Kai's essence core ignited with power that made the air itself scream.
Across seventeen loops, he had accumulated knowledge, experience, and raw cultivation strength that no second-year student should possess. He had died zero times but lived subjectively for eight years, each reset adding layers to his foundation that compounded like interest in a vault.
The prismatic light emanating from his eyes intensified, casting rainbow shadows across the poisoned chamber. His borrowed sword began to vibrate as the steel was unable to properly contain the essence he was channeling through it.
Derek's laughter died in his throat. "What... what are you?"
Kai didn't answer. His sword came up, and six elements plus shadow essence flooded the blade simultaneously with perfect, absolute control. The weapon glowed so bright that students had to shield their eyes.
Then he moved.
