Many times I wonder, what am I? A protagonist, an antagonist, a mob, a player? No… I'm just a fool.
The old man waiting outside saw us and greeted, "Grandmaster Su, what happened? Did anybody awaken soul power this year?"
The old man's name was Oggy, also known as Grandpa Oggy by the entire village, for he was the chief of Water Emperor Village. The name came from the grandfather of a former chief, who had once become a Soul Emperor powerhouse. His son later changed the village's name from Water Pearl Village to Water Emperor Village.
Coincidentally, the neighboring village was called Soul Saint Village, as they too had produced a Soul Saint powerhouse. Most interesting of all, their chief's name was Jack. "Oggy and Jack… and the most curious part is that they are brothers."
She had no complaints. After all, she was picked up by the village chief outside the village and raised by his daughter. She was spoiled by the whole family, cherished for her lively and cheerful personality.
And you may wonder, how do I know? Well, I was a reincarnated person. Though I don't remember much of my past life, I do recall my familiar face that looked like a chibi version of my favorite character, Furina, the Hydro Archon from the game I once played.
My memory may be hazy, but many of the manga and anime I watched still linger faintly. Hazy, yet manageable. That's why I immediately analyzed my current situation: hearing words like "Soul Master," "Soul Power," and "Nuoding City," I realized I had been reborn in the Soul Land continent. I don't know which period it is, but that doesn't matter. What matters is this I am the Hydro Archon. That is the main point.
The cold expression on Su Yuntao's face vanished, replaced by a smile. "Well, your village is in luck today. This year, your village has produced a Soul Master."
Old man Oggy's expression shifted to joy and expectation. He looked behind him, only to see Furina proudly puffing out her chest, both hands on her waist. "Who is it, Grandmaster Su?"
Su Yuntao nodded and pointed at Furina. "Yes, she is the one. Not only did she awaken a sword martial soul, but she also possesses innate full soul power. She is a genius who will bring pride to your village."
Old Oggy looked at Furina, nodding continuously with joy. "Good, good! At last, our village has a Soul Master." His expression suddenly grew serious. "Well, child, do you truly wish to become a Soul Master? The path is full of hardship and perseverance. Can you endure it?"
Furina's expression turned serious as well. With a gleam in her eyes, she replied, "Yes, Grandpa Oggy. I want to become a Soul Master and make Aunt, Grandpa, and the whole village proud."
Old Oggy stepped forward and happily patted her head. "Good child, good. I am already proud of you. Remember to always take care of yourself and live a happy life." As he spoke, he pulled Furina closer. "Our village has one work-study quota, but I don't know if you will use it or if you want to enroll directly. Don't worry, we can definitely afford it."
Furina shook her head. She knew that Water Emperor Village was neither poor nor rich. The village lay near a large freshwater river source, blessed with abundant water resources. Most of the fish and aquatic food and material sold in Nuoding City came from Water Emperor Village.
Because of this, she didn't have to suffer in the village like those protagonists in fanfics. She had a healthy and fulfilled childhood without a single day of starvation. Yet she didn't want to trouble the village because of her. She also knew that once the village received news about her, everyone would be happy and, without hesitation, would support her enrollment in the academy even if it meant living a harder life for a while.
Having a Soul Master in the village brought many benefits: exemption from taxes for a decade, the city lord's attention, and opportunities to improve the lives of the villagers and their children. She was already the star of the village, her popularity even greater than that of the chief himself so she knew the villager won't hesitate.
"I want the work-study quota. Didn't you say it would exempt my admission fee? Plus, I would also get a salary for working. Isn't that better?"
Grandpa Oggy remained silent. He knew well that once she decided something, it was difficult to change her mind and she would stick to it until the end no matter what. He sighed and shook his head.