Chapter 75: Friends from the Past

In the smoldering ruins of the battlefield, two figures faced each other, separated by a significant distance.

The flames of the destroyed buildings cast eerie shadows across their faces.

These two men, once close friends were now irreconcilable foes.

Robert clad in shining armor, held his shield ready, his gaze filled with determination.

In front of him stood Woltuk Koldor, a dark mage draped in a long white coat adorned with dark runic patterns.

His black scepter embedded with purple gems emitted a sinister glow.

A malevolent aura surrounded his body, making the air thick and oppressive.

"What's wrong, Robert?" Woltuk said with a haughty tone, a mocking smile on his lips.

"Do you have something to say before I put an end to all of this?"

Robert finally broke his silence, his voice deep but tinged with profound sadness:

 "Woltuk… Is this really who you've become? I remember a man who cared for the less fortunate, who helped the weak what have happened to my comrade?"

Woltuk briefly lowered his head, as though reflecting on these words before lifting his face again. A guttural laugh escaped his lips followed by a loud and terrifying sound.

 "WAHAHAHA!!"

After calming down, he replied:

 "Robert, leave those past memories where they belong they are nothing but the illusions of a person who never existed forget the boy you thought you knew.

«Think of me only as your enemy!"

Despite the pain gripping his heart, Robert tightened his grip on his weapon and retorted:

 "If that's the case i must stop you for Ednia and for all the innocents you've hurt Woltuk i won't let you continue down this path."

Woltuk wore a cruel smile, his malevolent aura intensifying.

 "I see you're determined, Robert but tonight you will perish.You are a threat that must be neutralized i will come knight of Ednia!"

Robert wasted no time and cast his spell: Water Slash.

Liquid blades cut through the air, slicing everything in their path.

 Woltuk gracefully dodged, his mocking smile still present.

 "Hmm, you've improved over the years but it won't be enough."

With a quick gesture, he cast Magma Sphere, creating a massive ball of lava which he hurled with terrifying force.

Robert quick to react, summoned Earth Shield, raising a massive rock wall that intercepted the attack.

But Woltuk showed no mercy.

He immediately followed up with Ash Rain, raining down scorching ash over a wide area.

The wooden houses nearby melted under the intense heat.

Surrounded Robert used Water Shield, forming a protective whirlpool that repelled the fiery ash.

Despite this, Woltuk's next attack caught him off guard.

He launched a spray of violet flames into the sky, a move that puzzled Robert.

 "Why isn't this attack aimed at me?" he thought.

Suddenly, a loud sound resonated behind him.

An invisible powerful force slammed into him, sending him crashing through a collapsing building.

Robert lying amid the rubble, spat blood.

He slowly rose, surveying his surroundings.

"What was that?" he muttered.

From the smoke and debris emerged a massive creature.

Its imposing form part serpent, part elephant was terrifying.

Its sharp fangs and glowing red eyes radiated uncontrollable fury.

Woltuk standing proudly beside the beast, wore a diabolical smile.

 "Oh you're still alive, Robert verry impressive I'm sure you're wondering what this creature."

Pointing his scepter at the beast, he continued:

 "Let me introduce you to my latest creation: the Grootslang an experiment combining the biology system of many beast of nymenor .

The perfect weapon to destroy my enemies. I hope you enjoy this demonstration."

Robert, still covered in wounds, stood up, his gaze fixed on the abomination.

 "Woltuk… You've gone too far this monstrosity… i can't let you continue like this."

During that moment Woltuk was smiling.

"And what do you plan to do, Robert?. Your ideals stand no chance against my power and my creations prepare yourself for this is the end."

The Grootslang charged at Robert, its movements swift and unpredictable despite its massive size.

Robert narrowly dodged its fangs and cast Sharp Water Jet, a concentrated attack aimed at slowing the beast.

The watery magic hit its target, but the creature seemed barely affected.

Taking advantage of the distraction, Woltuk cast another spell.

A series of lava spikes shot up from the ground, forcing Robert to retreat further.

 "This battle is more fun than I thought!" Woltuk exclaimed, a malevolent grin distorting his face.

Robert catching his breath, knew he had to act quickly he focused on Woltuk his eyes filled with determination.

 "You can still stop this Woltuk, come back with me it's not too late to redeem your actions."

Woltuk burst into loud laughter, his voice echoing across the battlefield.

"Hahaha redeem what ? my actions don't be so ridiculous obert my path is already set and you? You're nothing but an obstacle that I need to destroy."

As the creature and Woltuk prepared to attack once again Robert braced himself.