Adrian was never one to back down. Since his opponent clearly wanted him dead, he wouldn’t just sit by and accept his fate. Even if it cost him his life, he wouldn’t allow himself to be humiliated so easily.

In that instant, powerful energy surged around him. The terrifying force he released seemed strong enough to shake heaven and earth, faint sparks flickering around his body. He sensed his strength advancing rapidly, his inner core refining at a furious pace. Yet, oddly enough, no external threat appeared. It was as if the crisis had vanished entirely.

Adrian opened his eyes, his gaze steely with cold determination and a glint of murderous intent. He could feel his power growing once again. However, something felt strange. The mysterious Phoenix Tree, lurking in the shadows, hadn’t acted against him, allowing him to refine his core undisturbed.

This left him even more puzzled. What was the Phoenix Tree’s intention? If it had truly wanted to test him, it had already missed the per