Upon this thought, Yuan Ming dispersed the fiery clouds in the sky and descended near Hua Zhi to protect her.

But as soon as Yuan Ming landed, his legs suddenly gave way, and his body was racked with unbearable stabbing pain, as if flames were burning inside him. He wished he could tear open his flesh with his fingers to let this scorching power dissipate somewhat.

"Poisoned? Could there be hidden enemies nearby?" He was both shocked and furious, enduring the intense pain as he gathered his mana and swept his spiritual consciousness around.

However, the surroundings were quiet, with no enemies in sight.