The phoenix-like creature burst into view, its form a striking anomaly that drew gasps from both allies and enemies. No true phoenix bore three legs or three eyes, nor did it exude such a regal, obsidian-black aura. Legends painted phoenixes as noble beings, wreathed in vibrant red flames, their beauty a symbol of rebirth and purity. This entity, however, radiated an aura of ancient mystery and raw power, its feathers shimmering like polished onyx under the dim forest light.
Baines, undeterred by the stares, focused on testing the Jhuxi's combat potential. He released the summoning mark on his hand, watching as the creature materialized fully. To his surprise, it drew no mana from him. It's not using my power? he realized, recalling the Jhuxi's words: bound by the contractor's abilities and level, but silent on consuming their energy. This meant the Jhuxi could wield assimilated powers freely, limited only by its imagination and the ten-minute window.
