"Eric, what are you doing here?" Jerome turned back, his face full of both surprise and confusion.

Eric clenched his jaw and stayed silent.

Jerome said bitterly, "I know you resent me. All these years, I failed to realize how deeply you buried the pain from your childhood. Go back now. I'm heading to Basoria to investigate Hunter's death."

Eric's tone was cold. "He's been dead for years. What's left to investigate? I came to tell you that there's no point in going to Basoria. The Assassin's Guild is one of the strongest sects today. You going alone will achieve nothing."

Jerome snorted. "Whether it's useless or not, I have to see for myself. They killed my son back then. I may be powerless, but I'll at least make sure the Assassin's Guild pays in blood!"

Eric hesitated before asking, "Do you blame me, Dad? Last time I ambushed you, I nearly cost you your life."

Jerome looked stunned. "Why would you even ask that? Of course, I don't blame you. I know you silently carried hat