Now, Grandmaster Yu Xiaogang is crippled, and Xiao Wu and the others have even distinguished themselves in the Hell Slaughter Arena, becoming the judges of Slaughter City. How could he remain indifferent? How could he sit still?
During the past year or so in Slaughter City, he had been constantly thinking about how to surpass the Heart of Fire students.
He realized that the saying was correct: to defeat Heart of Fire students, the best way was to join Heart of Fire Academy and become a Heart of Fire student.
With his talent, even the Mysterious Heaven Treasure Record could be self-taught. Could he really be inferior to Wang Sheng and the others?
The thoughts had taken root long ago, growing quietly within him, nourished by frustration, ambition, and unwillingness to fall behind. What began as simple competitiveness had gradually transformed into obsession. Every time he witnessed the progress of Zhu Zhuqing and the others, that feeling deepened—like a thorn lodged in his heart.
But under Tang San's expectant gaze, Xin still shook his head:
"It is indeed good to have a desire for knowledge, but unfortunately, I cannot accept you. If you can earnestly strive for change, perhaps with your own potential, you can still have a good future."
Xin said lightly, originally wanting to say 'don't forget your original intention', but it seemed this kid's original intention wasn't very good to begin with.
His refusal was calm, almost indifferent, yet it carried a finality that left no room for negotiation. There was no anger, no disdain—only a quiet judgment.
"Teacher Xin, since you know I am sincere in seeking knowledge, why won't you accept me?"
"Teacher Xin, since you acknowledge my potential, why do you still refuse me at the door?"
"Why do you all treat me like this?!"
Tang San exclaimed excitedly, "Why? Why?!"
His voice rose uncontrollably, emotions that had long been suppressed finally breaking free. The composure he once maintained shattered in an instant, revealing the turmoil beneath.
In my previous life, the Tang Sect was unwilling to teach me the Mysterious Heaven Treasure Record and Hidden Weapons.
Now, Xin is also unwilling to accept me as a disciple?
What exactly is wrong with me, Tang San?!
The question echoed in his mind, over and over again, without answer.
"Teacher Xin, please accept me!"
"After joining Heart of Fire Academy, I will definitely be well-behaved, diligent in cultivation, abide by school rules, and never do anything rebellious."
"Teacher Xin, Teacher Xin, look, actually my first Spirit, Blue Silver Grass, is not a waste Spirit. It is actually the king among plants—the Blue Silver Emperor, a top-tier plant-type Spirit, possessing royal bloodline."
The Blue Silver Grass leaves in Tang San's palm were as crystal clear as jewels, with even a trace of golden Texture rippling on them.
The transformation was undeniable. What was once dismissed as ordinary had revealed its true, noble nature. The faint golden veins pulsing within the leaves gave off an aura of dignity and vitality, silently proving his words.
"And not only that, I have two Spirits. My second Spirit is also a top-tier Tool Spirit on the continent, the Clear Sky Hammer, which once shook the continent with its fame. It is very powerful, Teacher Xin, look…"
A black hammer appeared in Tang San's left hand. He even didn't hesitate to expose his martial arts foundation:
The hammer was heavy, ancient, and oppressive. Even without being swung, it radiated a force that seemed capable of crushing mountains. It was the kind of power that demanded recognition.
"And… and Teacher Xin, the unique skills that the senior sisters in the academy are learning, I have also had contact with them before. I have experience in this area, and my learning speed will definitely be faster than theirs, and I will learn stronger, I will definitely not disappoint you, Teacher!"
His words came faster and faster, almost tumbling over one another.
He was no longer simply asking.
He was trying to prove himself—desperately.
Every advantage, every secret, every strength he possessed was laid bare without reservation. Pride, caution, restraint—all of it was cast aside in this moment.
Because to him, this was no longer just an opportunity.
It was the only path forward he could see.
Yet even as he displayed everything, there was something he failed to notice.
Xin's gaze did not change.
Not when he revealed the Blue Silver Emperor.
Not when he summoned the Clear Sky Hammer.
Not even when he exposed knowledge others would guard with their lives.
Because what Xin was looking at… had never been those things.
And that was precisely why the door before Tang San remained closed.