Chapter 1032: The Great Sage's Archives

The Great Sage's Archives—it was a culmination of all the spells and worlds I had ever experienced.

An ever-growing tapestry of knowledge and power, woven together into one vast realm. Within its confines, I held absolute control and unrivaled understanding.

It was a world that functioned as an extension of myself, granting me the gifts of omniscience and omnipotence.

Every spell I had ever encountered, every world I had ever explored—they converged within the Archives, becoming a part of me.

The realm itself embodied my collective consciousness and experiences, making it a force beyond measure. Within its boundaries, Spellcraft was always activated, and the very fabric of reality bent to my will.

It was this inherent advantage that Edward, despite his determination and skills, never stood a chance against.

The moment he stepped foot into the Great Sage's Archives, the realm recognized him as an intruder, an entity to be eliminated.

Its defenses, fueled by my knowledge and understanding, would swiftly cut him down before he even had a chance to make a move.

As I watched him, dwelling in the height of my power, a mix of emotions swirled within me. On one hand, I felt a sense relief that I was able to defeat Edward despite his growing strength.

Yet, at the same time, a tinge of melancholy crept into my thoughts. It was true that Edward had been overpowered by the might of the Great Sage's Archives, but I couldn't help but wonder what he could have achieved had the circumstances been different.

What could he have become if given the opportunity to forge his own path after defeating me?

However, dwelling on such thoughts was futile. The rules of this realm were clear, and Edward's defeat served as a reminder of the hierarchy that governed our existence.

As friends and comrades, we would continue to support and guide each other, but the Great Sage's Archives remained my domain, my source of unparalleled power.

'And I remain stronger...'

With a deep breath, I refocused my attention on the present moment. The fight was over, and all that remained was the aftermath.

The Great Sage's Archives would continue to expand and evolve, encompassing new spells and worlds as we ventured forward.

And as for Edward, well, he would find his own path. Whether he would grow stronger in his own way or find his own sources of power, only time would tell.

'He hasn't reached the limits just yet...'

For now, I would cherish the lessons learned and hope we could continue growing together. Because in the end...

'... That's all that matters.'

**********

Edward and I returned to the Golden Palace almost as soon as we left, and I could see the gazes of everyone rush us the moment we made our appearance.

It was clear who had emerged victorious based on our countenance alone, so no one bothered to ask.

We hadn't really spoken since I won the fight, and I could tell he was feeling pretty defeated. He admitted that he lost and recognized that I had way more power than him, but he still needed time to swallow it all.

'No shame in that, really.'

I glanced at our buddies—Aloe, Ciara, and especially Kuzon—and saw the surprise and curiosity written all over their faces.

Kuzon, in particular, had this look like he was wondering who would win if he and I threw down.

Well, I knew exactly what was going through his head. It was a question that hung between us, sparking some excitement and maybe a little nervousness.

'We'll find out eventually...' I couldn't help but smirk to myself.

I personally looked forward to when our powers would collide. It was going to be one heck of a showdown. The unknown always gets me pumped, and I was ready for the ride.

Turning back to Edward, I smiled as we made eye contact. Nodding slowly, I finally spoke.

"You're not weak at all. You're the strongest I've fought in a while."

Perhaps those words wouldn't do very much to satiate his dissatisfaction, but that was all I could say.

"T-that's all I wanted to hear." His words, solemn and calm, finally echoed from his lips as streams of tears slowly dripped from his eyes.

'Haa... this guy.'

Tears fell from Edward's eyes, and I stared at him uncomfortably, trying my hardest to keep my emotions in check. Still, I had to admit... he had really come a long way.

'Some things just never change, I guess.'

********

Kuzon felt conflicted as he stared at Jared from where he stood. What just happened had defied all his expectations, and he was still bound for even greater shock.

'What did you think of the entire exchange, Leo? I didn't see the grand finale of the fight, but Jared was clearly superior throughout.'

~I detect a trace of Primeval Magic emanating from him. It seems he's advanced even further than you realized.~

Kuzon's eyes instantly widened in utter shock.

"Primeval Magic? From Jared? But how?" he murmured, his mind racing to grasp the implications of this revelation.

Leo continued, his deep voice resonating within Kuzon's core. "Though incomplete, the Primeval Magic within Jared is still considerable. It signifies a level of power and understanding that surpasses what we previously perceived."

A mix of awe and trepidation washed over Kuzon. He had always recognized Jared's strength, but this revelation revealed a depth he had not fully comprehended.

Memories of the recent fight, and Jared's ability to triumph over Edward, despite the latter's Constellation Familiar, flooded his thoughts.

Realization dawned upon him. 'Leo... you were right. Jared's strength goes beyond raw power. He has a way of winning even when he's not necessarily stronger than his opponent," Kuzon acknowledged, a hint of caution coloring his voice.

Using the Arcanas and his understanding of Magic, Jared had turned the tides and achieved a feat no one could have predicted.

It was terribly intimidating.

~You might find it odd that I say this, Kuzon, but power alone does not guarantee victory. It is the fusion of strategy, skill, and the depths of one's understanding that can tip the scales in one's favor.~

For a Constellation whose Representation was 'Authority' to say something like that, Kuzon knew the words carried weight.

~In Jared's case, it seems he has both. That makes him even more formidable. In the instance where the both of you fight, it seems Jared has a higher chance of winning.~

A sense of determination flickered within Kuzon's eyes as he heard Leo's conclusion to the question that had been bothering him.

... As well as a deep sense of intimidation.

'If that's the case, then I just have to get even stronger. I refuse to be left behind.'

It wasn't out of envy or animosity, or at least Kuzon didn't think it was. He simply felt the desire to win.

'Jared really is like a rival to me.'

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[A/N]

What do you think of Jared's Primeval Magic? Pretty cool, yeah?