Douluo Dalu: Starting With Tom Cat

"Brother, look at him! I even offered him more money, but he still won't agree. Think of something, won't you?" Xiao Wu pouted at Tang San, her tone laced with a playful whine.

Having lived alongside Tang San for six years, Xiao Wu had grown entirely reliant on him, trusting that he could fulfill any of her desires.

Hearing her plea, Tang San's resolve softened. He decided to personally address the shopkeeper.

Glancing around the shop, Tang San noticed the price list on the wall and couldn't help but feel surprised. The tea here was incredibly expensive! It seemed the owner wasn't lacking in wealth, so a different approach would be needed.

After a moment's hesitation, Tang San glanced at Xiao Wu and then at Shen An, steeling his resolve. Though he felt a bit uneasy, he thought, If Xiao Wu truly wants this, I have no choice.

Without further hesitation, Tang San released his soul power. Two yellow spirit rings appeared beneath his feet and began circling him. Over the past six years, his cultivation had progressed to the peak of Rank 29, making him a formidable force among his peers. The aura of his spirit power swept over Shen An like a tide.

In the Douluo Continent, spirit masters commanded immense respect and prestige. Tang San believed that by revealing his strength, the matter could easily be resolved.

Feeling the oppressive spirit power, Shen An raised an eyebrow. What does he mean by this? Trying to intimidate me?

Unfazed, Shen An calmly replied, "So, what's the point of flashing your spirit rings? Are you trying to scare me?"

With a flick of his hand, Shen An summoned his Nine-Leaf Sword Grass martial spirit. The sharp aura clashed directly with Tang San's, effortlessly cutting through the pressure.

Tang San's expression shifted. This guy is strong. He feels like an impeccably sharp sword. Tang San's gaze fell on Shen An's weapon, which emitted a piercing light that made it hard to look at directly.

Unconcerned, Xiao Wu, ever the instigator, stepped forward. Her fiery temper was stirred, and she showed no intention of backing down.

"What's the meaning of this? Of course, I'm here to scare you!" she retorted. "If you know what's good for you, you'll have that cat play the piano for me and make me two cups of tea. Otherwise, I'll tear this place apart!"

Shen An furrowed his brow. Another troublemaker? First a spoiled heiress yesterday, and now these two clowns today.

Beside him, Tom the cat, alert to the threat, positioned himself next to Shen An, his gaze sharp. How dare they threaten to destroy my shop?

With a flash, Shen An's spirit ring appeared—one bright yellow ring tinged with violet. It pulsed with power as he prepared to confront the intruders.

"Hmph! Just a mere one-ring spirit master," Xiao Wu sneered. Her own spirit rings, both yellow, flared to life as she prepared to strike.

Before Tang San could intervene, Xiao Wu had already made her move. Her second spirit skill, Charm, was activated. A soft pink light filled her eyes as she locked her gaze onto Shen An, attempting to seize control of his mind.

However, Shen An simply stood there, unimpressed. He thought to himself, Why is this girl blinking so much? Is she stupid?

For reasons unknown—perhaps due to his transmigration or innate mental strength—Xiao Wu's charm skill had no effect on him.

Mistaking his lack of reaction for success, Xiao Wu immediately launched her next attack. With a twist of her body, she propelled herself forward like an arrow, using her first spirit skill, Waist Bow.

Unperturbed, Shen An calmly raised his Nine-Leaf Sword Grass to block her attack. His martial spirit, known for its unparalleled sharpness, was not one to be trifled with.

This guy is too fast! Xiao Wu's instincts screamed danger. Tang San, too, felt a chill run down his spine. If Shen An struck Xiao Wu, there would be no coming back from it.

At the last second, Xiao Wu twisted her body midair, using her exceptional agility to avoid the attack. With a nimble flip, she landed back beside Tang San.

"Brother, this guy isn't simple. Let's take him down together," she urged.

Before Tang San could respond, a gust of wind swept through the room as Zhu Zhuqing arrived. Hearing the commotion from upstairs, she had rushed down, ready to fight.

Unbeknownst to the others, Tom had already stealthily pulled out a revolver from its stash. Dare to attack my owner? Insolent fools!

Tom assessed the situation, noting a favorable 3v2 scenario. Victory is within reach!

Just as Shen An prepared to counterattack, the sound of approaching footsteps interrupted them.

"Clomp, clomp, clomp."

A patrol of Soto City guards entered the shop, having been drawn by the disturbance.

One of the armored soldiers surveyed the scene before addressing Shen An. "Shopkeeper Shen, is someone causing trouble here?"

Shen An seized the opportunity to explain. "Yes, officer. These two barged into my shop, attempting to coerce me into selling them something. When I refused, they tried to use force."

"We weren't causing trouble!" Xiao Wu retorted indignantly. "We even offered to pay extra!"

Tang San gave her a subtle shake of the head, signaling her to calm down. With the city patrol now involved, it was best to keep a low profile.

The guardsman narrowed his eyes at Tang San and Xiao Wu. As frequent visitors to Shen An's shop, they were well aware of its popularity and reputation. To them, these two strangers were clearly in the wrong.

"You two disrupted a local business," the guardsman stated firmly. "According to kingdom law, you'll face either ten days in custody or a fine of five gold spirit coins."

Tang San's expression darkened. Five gold spirit coins was a significant sum, but being detained for ten days was out of the question, especially with the Shrek Academy entrance exam looming.

Reluctantly, Tang San handed over the fine. "We accept the penalty. But mark my words—this isn't over."

With that, he and Xiao Wu stormed out, Xiao Wu casting a venomous glare at Shen An on her way out.

"Hmm, Tang San," Shen An muttered, watching their retreating figures. So I've encountered the so-called protagonist of Douluo Dalu. Too bad he's just a lovesick fool.

The guardsman turned to Shen An and nodded. "If that's all, I'll take my leave."

Shen An smiled knowingly. "Thank you for your help, officer. I'll be closing the shop tomorrow, but please feel free to visit anytime."

Satisfied, the guard left, pocketing the fine as he departed. Shen An couldn't help but smirk. Connections are everything.