Ice Empress also stepped half a pace forward.
The two stood at Qian Chen's sides.
Gu Yuena did not come any closer.
"I'm not asking you to become a soul beast."
"I only hope you'll become an ally of the Soul Beast Clan."
Qian Chen gazed at the tranquil Lake of Life.
"Sooner or later, there will be a war between humans and soul beasts."
"That war has already been going on for many years."
Gu Yuena lowered her eyes.
"After soul beasts lost the Divine Realm, they could only hide on the continent."
"Humans keep hunting soul beasts for soul rings and soul bones."
"If this continues, soul beasts will gradually disappear."
Qian Chen put away the Dragon God Spear.
"I won't hunt soul beasts of my own accord."
"But I won't hurt the people around me for their sake, either."
Gu Yuena looked at him.
"That is enough."
"You don't need to make a choice right away."
"Once you truly understand the relationship between humans and soul beasts, you can decide which side to stand on."
Qian Chen nodded.
"All right."
Di Tian walked to the lakeshore.
"Master, the god-bestowed soul ring is complete."
Gu Yuena looked at Qian Chen.
"You still need to stabilize your soul power."
"Level ninety-five is only the beginning."
Qian Chen raised his eyes.
"I won't stop."
Gu Yuena's gaze lingered on his face.
"I know."
She raised her hand.
The waters of the Lake of Life parted to either side.
A silver crystal rose from the lakebed and slowly descended before Qian Chen.
Rich life energy flowed within the crystal.
"This is the Lake of Life's Origin Crystal."
"Carry it with you, and it will stabilize your newly increased soul power."
Snow Empress reached out to shield Qian Chen.
"Will it affect