Eric had another bout with Donovan, but neither Pierce nor Ruth could watch. Donovan wouldn't allow it.

-

Half an hour later, Eric left King City.

Pierce couldn't contain his curiosity. "Master, who won between you and Eric?"

Donovan beamed. "The young are truly remarkable!"

Ruth interjected with exasperation, "Grand Master, just tell us who won! Master and I are dying to know."

From Donovan's admiring words, it was clear that Eric was exceptionally strong. But since it was a sparring match, there must have been a winner and a loser.

"He won, by half a move!" Donovan sighed. "Just that half move… I couldn't counter it. Even more astonishing is his age—if I’m not mistaken, he should only be 33. In Naturia's hundred-year history, no one at his age has achieved such prowess in martial arts."

He said gravely, "Pierce, Eric is an extraordinary talent. You must hold onto him, but also beware—if he ever decides to do something harmful, not even you or I can stop him!

"Fortunately, he