"Now, I officially entrust you with the Founder's Sword, along with this letter written in my own hand."
Moses Zane wrapped the bamboo scroll, densely inscribed with words, in parchment, then tied the Founder's Sword and the scroll together with a sturdy knot.
Monica Qiu knelt quietly on the ground with her head bowed. Beside her stood the tall Aiden Shen. At just eleven years old, Aiden was already a head taller than the other two, his body robust, his long hair tied back, his skin dark, and his eyes bright with spirit.
In just four short years, Aiden's swordsmanship had advanced by leaps and bounds. To help him obtain the Founder's Sword sooner, Monica Qiu had taught him with tireless dedication every day.
Moses Zane placed the Founder's Sword and the scroll into Monica Qiu's upraised hands, while Aiden Shen smiled quietly beside them.
"Sister Monica, are you leaving?"
Monica Qiu did not answer Aiden's question. Instead, she bowed once more, turned, and strode quickly out the main gate without looking back, breaking into a run.
Aiden Shen bore no grudge against Monica Qiu for her attempt to kill him by the riverside years ago. On the contrary, he was quite fond of this elder sister.
A hand landed on Aiden Shen's back.
"Aiden, you've fully mastered the basics of the Zane Family swordsmanship. Next, I'll teach you the techniques I've developed in my twilight years."