The man then turned to Vance. He didn't yell; he didn't even raise his voice, but it carried
effortlessly across the silent room. "My name is Arthur Chen. And you, Julian, are a disgrace
to the belt you wear."
A collective gasp echoed in the room. Arthur Chen was a legend—a grandmaster who had
retired decades ago, known for his unparalleled mastery and his philosophy of deep
humility. Most of the younger generation thought he was a myth.
Vance's face flushed deep crimson. "Master Chen..." he stammered, his arrogance
evaporating in an instant. "I was merely demonstrating—"
"You were bullying," Chen interrupted, his tone like cold steel. "You use your skill not to
protect, but to intimidate. You mistake arrogance for confidence, and cruelty for strength."
Chen gestured toward Maya. "This woman stood before you, surrounded by hostility, and