Shadow Phoenix's Trial (5) – Bottleneck

Xiao Ming let out a long, shuddering breath as his foot finally touched the stable core of the web. The pulsating threads beneath him hummed in response, resonating with the triumphant energy radiating from his body.

The oppressive spiritual aura that had weighed down on him during the trial eased slightly, though the sensation of lingering danger never fully faded.

It was as if the web itself was alive, a living, breathing entity that had tested him to his limits and now grudgingly acknowledged his victory.

At the center of the web, a platform of dense shadow materialized, solidifying beneath his feet as he stood tall, his Heavenly Flame Sword resting loosely in his grip.

The blade, once blazing with fiery dao qi, now glowed faintly, its energy subdued but still steady—a reflection of Xiao Ming's own state.