging from the illusory space, Adam returns to the vibrant Evolution Tree, where the Silver Weaver, restored in form, guides him to channel the potent black essence into the central white orb, severing his ties to the Two Stars.

Crack. Crack. Crack.

The fissures across the dome multiplied swiftly, and in moments, the crimson pieces would cascade down as the shield collapsed. At that point, the First Star's power would cease to stay concealed.

Zargos had prepared for this scenario, yet it depended on just one requirement:

"Come on, Adam. It's time to wake up," he whispered, pacing restlessly with stomps against the floor.

Not even a beast of his formidable might could dismiss the peril from Morok. The danger loomed at an overwhelmingly superior tier, and to shield Merra and Adam, he required every bit of strength attainable.

...

Tremble. Tremble. Tremble.

The shadowy substance quivered over Adam's hand.

"This... Is this the Dark Energy?"

He'd never encountered energy in such a form until now.

All forms of energy appeared as luminous, see-through streams, differing in hue based on the wielder's element. In its purest state, it shone with a crystalline purity, surpassing even the clarity of a mirror lake's waters.

The sole outlier was the Ancient Energy, marked by its violet tint and ashen shade, though that belonged to a separate category, much like the Dark Energy.

The murky mass writhed back and forth, as though sharp protrusions strained to emerge. It resembled an entity from beyond the stars, stirring both intrigue and a hint of menace.

The Silver Weaver gave an affirmative nod.

"Yep. Regrettably, that's our entire supply. Only this single lump, merely one droplet, and no more."

A smile tugged at the edges of Adam's lips.

"That's sufficient. I sense the immense strength within it, and I recognize an ideal spot for this energy."

"Hmm?" The Silver Weaver arched a brow.

He'd been on the verge of proposing that Adam merge the white sphere with the dark matter, yet Adam envisioned something else.

He bent ahead and allowed the dark matter to slide from his grasp. The instant it entered open space, it vibrated and shrank dramatically, transforming into a substantial droplet.

"Good." Adam nodded while observing the Dark Energy gradually orbit the white orb like a moon.

Tremble. Tremble. Tremble.

Abruptly, the Evolution Tree quaked as a vivid glow materialized into runes right before Adam's gaze.

[Order of Desire has undergone changes.]

[Your ability, [Path of Tragedy], has been changed.]

[New ability, [Path of Darkness], has been obtained.]

Adam's eyes fluttered as their depth intensified briefly.

[Path of Darkness

You have always known that your strongest ability came from your desire. Now, it is time for you to see the other side of this power. The light may be swift and merciful, but darkness does not wish to accept these sides, not out of malice, but out of a desire to do everything alone.]

"I see... So, all my Dark Energy will be used up in just one use of the ability? I hope it's worth it."

The Silver Weaver folded his arms across his torso.

"This is your fresh ultimate weapon. I'm certain you never anticipated gaining more strength in this place."

"Hah," Adam laughed lightly. "The Primal Lands proved to be an unexpectedly fruitful realm. Though what more could one anticipate from a zone of endless battles and utter disorder?"

The Silver Weaver glanced skyward.

"Well, as odd as it might seem, you ought to credit the Befallen Crown for that. Without their interference, you wouldn't have gained this strength."

"Pffft!" Adam scoffed. "They're out to eliminate me, and I'm expected to thank them for it? Absolutely not!"

The Silver Weaver smirked.

"Hey, you plan to grant that fool the Dark Energy, correct?"

Adam exhaled deeply. "Yeah, regardless, he truly rescued me. If Ramilo chose to halt the battle, that turned out ideal for me. Besides, he won't seize my power; I'll merely lend him some of my energy."

The Silver Weaver fell silent. He inclined his head, and his form trembled, shattering into numerous shards of ebony glass that faded into nothingness.

"Alright, it's time to head home. Truly this time."

...

Twitch. Twitch. Twitch.

Adam's eyelids fluttered as he gradually lifted them.

The initial sight that met him was scarlet fragments plummeting from overhead and a shadowy star that had escaped the ruined shield.

In that very instant, an elated shout echoed nearby:

"Hell yeah!" Zargos shouted, leaping to his feet. "He pulled it off! Right on schedule!"

The typically composed Merra beamed. She felt joy for Zargos, for each of them. Yet, harsh challenges loomed ahead for the group.

"Adam! Quick! Reach out your hand!" Zargos dashed toward him, extending his own.

"Hmm? So eager for your prize already?" Adam seemed puzzled. "I figured we'd unwind a bit first. That pool and fruit of yours were remarkably soothing."

Zargos nearly grinned but shook off the impulse swiftly.

"No! You don't get it! Neither Merra nor I can fully suppress the First Star's power!"

Adam's expression shifted as comprehension dawned regarding the dark star hovering overhead. It was merely the lingering dark energy from the black flare.

"Shit... That scum, Morok, and his crew—are they approaching?"

The truth shone plainly in Zargos's gaze.

"Yes. I loathe admitting it, but this isn't merely about my prize anymore. For total certainty of my triumph, hand over the Dark Energy!"

Adam hesitated to dive in hastily, but alternatives were scarce.

'Either way, Zargos has earned it. Only someone like him would boldly reveal knowledge of the Dark Energy to me!'

Tap!

With a swift motion, Adam gripped Zargos's hand firmly.

Zargos bared a broad grin.

"Wise decision, kid. But don't expect me to go easy. This won't be simple."

Adam offered a wry smile.

"I wouldn't anticipate less from you. Just vow you'll thrash every last one of them."

Zargos bellowed with laughter.

"Naturally! Bet on it!"

Merra observed from afar, her eyes narrowing while her chest tightened with dread.

Tremble. Tremble. Tremble.

Zargos's presence erupted in a fierce scarlet blaze, swelling instantly beyond the shield she'd erected and enveloping his whole estate.

"Good. This is the intensity I've craved for ages!"