Chapter 66: Echoes of Destiny

"Snow Sky-Dog, I have some news to share with you that I believe will bring you great joy when you hear it!"

"What news is that, my master, Water Ancestor of the Gods?"

"You'll be surprised, Snow Sky-Dog!"

"Please, just tell me, my master, there's no need for theatrics."

"Mizuchi Haruka has brilliantly completed an exceedingly difficult test in the 'Chamber of Trials.' Much like you and Kurogami Masayuki, she selected a magical power system capable of countering the magical prowess of 'Steel Dragon' Ryujin Tetsu."

"Oh! My master, your news doesn't shock me! I've known Mizuchi Haruka for quite some time, so I understand her character. It's just a minor challenge for her, nothing that could pose a difficulty, my master."

"A minor challenge? Am I mistaken, Snow Sky-Dog? That fearsome chamber has defeated many mighty gods who were once students of this academy, Snow Sky-Dog!"

"Even so, it's only a minor challenge for three mighty gods like us, my master!"

The Water Ancestor of the Gods fell silent for a moment before exhaling a long breath.

"Haizza, speaking realistically, indeed, you three are incredibly powerful and wise gods, especially you, Snow Sky-Dog. But I believe you should temper your pride. Remember, no matter how impressive their power may be, whether a god or any individual, if they become too proud of its efficacy, they may act recklessly. I think you three will understand the message I intend through these words."

Snow Sky-Dog felt a bit surprised by the Water Ancestor of the Gods' emphasis. He stared into his master's eyes, sensing the seriousness and profound wisdom behind the words. Meanwhile, within his mind, Snow Sky-Dog also felt a bit ashamed that his confidence had led him to overlook an important aspect: caution.

"My master, I understand your point," Snow Sky-Dog replied after a moment of contemplation. "Confidence should not make us lose our vigilance and caution. Thank you for the reminder!"

The Water Ancestor of the Gods nodded in agreement, smiling gently.

"I don't want you to miss any opportunities for unworthy reasons, Snow Sky-Dog. Every decision matters in the battle between gods and dark forces, and sometimes, vigilance and caution can be the determining factors for our survival."

A moment of silence filled the space between them, only the sound of gentle wind brushing through an open window. Snow Sky-Dog sensed the tranquility of the space, yet within his heart, a newfound awareness of the importance of caution slowly emerged.

"Snow Sky-Dog, I have another question for you!"

"What is it, my respected master?"

"If you were to choose between two options: Seraphina Frostwind, the beautiful and pure human girl; and second choice being Mizuchi Haruka, the Goddess of Spring and Flowers, another beautiful and pure woman no less than the human girl, who has been through challenging tasks alongside you, which woman would you marry, Snow Sky-Dog?"

"I... I truly don't know how to answer that, my master!"

"Snow Sky-Dog, you need to understand Seraphina Frostwind's role in a series of tasks for all three of you gods, nearing its conclusion! When you three collect all 8 lost magical items, then Seraphina Frostwind's role, as someone providing extremely valuable information for your difficult tasks, will also end. But by then, her sincere love for you will continue. Snow Sky-Dog, with all my sincerity as your master, I truly consider you as my son. Snow Sky-Dog, my son, let this old man give you profound and sincere advice: 'If you're a true man when both beautiful girls love you to the extent they would do anything for you, if you don't make a decisive choice; then you will hurt both of them! Sometimes, right and wrong lies only in the reasoning of the heart, not influenced by any logic'. Do you understand what I'm saying, Snow Sky-Dog? As your master, as someone who considers you as a son, whichever of these two girls becomes a daughter-in-law to me, I will happily accept. But between these two girls, you're only allowed to choose one as your wife. So, Snow Sky-Dog, my outstanding pupil whom I consider as a son, seriously make your choice, even if making this choice is extremely difficult for you, a handsome god whose fate is destined to encounter trouble in romantic affairs with beautiful women."

Snow Sky-Dog deliberated, seemingly facing one of the toughest decisions in his life. He looked straight into his master's eyes with a sense of responsibility and concern.

"Master, this... truly is very difficult for me," Snow Sky-Dog exclaimed, his voice deep but resolute. "Seraphina Frostwind and Mizuchi Haruka, are both wonderful, each bringing me a different emotion and experience. But I... I cannot choose one and reject the other!"

The Water Ancestor of the Gods looked at Snow Sky-Dog with profound understanding. "I understand, Snow Sky-Dog! Thank you for honestly sharing your thoughts. Love indeed is a great challenge, and decisions are never easy."

"Master, I apologize for not being able to give a precise answer right away," Snow Sky-Dog said, his mood becoming more complex than ever. "But I promise to think carefully and make a fair and honest decision."

The Water Ancestor of the Gods nodded, expressing respect and trust in his pupil's decision. "Indeed, Snow Sky-Dog. Take your time to think and weigh carefully. Sincerity and honesty are the most important things in any relationship."

Both remained silent for a moment, listening to the gentle wind through the small window. Snow Sky-Dog felt the weight of responsibility but also hope for the future and his understanding.

Snow Sky-Dog placed his trust in the belief that time would gradually illuminate his path. He knew the final decision would not only be his but also involve both women he loved. In that silent moment, Snow Sky-Dog felt the peacefulness from deep within the earth, yet he also understood that life continued, leading him to new challenges.

The Water Ancestor of the Gods looked at his pupil with pride. He knew Snow Sky-Dog would mature and make the right decision, however difficult it might be. In the gentle breeze, the image of Snow Sky-Dog became strong and determined, ready to face new challenges.

"Thank you, master," Snow Sky-Dog said, his voice calm but determined. "I won't disappoint my master."

The Water Ancestor of the Gods nodded, his eyes shining with belief. "Go and find your path, Snow Sky-Dog. I believe you will succeed!"

With a farewell, Snow Sky-Dog left the room, leaving behind a proud master and an open future awaiting him. In his mind, the next adventures awaited, along with the important decisions he would have to face. Most importantly, he knew that no matter how difficult things became, he could rely on his understanding and confidence to overcome any challenge.