The Eternal Strive

Caden dashed forward, weaving through the battlefield as the Riftborn's chaotic tendrils lashed out in all directions. Warriors from both Order and Chaos were being thrown aside like ragdolls, their attacks barely scratching the creature's shifting form.

His All-Knowing Eye pulsed with golden light, focusing on the core buried deep within the monster's ever-changing body.

That's its weakness. If I don't destroy it fast, this thing will keep growing stronger.

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System Alert: Riftborn Core Located!

Weakness Identified: Core Disruption

Warning: Core is heavily protected by fluctuating energy barriers.

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The Riftborn let out another piercing shriek, its form twisting into a new grotesque shape. Jagged limbs shot outward, slamming into the stone arena, breaking the ancient structure apart. The sky above twisted with unnatural energy, threatening to tear open further.

Caden didn't hesitate.

Summoning his power, he activated Essence Infusion, pouring everything into his blade. His energy flared—golden light mixed with darkness as his Balance Strive ability enhanced his control over his attacks.

He vanished in a blur of speed, appearing just above the Riftborn's shifting mass. With a single, precise slash—he struck at the core's outer defenses.

The moment his blade made contact, a shockwave erupted.

The Riftborn screeched in agony, its form convulsing as black energy spiraled out. Cracks formed along its chaotic body, revealing flashes of the pulsing core beneath.

But it wasn't enough.

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System Alert: Core Barrier Weakened (75%).

Warning: Riftborn is adapting.

Enemy Strength Increasing!

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Caden's eyes narrowed. It's learning.

The creature's form twisted again, its tendrils coiling inward before exploding outward in a pulse of dark energy.

The force was immense. Even with his enhanced reflexes, Caden barely had time to react—he threw up his blade, channeling his power into a defensive stance. The blast sent him hurtling backward, slamming into a broken pillar.

Dust filled the air.

Pain surged through his body, but he forced himself back up. No time to rest.

Across the battlefield, Valerius and Seraphis had noticed his attack.

The Champion of Order's golden eyes flashed with realization. "He's found the weakness."

The Emissary of Chaos grinned, flames crackling around her. "Then let's break this thing apart."

For the first time, both leaders moved together.

Valerius unleashed a radiant spear, its golden light cutting through the air, striking one of the Riftborn's chaotic limbs.

Seraphis summoned a vortex of dark flames, consuming the creature's side with violent, raw destruction.

The Riftborn screeched again, its body convulsing from the combined attacks. Its core was now fully exposed.

Caden didn't waste the opportunity.

He gripped his weapon tighter, channeling everything he had into one final strike. His energy surged to its peak—a perfect balance between destruction and control.

With a deep breath, he launched himself forward.

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System Alert: Final Strike Activated!

Balance Breaker Slash – Critical Hit!

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His blade pierced through the Riftborn's core.

A moment of silence.

Then—the world exploded with light.