Bad Man! Humph . . .
"This power... I can feel its profound effects, but I can't discern its true purpose. Could it be more than just a means to enhance my physical attributes?" Cha Eun Xiao pondered, a hint of confusion in his thoughts.
Under normal circumstances, thanks to his cultivation of the East-rising Purple Qi, his body should have been perfected. The need for further modification seemed unnecessary. Yet, he knew that Brother Egg had a purpose behind it, even if he couldn't quite grasp the reasoning.
Another peculiarity Cha Eun Xiao noticed was the ancient aura within this power. It emanated an essence that seemed to originate from the very heart of the universe, from deep within the cosmic tapestry.
Unable to fathom its true purpose, Cha Eun Xiao chose to set it aside for the time being. He concluded his cultivation and took some time to rest. After dinner, he sat alone in his room, contemplating the uncertainties that lay ahead. He remained unfazed by Second Prince's intentions for the night, considering it an overestimation of the prince's capabilities.
Cha Eun Xiao held a position of immense power, both in terms of cultivation and influence within this world. His ability to safeguard Bing-Er was unquestionable. His main concern was guiding her into the world and preparing her for the harsh realities she would eventually face.
As much as he wished to preserve Bing-Er's innocence, Song Jue's words resonated with him. It was impossible to shield her from life's cruelties indefinitely. She would inevitably have to confront the darker aspects of existence. In the same way that the maids Wan of Clouds and Xiu of Heavens had chosen to seek their own path and fame in the mortal world, Bing-Er would need to forge her own destiny.
The harsh, brutal, malevolent, and repulsive truths were experiences she would eventually have to come to terms with. Without his protection in the martial world, her vulnerabilities could lead to significant trauma. Cha Eun Xiao was acutely aware of the difference between Bing-Er and the maids Wan and Xiu. He believed in her potential and envisioned her becoming a figure of unparalleled prominence.
"I will dance amidst the chaos and astonish the universe in the future. Bing-Er possesses extraordinary talent and is advancing rapidly in her cultivation. She can undoubtedly catch up to me. I don't want her to be confined to the role of a maid, like Wan and Xiu. I want her to be a unique and prominent figure in the world," Cha Eun Xiao mused.
"What I desire is not to merely be fearsome in the Land of Han-Yang or shine brightly in the Qing-Yun Realm. Even in the Human Realm Upon Heavens... I can stay in the shadows. As long as Bing-Er makes her entrance, she can astound the universe. She can defy the heavens and command the world. That's the Bing-Er I envision, and she undoubtedly possesses the potential."
"She needs practice, and she must undergo it," Cha Eun Xiao resolved.
"It doesn't matter whether that foolish prince shows up or not. But if he does..." Cha Eun Xiao's countenance darkened. "I don't care about his lineage. If he dares to act recklessly here tonight, I will ensure he and his entire house are consumed by darkness."
As night fell, the city's lights were illuminated. Cha Eun Xiao sat in his residence, vigilant and prepared for the inevitable.
He was confident that Second Prince would act based on his previous actions. A prince would never engage in such recklessness at a crucial juncture.
Bing-Er's beauty had already become an exceedingly potent weapon.
Earlier that day, Song Jue had expressed a degree of helplessness.
"In the Land of Han-Yang or the Qing-Yun Realm, I have ample experience. Yet, I have never encountered a girl more beautiful than Bing-Er."
"She possesses a unique and unparalleled beauty in history."
"No matter which realm she resides in, her beauty alone will sow disaster."
"In a world where strength is paramount, beauty is a curse."
"Her beauty will cause those around her to lose their lives, their hope, and their future simply because of her extraordinary appearance."
"Xiao Xiao, if you want Bing-Er to remain by your side, you cannot rely solely on protection. You are too weak for that, and Bing-Er is too frail."
"Consider yourself fortunate; this is only a lower realm with laws governing people's conduct. It's a far better situation. Even if a prince attempts to claim Bing-Er, we can handle it. It won't result in any tragedy... However, once you enter the Qing-Yun Realm, you'll realize that Second Prince isn't nearly as unreasonable as he appears. The people in the Qing-Yun Realm can be ten thousand times more ruthless than him. Moreover, they are all at least ten thousand times more powerful."
"With your current strength, if you were to enter the Qing-Yun Realm with Bing-Er, she would become another's plaything within three days. You wouldn't even have a chance to resist the might of those formidable individuals."
"So work harder, kid."
After sharing his advice, Song Jue sighed and departed.
Cha Eun Xiao remained silent, watching Song Jue's retreating figure. He knew that Song Jue's words were rooted in truth.
"Uncle Song, you have no idea. I'm originally from the Qing-Yun Realm, and I'm well aware that you're speaking the truth," Cha Eun Xiao responded confidently.
"Regardless of the dangers that await in the Qing-Yun Realm, I will return there someday. No matter who dares to harm us, I will make sure their entire family pays for it," Cha Eun Xiao declared, determination in his voice.
"In Qing-Yun Realm, where there seems to be no law, I will be the law. I may be protective, but who wouldn't want to protect someone like Bing-Er? I can guide her, but I will never allow anyone to harm her," he continued.
"In the chaos of the future, there will be a beauty by my side as I look down upon the world. Because I am Cha Xiao, Xiao Monarch, Cha Eun Xiao!" he declared resolutely.
Sitting with his eyes half-closed, Cha Eun Xiao appeared stoic as he contemplated the events to come. After some time, he appeared more composed, having resolved his thoughts and quelled his anxiety.
Bing-Er lingered nearby, her eyes occasionally glancing at Cha Eun Xiao's face. She had been waiting for him, concerned about his state of mind. As she observed his improved demeanor, she breathed a sigh of relief and began to move about in front of him.
Wanting to speak but hesitating, Bing-Er struggled to find her voice. She hoped to express herself but remained cautious.
Cha Eun Xiao was aware of her intentions but pretended not to notice, curious about how long she would hold out.
Ultimately, as he prepared to rise, Bing-Er rushed toward him. Her large, expressive eyes locked onto his, and she waited, eager to speak.
As he inquired about her concerns, she spoke in a hushed tone, "Master, is it good that I changed my sword art? Is it satisfactory?"
Cha Eun Xiao nodded, "Yes, it should be quite good."
"Only quite good?" Bing-Er questioned, a touch of disappointment in her voice.
Upon realizing the power of her altered sword art, she had felt a sense of accomplishment and pride. Her self-esteem had been bolstered by her newfound abilities.
Hoping for a compliment from Cha Eun Xiao, she was disheartened by his lukewarm response.
"Is it merely 'quite good'?" Bing-Er inquired, her eyes filled with anticipation.
Cha Eun Xiao, suppressing a smile, attempted to comfort her, "It's more than just 'okay.'"
"Only 'okay'?..." Bing-Er lowered her head, her disappointment evident.
She had eagerly sought praise from Cha Eun Xiao, and she felt embarrassed that her accomplishments had only garnered a lackluster response.
"Is it really just 'okay'?" Bing-Er asked with hope in her voice.
"Indeed, not just 'okay,'" Cha Eun Xiao conceded, realizing her desire for recognition.
Bing-Er's expression immediately brightened, but it soon turned somber. She had been so eager for a compliment and was disheartened by Cha Eun Xiao's response.
"Is it just 'okay'?" Bing-Er asked, disappointment coloring her voice.
Cha Eun Xiao could no longer contain his laughter and seized Bing-Er, drawing her into his arms. He kissed her on the cheek and chuckled, "I misspoke; it's not just 'okay.'"
Bing-Er, wide-eyed, looked at him and asked, "Didn't you say it was just 'okay'?"
Laughing, Cha Eun Xiao gently touched her lovely face and admitted, "I lied to you, alright?"
Bing-Er eventually grasped the truth and exclaimed, "You're a bad man!"
She initially struggled to break free but then relaxed, like a small cat nestled in Cha Eun Xiao's embrace. It felt warm and comforting, and she relished the moment, wishing it could last forever.