Howard has risen to the Core Formation stage, gaining powerful cultivation and claiming dominance, which he uses to threaten Sherlyn, who once rejected him. Leo Doyle, a peak Core Formation cultivator, intervenes when Howard tries to force Sherlyn's submission. Despite Howard’s challenge, Leo easily overpowers him, revealing a significant gap in their strength. As Howard demands Sherlyn kneel before him, no one initially steps up to oppose the threat until an unidentified figure boldly announces themselves, setting the stage for a sudden confrontation.