Even after earning his **first soul ring**, Leng Tian was far from celebrated.
In truth, most hunters of Coldwater had never even reached the realm of Soul Masters, so a weak ring was – by standards – still remarkable. Yet among the youths of the village, comparison birthed cruelty.
"Frost Veil?" a boy sneered. "That's no ability. My Ice Fang strike can pierce a boar! Yours barely chills air."
Another jeered, clashing an improvised metal blade against stone, sparks flying. "Useless aura. If I walk at you with spear, your 'veil' will just slow me by a breath. Then what? You die."
Their laughter echoed against the snowy huts.
Tian stood quiet amid their voices. His shoulders ached as he tightened his famished grip. He had not chosen greatness; he had only chosen survival.
But part of him still stung.
*So what if my skill is weak now? If even a small frost can chill game until spring, slow enemies for moments, preserve grain from rotting… then it has worth!*
Yet arguing was futile. He turned away, lips pressed tight.
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### A Quiet Witness
Not everyone mocked. From the shade near the well stood **Yuexin**, the orphan girl with calm dark hair and eyes like reflecting snow. She had watched silently throughout the gathering.
When Tian passed, she followed quietly, then spoke in her gentle voice:
"Leng Tian… I don't think it's useless."
He blinked at her, caught off-guard.
"Snow is never useless," she continued. "If it smothers a flame one night, someone lives. Even slowing a single wolf-step can save a hunter's throat."
Her gaze was steady, unflinching even against his weakness. "I believe in you."
A warmth spread through Tian, unfamiliar yet grounding. He swallowed. "Yuexin… then I will make sure not to waste the belief."
For the first time, he felt something richer than respect: quiet companionship.
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🔥 End of Chapter 7
***