Just as Max was about to trigger the detonation of the dark sphere, an unexpected surge of power burst from within. Jonathan shattered free from the black flames, his figure erupting outward as if reborn from fire, and he came flying toward Max with the ferocity of a dark phoenix.
Black flames clung to Jonathan's body, and a pair of phoenix wings formed behind his back, radiating an oppressive aura as he closed the distance and launched a punch straight at Max.
Max's eyes narrowed in surprise. He had never anticipated that Jonathan would break free from the Absolute Reaper so easily, let alone counterattack immediately. Still, his reaction was swift. Drawing upon the Flame Tyrant Inheritance, blazing flames surged from his right hand and condensed into a massive gauntlet of fire as he swung his fist forward to meet Jonathan's incoming strike head on.
