The oppressive forces descending from the void seemed determined to halt Adrian’s ascent up the staircase.

Yet he refused to yield. To him, these overwhelming challenges were merely obstacles to conquer.

He pressed forward with relentless determination.

Thunderbolts continued to rain down, but the ominous red light from before did not return—a relief, as he never wished to endure its crushing weight again.

The memory of that light still haunted him, leaving a lingering sense of helplessness.