Behind them stretched the second wave of disciples.
This group had not surged forward as aggressively, yet they were far from weak. Around the five hundred mile mark, the flame pressure had grown significantly more oppressive. The golden path here no longer shimmered softly. It pulsed with heat that pressed down like a physical weight.
Max walked steadily within this second group, with Carl and Laura not far from his sides. Sweat glistened faintly on Laura's forehead, though her steps remained firm. Carl's breathing had grown heavier, yet he gritted his teeth and continued forward.
Max's expression was calm, but inside, he was carefully regulating his Divine Essence. The opened divine vein within him absorbed part of the scorching energy, refining it subtly before dispersing it through his body. Unlike many others, he did not release an outward burst of aura. He conserved his strength, choosing stability over display.
