If one thought about it, this definition sounded strikingly similar to Ryu's own and there was indeed quite a bit of overlap. This was simply how real life was… the true state of nature and the universe always had redundancies.
But, even though the two pairs of Pupils shared some basic abilities, as they evolved, they would only continue to diverge.
If one main difference had to be stated between the two now, it could be said that while Ryu had to deduce the truth, Sarriel was enlightened about the truth. Though similar, they were functionally different.
Ryu had to deduce Sarriel's age by measuring her vitality and using his experience to compare her to others. But, if Sarriel wanted to know his age, it would practically appear like a number branded to his forehead for her.
But, this was only one half of the Truth Pupils… Truth meant more than just seeing through to the reality… It also meant assigning Truth as well.
What did this mean? It mean that when it came to arts of deception, Sarriel was unmatched. Even though she stood before him all this time, it was only when she consciously chose to reveal her Pupils to him that Ryu became aware of them.
If Sarriel so chose, she could almost instantly become the greatest master of illusion the Heavens had to offer. And, beyond that, her comprehension of Inheritances was likely no weaker than Ryu's!
These were the reasons why the Mysteries of Heaven and Earth Pupils and the Truth Pupils were seen as being so closely related to one another.
However, ironically, what most separated them was the fact Ryu's Pupils evolved toward learning more and more of the truth the Heavens had to offer… While Sarriel's Pupils evolved toward the opposite, becoming more and more able to subvert reality and build a Truth of her own.
If Ryu was ignorant to the abilities he had and would soon unlock, he would almost feel jealous.
But at the moment, this was hardly the problem at hand.
Ryu reset himself, regaining his bearings.
"There shouldn't be a single person entering the Tri Palace along with us that can harm you. In fact, if I were to fight you now, I'm certain that I wouldn't even last a single exchange. So, what you really meant to say when you asked for my help is that you want my Life Partner to protect you, is that it?"
Ryu's words almost seemed silly. He had just exchanged blows with a Path Extinction Realm expert but now he wouldn't last a single round with someone still a half step from that?
Unfortunately, this was the harsh reality.
After Sarriel had let down her guard completely, Ryu could finally begin to see through her strength. He estimated that she would have to come down to the 1st Immortal Ring Realm for him to stand a chance.
Not all Immortal Ring Realm experts were built the same. Zulfiqar had only formed Earth Grade Immortal Rings before entering the Path Extinction Realm. This was why Ryu could battle him so easily while still being so far away.
Yet, not only did Sarriel have a Bloodline no worse than his four, not to mention the fact she didn't have any restrictions on hers because it was originally her own to begin with, but she had most definitely formed Ancestral Grade Immortal Rings.
She could slap Ryu to death with a single dainty palm.
Ailsa couldn't help but sputter with laughter at the remark. Ryu was indeed too weak to do much of anything. But, Ailsa was different.
Although Ailsa's battle prowess wasn't on the level of Ryu and Sarriel, she was still able to display 9th Path Extinction Realm cultivation. In all likelihood, even Dao Pedestal Realm cultivators of this world would find it impossible to defeat her.
Sarriel seemed embarrassed by Ryu exposing her like this, but she didn't refute. This was the truth of the matter, albeit only part of the truth.
Ryu shook his head. "I don't accept."
Hearing this, Sarriel suddenly sunk into a state of panic again. Her flustered expression was particularly adorable, plucking at the heartstrings of all those who saw it. But, Ryu had steeled himself.
"Wait, please, that isn't all…!"
"Stroking my ego isn't going to make me change my mind." Ryu frowned, not liking the fact this woman was so insistent.
It simply didn't make any sense. This woman was powerful enough to wipe the floor with Zulfiqar. And, even if the Three Pupil Eclipse Sect sent talents far stronger than him, she would still be able to hold her own.
Ryu didn't want to waste his time for what he effectively saw as nonsense.
"No, really! You don't understand… The Tri Palace is a very dangerous place, especially in its current state! Only by combining the abilities of our Pupils together can we reach the ultimate goal!"
For once, Ryu wasn't off put by words Sarriel had spoken. She had finally displayed an emotion that should appear in a cultivator of her caliber… Ambition.
Finally, she seemed human.
"Still not enough." Ryu replied plainly.
"I… I … I'm willing…!"
Ryu frowned. Willing to do what?
Ryu was confused until he saw Sarriel's face suddenly flush completely red and heard Ailsa's laughter sputter again.
"I… I heard you … two talking… I'm… I'm willing…"
"See, she's willing. Didn't I say to trust Big Sis? Go ahead and ravage her."
Hearing such words, Ryu couldn't help but turn his attention to Sarriel again, a blazing fire lighting in his belly. She was truly too beautiful.
Maybe it was because she was a Fey, but her beauty seemed almost intoxicating. It definitely carried a seductive air that one would never expect from such a shy girl.
But, this feeling only lasted a moment before Ryu regained control of himself, his gaze becoming expressionless.
"Don't joke around, Miss Sarriel. If there's nothing else, I'll be leaving now. I still have many things to prepare."
Sarriel was stunned when she saw Ryu standing to leave. No matter how shy she was, she was well aware of her own beauty. Her unique, exotic air could even rival Ailsa.
Ailsa left an apologetic smile as she shifted back into her miniature form, leaving after Ryu.
At that moment, Sarriel grit her teeth, her cheeks flushing crimson again.
"I… I can help your Life Partner undo the seal that was put on her!"
Ryu's steps froze. "What did you just say?"
Ryu's head turned back, looking at Sarriel with clear confusion on his face before looking toward Ailsa. But, all he found was the same confusion on hers.
A seal even Ailsa wasn't even aware of?