The decision to come to Suotuo City was purely strategic. Its location near both the Sunset Forest and the Star Dou Forest made it the perfect place for my training. By being here, I could easily access both forests to practice fighting against soul beasts. For someone like me, aiming to push my limits constantly, it was the ideal base.
When I arrived, securing a decent room to stay in for a year was surprisingly easy. I guess walking into the hotel with a pouch full of gold coins does that. The manager's eyes lit up like he'd just seen the Spirit Hall's treasury, and he didn't ask too many questions. Not even about why a seven-year-old was booking a room alone. The arrangement suited me perfectly, privacy and convenience.
The first few days, I dedicated entirely to exploring the city. Suotuo City was much larger and livelier than I had imagined. It took some time to adapt to its bustling streets, crowded marketplaces, and endless array of shops. But what fascinated me most were the restaurants.
Let me tell you something, I love my family, but they're hopeless in the kitchen. Grandpa's idea of cooking is throwing everything into a pot and hoping for the best, and Uncle Xin wasn't much better. Discovering the culinary delights of Suotuo City was like finding a treasure trove. From spicy stews to sweet pastries, the city had it all. I made it my personal mission to try every dish this city had to offer.
Not just that, but I've started learning how to cook some of these dishes myself. Imagine the look on Grandpa's face when I serve him a proper meal next time we're together. That alone is motivation enough.
If there's one thing that stood out above all, it was the Great Spirit Arena. Watching matches there was exhilarating. Seeing soul masters showcase their abilities, strategize, and battle was nothing short of inspiring. I've already watched several matches, and I can't deny it, I'm itching to participate myself.
At first, I thought it was just idle entertainment, but now I'm realizing how much I could learn from these battles. Observing different fighting styles, how people use their martial souls, and the creative ways they employ their spirit abilities it's invaluable. Who knows? Maybe one day soon, the spectators will be cheering my name, or an alias, at least.
As much as I'm enjoying Suotuo City, I have to admit, the sheer number of people is overwhelming. For someone who's spent his entire life living with just Grandpa and Uncle Xin, it's a big change. The noise, the crowds, the constant chatter, it's a lot to handle.
But the worst part? The endless questions. "What is a kid like you doing alone here?" "Are you lost, little one?" And the absolute worst, "Where are your parents? They must be so worried." Every time someone asks that, I feel a surge of irritation so strong I could bite them, or just kill them, depends on my mood.
To avoid these interactions, I've been using my new ability, Camouflage, more often than I'd like to admit. At first, it was just a way to avoid nosy strangers, but now it's become a habit. Whenever I feel the crowd's eyes on me for too long, I just disappear. It's easier than answering their questions, and honestly, it's kind of fun.
I've noticed something else. Without my family around, I don't feel the need to be as considerate. If someone's annoying me, I'll let them know. If I don't like something, I'll say it. No filters, no politeness, just me, if people don't like it they can just die.
Maybe it's the city's influence. Or maybe it's just who I've always been, now surfacing because I don't have to hide it anymore. Either way, I'm not sure if it's a good thing or a bad thing. It just is.
Despite the challenges, I'm starting to settle into life here. The city is beginning to feel familiar, almost comfortable. I have my routines, my favorite spots, and my plans.
For now, Suotuo City is my home. And as much as I miss Grandpa and Uncle Xin, I know this is where I need to be for now.