188 The Third Trial: The Final Confrontation

As Adam's ghostly form recovered in the real world, the clean essence melded with his soul, overpowering his apprentice-level negative energy with its gentle but powerful tier-six strength.

Embracing his body, the essence progressed towards his head, finally reaching the deep-seated madness hiding in the snapped corner of his mind.

Assaulted in its last bastion, the chaotic insanity shook wildly, trying to defend its territory. Alas, it failed to resist. Like the rising tides of the sea, light-grey currents washed over it, scattering and healing the remnants of the craziness spawned by the first trial's bear.

Upon feeling the ally he leaned on for so many years dissipate, Adam couldn't help but mutter, "Thank you... But I can't rely on you anymore. I must find my own strengths. After all, I don't want to become the maddest person, even if I can."