Endless Evolution: Last Star Chapter 1719 1719: The Unknown Sound (Part 1)

The sheer number of monsters far outnumbered humanity, and importantly, they too were endowed with unique talents. Yet, a stark disparity existed; not all individuals blessed with gifts were created equal.

The gulf between someone possessing exceptional talent amongst a hundred and one discovered in a million was as profound as a bottomless chasm. This vast difference necessitated varied descriptions for these gifted individuals: talent, genius, prodigy, and so forth.

All these labels served a crucial purpose: to differentiate between the merely talented and the truly powerful, establishing a clear hierarchy even amongst the elite.

However, for a select few, such distinctions proved inadequate. There were those who, while not necessarily the strongest or most inherently gifted, possessed a peculiarity that instilled a deep-seated fear in others. This fear wasn't born from a direct threat, but rather from an unsettling, dark, and completely unknown aura surrounding them.

Zin was precisely such a phenomenon.

His combat encounters were exceedingly rare. In fact, most denizens of the Hollow Lands, particularly the Lords, had never witnessed him fight. Despite this, his presence commanded universal fear. No one relished the prospect of facing him, let alone discussing his name.

Perhaps this was a peculiar instance where the legends and whispers surrounding a fighter far outshone the fighter himself. Yet, no one dared to challenge this notion or probe its validity.

"Phantom?"

Zin uttered the word softly.

"Adam Vinter?"

A brief silence followed as he considered the name.

"I am unfamiliar with that name. I have not encountered this 'Phantom' before."

With that, Zin turned his attention back to the crimson apple before him, his gaze unwavering.

"Be gone. As I've already stated, I possess no interest."

"B-But!"

Before Es'aha could interject further, Zin's placid voice interceded:

"I cannot conceive of a sound, a shriek, or a jubilant cry that would be novel to my senses. This Phantom cannot offer me anything that I haven't already experienced."

Indeed, Es'aha found herself unable to refute his claim. Even if Adam surpassed many other Phantoms in strength, he remained a Phantom—a human being, subject to emotions. In numerous scenarios, his behavior mirrored that of ordinary people.

While this wasn't inherently negative, it failed to ignite even a spark of curiosity within Zin.

"If I cannot encounter anything new, then what conceivable reason do I have to depart from this place?"

He posed the question, then abruptly continued.

"Es'aha, do you perceive that?"

She swallowed nervously.

"What are you referring to, Zin?"

In response, Zin gestured towards the core, indicating the quivering black roots that swayed gently with each passing breeze.

"The lamentations of countless souls within this core. At one point, the agony of hearing them would have been unbearable, but over the vast expanse of years, they have transformed into a melody that brings me unparalleled solace. Here, amidst the profound quietude that contrasts sharply with the frenzy of the blazing flames, I find a tranquility far exceeding that of the pillars.

"I harbor no ill will towards our lands. This sanctuary is as much my home as your pillar, Es'aha. However, given the opportunity to avert the cacophony of impending battles, deafening explosions, and crackling lightning strikes, I will seize it. I have borne witness to such spectacles more times than can be counted; it is more than sufficient."

Under any other circumstance, this exchange would have concluded as another of Es'aha's unsuccessful endeavors. She would have persisted, Zin would have remained unmoved, and Es'aha would have retreated.

However, the current situation deviated from the norm, and the unexpected catalyst for this change was none other than Kaerno.

"You… you ancient, manipulative serpent. Is Adam privy to this revelation? Does he grasp that without your subtle intervention, my mission would falter? Is he aware that you possess knowledge of his hidden truth?"

"Hm."

Es'aha cleared her throat, fixing Zin with a gaze of utmost seriousness.

"I am aware of this, Zin. After all, this is hardly my inaugural attempt to persuade you to return. However, this time, I bring a unique enticement."

He dismissed her words, his disbelief evident. The notion of something genuinely novel eluded his comprehension.

"And what of a heartbeat, Zin? Would the prospect of hearing one pique your interest?"

Zin slowly turned his head to face her.

"I trust you are not referring to your own. While its rhythm is tranquil, it remains a familiar cadence. I have experienced the heartbeats of the very young and the very old, of the timid and the valiant, and of those who perpetrate evil and those who achieve triumph. You and the other Fingers wield power of a terrifying magnitude. Do you genuinely believe the heartbeat of some mere Phantom could possibly rival such might?"

"Yes."

Es'aha's confident affirmation startled Zin, leaving him perplexed. Her objective was to escort him back to her pillar, yet she was not one to utter falsehoods.

"What precisely do you mean by that, Es'aha?" His eyes narrowed in scrutiny.

"You are entirely correct. In comparison to beings like myself, Adam Vinter would likely present nothing extraordinary to you. I would concur with your assessment if I were in your position. Such was the case until Kaerno approached me."

Zin's brow furrowed, his confusion deepening.

Es'aha continued, her voice gradually diminishing in volume, as though she feared their hushed conversation might be overheard.

"I cannot fathom the reason or the mechanism behind it, but at this very moment, the blood of Queen Elisa courses through Adam Vinter's veins. I do not speak of mere lineage; he is not her son nor any direct relation. No, her actual blood resides within him, and through this extraordinary connection, you will be granted the ability–"

Zin spoke with more haste: "I will be able to perceive her heartbeat. The heart that exists beyond the confines of time... That sound, it's something I can barely conceive of."

For the very first time throughout their entire discussion, a genuine emotion flickered across Zin's countenance. His eyes widened, reflecting sheer astonishment.

"Her heart, her very blood. Yes… it might indeed function if there's truly a connection. Do you have any understanding of how this came to be? How long has he possessed this blood?"

Es'aha responded by shaking her head.

"As I've stated, no. In truth, I've never encountered this Adam Vinter individual, but Kaerno has. He recognized it within him, and I can assure you, that wretch is exceptionally difficult to surprise."

She elaborated further:

"Regarding the timing, I cannot offer certainty, but I suspect this is precisely the reason Adam Vinter is so keen on participating in the Grim Court."

"The blood..." Zin murmured, his gaze drifting into the distance. "Her blood possesses excessive power. It will undoubtedly tear him asunder if he fails to absorb it, and for that to happen... for that to occur, he must undergo an evolution."

Es'aha offered a sly smirk, envisioning her eventual triumph after countless prior failed attempts.

"Precisely, and his preferred method of advancement lies through perilous combat."

"Agh?" He looked up, bewildered.

Es'aha advanced a step closer.

"Either you confront him and bear witness to the flow of Queen Elisa's blood, or another will assume the role of his adversary, and this singular opportunity will vanish. Forever."