Yu Xiaogang sat in the carriage, and his zombie-like face rarely carried the demeanor of a proper teacher.
"Xiao San, remember this. Although Soul Hunting Forest is safe, it is divided into zones. Most Soul Beasts on the outskirts are between ten and a hundred years old, suitable for Soul Masters who have just awakened their Martial Souls."
Tang San listened intently, his expression focused and devout.
"Then, Teacher, what kind of Soul Beast should I choose?"
Yu Xiaogang stroked his chin, as though he were truly giving the question serious thought.
"Your Hyena Martial Soul possesses both strength and speed, but neither is particularly outstanding. So, we need Soul Rings to make up for those shortcomings."
He paused, wisdom gleaming in his eyes.
"I plan to have you first hunt an earth-element Soul Beast to enhance your defense, then a poison-element Soul Beast to strengthen your offensive abilities."
Tang San nodded repeatedly, his eyes brimming with admiration.
"Teacher, you know so much."
At that praise, Yu Xiaogang was practically wagging his tail up to the heavens.
"Of course. Your teacher has studied Martial Soul theory for so many years. I still possess this much knowledge."
He cleared his throat, his tone carrying a hint of smugness.
"Xiao San, remember this. While the strength of a Martial Soul is certainly important, the combination of Soul Rings is the key that determines a Soul Master's upper limit. As long as they are properly matched, even the most ordinary Martial Soul can unleash astonishing power."
Tang San nodded heavily, his admiration for this teacher growing even deeper.
The carriage sped along the official road, kicking up dust as it headed toward Soul Hunting Forest.
Xuan Xiao lay on the inn bed, secretly watching the departing carriage through the surveillance screen, an amused