How could Kun Linshu possibly take any of this in now? Earlier, because of Junior Sister, he might still have struggled with his conscience. But things had come to this; there was no way he would suddenly see the light and call off the match.
Kun Linshu asked, "Does Elder Niu saying this now mean anything?"
Niu Youdao said, "Does it mean nothing? The sea of suffering has no shore; turn back, and there is land. Why stubbornly make trouble for yourself over something unnecessary?"
Kun Linshu said, "Is Elder Niu afraid?"
Niu Youdao laughed. "Afraid? What do I have to fear? I'm not like you, fussing over a momentary victory or defeat. I simply don't want you to regret this after today. I don't want those around me to drown forever in remorse, nor do I want those who follow me to regret it because they followed me. That is why I reminded you, why I gave you another chance."
Kun Linshu said, "I don't need it. Elder Niu, can we begin?"
He did not need it, but Niu Youdao still had more to say. "Ever since I left Thatched Cottage and ventured into the cultivation world, I have never liked fighting and killing, though there are always times when it cannot be avoided. In every head-on duel, Niu has never tasted defeat. Aren't you afraid?"
Kun Linshu said, "No. That is only because you have never met a truly formidable opponent."
Niu Youdao said, "Wrong. It is because no one knows the depths of my strength, while everyone who fights me is just like you—far too confident in themselves."
Kun Linshu's expression tightened slightly as he stared at him.
Niu Youdao said, "That is why I am telling you that it is not too late to regret this.