After leaving the Martial Soul Hall Academy, Su Cheng and Qian Renxue didn't rush back to the Elder's Hall to continue their cultivation.
It was still early, and there was no need to hurry with their training techniques.
There were several spacious training grounds behind the Martial Soul City, and the two headed in that direction.
Upon reaching the location, Su Cheng glanced at Qian Renxue, who seemed unusually quiet today. Instead of summoning his martial soul, he stood empty-handed on one side of the training ground and said, "Come on, let me see your self-created soul technique again."
Qian Renxue nodded in response and swiftly moved to the center of the plaza.
Her six-winged angelic martial soul manifested behind her, with seven soul rings silently orbiting beneath her feet.
Without any unnecessary movements, she directly activated her martial soul true body.
Golden light shimmered as the phantom behind her subtly shifted forward, quickly merging with her.
In the next moment, her entire body was rendered pure gold.
Her body was enveloped in dazzling golden flames, with golden lacquer spreading from the roots of the two pairs of pristine white wings on her back, extending to the tips of each feather.
The third pair of wings unfolded.
Qian Renxue stretched out her arms, her slender and graceful figure suspended in mid-air, as the golden light radiated outward.
Within the radiant golden light, another layer of deep and mysterious shadow quietly emerged.
At the same time, the black-winged angelic figure, identical in appearance, condensed beside her, shrouded in shadows and black flames, with long hair displaying a slightly somber silver-gray hue.
Su Cheng nodded silently at the sight.
As expected, after displaying their martial soul true bodies and dual domains once again, both Qian Renxue's showed a certain degree of change in appearance, aura, and the nature of their domains.
Clearly, due to just starting to cultivate the technique, the effects of the innate skill were extremely significant, leading to tremendous transformations and improvements in these past few days.
Under the influence of their domains, both souls were flawless.
In Su Cheng's perception, even without coordinated cooperation, they almost doubled their combat power compared to their original selves.
The only limitation lay in the endurance of their physical bodies, which might struggle to sustain two fully empowered souls for long.
However, the innate skill also enhanced the body's endurance, so Qian Rinyue's stamina in prolonged battles was likely strengthened compared to their last encounter.
Golden patterns appeared on his forehead as Su Cheng carefully observed the two figures, one golden and one black.
In his real perception, the golden figure appeared much more tangible.
He understood that this was due to the dominance of the primary personality at the moment.
However, what surprised him slightly was that the dark second personality, while lacking a physical body, continuously drew vitality from the domain under her feet.
This was different from the previous situation.
Last time, the overlapping domains only provided protective effects.
But now, there were signs that under the martial soul true body state, they were starting to transfer their vitality base to the domain.
After a moment, he closed his eyes directly, enhancing his perception to the limit.
Silently experiencing the uniqueness of these dual domains.
"Purification... I can understand... after all, it's one of the effects inherent to the Angelic Domain...
"However, the other domain has already become so pure?
"Although it's stern and fierce, with an extreme will, there's no hint of evil or malice... It's as righteous as it gets...
"It's truly impressive..."
Su Cheng felt more amazed the more he sensed.
The state of mind originates from comprehension but goes beyond it.
But to advance further based on one's own comprehension was quite difficult.
Because it would entail even more extreme emotions.
Take Su Cheng himself as an example. He could comprehend the essence of Great Annihilation and even condensed it into a sword technique, but it was still in its infancy.
Every bit of progress thereafter would be extremely difficult.
Apart from the part that resonated with his own will, he also had to comprehend deeper and broader directions.
And because his comprehension stemmed from observing external changes, he had to be even more cautious in advancing, to avoid being overly influenced and potentially becoming a destructive individual.
If it weren't for later comprehending the Immortal Sword Intent, which to some extent balanced out the negative emotions brought by the former, he wouldn't dare delve too deeply into it.
And now, with Qian Renxue, the situation was somewhat different.
Her comprehension clearly stemmed from within herself, making it even more challenging to progress.
But there were also benefits; she could largely avoid the risk of being overwhelmed by such states, preventing drastic changes in her temperament.
"...Use the self-created soul technique you used last time." It didn't take long for Su Cheng to reopen his eyes.
He looked at Qian Renxue. "I remember it was called 'Divine Judgment,' right?"
Both nodded in response.
In the next moment, they both raised the long swords in their hands.
Golden and black flames burned fiercely, with their distinct personal styles becoming more extreme during this process.
"Holy Sword, Judgment!"
"Purgatory, Trial!"
As they executed their soul techniques, both swords slashed down simultaneously.
In an instant, Su Cheng felt a sense of oppression.
It was as if invisible chains appeared out of thin air, locking everything around him, ready to imprison him in a narrow prison.
At this moment, his body, mind, and even his soul, along with the surrounding space, were subtly suppressed.
Not only that, but it also felt like a sharp sword hung above his head, ready to deliver an unavoidable fatal blow at any moment.
The golden sword locked the body, suppressing resistance.
The black sword weakened the will, depriving it of vitality.
"What an astonishing talent," Su Cheng marveled inwardly.
Without summoning his martial soul, he simply flicked his fingers, sending out innate sword qi to break through the surrounding restraints.
There was no escaping it; this was a locking technique.
At least with his current mental strength, he couldn't break through this layer of restraint.
But there was no need to evade; the power gap between the two wasn't small.
While Qian Renxue was now stronger, she still hadn't reached the level of a peak Douluo.
This absolute difference in strength levels made it difficult to compensate with just skills. Su Cheng didn't find it too difficult to deal with.
However, it was only in such situations that he could clearly perceive the various strengths and weaknesses of his opponent.
If they were evenly matched, even resisting would be extremely difficult, let alone delving into deeper layers of potential.
"...This kind of soul technique really suits her temperament," Su Cheng shook his head inwardly.
Extremely self-centered, incredibly arrogant, ready to judge right from wrong, life from death, with a single word.
Just this mentality alone was unprecedented.
After a while, Su Cheng gained a good understanding of the characteristics of Qian Renxue's soul technique.
However, he didn't rush to stop, but continued to spar with her, preparing to see where her current limits lay.
As they exchanged blows, a full hour passed, surprising him greatly.
It's worth noting that the consumption of soul power by the martial soul true body is extremely significant for soul masters.
For an ordinary soul master, being able to persist for half an hour after summoning their martial soul true body is already extremely rare.
Yet, Qian Renxue managed to achieve this while consuming double the soul power, indicating the depth of her accumulation.
Perhaps her previous consumption of the Heartbroken red has something to do with it.
The medicinal properties of that fairy grass are extraordinary.
Seeing Qian Renxue retract her martial soul, her face slightly pale, Su Cheng pondered for a moment.
Then he slowly commented, "Using the holy sword to define right and wrong, and the purgatory to determine life and death, indeed creates a good atmosphere. This soul technique not only perfectly displays the unique attributes of both of you but also combines them. The concept is lofty, and the potential is astonishing."
With genuine admiration, he added, "Xiaoxue, you are truly deserving of being called a peerless genius."
This kind of talent doesn't lie in her unprecedented innate 20th-level soul power but in her comprehension and willpower.
To reach this level is no less impressive than the legendary ancestor Tang Chen of Haotian Sect.
Such an atmosphere is something Su Cheng himself cannot comprehend or use.
It goes against his beliefs.
To use Qian Renxue's sword requires not only a strong sense of self-awareness and near-arrogant subjective consciousness but also a judgmental attitude towards others.
The former he might somewhat understand, but the latter is something he could never do.
Qian Renxue's ability to do so is the result of a combination of factors such as her background, talent, experience, and the complementary nature of her two extreme souls.
Perhaps no one else can achieve this.
Hearing Su Cheng's words, a blush appeared on Qian Renxue's slightly pale cheeks due to weakness, and a faint smile crept onto her lips, revealing her uncontrollable joy.
She understands Su Cheng.
She knows that if he says this, it must be what he truly thinks.
He wouldn't waste time on useless flattery and praise.
Looking at her, Su Cheng spoke again, "Regarding the direction of your cultivation next, do you have any thoughts?"
"Well, I haven't fully figured it out yet," Qian Renxue replied, her expression somewhat bewildered.
After all, she had just recently developed this self-created soul technique, and her reliance on instinct was still prevalent. She hadn't even optimized it to its fullest potential, let alone taken it further or raised its limits.
Su Cheng nodded slightly, not surprised by this. "About that, I do have some ideas."
Even though he can't use this kind of atmosphere, it doesn't prevent him from judging and analyzing from the perspective of an observer.
Although Su Cheng's cultivation level is still shallow, in terms of comprehension and understanding in swordsmanship and state of mind, there may not be many people in this world who can surpass him.
"Xiaoxue, have you ever heard the phrase 'man proposes, God disposes'?"
"Man proposes, God disposes?" Qian Renxue repeated softly, pondering.
"Yes, if the heart of man is determined, it can surpass everything," Su Cheng said solemnly. "But unfortunately, the heavens have their own rules, and the heart of man is hard to set."
"The heavens have their rules, and the heart of man is hard to set..." Qian Renxue mused on the meaning of his words.
"For me, your atmosphere is actually the embodiment of order. Rebuilding order relies on the human heart. In your case, you should try to replace the will of heaven with your own heart and then use the laws of heaven to determine the laws of man."
"Order?" Qian Renxue trembled all over.
That's right.
She has traveled all the way from Martial Soul City to Tian Dou City, and then back to Martial Soul City.
Although she has an extraordinary background and has always held a high position, she also has an understanding of all levels of society and has experienced and witnessed scenes that ordinary people never have.
Her mentality and beliefs are completely different from those of ordinary people, and her level is also different.
With something on her mind, her aura suddenly changed slightly.
"Xiaoxue," Su Cheng suddenly spoke at this moment, interrupting her realization.
"Rules and order are just tools. Remember what I said about 'replacing the heart of man with the heart of heaven, and then using the laws of heaven to determine the laws of man.' Don't get too obsessed."
Qian Renxue took a deep breath and nodded heavily. "I understand."
"Let's go, back to the Elder's Hall."
Walking on the road, Su Cheng glanced at Qian Renxue, who seemed a bit silent today. "You're not in the right mood today. If there's something on your mind, just say it."
Her personality may not be particularly lively, but she has always been outspoken, so it's unusual for her to keep quiet.
Su Cheng had a hunch that she probably went to see Bibi Dong.
He was just busy with cultivation matters earlier, so he didn't rush to ask.
But now that they're about to start cultivation, it's better to have a conversation to prevent her from overthinking.
Upon hearing Su Cheng's proactive inquiry, Qian Renxue no longer hesitated and asked, "Teacher, I heard from Bibi Dong that she has a task for you. Why do you have to follow her arrangements?"
Su Cheng's eyes flickered slightly, calmly responding, "After all, she is the Pope."
"But so what? The Martial Soul Temple is not ruled by her alone. If you disagree, she can't force you."
"That's true, but it's best not to confront her directly unless necessary."
"What task did she assign you?" Qian Renxue turned her head to look at Su Cheng.
In fact, this is the most puzzling thing for her.
What is it that must be done by Su Cheng alone, and why would Bibi Dong risk escalating conflicts with her for this task?
Previously, although Bibi Dong and she occasionally exchanged barbs, they were not so confrontational.
Moreover, Bibi Dong's actions have offended more than just herself.
In Qian Renxue's view, it is certain that forcing Su Cheng with the identity of the Pope will inevitably cause his displeasure.
She doesn't believe Bibi Dong doesn't understand this.
Su Cheng's gaze subtly changed, and he replied calmly, "She gave you the task to find out?"
This sentence carries a hint of suspicion.
It seems that he has his own judgment on Bibi Dong's intentions.
Su Cheng's understanding of the value of the Martial Soul Temple is evident to anyone who is not blind or foolish.
"She didn't give many specifics," Qian Renxue replied.
Su Cheng wasn't sure about the details of their conversation, but he assumed there wasn't much substantial content.
He chose to be vague about it.
Then he asked, "Did Bibi Dong mention anything to you?"
"No," Qian Rinyue frowned.
After pondering for a moment, she spoke again, "Teacher—"
"Alright, Xiaoxue, you don't need to think too much about it for now," Su Cheng interrupted her, "Your immediate priority is your own cultivation. I hope you can completely resolve the soul-related issues within a year. Only then can I be at ease."
"A year?"
Qian Renxue was momentarily stunned, then fell silent.
Her expression changed, and it was unclear what she was thinking.
Su Cheng glanced at her and probably guessed her thoughts.
He spoke frankly, "Yes, Bibi Dong's task will be handed over to me after a year. But don't think about using any clever tricks to delay. It won't work. This matter is crucial for you, and you can't afford to be petulant. Besides, even if you can't meet the requirements within a year, I will still have to leave when the time comes, and I won't be able to stay with you all the time."
"But—"
"Xiaoxue, you have to understand, we have a long time ahead of us. For you, focusing on cultivation right now is the most important thing."
Before she could finish her sentence, Su Cheng interrupted her.
In the distance, the Elder's Hall was already visible.
"Let's discuss this later after we get back."
With that, Su Cheng took the lead and walked into the room.
Qian Renxue could only helplessly follow.
As soon as they entered the room, Qian Renxue swiftly closed the door behind them with a forceful push.
Then, she threw herself into Su Cheng's arms.
Lifting her head slightly, her golden eyes trembled slightly as they silently stared into his.
Su Cheng wrapped his left arm around her flexible waist and gently stroked her golden hair with his right hand.
In a soft voice, he said, "Even if there's a task, it won't take up too much of my time. What are you worried about? It'll only be a few months at most. Haven't we not seen each other for many years before? It's not like you to worry about such trivial matters. Besides, if we were together every day, you'd probably get tired of me."
"I wouldn't get tired of you," Qian Renxue looked at him with a serious expression, shaking her head.
Her gaze became somewhat dazed. "I don't know why, I just feel a bit uneasy."
Su Cheng blinked. "Xiaoxue—"
Before he could finish his sentence, his lips were sealed by a pair of soft, moist ones.
During their kiss, he gently caressed her slender and delicate back with his right hand.
But apart from that, there were no other actions.
Su Cheng knew that she was not calm at the moment, so it wasn't appropriate to go too far.
Unfortunately, Qian Renxue didn't seem to appreciate this.
Sensing that Su Cheng had yet to make any further moves, she took the initiative to grab his hand and place it on her chest, while she herself began to grope around his body.
"Xiaoxue!"
Just then, Su Cheng suddenly stepped back, raised his arm to hold Qian Renxue's shoulder, and firmly grasped her restless, fair hand.
He gazed steadily at her.
In his pitch-black eyes, it seemed like a flame was burning fiercely.
"Teacher..." Qian Renxue murmured softly, her red lips shimmering with a splendid luster.
But she seemed to ignore his words completely and stubbornly attempted to free her other hand from his grip.
However, Su Cheng remained unmoved, firmly restraining her in place.
"Xiaoxue, stop messing around," his voice was slightly hoarse.
At this stage, even he found it somewhat difficult to control himself.
But it was necessary.
There were things that could be done and things that couldn't be done at the moment.
For Su Cheng himself, it didn't matter much.
After all, he wasn't practicing some kind of celibacy.
But for Qian Renxue, it was different.
Her self-created soul technique had profound implications and demanded a high level of mental strength. If she became too obsessed, there was a risk of backlash.
If their relationship progressed further at this moment and caused her to become addicted, even if it didn't lead to worse consequences, it would greatly affect her cultivation efficiency.
For someone with Qian Renxue's extremely special talent and state, the sooner she completed this stage of cultivation and progressed to the next level, the greater the benefits for her future.
She was only in her twenties and still in the prime of her cultivation. Every moment was precious.
And there was no need to rush other matters.
Su Cheng was well aware of this.
After passing this stage, they could do whatever they wanted.
But before that, he wouldn't allow any accidents to happen.
"Teacher?"
Qian Renxue clearly didn't see it that way.
She stared at his face, which was just inches away, with an expression that seemed somewhat aggrieved.
Gently caressing her cheek, Su Cheng smiled and said, "Let's think about other things after we finish this stage of cultivation."