"Welcome to the Order."
Stepping closer, he placed a firm hand on my shoulder.
The intensity in his eyes was still visible, even behind the aviator glasses he stubbornly refused to remove indoors.
I had the weirdest feeling—like if he ever took them off, some overpowered ability would activate. Maybe red laser beams shooting out.
"Here, we're like family. No need to bow your head too low. Just show some respect, that's enough."
"Thank you, Master Tang." My voice came out more casual, on purpose. equal wisdom.
"No need to thank me. You're part of the Order now, but we don't control you. We'll offer missions—it's up to you whether to take them. Still…" He gave a sly smile. "The rewards might be too tempting to resist."
Listening to him, I realized this "Order" wasn't just about honor or ideals. It was mercenaries in tailored robes pretending otherwise.
Freedom, danger, and money—all wrapped up under one word: "Family."
