Chapter 31: Arc
Ethan's gaze remained fixed on the being who sat upon the ornate throne, his eyes narrowing with intrigue and a spark of defiance. The air crackled with tension as Ethan approached, his steps deliberate and purposeful. Yet, as he drew nearer, he was met with a formidable barrier of magical energy, a testament to the power that protected the being before him.
Undeterred, Ethan extended his hands, palms outstretched, and with a swift motion, he unleashed a wave of raw energy. The magical barriers shattered like fragile glass, dissipating into nothingness. The being on the throne stood abruptly, his eyes filled with a mix of surprise and anger.
"And who do you think you are?" the black-haired figure demanded, his voice laced with arrogance. "To come barging into this sacred place uninvited."
Ethan's lips curled into a smirk, his gaze meeting the figure's with unyielding confidence. "I am Ethan, a wanderer in this realm. And I am here because I seek answers. Answers about the workings of this world, answers about your place in it."
The figure, known as Arc, let out a dismissive scoff. "You dare question me? Nothing in this universe is beyond my reach. I am the pinnacle of power, and you are but a lowly speck in comparison."
Ethan's laughter rang out, echoing through the chamber. "Is that so? If you truly are the strongest being in this world, then why do you require such elaborate protection? What secrets do you guard?"
Arc's eyes narrowed, his pride wounded by Ethan's words. He rose from the throne, his imposing presence radiating a dangerous aura. "Watch your tongue, fool! I am Arc, and I reign supreme in this realm. You will soon learn the futility of your resistance."
Unfazed by Arc's threats, Ethan stood tall, his gaze piercing through the facade of power and authority. "Tell me, Arc, for all your grandiosity, are you truly from this world? Those military gears you wear, they bear the mark of Earth. You are an outsider, just like me."
A flicker of surprise crossed Arc's face, swiftly replaced by a sneer. "Impressive observation, blondie. But know this, even if I hail from another realm, nothing changes the fact that I am unrivaled here. Level 1000, a force to be reckoned with. Your feeble existence will be snuffed out effortlessly."
Ethan's expression grew smug, his confidence unshaken. "Let's put your claims to the test, shall we? Levels and stats may govern this world, but they do not define true strength."
With those words, Ethan launched himself forward, his fist hurtling towards Arc with blinding speed. The chapter reached its climactic ending, leaving the readers hanging in suspense, as the outcome of their clash remained uncertain, frozen in the moment before their powers collided.