Douluo Dalu: The Abandoned Child

The faint mist surrounding the Ice and Fire Yin Yang Well seemed to pulse with life as we stepped into it. The air carried an almost tangible energy, sharp and invigorating. I turned to Tang Hao, gesturing broadly at the view before us. "Welcome to the Ice and Fire Yin Yang Well," I said with a grin. "Take a look around. This place is like no other."

Tang Hao's eyes swept across the landscape, taking in the vibrant colors of the herbs thriving around the pool of contrasting energy. The plants were larger, brighter, and more robust than any he'd likely seen before. He didn't say much, but the way his expression softened betrayed his awe.

"The vitality here is unmatched," I continued. "Every herb radiates potential. It's why this land is so important." Of course, the most valuable treasures had already found a secure home in my Ruyi Treasure Bag. No chance I'd leave them here for anyone else to claim, including Tang Hao.

Tang Hao remained silent but nodded slightly. His focus was on the task at hand. Holding the dormant plant form of Ah Yin with both hands, he began moving with purposeful steps, guided by an unseen connection. We followed, keeping a respectful distance.

After some searching, Tang Hao stopped in a small clearing near the edge of the pools. He knelt, carefully adjusting the soil with his hand. "Here," he said softly. "This is the spot."

He began preparing the ground, but it was evident he needed both hands to handle the process. I took a step forward, extending my arms. "I'll hold him," I offered, nodding toward Tang San.

He hesitated, his eyes narrowing in suspicion. I could almost see the gears turning in his head. After a moment, he sighed and handed over the baby.

Tang San shifted slightly in my arms but settled quickly. His small face was peaceful, serene. For a brief moment, memories of my past life surfaced. I'd been an older brother to three brothers back then. The image of their faces brought a bittersweet nostalgia. I unconsciously smiled looking at the baby.

As I gazed at Tang San, another face flitted through my mind, Qian Renxue. Although, I'd never met her, I knew her story and the challenges she would face. Someday, I would approach her. She deserved better than her end in the original novel and I was going to make sure to help her, as long as she didn't become an obstacle to my own plans.

A few minutes passed. Tang Hao finished preparing the soil and gently placed Ah Yin into the ground. As soon as she made contact, a faint glow surrounded her, growing brighter with each passing moment. Tang Hao's shoulders relaxed, and for the briefest instant, a tear glistened in his eye before he quickly wiped it away.

When he finally stood, I spoke, still holding Tang San. "Plant her soul bone near her, as well."

Tang Hao's head snapped toward me, his eyes sharp with suspicion. "Why?" he asked, his voice low and guarded.

"We don't steal from each other in my academy," I replied firmly. "And now, Ah Yin is considered a member of this academy, at least until she fully resurrects and decides to leave if she wishes. Her soul bone was part of her, it might ensure her recovery."

His gaze bore into mine, searching for any sign of a lie. Finally, with a reluctant nod, he reached into his bag and pulled out a glowing blue 100,000-year soul bone. The radiant light from the artifact illuminated the clearing, casting long shadows on the ground.

Dugu Bo, who had been quietly observing, raised an eyebrow. Though he'd likely pieced together much of the story, the sight of the soul bone confirmed the truth. His expression was inscrutable, but I could sense his curiosity.

Tang Hao knelt again, placing the soul bone near Ah Yin. Once it was done, he stood and turned toward me. His eyes fell on Tang San, who remained calm in my arms. He seemed hesitant to take his son back, as though the peace the child exuded might be disturbed. So, he didn't take him back. Yes, leave your son in the hands of the stranger because he is quiet like that, father of the year, Dugu Bei thought. Then he remembered his own parents in this world and decided Tang Hao wasn't so bad after all.

"This place is perfect for Ah Yin's cultivation," Tang Hao admitted. "You were right. You keep your promises."

"I'm sorry I don't have an immediate solution," I said. It wasn't true, though. Now that Ah Yin was here, she served as leverage, a living, glowing anchor for Tang Hao's loyalty. As long as she remained in this sacred land, he was mine to command, like a mad dog waiting to be told to bite someone, I just had to make sure to feed him regularly, so he wouldn't bite me too.

Tang Hao's voice broke through my thoughts. "What is the name of this academy I'm joining anyway?"

Before I could respond, Dugu Bo chuckled, a rare sound that carried a teasing edge. "Yes, Dean, what is the name of this academy you've been talking about for years?"

I shot him a glare. Tang Hao's lips twitched, and to my utter disbelief, he let out a low chuckle. It was the first time I'd seen him smile, let alone laugh. They both noticed the academy had no name. My face burned as I realized the truth, I hadn't thought of a name yet.

"Shut up, both of you," I muttered, crossing my arms defensively or trying at least, it wasn't easy while holding a baby in my arms. "I'll think of a name right now."

Their laughter only grew louder. I turned away, pretending to focus on the task, though my mind raced. Names came and went, none of them feeling right. Then, I glanced down at the baby in my arms. Tang San's small, serene face seemed to radiate strength, a reminder of the path he would one day walk, a path full of slaughter.

"Asura Academy," I said aloud, the name forming with a solemn weight.

The clearing fell silent. I turned back to see both Dugu Bo and Tang Hao looking at me with a mixture of curiosity and approval.

"Asura Academy," I repeated, a small smile tugging at my lips. It was perfect.