Xiaotian didn't realize that his recent reflections had strengthened his resolve to follow the path of sword cultivation. His sword intent deepened steadily, thanks to his improved comprehension.
Touched by Xiao Wu's earlier words, Xiaotian said calmly,"Alright then, let's head to the city—it's the perfect chance to visit Notting."
Xiao Wu hummed softly and followed behind him, ignoring Tang San, who trailed after them.
Tang San's mouth twitched slightly as he glanced at Xiaotian's back. His eyes carried a hint of depth. Xiaotian's behavior puzzled him—it felt as if Xiaotian could see through his secrets. Was he really just a genius?
The ability to use soul skills without possessing a soul ring… his sword-control technique… and during the fight with Xiao Wu, the unmistakable footwork of a lightness skill—Qinggong?
Tang San's heart skipped. He also remembered the sword intent Xiaotian radiated earlier. Could it be that Xiaotian was like him—a traveler from another world?
It seemed likely that Xiaotian had been a disciple of a sword sect in his previous life, which explained why he could wield sword intent at such a young age.
Tang San himself, in his past life as an assassin of the Tang Sect, had occasionally encountered sword cultivators. Most lacked sword intent, and those who did were legends.
But this was only their first meeting. He couldn't make judgments yet. Tang San needed to confirm several things:
Was Xiaotian, like him, someone who had come to this world with past-life memories?
If so, did he come from the same world?
Could Xiaotian become an ally? If not, then according to Tang Sect rules, threats had to be eliminated swiftly.
Meanwhile, Xiaotian tested Xiao Wu with casual words:"Xiao Wu, you have full innate soul power. Once you get your first soul ring in a few days, why not head to the Wuhun branch hall in Notting City? You'll receive a soul master subsidy—a gold soul coin each month. That'll last us a long time."
Xiaotian remained grateful to the Spirit Hall. Not only had they helped commoners awaken their spirits for free, but they also provided monthly allowances.
Thinking of Bibi Dong's obsession with Yu Xiaogang, Xiaotian could only shake his head. It was excessive—but none of his concern.
Xiao Wu, who had been cheerful moments earlier, suddenly grew cold.
"It's impossible for me to go to the Spirit Hall for subsidies. The Spirit Hall is no good. Why do you hold them in such high regard, Xiaotian?"
The chill in her tone didn't faze him.
"Because they helped me, a commoner with no background, awaken my martial spirit for free and even gave me subsidies. That alone deserves gratitude. People should learn to be thankful.
It doesn't affect my swordsmanship at all. I don't know why you dislike them, but we've only known each other for a day—it's not my concern."
Xiao Wu was startled. She hadn't expected such words. Indeed, the Spirit Hall did help commoners. She shouldn't let emotions cloud her judgment.
She wanted to argue further, but swallowed her words.
Still, Xiaotian's reasoning reminded her of something…
(Fanfic Twist: In this version, Xiao Wu recalls as a child watching her mother face Bibi Dong while obtaining spirit rings and bones. Tears welled in her eyes unconsciously. This is a headcanon interpretation, not strict canon.)
"Hey, hey, what's wrong, Xiao Wu? I was just speaking casually—you don't need to cry." Xiaotian was caught off guard.
Wiping her tears away, she retorted proudly,"Who said I was crying? Once I buy bedding, I'll practice hard. When I get my first spirit ring, I'll spar with you. You better call me Sister Xiao Wu then!"
Her fighting spirit, sparked by Xiaotian's words, surprised him.
He recalled that Xiao Wu once vowed to cultivate diligently and seek revenge on Bibi Dong. Yet at Notting and Shrek, she mostly focused on romance. Now, she seemed ready to prioritize her own growth instead of Tang San. That was better—if she kept being distracted, she'd end up sacrificing valuable spirit rings and bones.
Still, Xiaotian knew the truth: Xiao Wu's mother hadn't been killed by Bibi Dong, but was gravely injured by a powerful soul beast while searching for her husband.
If Bibi Dong had killed her in Xiao Wu's presence, wouldn't she have noticed Xiao Wu's transformed rabbit form? Bibi Dong, with her twin martial souls, was experienced in soul absorption—she could have captured Xiao Wu easily. Yet she hadn't. That alone made the story worth rethinking.
Suddenly, the system's warning rang out:
[Ding! Warning! Tang Hao, the God of Killing and Lord of the Douluo Star Plane, is within 500 meters of the host. Exercise caution! Host, I told you not to provoke Tang San or Xiao Wu. You've beaten the younger ones—now the elder has arrived!]
[This master suggests using the jade pendant to transfer away secretly. Develop in the shadows for now!]
Xiaotian was speechless. Tang Hao wasn't fixated on his son, but instead on him—or was it Xiao Wu?
He glanced at Xiao Wu, whose fighting spirit burned brightly, and couldn't help but sigh.
Why had she chosen Notting City when so many smaller towns were available? And why here, when the Star Dou Great Forest spanned across two empires?
How had Xiao Wu traveled so far, bypassing so many closer places?
His thoughts returned to the system's warning. Tang Hao was near.
--
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