Irene was at a loss for words at Adrian’s response. After a moment, she sighed deeply and said, "Well, fine. Be careful then."

Orson added, "Please do your best, Mr. Adrian. I look forward to seeing you among the ranks of Purecastle." With that, he and his group escorted Irene into Purecastle.

As Adrian watched them depart, he smiled and said, "Hm, Purecastle, huh? This should be interesting."

As Orson had mentioned, Purecastle’s recruitment this time was substantial. Normally, they only took in three hundred new apprentices each year, but this time the number had been expanded to one thousand. Anyone who could pass the trials, regardless of their background, would be made an apprentice.

Before the trials began, Adrian observed the other participants. He noticed several individuals with impressive strength among them, even those he couldn't completely underestimate.

The trials were divided into three stages. The first stage required participants to traverse a canyon. Those who cou