Ji Juechen sliced his fingertip. Warm blood dripped onto the blade of Cease War.
A dark red glow raced along the sword's fine forging patterns and enveloped the entire blade in an instant.
The hazy image of a sword slowly rose behind him, its outline identical to Cease War.
Huo Yuhao's pupils contracted slightly.
This was no ordinary sword spirit taking up residence in a blade.
It was Ji Juechen's inborn Martial Soul, actively fusing with the spirit weapon Cease War to coexist as one.
Ji Juechen said nothing. His long lashes lowered as he closed his eyes. Every gust of wind and every clamor fell away, until the sword in his hand seemed to be all that remained in the world.
A few breaths later, Ji Juechen snapped his eyes open. His dark gaze was as sharp as a sword drawn from its sheath.
"Spar with me."
His words were crisp and direct, without a trace of pleasantry.
A faint smile touched Huo Yuhao's lips.
"As it happens, I had the same idea."
Huo Yuhao nodded slowly. He had already made up his mind.
Empty talk would never win this proud swordsman's heartfelt recognition. Only a thrilling fight that settled who was stronger could do that!
Winning someone over was never about coercion. It was about earning sincere respect through strength.
"I hope you'll use all the strength you showed in the arena." Ji Juechen gripped Cease War's hilt with one hand. His shoulders and back tensed as his body settled into its best fighting stance.
"I always respect an opponent who gives his all. I hope you'll do the same." Huo Yuhao's expression turned solemn. If Ji Juechen held back, Huo Yuhao would have a thing or two to say about it.
Huo Yuhao cast aside every stray