A hoarse voice, like sandpaper scraping metal, came from behind the visor. It was not loud, yet everyone on the bridge heard it clearly:
"Those who cross the bridge must first pass my spear."
Bing Yekong did not move. "What are the rules?"
"The rules are simple," the knight said. "I, Dread Knight Scott, guard this bridge under the King of Slaughter's command. Anyone wishing to enter Slaughter City must survive three exchanges beneath my spear. If you remain standing after three exchanges, you may pass. If you fall within three exchanges..." He paused, and there was not a trace of emotion in his ash-gray eyes. "You die."
"Three exchanges?"
"Three exchanges." Scott raised his spear, its tip pointing at Bing Yekong's throat. "You may use any means you wish. Soul skills, martial souls, fists, teeth—it is all allowed. No methods are forbidden here. Only life and death matter."
Bing Yekong nodded.
He took one step forward onto the bridge.
As his second step landed, the Tianshuang Sword had appeared in his hand.
The sword was entirely icy blue, cold air rolling from it as a thin layer of frost covered its edge.
The moment the sword was drawn, the temperature on the bridge dropped several degrees. The sword's icy-blue radiance looked especially striking amid the dark crimson glow.
Scott's horse snorted out a puff of white mist. The black steed stamped its hooves uneasily.
"An ice-element weapon martial soul." There was no telling whether Scott's voice held admiration or contempt. "Those with your attribute are uncommon in Slaughter City."
"See enough of them, and they stop being unusual," Bing Yekong said. "Let's begin."
Scott did not say another word.
The black horse suddenly charged forward, its iron hooves striking sparks from the stone.
Scott swept his spear upward. The