The Johansson family had already established ties with the Martial Arts Association, making Vance Johansson's entry relatively straightforward.
Yet this action revealed something significant.
The Mason Raymond they had consistently dismissed was now causing them genuine concern and even terror.
——
In an isolated mountain region.
No souls wandered here, yet a modest cottage stood prominently in the landscape.
"Master, your tea is ready." A boy of fourteen or fifteen approached an elderly man with snow-white hair, carrying a steaming cup.
The old man accepted the tea and asked, "How long have we remained here?"
"Master, fourteen years," the boy replied.
"Fourteen years... how swiftly time passes." The old man let out a weary sigh.
The boy remained quiet for a moment, clearly wrestling with unspoken words.
"Speak your mind if something troubles you." The old man could read the boy's hesitation.
