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Seeing Zhu Zhuqing's genuinely apologetic expression, Dai Chengfeng was momentarily taken aback. After all, in his memories—whether from his past life or childhood—his fiancée had always been cold and stubborn. An apology from her was exceedingly rare.
But now, instead of growing blindly arrogant after defeating the powerful Imperial Battle Team, she clearly recognized her own shortcomings. This made Dai Chengfeng nod slightly in approval.
Zhu Zhuqing truly lived up to being the most determined and ambitious member of the original Shrek Seven Monsters.
She was definitely worth cultivating.
For a moment, a gentle smile spread across Dai Chengfeng's lips.
"Why are you apologizing?"
Dai Chengfeng's voice was deep and forgiving. "A team is like a set of gears—there will always be stronger and weaker members. That's normal. Perfect balance doesn't exist; what matters is perfect coordination."
"Besides, you're only a Soul Grandmaster facing opponents at the Soul Elder level. It's natural that you couldn't defeat them."
"But what's important is…"
"You didn't make any mistakes during the entire battle. Your timing for breakthroughs was impeccable, and your execution of my tactical commands was flawless."
"I'm very satisfied with you."
"Really?"
For the first time, Zhu Zhuqing looked at Dai Chengfeng with a hint of uncertainty, her eyes filled with a yearning for his approval.
"Of course!"
As he spoke, Dai Chengfeng naturally ruffled Zhu Zhuqing's hair. "As for the issue of cultivation level…"
"Later, when Nana and I reach higher soul power levels, our rate of improvement will naturally slow down. With your effort and potential, catching up to us is just a matter of time."
"What's truly irreplaceable is your combat awareness and perseverance. That's your most precious asset!"
At this moment, Hu Liena also dropped her seductive demeanor, her expression unusually serious.
Though she would often clash with Zhu Zhuqing over trivial matters, when it came to important matters, Hu Liena—unless blinded by love—was not someone who ignored the bigger picture.
Moreover, through the previous battle, she had truly changed her opinion of Zhu Zhuqing.
Before, she had thought Zhu Zhuqing was merely a noble young lady who relied on her status as Dai Chengfeng's fiancée to live comfortably.
But now she realized that this seemingly icy "little wildcat" was no pampered aristocrat.
From her speed that almost surpassed her level, her ruthless and precise attacks, and her sharp judgment in seizing opportunities during the battle, it was clear that Zhu Zhuqing had put in unimaginable effort behind the scenes.
Hu Liena believed that even at her mid-20 soul levels, she probably wouldn't have been much stronger than Zhu Zhuqing.
Hu Liena deeply understood how rare such determination was.
"Chengfeng is right."
Hu Liena echoed Dai Chengfeng's words, turning to Zhu Zhuqing. "Don't underestimate yourself. In that battle, you dared to directly cut into the enemy's core rear line and perfectly seized the opportunity to eliminate their most crucial support position. That kind of courage and execution is impressive."
"And every one of your moves was spot-on."
"The difference in soul power levels is an objective fact, but you can slowly catch up."
Listening to their reassurance, Zhu Zhuqing felt an unfamiliar emotion—gratitude—wash over her.
But this softness quickly vanished, suppressed by her usual inability to express emotions, and her cold expression returned.
"Th… thank you. I understand."
Her voice was low, carrying undeniable resolve. "But from now on, I'll work even harder."
This was her promise—to herself, and to Dai Chengfeng and Hu Liena.
Then, her gaze seemed to casually sweep over Hu Liena, her tone regaining its usual sharp edge reserved for sparring with her. "But hey, fox spirit, don't think that comforting me a little means I'll go easy on you."
"Some people and things, I absolutely won't compromise on!"
Hu Liena paused for a moment. "Some people… and things?"
Instantly, she understood what Zhu Zhuqing was insinuating.
Hu Liena resumed her seductive expression, raising an eyebrow playfully. She deliberately wrapped her arms around Dai Chengfeng's arm, refusing to back down, and lightly humphed at Zhu Zhuqing.
"Hmph! Who asked you to go easy?"
"What I want, I'll take myself. I don't need you to give way, and you won't be able to stop me~"
Dai Chengfeng watched as the two started bickering again, feeling the delightful softness of Hu Liena's embrace. His smile deepened, and he made no attempt to intervene.
After all, in this situation, he stood to gain no matter what.
One could even say that without Zhu Zhuqing, given his relationship with Hu Liena, she would never have initiated such close contact. And without Hu Liena, Zhu Zhuqing wouldn't feel the same sense of competition, making her less distant toward him.
"Go ahead and fight—it's better the more intense it gets…"
Dai Chengfeng thought to himself as the three figures grew longer in the distance, heading toward the Spirit Hall.
---
In front of Dai Chengfeng's room at the Spirit Hall.
"Finally back," Hu Liena stretched her slender waist lazily, her voice carrying a playful languor.
Saying this, she deliberately glanced at Zhu Zhuqing before smiling at Dai Chengfeng. "Chengfeng, my bones feel like they're about to fall apart. I'll head back first~"
Zhu Zhuqing remained silent, nodded at Dai Chengfeng, and prepared to turn toward her own room.
"Wait."
At this moment, Dai Chengfeng stopped both of them.
"What is it?"
Hu Liena and Zhu Zhuqing paused, looking curiously at Dai Chengfeng.
Meanwhile, a mysterious smile appeared on Dai Chengfeng's face as his gaze shifted between Hu Liena and Zhu Zhuqing. "You two, don't rush off just yet. Come inside with me for a moment."
Hu Liena raised an eyebrow. "Hmm? What are you up to?"
Zhu Zhuqing's clear eyes also turned toward him, carrying a faint trace of puzzlement.
"I have a… little surprise for you."
As he spoke, Dai Chengfeng gestured for them to enter with a polite "please."
Surprise?
Hu Liena and Zhu Zhuqing exchanged a suspicious glance.
These two proud, often clashing young women reached a rare unspoken agreement—what was this guy up to?
Still, they followed Dai Chengfeng's lead and stepped inside.
The room was brightly lit, exuding a cozy, homely atmosphere.
Whoosh—
As soon as Dai Chengfeng entered the room, a small creature covered in fine golden fur, which had been curled up on a cushion by the window, instantly perked up its tiny ears at the sound of the door opening.
In the next second, it leapt up like a streak of golden light, landing precisely in Dai Chengfeng's arms. It affectionately rubbed its head against his chest, emitting contented purring sounds.
"Qiu'er, good girl."
Dai Chengfeng caught Qiu'er securely, a tender smile spreading across his face as he gently stroked her soft, shiny fur. "Can you go play by yourself for a while? I have something to do."
Meow meow—
Qiu'er lifted her golden head, gazing at Dai Chengfeng with clear, reluctant eyes. She let out a soft "mew" before hopping down from his arms and obediently returning to the cushion by the window. Still, her little head remained turned toward them, her tail swaying back and forth.
After settling the little one, Dai Chengfeng turned back to the two girls, who were still standing by the door with varied expressions.
"Come in and sit down. Don't just stand there."
Hu Liena took the lead, gracefully swaying as she entered, with Zhu Zhuqing following closely behind.
"Dai Chengfeng, why so mysterious? What's this surprise?"
Hu Liena elegantly seated herself, resting her chin on one hand as she watched Dai Chengfeng with great interest.
Zhu Zhuqing quietly sat on another chair, also lifting her eyes slightly to gaze at Dai Chengfeng with an inquiring look.
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