The moment Xiao Ming's foot touched the thread, a chilling energy surged up his leg, biting into his skin like frost-laced needles.
He suppressed a shiver and steadied his breath, forcing his mind to remain calm despite the icy tendrils of fear creeping into his thoughts.
The thread pulsed faintly under his weight, its silken surface unnaturally firm yet flexible, as though it were alive and testing his resolve. Each step felt like balancing on the edge of a blade's tooth, demanding absolute focus and precision.
At the heart of the web, the monstrous spider stirred. Its eight glowing eyes locked onto Xiao Ming, gleaming with sinister amusement, as though it were savoring the anticipation of his struggle.
Without warning, one of its legs twitched, sending a ripple through the web.
A nearly invisible strand of silk darted toward Xiao Ming's chest, sharp as a blade and laced with spiritual energy that crackled faintly in the air.
