Chapter 50: Drunkards, Deacons, and Divine Disguises

Morning sunlight burst across Holy Soul Village like a gleaming ribbon, bathing the rooftops in a vibrant glow. The tranquil buzz of the village swelled with palpable excitement—today was the day the Spirit Hall Deacon was set to arrive.

And he was never late.

Inside the village's Spirit Hall, a humble white-brick temple adorned with intricate spirit beast carvings, the sacred array was already being meticulously drawn in fresh soul ink. 

Tang Yan leaned against a column just outside, his eyes half-lidded, an irreverent smile playing on his lips. "Why is everything so... standardized?" 

System: "Host, this is a plot marker. Just let it unfold. Try not to wreck the place this time."

**1. The Deacon Arrives** 

At the village entrance, a gust of anticipation heralded the arrival of Su Yuntao, clad in flowing silver robes that shimmered in the dawn light. The Spirit Hall sigil glinted proudly under his cloak, while an assistant trailed behind, burdened with ceremonial boxes. Beside them walked Village Chief Jack, radiating pride. 

"Our humble village is honored, Deacon Su," Jack proclaimed enthusiastically. 

Su Yuntao gave a confident nod. "Let's hope your children's spirits can match the warmth of your welcome." 

System: "Mood: mild optimism. Confidence: crumbling."

**2. Awakening Begins** 

Inside the Spirit Hall, eager children gathered in neat rows, anticipation crackling in the air. One by one, they stepped into the ceremonial array: a rake, a broom, a mule spirit. 

With each awakening, Su Yuntao let out a deep sigh, his expression darkening with despair. 

System: "He's counting the days to retirement. Just one butter knife spirit away from calling it quits."

**3. Tang San's Turn** 

"Next," Su Yuntao called, his voice ringing through the hall. 

Tang San stepped forward, bowing with unshakeable calm, drawing curious glances from the villagers. He activated his Martial Soul, making the Blue Silver Grass shimmer around his arm spectacularly. 

He placed his hand on the soul crystal, and a bright glow surged—only to dim a moment later. 

Su Yuntao's brows shot up. "Innate full soul power! Surprising… from a plant-type." 

**4. Tang Yan's Showcase** 

With an unbothered demeanor, Tang Yan strolled forward, his shirt buttons askew, a yawn escaping his lips. 

"Morning, deacon! Let's wrap this up; I have naps scheduled." 

System: "Host has entered: 'Public Clown with a Crown' mode."

He stepped into the array, summoning his Blue-Gold Warlord Trident, its energy crackling and contained by the system. 

Su Yuntao stared, dumbfounded. "That's… an unknown class!" 

Tang Yan flashed a grin as he touched the soul power crystal. 

The crystal pulsed, then steadied, glowing brightly. 

"Level 10," Su Yuntao said in awe. "Another innate full soul power…"

He stepped closer, excitement in his voice. "Young man, with your power and Martial Soul, Spirit Hall could cultivate you. We can provide everything you need!" 

**5. The "Drunkard" Excuse** 

Tang Yan dramatically clasped his hands together. 

"I… I would love to, truly. But... my father. He's... well, he's a drunkard. Proud and traditional. Believes in 'earning your path.' He's set on me going to Nuoding Academy." 

A stunned silence enveloped the room. 

Su Yuntao blinked in disbelief. "Your father… is a drunkard?" 

Tang Yan nodded solemnly. "He drinks dreams and brews trauma." 

System: "Host has activated [Pathos Manipulation Lv3]. Critical Hit!"

**6. Jack Reports to Tang Hao** 

Later that afternoon, Village Chief Jack approached Tang Hao's courtyard, anxiety palpable. 

"Brother Tang Hao," he started, "your sons did exceptionally well today. Both awakened rare spirits, and both with full soul power…" 

He hesitated, gathering his courage. "The Deacon from Spirit Hall offered to recruit your younger son. But… he mentioned something... about you. Said you... drink too much." 

Tang Hao's expression remained impassive as he poured tea, a cunning smile forming. 

"I heard it," he said, his voice low and steady. "Every word." 

Earlier, he had sat in the woods, spiritual sense extended, monitoring the Spirit Hall ceremony intently, now his eyes narrowed. "That brat…"

**7. Father vs. Son: The Chase** 

Back in the courtyard, Tang Yan was humming blissfully, munching on a spirit fruit, until— 

"TANG. YAN." 

Tang Hao's voice boomed like thunder, electrifying the air. 

Tang Yan's eyes widened in shock. "Oh, so he did hear it…" 

System: "Host, retreat! It's a discipline boss battle!"

With laughter bubbling up, Tang Yan launched into a sprint, gracefully vaulting over a garden fence. 

"I only meant to protect our family image! Artistic license!" 

Tang Hao pursued, shouting indignantly, "A drunkard?! You couldn't just say carpenter?!"

**8. Koala Tactics & Motherly Mercy** 

Without missing a beat, Tang Yan darted into the house, diving straight into Ah Yin's arms like a koala cub. 

"Mother! He's gone berserk! My beautiful face is at risk!" 

Ah Yin blinked, weariness etched on her face. "Yan'er, again?" 

Tang Hao entered moments later, panting. "Did you hear what he told Spirit Hall?!" 

Tang Yan peeked from behind his mother's shoulder, smirking. "I said you drink… in spirit." 

System: "Passive Skill Unlocked: Tactical Parental Shield."

**9. The Novice Gift Pack** 

That night, Tang Yan lay in bed, a smirk lingering on his lips. 

"System," he whispered with glee, "open the gift pack." 

"Opening Novice Cheat Box. Brace for impact." 

Rewards Displayed: 

- Level 9 Blacksmith Inheritance 

- Level 9 Alchemy Inheritance 

- Level 9 Formation Inheritance 

- Tool Kits: 

 - Compact Forging Anvil + Spirit Iron 

 - Alchemy Cauldron + Herb Pouch 

 - Basic Formation Scrolls + Crystal Chalks 

Tang Yan rolled around, clutching his pillow with glee. 

"I can do everything! Forge, refine, inscribe!" 

System: "Host has reached: Protagonist Proficiency Tier 1. Please try not to cause too much havoc!"