Soul Land: Heartbreak Makes Me Stronger

The next day.

When Tang Yuehua returned to teach, she brought an entirely new court dance that combined the elegance of ballroom dancing with the unique characteristics of this world's movements, creating her own distinctive style.

"You all have one month to practice this courtly ballroom dance. The best-performing pair will be the lead dancers for the opening act of the graduation performance," she announced.

This statement ignited an intense determination in everyone. After all, the graduation performance was no ordinary event—it was a ceremonial display of court etiquette. The Imperial Emperor, noble dignitaries, and even the senior members of powerful sects would attend.

For those who excelled, the rewards could be immeasurable.

Unfortunately, when the month had passed, the honor of being the lead dancers did not fall to Qin Jian and Ning Rongrong but instead to Xue Qinghe and Xue Ke.

"Qin Jian, the two of you were actually the best dancers," Tang Yuehua explained, "but being the lead dancers isn't solely about technical proficiency. It's also about the overall aesthetic."

She elaborated, "Though your movements were flawless, from a distance, the pairing of Xue Qinghe and Xue Ke appeared far more graceful and dynamic. This is partly because Xue Qinghe is taller than Xue Ke, creating a more fluid visual effect."

Qin Jian immediately understood her point.

It was true—at the same age as Ning Rongrong, Qin Jian had not yet hit his growth spurt. Their similar height detracted slightly from the visual impact of their ballroom dance performance.

"Qin Jian, Qin Jian! Xue Qinghe and Xue Ke became the lead dancers—what should we do now?" Ning Rongrong asked anxiously.

Qin Jian shook his head and replied, "It's just the opening dance. The real highlight is in the solo performances afterward."

"But first impressions are crucial!" Ning Rongrong countered. "If their performance is too dazzling, it'll put a lot of pressure on us for the rest of the event."

"That's a fair point," Qin Jian mused, stroking his chin. "Don't worry—I'll make sure we steal the spotlight when the time comes."

Ning Rongrong nodded firmly. "Qin Jian, we must be the best."

"Oh?" Qin Jian teased, smiling. "Are you already so eager to change the way you address me?"

Ning Rongrong tugged his sleeve and pouted. "Of course not! I just don't want to lose you to anyone else—even if it's just symbolic!"

Hearing this, Qin Jian's smile widened, his eyes narrowing with mirth.

"Alright, the decision for the lead dancers has been made," Tang Yuehua announced in class. "Now, over the next five months, you may freely choose your form of performance for the finale—whether it's singing, dancing, or playing an instrument. I'll be here to guide you."

Her final words caused a ripple of excitement among the students. "The first-place performers in the graduation showcase will officially become my disciples."

As a distinguished guest of nobles and royalty alike, Tang Yuehua carried an innate prestige. Becoming her official disciple was a highly coveted honor that would open countless doors.

"Qin Jian, what should we perform?" Ning Rongrong leaned closer to him, her face brimming with curiosity. "Last time, you said you'd have something special prepared. Is it ready?"

"It is," Qin Jian replied with a confident smile. "We'll perform a duet. Originally, it would be best with a qin-xiao combination, but unfortunately, I don't know how to play the xiao."

"Xiao?" Ning Rongrong's eyes lit up. "I love the xiao! Can I learn it?"

Qin Jian chuckled and gently shook his head. "Rongrong, you might love the xiao, but mastering such an instrument takes years of practice. With just five months, it's unrealistic. On the other hand, string instruments can be learned more quickly."

"Then what should I learn?" Ning Rongrong asked, tilting her head.

"The guzheng," Qin Jian replied.

"Guzheng?" Ning Rongrong looked puzzled. "I've never heard of that instrument."

"It's a simplified version of the guqin. A seven-string guqin would be too difficult for you, so I've adapted it into a twenty-one-string instrument. It's much easier to learn," Qin Jian explained. "The guzheng also has an exquisite sound, perfect for the accompaniment of our piece."

"And you? What will you play?" Ning Rongrong asked.

"The xun," Qin Jian replied, naming another unfamiliar instrument.

"You know so much!" Ning Rongrong's eyes sparkled with admiration.

Qin Jian smiled modestly. "I only have a basic understanding of the guzheng—you'll need Teacher Tang's guidance for that. The xun is something I picked up as a personal hobby. Its ancient tone carries a unique charm, making it an ideal complement."

"What piece will we play?" Ning Rongrong asked eagerly.

Qin Jian gazed at her and said, "I believe this song will allow you to shine. It tells the story of Zhang Xiaofan…"

"Wow!" Ning Rongrong exclaimed. "Qin Jian, you're amazing!"

She naturally assumed Qin Jian had composed the song himself.

"Alright, alright," Qin Jian said with a laugh. "I'll pick up the custom-made guzheng and xun soon. Then we'll rely on Teacher Tang's expertise to refine our performance. After all, I only know the basics—reaching the best results will require her instruction."

When Qin Jian and Ning Rongrong brought their instruments to class the following day, they immediately caught Tang Yuehua's attention.

"These are remarkable designs," she remarked. "The guzheng and xun both have distinctive tones. However, to perfectly blend these instruments, the arrangement will need careful consideration."

Tang Yuehua examined Qin Jian's melody and said, "Your composition is decent, but you're not skilled in writing scores. Leave the arrangement to me."

Her growing appreciation for Qin Jian, who continually surprised her, prompted her to offer her assistance personally.

Meanwhile, on the other side of the classroom, Xue Ke spoke with some concern. "Big Brother, did you hear? Teacher Tang is personally helping Qin Jian and Ning Rongrong with their arrangement. What should we do?"

Xue Qinghe waved dismissively. "Don't worry, Xiao Ke. Our performance has been meticulously planned by professionals. From the instruments to the music, even the choreography, every detail has been optimized."

"This level of preparation is easy for the royal family. The Seven Treasures Glazed Tile Sect doesn't have such resources. Even with Teacher Tang's help, they won't surpass us," he said confidently.

Relieved, Xue Ke nodded. "Good. I don't want to lose to Ning Rongrong!"

Xue Qinghe's gaze lingered briefly on Qin Jian and Ning Rongrong, a faint smile tugging at his lips.

The next five months passed quickly, filled with intense preparation. Every group poured their efforts into perfecting their performances, brimming with confidence for the final showcase.

But for Qin Jian, the competition mattered little. Immersed in daily practice with Ning Rongrong, their bond grew ever deeper.

The only thing that puzzled him was how his Bewitching Sword Skill seemed to be losing its effect on Xue Qinghe. Could overuse have created resistance?

Perhaps it was only natural. After all, it was just a first soul skill—how could it endlessly increase favorability? That would truly defy the heavens…

--------------------------------

If you want to support me and read advance chapters, please visit:

patreon.com / igotneonlight

I would greatly appreciate your support if you choose to join my patreon :)