Chapter-246

From the gallery, Marlin and Stephen watched anxiously. Not because they are thinking that Sin won't be able to take up that monster but they are longing to leap to their master's aid against this vile monster. But they knew this was Sin's destined battle alone.

"Have faith in our Lord's abilities," Stephen urged the antsy Marlin. "His knowledge makes him powerful." Marlin nodded reluctantly, though his leg bounced with nervous energy.

Far below, after avoiding another swipe from Mathim's claws, Sin landed a barrage of strikes along the demon's chest. Mathim recoiled from the blessed strikes, his arrogance briefly replaced by shock.

Pressing his momentary advantage, Sin charged forward to drive his sword directly into the demon's black heart. But Mathim recovered quickly, catching the blade with one clawed hand just before it pierced his chest.

"Clever indeed," the demon panted, blood oozing from his wounds. "But not enough to slay me!"

Sin narrowed his eyes, resolute. "We shall see."

Up in the gallery, Marlin and Stephen spectated with bated breath. Though confused about the sinister statements being exchanged, they could sense the immense power flowing between the two finalists. Their master was facing his greatest challenge yet.

With a grunt of exertion, Mathim managed to deflect Sin's sword long enough to leap backward and create space between them. There was a predatory excitement in the demon's eyes now.

"As entertaining as it is to exchange blows, I think it's time we stop holding back," Mathim declared. Drawing on his vile demonic energy, he summoned swirling flames into his palms. The arena floor began cracking under the intense heat.

Sin's eyes narrowed. He had hoped to avoid utilizing his full strengths with so many spectators present. But he should have known better than to expect restraint from a savage demon.

Channeling power into his blade, Sin prepared to unleash his own techniques. If Mathim wished to turn this into a true contest of their hidden abilities, then so be it.

"I will enjoy thoroughly destroying you again, beast," Sin stated coldly. "This time, I will ensure every last trace of your essence is eradicated."

Mathim cackled gleefully, the promise of all-out war thrilling his twisted demon soul. "Give me your best shot, boy!"

As the arena rumbled with the force of their explosive clashes, Sin briefly disengaged and sprang backward to create space between himself and the demon Mathim. Though the vile beast was still standing, Sin could tell his barrage of lightning strikes had done damage.

Focusing his senses, Sin swiftly analyzed Mathim's energy. As expected, the demon was still concealing the bulk of his powers - his aura pulsed at the 99th level, an unfathomable height for mortal creatures. And Sin could detect no trace of Mathim's original body either. Just as in their first encounter, the demon was hiding within an overtaken human vessel.

"Why do you continue disguising your true self?" Sin called out, buying precious seconds to catch his breath. "Are you afraid to unleash your real might, demon?"

Mathim scowled, clearly irritated by the verbal prodding. But to Sin's surprise, the demon responded seriously.

"My king has ordered we remain concealed in mortal form during this era," Mathim answered in an ominous tone. "Lucifer does not want heaven learning of our return until the time is right."

Sin's eyes widened slightly at the mention of Lucifer - according to lore, he was the very king of demons and their vile god of chaos. For the 72 Pillars to be answering to Lucifer's commands again meant turbulent times were coming.

Up in the stands, Marlin and Stephen exchanged uneasy looks. Neither recognized exactly what was unfolding, but they could sense the gravity in their master's energy. This was no mere battle - the fate of the realm hung in the balance.

Regaining his composure, Sin pointed his sword firmly at Mathim once more. "It matters not what form you take," he declared. "I will banish you and your wicked ilk back to the abyss where you belong!"

Mathim threw back his head and cackled at the bold pronouncement. "Delightful bravado! But Lucifer's new era is nigh. You face forces beyond your comprehension, mortal."

Dark power radiated from the demon now, cracking the arena floor beneath him. But Sin remained unshaken, his blade glowing brightly in response. After a lifetime of training, he had been born for this exact purpose - to stand against the tides of darkness.

"It is you who fails to comprehend true power," Sin responded calmly. "Divine justice will prevail."

As the final battle intensified, Sin decided it was time to unleash his full arsenal against the demon Mathim. Creating distance with a forceful kick to the beast's chest, Sin leaped backward and sheathed his trusted sword.

Up in the stands, Marlin and Stephen watched eagerly, assuming their master was preparing to draw out his legendary spear next. That mythic weapon was infamous for piercing the most guarded enemies when wielded in Sin's hands.

But instead of grabbing his spear, Sin simply clasped his hands together in front of his chest and closed his eyes. Confused murmurs rose from the spectators who expected him to arm himself with a more powerful physical weapon. Only Marlin and Stephen seemed unsurprised, having faith that whatever Sin was summoning would turn the tide.

Mathim also paused, wary of some unknown technique being prepared. "What tricks do you attempt now, boy?" the demon snarled.

Sin's eyes flashed open, blazing with azure light. "You are about to witness powers beyond a mere weapon."

The ground began rumbling as Sin extended his palms downwards. Suddenly, two colossal wooden arms burst forth from the arena floor on either side of Mathim.

"Divine judgment upon the unjust!" Sin bellowed. The arms glowed with holy energy as Mathim howled in pain and outrage at being ensnared.

From the spectator's gallery, Stephen nodded with contentment. He turned to Marlin, who looked on in awe, and spoke, "The Laughing Buddha technique - truly wise." Stephen was well-acquainted with this technique, as he was a wood release user, a power bestowed upon him by his beloved master. This connection with wood release not only made him appreciate the technique but also set him apart as someone who held special knowledge and a deep bond with his liege. His acknowledgment of the technique's wisdom marked a moment of recognition and shared expertise between Stephen and Marlin.