The End

*Thanks to the rift I'd planted earlier.*

The rift would continue to grow inside, so I dodged the Duke of the North's attacks, waiting for it to expand sufficiently.

*Just a little longer.*

There was no need to clash directly. All I had to do was evade or block the Duke of the North's attacks until the rift grew to a certain size. So, I twisted and struggled with all my might, just trying to buy time.

As if sensing my plan, the Duke of the North suddenly stopped in his tracks. He then drew his sword to the center of his body, beginning to channel immense Demonic Energy into it.

Feeling the air violently shake, I realized the Duke of the North was preparing the most powerful attack he could unleash to end this situation. I created a Shadow Passage.

*If it's too fast, I'll have no choice but to escape through this.*

Part of me wanted to use the Shadow Passage to flee far away. But if I did, there was no telling what damage the Duke of the North might inflict on the surroundings. Moreover, I suspected he could track my mana residue and follow me even through the Shadow Passage, so I decided to stand and fight here.

*One way or another, I have to fight him.*

I gripped my mace tightly, watching countless Dark Red Eyes appear around the Duke of the North. He slowly opened his eyes and unleashed a massive Sword Strike at me...