Chapter 0020

The room quivered with an eerie stillness as Ethan and Marcus locked eyes, their bodies tensed and ready for the final clash. The weight of their past grievances and the consequences of their actions hung heavy in the air, amplifying the intensity of their battle.

Ethan's mind whirled with strategic calculations, his La Place Calculating skill analyzing every move and probability. He knew that this was his moment to deliver the decisive blow, to bring an end to Marcus's reign of darkness. But he also understood the immense danger that lurked within his adversary's powers.

Without warning, Marcus lunged forward, his movements swift and fluid. His hands crackled with energy, emanating an ominous aura. Ethan, however, deftly sidestepped the attack, his agility and reflexes honed to perfection.

"Is this all you have, Marcus?" Ethan taunted, a hint of amusement in his voice. "I expected more from the self-proclaimed king of darkness."

Marcus sneered, his eyes blazing with fury. "You underestimate me, Ethan. You always have. But soon, you will witness the full extent of my power."

Their battle intensified, each exchange of blows resonating with bone-shaking force. The room trembled with the impact of their clashes, debris and shards of shattered objects scattering across the floor. Darkness and light danced together, casting distorted shadows upon the walls.

As the battle raged on, Ethan's genius shone through. He utilized his keen analytical skills to anticipate Marcus's every move, countering with calculated precision. Each strike showcased not only Ethan's physical prowess but also his ability to outmaneuver his opponent mentally.

But Marcus was no ordinary foe. He possessed an uncanny resilience, brushing off Ethan's blows as if they were mere nuisances. Dark tendrils snaked around his arms, enhancing his strength and speed. It was a manifestation of the darkness that had consumed his soul.

Ethan gritted his teeth, his determination unwavering. He refused to let Marcus's power overwhelm him. With a surge of energy, he unleashed a devastating barrage of attacks, channeling his rage and frustration into every strike.

Yet, despite Ethan's relentless assault, Marcus seemed unfazed. A cruel smile twisted his lips, his eyes gleaming with sadistic pleasure. "Your efforts are futile, Ethan. You cannot defeat me."

But just as it seemed Marcus had the upper hand, an unexpected turn of events occurred. The building quaked violently, its structure weakened by the intense battle. Walls crumbled, sending showers of debris cascading down.

In the midst of the chaos, Maya, who had been observing the battle with bated breath, rushed forward with unparalleled determination. With a strength born from her love for Ethan, she pulled Alex, who had been unconscious, to safety.

"Ethan, we have to go! The building is collapsing!" Maya shouted, her voice laced with urgency.

Ethan's eyes widened as he realized the imminent danger they were in. With one final, desperate blow, he pushed Marcus back, creating a momentary opening. Grabbing Maya's hand, he rushed towards the crumbling exit, his heart pounding with adrenaline.

As they raced through the crumbling corridors, the building shook violently. Dust and debris engulfed them, making each step treacherous. Their breaths came in ragged gasps, their survival hanging by a thread.

Finally, they burst through the crumbling entrance, just as the building behind them collapsed in a cacophony of destruction. The world around them blurred, a symphony of chaos and devastation.

As they emerged, Ethan collapsed to his knees, his body trembling with exhaustion. The gravity of their narrow escape settled upon them,

their faces pale with the realization of how close they had come to their demise.

Maya knelt beside Ethan, her voice filled with concern. "Are you alright? We made it out, but..."

Ethan's gaze was fixed on the ruins of the building, his expression a mixture of determination and resolve. "Marcus... He still lives. And as long as he does, we can never truly be safe. I won't rest until he's stopped."

To be continued...