The training grounds of the clan were lively that morning.
Several disciples had gathered to watch Ketlos train.
After all, he was considered one of the greatest geniuses of the younger generation.
Ketlos had just finished a long session of sword practice when suddenly a cheerful voice echoed from behind.
Ketlos!
A young girl walked toward him confidently.
She was his youngest sister.
Even though she was one year older than him, the two of them had almost the same level of strength.
Ketlos raised an eyebrow.
Sister?
The girl crossed her arms and smiled.
Let's fight.
Before Ketlos could respond, the eldest sister, who had been watching nearby, immediately intervened.
Come on, little sister, she said with a helpless smile.
He just finished training. And now you want to fight him?
But the youngest sister simply shrugged.
It's fine.
If he gets tired, I'll just stop the fight.
She then looked at Ketlos and grinned.
Besides… he's my brother.
I just want to have some fun.
Ketlos smiled slightly and nodded.
Alright, sister.
Then he added with a playful tone,
But don't complain after losing.
The youngest sister laughed.
We'll see about that.
The duel began.
Both of them moved quickly across the training ground.
Their swords clashed again and again.
Clang!
Clang!
The watching disciples were surprised.
Even though they were still young, their movements were already extremely sharp.
Ketlos attacked with aggressive sword strikes.
But his sister countered each move calmly.
The fight continued for several minutes.
In the end…
Experience and power decided the outcome.
The youngest sister finally pushed Ketlos back and knocked his sword aside.
The duel was over.
She had won.
After all, her cultivation had already reached Foundation Establishment – High Stage, while Ketlos was only at Foundation Establishment – Low Stage.
Still, she smiled warmly.
You did really well.
You almost pushed me into a corner.
The eldest sister also nodded in approval.
Your progress is impressive, Ketlos.
Hearing their praise, Ketlos smiled happily.
But suddenly…
Their attention shifted.
Not far from the training ground, someone was standing silently.
It was Kairo.
He wasn't even looking at the fight.
His gaze was fixed somewhere far away.
His expression was calm.
Too calm.
His eyes had a faint reddish tint, making him look strangely different.
Some people might find him attractive.
Others might find him terrifying.
It all depended on how one looked at him.
But one thing was certain.
There was something… unsettling about him.
Kairo slowly turned and walked away without saying a word.
Inside the clan mansion…
An old man sat quietly in a large hall.
It was Kairo's grandfather.
His expression was heavy.
Across from him sat Kairo's mother.
After a long silence, the old man finally spoke.
Your husband…
My son…
It has been seven years.
No one knows where he disappeared.
Both of them fell silent.
Kairo's mother lowered her head sadly.
Inside her heart, regret slowly grew.
If only… I had stopped him from leaving.
At the same time, the old man also sighed deeply.
If only… I hadn't forced him to serve the royal family.
For a moment, the entire hall became silent.
And then…
The scene changed.
Nine years later.