The flashback continues, painting a vivid picture of Joker's return from "the other side." Defeated and humiliated, Joker reentered the Land of Spade, his aura darkened by the weight of his loss. The memory of the enigmatic mage who had bested him haunted his every thought. Meanwhile, Zack had experienced a victory of his own on the other side. He had faced a formidable swordsman and emerged triumphant, awakening the Blade of God in the process. This victory solidified Zack's reputation as an undefeated warrior, a stark contrast to Joker's recent failure.77Please respect copyright.PENANAEKI8iVVqiW
Joker's defeat left a lingering bitterness. The realization that collecting all nine jewels would not grant him the Pure Heart shattered his ambitions. The combination of this failure and his humiliating loss ignited a burning envy towards his brother Zack, who remained undefeated. This envy festered, driving Joker to take drastic actions.77Please respect copyright.PENANAn571zXjNba
Determined to exact his vengeance, Joker devised a plan that would change the course of their lives. He traveled to the Kingdom of Serrand and sought an audience with the First King of the kingdom. Using the Corrupt Heart ability "Contract," Joker struck a dark bargain with the king. The contract stipulated that the king would challenge Zack to a sword duel, and should the king lose, he would place a curse on Zack.77Please respect copyright.PENANAMP3RrR7Mb3
Joker set the stage perfectly, telling Zack they were going to the Kingdom of Serrand to negotiate a peace treaty. Zack, unaware of his brother's true intentions, agreed to the journey. Upon their arrival, Zack found himself facing the king in a sword duel. The battle was intense, but Zack's prowess with the Blade of God was unmatched. He quickly gained the upper hand, driving the king to the brink of defeat.77Please respect copyright.PENANA4UJM9UbJTY
As the king fell to his knees, he revealed the true nature of Joker's scheme. "You have bested me in combat, Zack," the king said, his voice filled with a mix of respect and malevolence. "But know this: I have placed a curse upon you. You shall never lose a battle until the day I am resurrected in the spirit of another great swordsman's blade."77Please respect copyright.PENANAThNMxUdXv3
Zack's eyes widened in shock as the king's words sank in. "Remember the name Ivel," the king continued, his voice echoing with a haunting finality. "For it is the name you will face when the day of your defeat comes."77Please respect copyright.PENANAbMBYdY7Xxo
The revelation struck Zack like a thunderbolt. The curse laid upon him by King Ivel was a dark shadow over his victories, a constant reminder of the treacherous path his brother had led him down. Joker, standing nearby, watched with a twisted smile, his envy temporarily sated by the curse he had orchestrated.77Please respect copyright.PENANA2kQVB9aoVc