They paused, exchanging glances, before the head judge delivered the most troubling part of their warning.
"We apologise that we cannot do anything to protect you from what may come. Master Hideaki's influence and connections extend throughout the community and beyond. Any attempt we made to shield you would likely fail and only draw his anger toward us as well."
The admission of their powerlessness hung in the air like a death sentence. These were respected judges, men with authority and connections of their own, yet they openly acknowledged their inability to stand against a single swordsman.
"Our advice," the third judge said with genuine concern in his voice, "is that you should change address as quickly as possible. If you can also change countries, change your contact information, and avoid any martial arts competitions where he might find you. Perhaps after several years, his anger will cool enough that you can resume a normal life."
