Marcello stepped forward and said, “There’s no need to waste our time. I’ll simply fight against everyone else.”

“Oh?” Stunned, the shadow looked at Marcello and asked, “Are you saying that you intend to challenge everyone here?”

“Yes.” Marcello nodded.

“Good!” The shadow cheered, “I love courageous folks like you. How about this? If you can defeat everyone else here, I’ll also give you the right to advance to the ninth barrier straight away.”

“Remember to keep your word,” Marcello said smilingly.

The Son of Heaven was displeased. When he saw that Marcello had the right to advance to the final barrier, he stepped forward and asked, “What right does he have to be given such a prerogative? Everyone made their way here with our effort and hard work alone. Why do they have the right to advance directly to the final barrier? I object to this.”

The shadow looked at him and asked, “Are you displeased with my decision?”

“Yes,” the Son of Heaven said with determination, “I should