Step Forward

Noticing that his relationship points with Bibi Dong were only one point away from 51, Qing Chen decided that now was the perfect time to showcase his second martial soul.

"Teacher, I have something important to discuss with you," Qing Chen said, his voice steady and confident. "But I would prefer if it remained between the two of us."

Since Qing Chen had recently become her disciple, Bibi Dong trusted him to a degree, though not fully. His sincerity, however, piqued her curiosity.

Hearing his request, Bibi Dong turned to Yue Guan. "Leave us," she commanded.

Yue Guan, ever loyal, didn't hesitate and exited the room, leaving the two of them alone.

"Chen'er, what is it that you wish to discuss?" Bibi Dong asked, her tone calm but inquisitive.

Qing Chen took a deep breath, gathering his thoughts before speaking. "Teacher, I seek your guidance on my second martial soul. It's quite different from a typical martial soul."

With that, Qing Chen summoned his second martial soul: Vassago, the Star Demon.

"The issue with my second martial soul," he continued, "is its overwhelming versatility. It can deal powerful attacks, control enemies, support allies, and more importantly, it has the ability to glimpse the future. I'm unsure which path I should focus on, so I've come to ask for your advice."

Bibi Dong's eyes widened slightly at the revelation. She hadn't expected such an extraordinary martial soul from her new disciple.

"Chen'er," she said after a moment of contemplation, "can you explain each ability in more detail?"

"Of course, Teacher," Qing Chen replied. "My martial soul absorbs energy from the stars, which I can use in various ways. For offense, it channels the energy to deliver both single-target and area-of-effect attacks. For control, it allows me to manipulate enemy movements, much like the Star Luo Chess martial soul. And for support, it enhances my allies, providing healing and boosting their strength."

Qing Chen paused to allow Bibi Dong to absorb the information. Even for someone as knowledgeable as her, the potential of Vassago was staggering.

"Chen'er," Bibi Dong finally spoke, her voice a mixture of awe and intrigue, "your second martial soul is unlike anything I've encountered. Each path you've described holds immense potential. However, the attack path seems to align most naturally with your martial soul's essence. Harnessing the power of the stars for devastating strikes could make you an unparalleled force in battle."

She leaned forward slightly, her sharp gaze locking onto his. "That said, are you certain about pursuing this path? Mastering the attack path requires unyielding discipline and a strong heart. It means prioritizing offense, often at the cost of defense and utility. But if you commit to it, you could surpass even the greatest warriors of your generation."

Qing Chen closed his eyes for a moment, reflecting on her words. After a brief silence, he opened them, a look of determination shining through.

"Teacher," he said firmly, "I've given it much thought. I want to be invincible on the battlefield. Besides, my first martial soul focuses more on control, so this will help balance my abilities. I trust your wisdom and will pursue the attack path."

A notification flashed in Qing Chen's mind: Bibi Dong relationship +11 (61 - Importance).

Bibi Dong felt a stir in her heart upon hearing his decision. A faint echo of the joy she had once felt in her youth resurfaced—a feeling she thought had long since faded. Qing Chen's unwavering trust in her filled her with a sense of pride and a deeper connection.

"Chen'er," she said softly, her voice carrying a rare warmth, "your decision pleases me. Together, we'll unlock the full potential of your Star Demon, Vassago."

Then, a thought crossed her mind. "Speaking of your second martial soul, I just realized—you haven't met your senior sister yet, have you?"

Qing Chen tilted his head slightly. "No, Teacher, I haven't had the chance."

"She's currently at level 10 and will be searching for a suitable spirit ring tomorrow," Bibi Dong explained. "Since you also need a spirit ring for both your first and second martial souls, it would be a perfect opportunity for you two to meet and work together."

Qing Chen's eyes lit up at the prospect. "Thank you, Teacher. I'll make sure to leave a good impression."

Bibi Dong's expression shifted to one of calculation. "Good. Your senior sister is talented but still young and inexperienced. This mission will benefit both of you. I'll make the arrangements."

With the conversation coming to a close, the day also ended. Reflecting on everything that had transpired, Qing Chen felt a mix of emotions. Not only had his strength increased, but his relationship with Bibi Dong had also improved significantly.

As the day ended, the system notified him of his rewards.

System Notification: Master, to end the day, the system will share the rewards earned. First, you've accomplished the daily mission by increasing Bibi Dong's relationship to 61, exceeding the required threshold. As a result, you've earned an increase in benefits, with the rewards still enhanced due to this being the first daily mission. The rewards are: the Domain of Stars and the Domain of Desire. Additionally, with Bibi Dong's relationship reaching 61, a main quest has been unlocked: Increase Bibi Dong's affection to 91 for the reward of an increase in the power of fate and 100 experience points, which will allow you to reach level 2.

Hearing the system's notification, Qing Chen felt elated and excited for the upcoming day. As for the Domain abilities, he wasn't overly concerned at the moment—he would learn more about them tomorrow.