"Of course that wasn't what troubled me. Ever since he broke my divine ability with just one move, I knew how far apart we were.
What frustrated me was that even a woman at his side could trade blows evenly with me."
Remembering his fight with Demoness, he had nearly lost. If she hadn't gone easy on him at the end, he would have lost every last shred of face.
Meanwhile, elsewhere.
Shi Qingyun, Chen Xuan, and the others had all gathered in the Cloud Palace Hall.
"I'm going to study at the Heavenly Deity Academy. Would you two like to come with me?"
He looked at Mu Qing and Chen Xuan and asked earnestly.
Every disciple admitted to the Heavenly Deity Academy was allowed to bring an attendant, which was also why he asked them.
Hearing this, Chen Xuan looked at Shi Qingyun. After a moment of deliberation, he slowly said, "The Cloud Palace is flourishing right now. I think I'll stay behind and look after it."
"Besides, I have my family's support. Even if I don't go to the Academy, it won't matter much."
Shi Qingyun nodded, unsurprised by his decision, then turned his gaze to Mu Qing.
Feeling everyone's gazes on her, Mu Qing looked at Shi Qingyun and shook her head as well.
"I've never liked fighting. If I go to the Heavenly Deity Academy, battles will be inevitable. I'll stay here and cultivate in seclusion."
"Palace Master, go out and explore without worry. We'll protect the Cloud Palace."
He wanted to say more, but ultimately held back. After all, this was their choice.
Once the matter was settled, he gave Chen Xuan some instructions, then made preparations to depart for the Heavenly Deity Academy the following day.
The many disciples also learned that their palace