Chapter 36: Proving Grounds

Aric stood in the clearing, his arms crossed, watching Victor with a scrutinizing gaze. The older man's presence was formidable, his aura crackling with latent energy. "Victor," he called out, his voice steady. "It's time to see what you have achieved in the cave. Show me your progress."

Victor nodded, stepping forward with determination. He could feel the power of the shadow coursing through him, a dark, cold energy that he had come to understand and control during his time in the cave. He unsheathed his sword, its aura now a deep, shadowy hue.

The duel began with a burst of movement. Aric's sword gleamed with electric energy, striking out with incredible speed. Victor dodged, slipping into his own shadow just as the lightning-infused blade sliced through the air where he had stood.

Emerging from the shadows behind Aric, Victor launched a counterattack. His sword, now imbued with shadow aura, clashed against Aric's blade, the dark energy creating a stark contrast against the brilliant lightning. The impact was powerful, sending shockwaves through the ground.

Aric responded with a surge of lightning, the electric bolts dancing around him as he advanced. Victor anticipated the attack, melding into the shadows once more. He reappeared behind Aric, his movements swift and almost ethereal. This time, his sword struck with a force that cleaved the ground, sending a shockwave that split the earth beneath them.

Aric narrowly avoided the full brunt of the attack, but the sheer power of Victor's strike grazed him. He staggered slightly but quickly regained his footing, a proud smile on his face. "Well done, Victor," he said, his voice tinged with pride. "You've managed to land a blow. That's no small feat."

Victor, breathing heavily, lowered his sword slightly. He could see the respect in Aric's eyes, and it filled him with a sense of accomplishment.

Aric sheathed his sword, walking over to Victor. "Your training is complete," he declared. "You have come a long way and are nearing the level of the ten strongest warriors in the world. But remember, the path ahead is still long and arduous."

Victor nodded, understanding the weight of Aric's words. He knew that his journey was far from over and that greater challenges awaited him. But with the power of the shadow now under his control, he felt ready to face whatever came next.

Aric placed a hand on Victor's shoulder. "You've made me proud. Continue to grow stronger, and one day, you might stand among the greatest. But for now, rest and prepare. Your true journey is just beginning."

Victor looked up at the sky, the sun casting its warm glow over the clearing. He felt a sense of resolve and determination. With his training complete, he was ready to take on the world and carve out his place among the legends.