Endless Evolution: Last Star Chapter 1759: Barriers for humans and monsters

That Zin's imminent ascension to Lord status was a startling revelation for Adam, yet it stood as an undeniable truth.

"This... this is truly unexpected..." Adam managed to utter, his eyes still wide with disbelief.

A subtle smile played on Zin's lips as he redirected his gaze towards the desolate Hollow Lands.

"I anticipated your reaction. Unlike my approach, you seize every opportunity presented, don't you?"

Adam swallowed hard. Prior to their confrontation, Adam had only heard whispers of Zin, their paths never having crossed in person. However, a single battle within the arena had forged a mutual understanding between them.

"That is correct. I will not cease my efforts until my objective is realized. To achieve that, I must attain the greatest possible strength!"

Kaerno's deep laughter resonated. "Indeed, a common sentiment! We all pursue goals that demand formidable strength, but what then, Adam? What is your ultimate aim?"

Adam's expression abruptly shifted to one of profound seriousness.

"But why?"

"Hmm?"

"Why should I contemplate that if I cannot even be certain of surviving to witness my ultimate goal? You perpetually find ways to keep yourself occupied and entertained, but the immediate priority is to eliminate all obstacles in your path."

Zin offered a nod of agreement.

"I concur. Although, in my circumstances, acquiring new power invariably ushers in a cascade of complications."

He smiled, directing a look of keen interest towards Adam.

"I trust you will attain your desired level swiftly. With your determination, I am confident it will pose little difficulty. Incidentally, if you so choose, you are welcome to remain here for an additional two days."

Zin let out a slight smirk.

"You shall witness firsthand the spectacle of evolving to the Lord Level from the very forefront. I can guarantee you that much."

Adam waved his hand dismissively, a hint of irritation in his gesture.

"I have no desire to even hear about it. After you informed me of your impending Lord status, my entire world almost collapsed. If I were to witness your evolution, my thoughts would be consumed by it for weeks!"

A flicker of amusement in his eyes, Zin simply shrugged.

"As you wish. Regardless, you are correct. For you, it would merely be an exhibition and nothing more. As a Phantom, you lack the capacity to replicate my success. Your path is fundamentally different."

Adam exhaled a heavy sigh, his gaze sweeping across their surroundings.

"Yes, and I still have a substantial amount of work ahead of me to reach the Second Rank."

"Hmm?" Zin arched an eyebrow. "Observing your aura and your proficiency with Dark Energy, one might assume you are on the cusp of the First Circle, are you not?"

Adam rubbed the back of his head, a subtle, knowing expression on his face.

"Not quite, but I am drawing nearer."

Kaerno turned, his eyes holding an ancient depth.

"You have but one remaining condition before you forge your final Grand Star, correct?"

Monsters followed a distinct evolutionary trajectory, yet it was hardly surprising that an individual like Kaerno possessed intimate knowledge of every stage. After all, his centuries of existence in this world had endowed him with wisdom far exceeding that of a mortal like Adam.

"That is correct." Adam's eyes were alight with unwavering determination. "While I cannot be absolutely certain, I am convinced this will be my ultimate condition and my final Grand Star."

"I comprehend." Kaerno tilted his head back, his gaze fixed upon the lunar eclipse against the inky expanse of the night sky. "In that event, your wait will not be prolonged. A series of formidable trials awaits you, but you have already traversed the majority of the path toward the Second Circle. There is no question of that."

"Agh..."

Adam lay down upon the earth, electing to contemplate the peculiar, darkened sky, much like Kaerno. The subsequent occasion he would be able to behold it would only be upon his return to the Hollow Lands, and Adam remained uncertain of when that might transpire.

"Indeed, but in comparison to Zin, I remain considerably behind. However, that is not the primary concern."

"Then what is?" Zin inquired, glancing over his shoulder.

"Well, monsters possess substantially more ranks than Phantoms, yet not all beings within the Second Circle are created equal. Even upon reaching the Second Circle, a profound chasm in power will exist between myself and the most potent Second-Rank Phantoms. I will be compelled to embark on a similar journey anew. Another... equally lengthy endeavor."

Zin's demeanor remained unperturbed, yet Adam's words resonated within him. In the near future, he would achieve Lord status, commencing as a mere Baron. In the presence of True Lords and formidable beings like Kaerno, this initial rank was insufficient.

"You are mistaken." Kaerno's pronouncement startled them both.

"Agh?"

"What do you mean by that?"

A serene smile graced Kaerno's features.

"Within the Second Circle, the dynamics of power operate differently. However, you will both grasp this reality quite soon. One among you sooner than the other, yet for neither will the road to the next level be arduous. Then, when you ponder the means to ascend in power, you shall discover the answer and recall my words."

Silence.

A palpable silence enveloped the air as Adam and Zin contemplated Kaerno's enigmatic statement.

To Adam, it appeared futile to dwell on such matters, yet that was not the case. He had already attained sufficient strength to comprehend that as one ascended to higher echelons of power, the distinctions between monsters and Phantoms progressively diminished.

In the nascent stages of any quest, K0-Phantoms and monsters designated as White Threat Level are indeed present. However, once one reaches the Second Circle, the landscape transforms entirely; only beings of the Second Circle hold significance, with all other entities becoming mere trivialities.

"Very well, I have absorbed a wealth of knowledge and gained considerably," Adam declared, rising from the earth. He cast a look towards Zin and Kaerno. "It is now time for my departure. My Operator awaits my return."

Kaerno and Zin exchanged a knowing glance. They understood this moment signaled their parting. Adam no longer possessed any compelling reason to remain in the Hollow Lands, at least for the present.

"Naturally. I extend my best wishes to you, young man."

Zin offered a nod. "I trust I will not have to await your return for too long, Adam. You must ascend to the Second Circle before the impending World Wipe. Anything less, I shall consider a failure on your part."

Adam's eyes sparkled as he turned his gaze towards the imposing Citadel.

"You have my word. I shall achieve it in under six years. Markedly faster, I am certain of it!"