Meanwhile, from far away the Redwood Estate, in a barely lit chamber deep within an unknown basement, a shadowy figure was sitting on an ornate throne.
A messenger kneeled before them, voice trembling.
"The attack failed. The orphans… they survived."
The room was silent.
Then, a soft chuckle.
Amused. Intrigued.
"So… they are stronger than we thought."
A pause.
Then, a command.
"Send word to our hidden informants in the Murim Alliance. It is time we took a more… direct approach."
The messenger bowed with deep respect. "Yes, my lord."
As he left, the shadowed figure leaned back in their throne, eyes gleaming with interest.
"Let's see how long you can hold your ground, Heuk Cheon."
The game was just beginning.
The uneasy atmosphere at Redwood Estate did not fade. If anything, it was growing heavier with each of the passing day.
