Although Chen Lin did not regard Xitina as his Companion, he could not allow someone to harass her right in front of him.
This was a matter of dignity.
If he backed down now, even his Dao Heart would waver.
Besides, he trusted Xitina. She was deeply mysterious, and since she dared to accept the wager, she must have had something to rely on.
Both sides stood with swords drawn and bows bent.
The onlookers nearby immediately grew excited.
They were in no hurry to solve riddles anymore, craning their necks to watch the drama unfold.
Instead, the three-horned creature grew hesitant, cowed by Chen Lin's imposing presence.
Because Chen Lin wore the Xikuli Cloak, he could not gauge Chen Lin's strength and did not dare rashly agree to take his attack.
Although attacking one another was forbidden here, once a wager was established, that restriction no longer applied.
Death became a real possibility.
"Ni Laosan, why are you chickening out? How are you going to become an Earl with that pathetic attitude? Would you even dare attempt the ascension mission? If you can't handle it, give me the Invitation Letter!"
"Hahaha!"
A one-eyed man nearby jeered, drawing a roar of laughter.
This left the three-horned creature unable to save face.
His expression shifted repeatedly.
But Chen Lin's interest stirred at those words.
He glanced at Xitina beside him, then felt her gently squeeze his hand and discreetly tap it.
That set his mind at ease.
He immediately snorted at the three-horned creature.
"Hmph, what's wrong? Afraid to accept the challenge? And don't accuse me of bullying the weak. If you aren't confident you can withstand one attack from me, let's change the stakes. If you lose, you'll give me your Marquis Invitation Letter along with the thousand Lanshan Coins."