Endless Evolution: Last Star Chapter 1643 1643: End of Sky Cube
Previously on Endless Evolution: Last Star...
Silvana and Riska occupied themselves by baking ginger-pumpkin cookies, while nearby, Adam and Tron engaged in a deep, serious discussion.
"What happens now?" Adam asked, waving his hand dismissively.
Tron offered a shrug in response.
"Honestly? There isn't much more I can teach you at this stage. I had to keep you here until you truly grasped the mechanics of Ancient Energy and Dark Energy. You have successfully navigated the two primary stages.
"The journey isn't over, naturally. You require more practice to refine your command over these forces. Specifically, utilizing your dark ability more frequently would reveal its hidden depths and limitations."
Tron poured himself a glass of wine, as simple juice felt entirely inadequate for the occasion.
"You are free to leave whenever you wish. Even with your current growth, you would represent a significant threat within the Dead Lands. That said, I suggest remaining for a few extra days. The Sky Cube—specifically the Gray Sky—offers unparalleled opportunities for intensive training.
"Furthermore, as your mentor, I plan to spar with you regularly. Be prepared, however, for a much higher level of intensity than you've seen previously."
He glanced over his shoulder with a faint smirk.
"I have no desire to end up in the infirmary after every single duel."
Adam nodded, lost in thought.
'A few more days... Tron is correct, and I have no reason to rush. Had Silvana not spearheaded this training, things would have been far more disorganized. I would have returned to the Dead Lands lacking proper control over my energy, likely fumbling my use of the dark ability in the chaos of a real battle.'
He could not be certain of his next destination, but he understood one thing clearly: if his next objective genuinely involved the Blood of God, the task would be far from simple.
"Well? What is your decision?" Tron asked, his eyes narrowing slightly.
After a moment, Adam nodded in affirmation.
"Very well. I will stay until I reach total confidence in my capabilities. Though, I am usually confident... the incidents at the Primal Lands have given me pause."
"Oh? How so?"
Adam scratched his jaw thoughtfully.
"It began with a battle against an opponent. Everything seemed standard for my first visit to the Primal Lands. But then... மூன்று distinct individuals intervened one after another, protecting me from monsters attempting to end my life."
Tron released a heavy, weary sigh.
"Ah, the Befallen Crown. Don't fret, every gifted K4-Phantom has faced that hurdle. You are a unique case, I admit, but in reality, you should consider it a compliment."
"A compliment?"
Tron reclined in his seat, looking at ease.
"Think about it rationally. If they are so desperate to have you killed, does that not confirm they recognize your potential? The Befallen Crown are our adversaries, yes, but their ranks are filled with veteran warriors and ancient beasts."
His expression grew more solemn.
"Consider the monsters that have haunted this world for millennia—beasts feared by other Lords and respected by the elite—they are genuinely wary of your potential. They realize that if they don't extinguish your growth now, you will become an insurmountable obstacle later."
Tron smirked, his eyes glinting.
"There is no praise quite as genuine, you know, as the fear of an enemy."
Adam was not sure how to process this. It was a testament to his strength, certainly, but it also painted a target on his back for the Befallen Crown to strike whenever an opening emerged.
"So, I should see this as an opportunity to grow stronger, shouldn't I?"
"Exactly."
A few moments later, Riska’s voice drifted over to them:
"Everyone, the cookies are almost finished!"
Tron smirked toward Adam.
"Life on the farm definitely has its benefits, doesn't it?"
"Pfft, that's only because you do nothing while Riska does all the heavy lifting!" Adam teased.
"Ha, as if you aren't in the same boat?" Tron retorted, nodding toward the kitchen. "I see Silvana standing right there helping her."
Adam crossed his arms firmly.
"I have no idea how to bake, alright?"
"Neither do I."
At that moment, Riska and Silvana exchanged looks with soft smiles. They didn't mind making the Phantoms' stay a bit more comfortable, knowing that inevitably, Adam and Tron would return to the perils of the Dead Lands.
Silvana looked particularly determined.
"While he is still here, I must provide all the support I can. Who knows what dangers await him on his next mission! A few cookies are a small price to pay given the dragons he faces."
Shortly after, the ginger-pumpkin sweets were served alongside fruit juice.
And thus, ten demanding days at the Sky Cube commenced.
…
Throughout this period, Tron utilized all his creativity to devise appropriate trials for Adam within the Gray Sky.
These were much more than just sessions to refine Ancient Energy and Dark Energy control. The challenges tested every facet of his combat, from raw physical speed and striking power to tactical precision and the harmonious use of multiple abilities.
A primary breakthrough during these sessions was the enhancement of Adam's physical endurance and resilience.
The energy coursing through his Evolution Tree had always affected his physique, though it was previously subtle; now that he managed those energies at a high level, his body began integrating their power as a natural function.
Fighting Tron remained the core of his development. While Adam could not triumph in a fair duel against one of Tron's standing, his refinement and growth were undeniable after every match.
He could have remained at the Sky Cube for months, yet he realized it was unnecessary. He had achieved the bulk of the required growth; the remainder could only be refined through the crucible of genuine combat.
The Sky Cube possessed incredible resources, yet it could never replicate the intensity of a life-or-death battle that set one's blood on fire.
Tap.
Tron uncorked a vintage bottle of wine and filled their glasses.
"The final feast of our time here has arrived."
He grinned, lifting his glass.
"Let's ensure this is a memory worth keeping."
The others lifted their glasses in agreement.
"Agreed!"