At the very bottom of the Heavenly Refining Qi Tower, scorching air distorted the view.
Fire-attributed energy, pure to the point of near viscosity, filled the air.
At the center of the bottom level stood a massive hollow. Looking down through it revealed a dark crimson lava lake, slowly churning below.
Eleven people stood before Su Qian.
"...Although Heart Flame body tempering is a benefit reserved for the top ten of our academy's Strong Ranking, it is not entirely safe."
"By drawing a wisp of pure Fallen Heart Flame origin into your body and using the Heart Flame's burning force to temper your bones and cleanse your meridians, you can remove hidden injuries and strengthen your foundation.
"Those who succeed will face far fewer obstacles when breaking through to the Dou Wang realm and beyond. Their Dou Qi will also become more condensed."
Su Qian changed his tone. "However, failure is also common.
"The Heart Flame is merciless, and the tempering process is excruciating. You must guard your Spirit Platform and endure through gritted teeth. If your mind loses focus, or if your physical body and meridians cannot withstand it, the Heart Flame will backlash. At best, you will be injured; at worst, your foundation will be damaged.
"Remember, act within your limits and do not force it. Even failure is not the end. Train diligently afterward, and you may still have the chance to climb to the peak."
The crowd wore varied expressions, but they all nodded.
After finishing his instructions, Su Qian gave the elders beside him a slight nod.
Eleven invisible, transparent spheres, each roughly the size of a human head, were brought out one after another.
"First, Zi Yan."
Su Qian called her name.
A delicate purple figure stepped out from the crowd, immediately drawing everyone's