Chapter 14: Chapter 14: The Path of Connections
The morning sun bathed Nuoding City in a golden glow, signaling the start of a significant day for Xiao Wu. Today, she would begin her journey as a student at the Nuoding Junior Soul Master Academy. For someone who had only recently stepped into the human world, this was more than just an educational opportunity—it was a chance to understand and interact with humans on a deeper level.
In their modest home, Rylan stood by the window, his arms crossed as he gazed out at the bustling streets. Xiao Wu was upstairs, getting ready, while Yanli busied herself in the kitchen, preparing a light breakfast.
"Rylan," Yanli called softly, breaking his thoughts. "Are you sure Xiao Wu will be okay? She's still new to this world, and the Academy might be overwhelming."
Rylan turned to her, his expression calm but thoughtful. "She'll be fine. Xiao Wu is strong, and she has a way of making people like her. But we'll keep an eye on her. If anything feels off, we'll intervene."
Yanli nodded, trusting his judgment. She had grown to rely on his calm and strategic nature, especially in this unfamiliar environment.
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Xiao Wu's Departure
Xiao Wu came bounding down the stairs, her pink dress fluttering around her as she twirled playfully. "How do I look?" she asked, spinning to show off her outfit.
"Beautiful, as always," Yanli said with a proud smile.
Rylan, however, raised an eyebrow. "You're supposed to wear the uniform, Xiao Wu. It's part of blending in."
Xiao Wu pouted. "But the uniform is so boring! Can't I wear this instead?"
"No," Rylan said firmly. "Rules are rules, Xiao Wu. You need to follow them if you want to fit in."
With a dramatic sigh, Xiao Wu relented and went back upstairs to change.
When she returned, dressed in the simple yet elegant uniform of the Academy, Rylan gave her an approving nod. "Much better. Now, let's go."
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Nuoding Junior Soul Master Academy
The Academy was a sprawling complex filled with students of all ages. The towering buildings, lush courtyards, and training grounds were a testament to its status as a prestigious institution for nurturing soul masters.
As they approached the gates, Xiao Wu's excitement bubbled over. "Look at this place! It's amazing!"
Rylan couldn't help but smile at her enthusiasm. He placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder. "Remember, Xiao Wu, stay focused. You're here to learn and grow, not just have fun."
"I know, I know," Xiao Wu said, waving him off.
Inside, the Academy was even more impressive. Students hurried to and fro, some chatting in groups while others practiced their techniques in designated areas. The atmosphere was alive with energy and ambition.
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Meeting Tang San
As they navigated the hallways, Xiao Wu accidentally bumped into a boy about her age. He had a kind face, dark hair, and an air of calm maturity that belied his years.
"Oh, I'm so sorry!" Xiao Wu said quickly, looking up at him.
The boy smiled warmly. "It's okay. Are you new here?"
"Yes!" Xiao Wu replied, her natural friendliness shining through. "I'm Xiao Wu. What's your name?"
"Tang San," he said, extending a hand.
Xiao Wu shook his hand enthusiastically. "Nice to meet you, Tang San! Are you a student here too?"
Tang San nodded. "I am. If you need any help finding your way around, let me know."
Before Xiao Wu could respond, Rylan stepped forward, his sharp gaze appraising Tang San. "Thank you for the offer," he said evenly. "We'll keep it in mind."
Tang San's eyes flicked to Rylan, sensing the older boy's protective demeanor. He nodded politely, excusing himself and leaving Xiao Wu to watch him go.
"He seems nice," Xiao Wu said, looking up at Rylan.
"Maybe," Rylan replied, his tone neutral. "But don't trust anyone too quickly. We still don't know who we can rely on."
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First Day Challenges
The first day at the Academy was filled with introductions and basic orientations. Xiao Wu quickly stood out among her peers with her bright personality and natural charm. Her teachers noted her potential, while her classmates were drawn to her like moths to a flame.
In the training grounds, Xiao Wu impressed everyone with her agility and skill, though she was careful not to reveal her true strength. She remembered Rylan's warnings about keeping her identity as a soul beast a secret.
Meanwhile, Rylan and Yanli observed from the sidelines, keeping a close watch on Xiao Wu. They knew this was only the beginning of her journey, and challenges were sure to come.
As the sun set over Nuoding City, Xiao Wu returned home, exhausted but happy. She had made new friends, learned new things, and taken her first steps into the human world.
For Rylan and Yanli, it was a day of quiet pride and cautious optimism. They knew the road ahead would be difficult, but together, they would face whatever challenges came their way.
Little did they know, this was just the start of a journey that would change all their lives forever.
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Xiao Wu settled into life at the Nuoding Junior Soul Master Academy with surprising ease. Her cheerful personality and natural charisma quickly made her a favorite among her classmates, and her teachers noticed her agility and quick learning. Yet beneath her bubbly demeanor, Xiao Wu was constantly reminded of Rylan's warnings: they were soul beasts in a human world, and they could not afford to let their guard down.
Rylan and Yanli continued to keep a low profile in Nuoding City, guiding Xiao Wu from the shadows while ensuring that no one uncovered their true identities. Yanli, in her elegant yet understated human form, took on the role of a quiet guardian, always watching over Xiao Wu without interfering directly. Rylan, on the other hand, blended seamlessly into the city, his mature appearance and calm demeanor allowing him to gather information and keep an eye on the Academy's activities.
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A Bond with Tang San
Days turned into weeks, and Xiao Wu's friendship with Tang San grew. Though Tang San was quiet and reserved, he found Xiao Wu's liveliness refreshing. The two often trained together in the Academy's grounds, their bond deepening through shared challenges.
"Xiao Wu, your movements are incredible," Tang San said one day after sparring with her. His tone was genuine, his admiration clear.
Xiao Wu grinned, brushing a strand of hair out of her face. "Of course! I've been practicing since forever."
Tang San tilted his head, intrigued. "Who taught you? Your techniques don't seem like the usual ones taught in human schools."
Xiao Wu hesitated for a moment, remembering Rylan's advice. "Oh, my brother taught me," she said casually. "He's really strong and knows a lot about fighting."
Tang San smiled. "I'd like to meet him someday."
"Maybe," Xiao Wu replied, keeping her answer deliberately vague.
From the shadows, Rylan watched their exchange, his expression unreadable. He could see the potential in Tang San—his calm determination and natural talent. Still, Rylan remained cautious. Trust was not something he gave easily, especially in a world where their secrets could lead to their downfall.
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Xiao Wu's Popularity
It didn't take long for Xiao Wu to become a well-known figure at the Academy. Her playful personality and willingness to stand up for others earned her the title of "Big Sister Xiao Wu." She was always surrounded by friends, and her antics often brought laughter to the otherwise serious environment of the school.
One day, a group of older students tried to bully a younger boy in the courtyard. Xiao Wu stepped in without hesitation, her hands on her hips as she faced the bullies.
"Leave him alone!" she demanded, her voice firm.
The leader of the group, a tall boy with an arrogant smirk, sneered at her. "And what are you going to do about it, little girl?"
Xiao Wu's eyes narrowed. "You don't want to find out."
Before the situation could escalate, Tang San arrived, his calm presence diffusing the tension. "Let's not cause trouble," he said, stepping between Xiao Wu and the bullies.
The older students grumbled but eventually backed off, muttering under their breath.
"You didn't have to step in," Xiao Wu said to Tang San afterward. "I could've handled them myself."
Tang San chuckled. "I don't doubt it. But it's better to avoid unnecessary fights."
From then on, Xiao Wu's reputation as a protector of the weak only grew, solidifying her status as the Academy's big sister.
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Rylan's Guidance
At home, Rylan continued to teach Xiao Wu and Yanli skills that would help them navigate the human world. He emphasized the importance of blending in and understanding human customs while honing their combat abilities in case of danger.
One evening, as they sat in their small living room, Rylan demonstrated a technique he had developed—an ability to suppress their soul beast auras completely.
"This will help you avoid detection," he explained, his tone serious. "Even powerful soul masters won't be able to sense what you truly are if you master this skill."
Xiao Wu watched intently, her brow furrowed in concentration. "But what if someone attacks us? Won't suppressing our aura make us weaker?"
Rylan nodded. "It will, temporarily. But survival in the human world isn't about brute strength. It's about strategy and knowing when to fight."
Yanli, sitting beside Xiao Wu, placed a comforting hand on her daughter's shoulder. "Listen to Rylan, Xiao Wu. He's been through more than we can imagine. His guidance will keep us safe."
Xiao Wu sighed but nodded, trusting her brother's wisdom.
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The Journey Ahead
As time passed, Rylan began to prepare for the next phase of their journey. Xiao Wu's time at the Junior Academy was a stepping stone, but Rylan knew they couldn't stay in Nuoding City forever. Their ultimate goal was to navigate the complexities of the human world while protecting their true identities.
One evening, as they gathered around the dinner table, Rylan brought up the topic.
"Xiao Wu, you've done well at the Academy," he said, his voice steady. "But this is just the beginning. In a few years, you'll need to move on to a higher-level institution—one that will challenge you even more."
Xiao Wu tilted her head, curious. "You mean like an Advanced Soul Master Academy?"
"Exactly," Rylan replied. "The higher the level, the more opportunities you'll have to grow. But it also means greater risks. You'll need to be prepared."
Yanli frowned slightly, her maternal instincts kicking in. "Do we really need to push her so hard, Rylan? She's still so young."
"She's stronger than you think," Rylan said, his gaze meeting Yanli's. "And the world won't wait for her to catch up. If we want to survive, we need to stay ahead."
Xiao Wu listened quietly, her determination growing. She knew Rylan was right, and she was willing to do whatever it took to protect her family and prove herself in this new world.
The days in Nuoding City were shaping Xiao Wu in ways she couldn't yet fully understand. Her experiences at the Academy, her growing bond with Tang San, and Rylan's relentless guidance were all preparing her for the challenges ahead.
As the stars twinkled in the night sky, Rylan stood by the window, his mind already planning their next move. He knew that their journey in the human world was far from over—and that the bonds they were forming now would shape their destinies in ways they could only begin to imagine.
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To Be Continued…