Chapter 553: Truly Can't Forget About Qiu Ruoshuang

Chapter 553: Truly Can't Forget About Qiu Ruoshuang

January 16th, 2025

Su Chen felt slightly dissatisfied.

He had come as a guest, only to be presented with a test right away.

This was not the way to treat a guest.

However, after some thought, he suppressed his dissatisfaction.

He had a slight suspicion in his mind.

Did they know about his relationship with Qiu Ruoshuang? Was this a premeditated test?

Su Chen felt uneasy, but when he thought about Qiu Ruoshuang and his favorable impression of the Qiu Family, he pushed aside all his discomfort.

Perhaps the next time he visited the Qiu Family with Qiu Ruoshuang, the trial he faced might be even more challenging.

This trial of his array formation skills was likely to prevent him from influencing Qiu Xiyu's understanding of array formations during their conversation.

Su Chen didn't argue further.

Instead, he focused his attention on the array formations before him.

There were seven array formations along the path leading into the courtyard.

These seven array formations were all non-lethal, either meant to confuse the mind or trap the enemy.

Even if he couldn't decipher them, they wouldn't harm him.

From this, Su Chen realized that they didn't have malicious intentions.

These array formations were indeed a significant challenge for many array masters.

With slightly insufficient foundation, one might not even notice them.

The foundation of an array master lies in their ability to set up array formations.

The array formations should function and be effective in various complex terrains, producing specific effects.

Only when an array master can achieve this are they considered useful.

Therefore, most array masters don't bother to study formations designed to counter humans.

Those who do are likely to have extremely solid fundamentals, at least on par with Su Chen's Sixth Rank Array Master level.

These array formations were probably meant to verify his skills and reputation.

In fact, for Su Chen, these were just basic skills.

His array formation techniques were learned from Immortal Jingbo.

Immortal Jingbo's array formation manuals emphasized the importance of concealing array formations.

It could be said that in Immortal Jingbo's manuals, concealing array formations was the top priority.

These array formations were specifically designed to counter humans.

They weren't meant to counter demons.

Su Chen had many doubts in the past.

Immortal Jingbo's strength was extraordinary, and based on his legacy, his power was almost divine.

With such strength, he didn't need array formations to deal with enemies.

His martial prowess alone should have been sufficient.

Yet, Immortal Jingbo had spent a lot of effort on array formations.

It was likely that he had a more formidable enemy, perhaps even a powerful opponent surpassing the Unification Realm.

Su Chen didn't think too much about it.

Instead, he began to unravel each array formation, one by one, as he had envisioned.

The key to concealing array formations lies in the shapes of the surrounding objects.

Due to the influence of the array's power, the vegetation, stones, and debris within the array often exhibit abnormal shapes.

Concealing the array involves restoring these objects to their natural state.

However, breaking an array formation is not about observing these shapes.

One must find and destroy the array core.

The first array formation was simple, with its core exposed for Su Chen to see.

Each subsequent formation was more challenging, and the methods of concealment became increasingly intricate.

Unraveling their secrets might require a wealth of experience.

But the locations of these hidden cores were already described in Immortal Jingbo's manuals.

Immortal Jingbo's manuals even mentioned false array cores, specifically designed to mislead and trap array masters.

These false cores were meant to attract array masters, luring them into a trap.

When they took a step forward to dismantle the formation, they would realize they had already fallen into danger, trapped within the array.

Su Chen broke through all seven array formations in less than half an hour.

As the last formation was dismantled, a middle-aged man appeared, leading Elder Ding.

"Elder Ding, this is the guest invited by Xiyu.

Why did you set up these array formations?"

The middle-aged man walked towards Su Chen, scolding him all the way.

Elder Ding nodded repeatedly, "It's my fault for not thinking it through. I just heard of this young man's reputation and couldn't resist testing him."

Su Chen had experienced so much, from the Yunyang Sect to the Jin State.

He understood these social niceties.

The middle-aged man was just trying to save face.

This is not how one should treat a guest.

As the host, he naturally had to shift the blame elsewhere.

"I am Qiu Xingchuan, Qiu Xiyu's father."

Upon hearing this name, Su Chen thought of Qiu Ruoshuang's brother, Qiu Xingtian.

From this name, one could also tell that Qiu Ruoshuang was a generation older than Qiu Xiyu.

"I am Su Chen, and I apologize for my abrupt visit, disturbing your peace, Senior."

Su Chen remained polite.

He didn't intend to expose anyone's shortcomings, and since they were giving him a way out, he accepted it.

"Elder Ding, when he meets young people, especially those with some achievements in Array Formations, he always likes to test them.

Please don't take it to heart, young friend."

As he spoke, Qiu Xingchuan invited Su Chen to walk further inside.

Qiu Xingchuan's attitude towards Su Chen was quite amiable.

He appeared stern, but his words were rather gentle.

"Xiyu has mentioned you to us, and you've been a great help to her.

Especially during the Celestial Demon crisis.

If not for your intervention, Xiyu might have suffered more severe injuries."

As Qiu Xingchuan spoke, the three of them had already reached the inner courtyard.

Hidden in the shadows, Qiu Yinan couldn't help but scoff upon hearing her brother's words.

"He's putting on quite an act. Why doesn't he speak to us like this normally?

He's afraid of scaring people away."

From a distance, Qiu Xiyu spotted Su Chen and immediately made her way over.

She then shot Qiu Xingchuan a glare and led Su Chen directly into the depths of the courtyard.

Qiu Xingchuan was left feeling helpless after being given a cold shoulder by his own daughter.

As the two of them walked away, Qiu Xingchuan's gaze shifted to Elder Ding beside him.

"Well, Elder Ding, what do you think of this young man?"

Su Chen's quick resolution of the array formation had left Qiu Xingchuan without a chance to discuss his impressions with Elder Ding.

Elder Ding furrowed his brows slightly upon hearing this.

"Xingchuan, you just witnessed this young man's performance yourself.

To be honest, if I hadn't seen it with my own eyes, I wouldn't have believed it.

His speed in breaking the formation was too fast.

Ordinary Array Masters would have limited understanding of such formations.

Even if they had put in the effort to study them, it's unlikely they would be this proficient.

I'm a bit confused by it all."

Elder Ding's furrowed brows indicated that his words were both a compliment and a concern.

Qiu Xingchuan, standing nearby, couldn't help but furrow his brows as well.

"Elder Ding, please be more direct. We're family here, so speak freely."

Qiu Xingchuan lacked sufficient understanding of array formations.

He needed the most direct and straightforward evaluation.

Hearing this, Elder Ding became more concise.

"This young man's performance in array formations is exceptionally outstanding."

"Outstanding?"

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"His proficiency in array formations is beyond what one would expect from a young man.

To be honest, I don't think even I could have performed as well as he did.

His appearance...could it be that someone deliberately..."

Elder Ding's expression conveyed his suspicion of Su Chen.

Qiu Xingchuan, standing beside him, also frowned at these words.

"Elder Ding, do you suspect that someone intentionally sent him to get close to Xiyu?"

The two continued their conversation as they walked towards the outer area.

Elder Ding continued his analysis, pointing out various clues and hints.

Qiu Xingchuan had no reason to doubt Elder Ding's loyalty, as he had served the Qiu family for decades, even before Xingchuan was born.

However, Elder Ding's words weren't necessarily always correct.

Qiu Xingchuan's mind was racing with thoughts.

"Elder Ding, where would you rank this young man's talent in array formations among the top talents in Jin State?"

"Without a doubt, he's among the very best. Not just because of his performance, but also because of Xiyu's achievements.

At such a young age, she has already earned the title of an Eighth Rank Array Master, which is truly remarkable."

Elder Ding's response was direct and without hesitation.

Indeed, even without considering others, Qiu Xiyu's talent in array formations was already exceptional, and her future prospects were bright.

Su Chen was slightly older than Qiu Xiyu, but not by much.

Yet, their proficiency in array formations was extraordinary.

Qiu Xingchuan hesitated for a moment before voicing his thoughts.

"Elder Ding, if we put ourselves in their shoes, would we send out such a top disciple to do something underhanded?

For example, my cousin, Qiu Ruoshuang.

With her exceptional martial talent, would the family send her to infiltrate other powers?"

Qiu Xingchuan's words left Elder Ding speechless.

Indeed, that was the reality.

Top-notch talents were a precious resource, and no sect would easily send them off to other sects for trivial matters.

Such geniuses were cherished and protected with utmost care.

Take Qiu Xiyu, for instance; she always had bodyguards watching over her from a distance, ensuring her safety.

Which sect would willingly send out a top-tier array master like Su Chen to execute some devious plot?

"That's true.

For such a genius, every sect would pamper and protect them. How could they possibly throw him away to be humiliated?

If he were to be recruited by another sect, it would be a massive loss."

As the conversation reached this point, Elder Ding's frown gradually relaxed.

If there were no ulterior motives or schemes involved, he wholeheartedly approved of Su Chen.

"Setting those concerns aside, Elder Ding, please share your thoughts.

What is your evaluation of this disciple? How do you view him compared to Xiyu?"

Qiu Xingchuan looked at Elder Ding, whose beloved daughter had been learning the ways of array formations from him since she was young.

Elder Ding regarded Qiu Xiyu as his own child.

Whenever there was a matter concerning Qiu Xiyu, Qiu Xingchuan would consult with Elder Ding.

Although Elder Ding tended to indulge and favor Qiu Xiyu, he would never harm her or do anything detrimental to her interests.

The two men found a pavilion in the courtyard and sat down, while a servant nearby discreetly approached to serve tea.

Elder Ding pondered for a moment before sharing his thoughts.

"Judging solely by talent and potential, this young Su's future is likely to reach the level of an Array Alliance leader.

At such a young age, he might even attain the title of a Sixth Rank Array Master.

His performance just now further proved that the Array Alliance's recognition of his abilities is well-deserved.

He genuinely possesses the strength to back up his reputation.

In recent years, the borders of Jin State have become increasingly turbulent.

Last year, the Celestial Demon Swarm even launched an attack, leaving the entire Qiu family at a loss.

Recently, there have been rumors of the Demon Emperor causing chaos.

Array Masters will undoubtedly become more valuable in the next few decades, and the benefits they bring to the Qiu family will only increase.

If there are no other issues and he is willing to marry into our family, then this young man is indeed worthy of Xiyu."

Upon hearing this, Qiu Xingchuan nodded, a smile spreading across his face.

It seemed as if he had been waiting for Elder Ding to say those words.

Many people of status often have thoughts they find difficult to express.

They prefer to have others voice such opinions.

"Since Elder Ding, you've spoken so highly of him, let's continue to interact with this young man.

He is polite and well-mannered, and his speech is extraordinary.

Among the younger generation, he can be considered quite handsome.

When it comes to the matters of the young, we shouldn't interfere too much.

They should consider and decide their own affairs.

After all, they will eventually grow up."

Qiu Xingchuan spoke with a smile.

These people were so pragmatic.

If they were dissatisfied with the partner their descendants chose, they would surely scold them harshly.

They would emphasize that the most important task for the younger generation was to cultivate their Martial Dao and study array formations.

However, if the young people found a partner they were happy with, their elders would change their tune.

The words they spoke would be entirely different.

At that time, they would insist on letting the young decide their own matters.

After all, the young would grow up, and their elders couldn't always control every aspect of their lives.

They had to let go and give them the opportunity to grow on their own.

This was a balanced perspective, and both sides had valid arguments.

As the two men conversed, Su Chen and Qiu Xiyu strolled through the courtyard on their side.

Qiu Xiyu led Su Chen around, describing the surrounding scenery as they walked.

When they reached a higher point, she even gave Su Chen a chance to observe the layout of the Qiu family's manor.

Although Qiu Xiyu's words were sincere, Su Chen's mind was elsewhere.

He was preoccupied with thoughts of Qiu Ruoshuang and how to inquire about her.

After all, the primary purpose of his visit was to see Qiu Ruoshuang and give her a pleasant surprise.

During their conversation, Qiu Xiyu mentioned the troubles caused by the Northern Demons.

She explained that their Qiu family had been dedicated to resolving the issues on the northern border for several years.

Even Qiu Ruoshuang had gone north to lend her assistance.

Upon hearing Qiu Xiyu mention Qiu Ruoshuang, Su Chen quickly seized the opportunity to continue the conversation.

"Where does your younger cousin, Ruoshuang, reside?"

Su Chen's question made Qiu Xiyu smile helplessly.

"Brother Su, you still remember Ruoshuang. It seems you haven't forgotten her."

(End of Chapter)

Chapter end