"If this stone book is not placed at sufficiently high level, or unless it contains some special technique, it's difficult to detect anything unusual," Mr. Stone said in his usual gruff tone. His eyes twinkled as he added, "Without careful observation, you won't find anything fishy about it."
Ethan smiled modestly.
"I suppose you mean the little trick I used on you earlier?"
"Calling that a 'little trick'?" Mr. Stone laughed heartily, shaking his head.
"At your age, I couldn't even dream of putting my martial arts on the same stage."
"Mr. Stone," Ethan asked, holding out the stone slab, "do you want this?"
The elder chuckled, folding his hands behind his back.
"Why would I want it? Who do you think I am?"
"I have principles. I would never steal from a junior," Mr. Stone said with a playful grin.
"Besides, you're still Burn's apprentice. If you told him I bullied you, he might be arguing with me for months."
Mr. Stone shook his head and returned the stone slab quietly.
