The Hardest Decision

Stunned silence descended upon the city as the Divine Phoenix Soul manifested. Oppressive power radiated from it, yet a sense of benevolence tempered its might.

"Incredible," Yun Lintian breathed. He felt a surge of potent Divine Phoenix power course through him. 

The sword in his hand thrummed with an energy far surpassing anything he'd ever wielded. It made his Heaven Piercing Sword feel like a child's toy in comparison.

As if reading his thoughts, the Heaven Piercing Sword erupted from its sheath around Yun Lintian's neck, expanding and radiating a sharp, defiant aura. It was a clear attempt to assert dominance against its newfound rival.

The Phoenix Feather Sword, however, remained unfazed. Released from Yun Lintian's grasp, it rose into the air, seemingly looking down haughtily upon the Heaven Piercing Sword. The latter, clearly offended, attempted to unleash a more explosive aura, but it was utterly smothered by the blazing phoenix flames.