Doc ruffled Laurence’s hair and said, “Laurence, you must study hard and train diligently. You must learn everything I teach you.

“The life you have today didn’t come easily. Just surviving and growing up will be no small feat.”

The boy had no idea how many people had sacrificed to protect him or how much effort had gone into ensuring he could live, grow, and thrive.

Laurence only half-understood. He promised, “Sir, I’ve been studying and training seriously lately. I haven’t been slacking!”

He still did not know about his origins, the bloody vengeance tied to his past, or how many were searching for him.

Loved by Mommy Jane, Uncle Ben, his teacher, and his teacher’s mentor, Laurence lived carefreely. Though he did not know his birth parents, it did not dampen his happiness.

The only mystery was the strange totem on his back. His teacher had warned him never to speak of it. Even when his best friend Sonny accidentally saw it, Aunt Seren had sternly told him to keep it secret.

Lau