Chapter 692
Ren Xue
Dai Chengfeng nodded understandingly. Qian Renxue was undergoing the Angel God Trial, a major event concerning the future of the Spirit Hall and even the continent's格局 (geju, a term referring to the overall situation or landscape of the continent), and absolutely no mistakes could be tolerated. Hiding their relationship was a way to protect her.
"Secondly," Qian Daoliu continued, "since you have sworn to be worthy of standing beside Xue'er, then prove it to me. Five years. I will give you five years. If within five years you can break through to the Soul Douluo level and lead your team to achieve results that will attract attention throughout the continent in the Elite Tournament of Advanced Soul Master Academies, I will officially agree to your marriage and personally officiate for you."
Five years to become a Contra Master! And to achieve dazzling results in the Soul Master Competition!
This requirement is undeniably demanding. For ordinary Soul Masters, the journey from Soul King to Soul Douluo might take decades. Even with Dai Chengfeng's exceptional talent, crossing the Soul Emperor and Soul Saint thresholds within five years to reach Soul Douluo is virtually unimaginable. The Soul Master Tournament is the highest-level stage for the younger generation, teeming with formidable competitors. To achieve a "result that garners attention across the entire continent," one must at least be a champion, and with overwhelming dominance.
But Dai Chengfeng only thought for a moment before nodding without hesitation: "This junior accepts. Five years from now, we will definitely fulfill our promise and marry Xue'er in a grand and glorious ceremony!"
His eyes held no fear or hesitation, only unwavering determination and confidence. He possessed the insight of a transmigrator, the potential of twin martial souls (his second martial soul yet to manifest), the aptitude for improvement from immortal herbs, and a vague understanding of various opportunities from his past life. Five years as a Soul Douluo would be arduous, but not without hope! As for the Soul Master Tournament championship? That was already one of his goals!
Seeing Dai Chengfeng so readily agree to this nearly impossible condition, a barely perceptible hint of admiration finally flashed in Qian Daoliu's eyes. To back down in the face of difficulty is unworthy of being a good match for Xue'er; but blind confidence is foolish. Dai Chengfeng's gaze told him that this young man understood the challenge, yet still possessed the courage and confidence to take on the challenge. Such character was rare.
"Third," Qian Daoliu said, adding the final point, "before you have sufficient strength, and before Xue'er completes the divine test, you must exercise restraint. Do not let personal feelings interfere with important matters, and even more so, do not... cause anyone to die, understand?"
The last sentence was said subtly, but Dai Chengfeng blushed and immediately understood what Qian Daoliu meant: a reminder to be mindful of their actions and not to have a child out of wedlock, as that would greatly affect Qian Renxue's voice and divine examination. He solemnly replied, "This junior understands and will be cautious, prioritizing Xue'er's future."
"Hmm." Qian Daoliu nodded, picked up the slightly cooled tea, took a sip, and marked the end of the conversation. "Remember your promise. Go now, Xue'er must be getting impatient."
"Yes, this junior will take his leave." Dai Chengfeng stood up, bowed respectfully again, and then left the flower hall.
He hadn't gone far from the flower hall when a beautiful figure carrying a delicate fragrance rushed into his arms and hugged him tightly.
"You fool...who told you to make that kind of vow..." Qian Renxue's voice, trembling with sobs, sounded muffled against his chest, her tears quickly soaking his clothes.
Dai Chengfeng gently embraced her, softly stroking her long hair, and laughed, "If I didn't say something a bit harsh, how could I move your grandfather's heart of stone? See, didn't I pass the test?"
"What do you mean, 'heartless'? Don't talk about my grandfather like that!" Qian Renxue raised her tearful eyes, glaring at him reproachfully, but her eyes were full of heartache and lingering fear. "Five years to become a Soul Douluo... do you know how difficult that is? And then there's the Grand Tournament championship... why did you agree to such harsh conditions... we can take it slowly, Grandpa will..." "How long is 'one day'? I don't want to wait." Dai Chengfeng gently wiped away the tears on her face with his fingers, his gaze gentle yet firm. "Five years, it will pass quickly. Believe me, I can definitely do it. I want everyone on the continent to know that the man you, Qian Renxue, have chosen is worthy of you, qualified to stand by your side, and share glory with you."
Looking into the burning light in his eyes, Qian Renxue felt a surge of warmth and confidence in her heart, and nodded emphatically: "Yes, I believe in you."
The two embraced for a moment before their emotions gradually calmed down.
"By the way, what did Grandpa say to you last?" Qian Renxue asked curiously, only vaguely hearing the words "restraint" and "human life".
Dai Chengfeng coughed lightly, his expression somewhat unnatural: "It's nothing, he just reminded us... um... to take care of our health and not to neglect our cultivation."
Qian Renxue was incredibly clever. Seeing his expression and recalling her outrageous behavior a few days ago, she instantly understood. Two blushes immediately appeared on her pretty face, and she punched him lightly, both embarrassed and annoyed: "It's all your fault!"
"Yes, yes, it's all my fault." Dai Chengfeng laughed as he accepted her teasing, and took her hand. "Let's go, see me out? And... take me around Wuhun City? I've been here for so long, and I haven't really seen this holy city in the hearts of all the soul masters in the world."
"Mmm." Qian Renxue nodded, took his arm, and smiled as brightly as the sun. The anxiety of the past few days had completely disappeared, leaving only sweetness and anticipation for the future.
The two leaned against each other and slowly walked out of the Spirit Hall. Sunlight shone on them, casting long shadows, as if foreshadowing a long but hopeful road stretching out beneath their feet.
Behind them, by the window of the flower hall, Qian Daoliu stood with his hands behind his back, silently watching the two figures disappear into the distance, his gaze complex. There was relief, worry, and expectation, which ultimately turned into a barely audible sigh.
"Xue'er, you chose this path yourself. I hope... your choice is right. Dai Chengfeng... don't disappoint me, and even more so, don't... let Xue'er down." (End of Chapter)