Tang San grew up depending on his father in the same way that his father depended on him because he lost his mother when he was a very small child. He was sent to Nuoding Academy at the age of sixteen to start working toward his goal of becoming a great soul master. He was meticulous and mature for his age, with amazing talent and wit. He makes a companion there named Xiao Wu and together they start the arduous and protracted process of cultivation, guided by Yu Xiao Gang. The two friends grow closer over time and finally make a lifelong promise to protect one another as siblings.
Yu Xiao Gang understands they require more supervision than he can provide as their strength and connection expand.
