Bab 39: The End Of The Shadow Trials

Ken fell to one knee, his hand pressed tightly against his stomach, where deep gash marks oozed blood. The crimson liquid trailed down, soaking into the ground. Above him, Kai loomed like a storm, his eyes crackling with electric energy, blood trickling from his nose.

"Come on," Kai taunted, his voice sharp and mocking. "You're a Grand Magus for a reason, or are you already giving up?"

"You're strong," Ken muttered, his voice was barely audible and his breath shaky. "Or maybe I'm just rusty. It's been a while since I faced an opponent like you. Congratulations on completing the Fifth Shadow Trial."

As he spoke, the lightning flickering around Kai faded, and his dagger disappeared with a soft whisper. A small smile broke across Kai's face, a mix of relief and triumph.

"Finally," he said, almost to himself, "done with this."