SoulLand:Ascending to Godhood through Science

After You Chen had You Xing subtly inform Xiao Wu about Tang San's family troubles, her attitude toward Tang San naturally softened. This subtle change likely went unnoticed even by Xiao Wu herself, but it did not escape Tang San's attention.

To Tang San, Xiao Wu noticing his mood when not even his esteemed teacher had was proof of her attentiveness toward him. He was convinced—she must have been paying close attention to him all along!

In times of emotional vulnerability, people tend to seek support, regardless of gender. For Tang San, Xiao Wu became his rock. His demeanor toward her shifted drastically, becoming more proactive.

Previously, though harboring deep affection for Xiao Wu, Tang San behaved like a shy boy with a crush on a goddess, never daring to initiate conversation. Their connection could barely be described as organic—You Xing had essentially "paired them up."

But now, Tang San began to take the initiative, frequently requesting sparring matches with Xiao Wu as an excuse to spend time together.

For Xiao Wu, there were no suitable sparring partners among her peers in Nuoding City. You Xing was too strong, and the others too weak. Tang San, however, struck the perfect balance.

Although Xiao Wu, as a soul beast, had no need to spar with others to grow stronger, You Xing's subtle nudges made it difficult for her to refuse.

"You know, Xiao Wu, auxiliary spirit masters typically level up more slowly than battle spirit masters. Do you know why? It's because battles, with their soul power collisions, accelerate soul power refinement. I noticed you haven't been sparring much with opponents of your level. Should I ask Teacher if he has time to help? He can easily suppress his power to match yours."

This statement hit a nerve. How could Xiao Wu, a supposed "mountain king," maintain a faster leveling speed than a natural genius like Tang San without such refinement?

Presented with the choice of sparring with You Chen, a member of Spirit Hall, or Tang San, Xiao Wu hesitated briefly before picking the latter.

Why? Because Tang San came to her, not the other way around. As someone who valued her dignity, Xiao Wu preferred being approached to approaching others.

Moreover, after hearing from You Xing about Tang San's family troubles, Xiao Wu couldn't help but feel a bit sorry for him. She agreed to spar with him out of sympathy.

Tang San, bracing himself for defeat, was pleasantly surprised.

Though he'd prepared to be beaten due to his lack of confidence in his Blue Silver Grass and his gentlemanly reluctance to use hidden weapons, Xiao Wu was unexpectedly gentle.

Unbeknownst to Tang San, Xiao Wu was holding back because she pitied him. To Tang San, this kindness was incredibly moving.

"Xiao Wu… could she be like a mother to me?"

Through Xiao Wu's tolerance, Tang San experienced motherly affection for the first time.

From then on, even when Xiao Wu stopped holding back during their spars, Tang San didn't mind her roughness. His heart had already been captured, and he saw every interaction as a blessing.

Meanwhile, the sparring sessions allowed Tang San to regain some confidence. Unlike You Xing, whose overwhelming strength crushed him, Xiao Wu's abilities were formidable but manageable. With his techniques from the Mysterious Heaven Treasure Record, Tang San managed to achieve a modest 3:7 win-loss ratio.

For Xiao Wu, the sparring offered her a rare sense of satisfaction. Unlike overpowering weaker opponents or being outclassed by stronger ones, sparring with Tang San allowed her to dominate a challenging but fair fight.

Thus, the two continued sparring regularly. Xiao Wu found no better partner, and Tang San reveled in his sense of progress.

Encouraged by the positive feedback, Tang San devised a plan to deepen their bond further—not as lovers, but as lifelong companions. He envisioned Xiao Wu as a sister or even a familial figure.

His carefully crafted gift—a handmade, intricate music box—was the result of countless hours of effort. Tang San was confident this gesture would elevate their relationship to a new level.

Yet, reality was far from his ideal.

Though Tang San's feelings for Xiao Wu had blossomed into adoration, Xiao Wu saw him only as a friend and sparring partner.

Unlike Tang San, whose world revolved around Xiao Wu, her life encompassed many other interests. To her, Tang San was merely one of many aspects of her day.

Despite their improved relationship, Tang San's position in Xiao Wu's eyes had risen only slightly. He was now her most competent subordinate, but still ranked below her trusted second-in-command, Da Hei (Mu Feng).

When Tang San presented his gift with great anticipation, Xiao Wu felt an overwhelming sense of regret.

Why had she pitied this boy and allowed him to misinterpret their relationship?

"Hey!"

With a loud cry, Xiao Wu threw the gift back at Tang San and followed up with a powerful kick, sending him flying.

Without even glancing at the fallen boy, she left with a stern warning: "Don't ever ask me to spar again!"

Had the gift been a simple trinket, Xiao Wu might have graciously accepted it. But knowing Tang San's ulterior motives, she couldn't tolerate the implication.

"Does he think I'm so easily swayed? What does he take me for?"

Angry and disgusted, Xiao Wu decided to distance herself from Tang San, whom she now saw as a dangerous admirer.

Tang San, lying on the ground with the shattered gift beside him, muttered, "She must be testing me…"

In his mind, Xiao Wu's rejection was a trial of his resolve, solidifying his feelings even further.

His belief in their connection had reached the level of unwavering devotion. Tang San's transformation into a true "devotee" was complete, his path as a self-sacrificing "admirer" firmly set.

Meanwhile, in a serene courtyard, You Chen read a letter from Yan detailing his progress in Death Canyon and his subsequent return to Spirit City.

Satisfied with Yan's advancement to Three-Hearts Fusion and his successful acquisition of a ten-thousand-year spirit ring, You Chen smiled.

At the mention of Hu Liena's recent change in behavior toward Yan, You Chen's expression turned contemplative. He recognized the signs of fear disguised as friendliness, a result of his earlier manipulations.

"Perhaps it's time to remind Yan not to speak of me so often in her presence. Too much mention might raise suspicions in

Spirit Hall's upper ranks."

With that thought, You Chen began drafting his reply.