true colors
At that pivotal moment, the clash between the Black King and Rythmeus ensued, their combat unfurling in a relentless flurry of strikes and an array of extraordinary maneuvers.
Eve and Derek stood in stunned amazement, witnessing the sheer power displayed by both combatants.
Derek: Whoa...
Eve: Incredible! They possess tremendous strength...
Rythmeus, at this point, surpassed the combined might of all the Black King's servants, reaching a level of power that allowed "him" to withstand the forces of absolute nothingness with ease.
Within my mind, I called out to Rythmeus:
Me (mind): Rythmeus...
Rythmeus and the Black King engaged in a relentless exchange of blows, each strike surpassing the previous one in devastation—a testament to their unrivaled prowess.
Suddenly, Rythmeus delivered a crushing blow to the Black King, sending "him" hurtling through the air. However, the Black King swiftly recovered and retaliated, striking Rythmeus with great force, knocking "him" to the ground.
Rythmeus remained undeterred, showing little sign of injury from the Black King's strike. With determination, "he" swiftly rose to "his" feet, resuming the battle without hesitation...
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RYTHMEUS'S PERSPECTIVE:
I continued to engage in a fierce battle with the Black King, utilizing my skills to land strikes while evading "his" formidable attacks. It was undeniably challenging, but I had no other option. Even if I were to exist for eternity, witnessing my friends succumb to the malevolent force before us would forever haunt my conscience.
Derek, you are an extraordinary human being. Your determination to better yourself and build a fulfilling life is truly commendable. Liran and I take immense pride in your accomplishments. We are genuinely happy to have you by our side.
Eve, although I have only recently met you, I sensed your genuine kindness and compassion. Your warmth and care towards Liran and Derek are truly admirable, and having you here with us fills me with pride.
Liran, you are an exceptional individual. Meeting someone like you has been a blessing. You hold a special place in my heart, and I cannot bear the thought of losing you, just as we lost Brock.
Brock, where do I even begin? Despite being young, you possessed incredible intelligence and a beautiful spirit. Your thirst for knowledge and your ability to find joy in life were awe-inspiring.
However, you are no longer with us, taken from this world at the tender age of 13. I do not know what lies beyond death, but I believe that you have found peace in a serene realm, a "true and unknown reality" that we will all eventually return to.
I am grateful that I was able to be with you until the end, but now, I cannot fail you. I will defend them, honor your memory, and protect those who are dear to me.
These emotions and sentiments encompass my true essence. This is my unwavering resolve, driven by my personal convictions and for the sake of everyone, particularly for you, Brock.
For brock, myself and everyone else...
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LIRAN'S PERSPECTIVE:
I steadfastly observed the enthralling clash between Rythmeus and the ebony monarch, an awe-inspiring spectacle indeed. Rythmeus unveiled the genuine essence of "his" being, a truly resplendent revelation. At a certain juncture, Rythmeus triumphed, overpowering the regal ebony figure "himself"...
However, the momentous turn of events unleashed a torrent of fury within the black king...
A cacophonous and profane scream erupted from the black king's lips, an outcry so thunderous that it forcefully propelled Rythmeus backwards...
Rythmeus: ?!...
Subsequently, the black king lunged towards Rythmeus, delivering a devastating blow that sent "him" crashing down, yet the black king persisted unyieldingly.
"He" lunged once more at Rythmeus, landing another forceful punch that sent "him" tumbling yet again...
With an iron grip, the black king ensnared Rythmeus tightly...
The black king: Admirable effort, indeed. You may possess the resolve to engage in combat, but against me, such determination is utterly futile.
Rythmeus: I shall not permit you to extinguish their lives. In my eyes, they are extraordinary beings...
The black king: Fear not, for once I am through with you, I shall seize these remarkable entities from your grasp, forever obliterating your presence from their sight...
Upon hearing these words, Rythmeus unleashed a monstrous kick upon the black king, violently propelling "him" away...
Rythmeus: ...
The black king: Although you may exhibit "might," your power shall never ascend to my echelon...
You already dwell beneath my supremacy; thus, kneel down and pay homage to me. This encounter is naught but a futile endeavor...
Rythmeus: Nay, I shall not waver...
The black king: Very well...
The black king swiftly launched himself at Rythmeus, delivering a merciless blow that sent him crashing to the ground...
Derek: !!...
Eve: !!...
Me: ...
With a commanding presence, the black king peered down upon Rythmeus...
The black king: Any final words?
Rythmeus: Even if you were to succeed in ending my life, there will always arise a mightier entity, one destined to vanquish you...
The black king: Very well...
Just as the black king prepared to strike Rythmeus with a fatal blow, I impulsively lunged towards Rythmeus, rescuing "him" from the black king's impending strike...
The black king: ?!...
Rythmeus and I distanced ourselves from the black king, creating a substantial gap. I gently laid Rythmeus on the ground before rising to my feet...
Me: Rythmeus, your contributions have far exceeded our expectations. You have revealed your true essence, and I am filled with immense pride...
You may remain here; I shall confront "him" myself.
Rythmeus: Liran, I am at a loss for words... Thank you...
I then turned around, facing the black king, who stood a few meters in front of me...
The black king: Heh, now I can engage in combat with someone of greater strength...
Me: ...
The black king: You choose to remain silent? So be it...
I advanced towards the black king, now standing directly in front of "him"...
The black king: Let us ascertain the extent of your power...
Me: ...
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