Chapter 174: Black Ash

With a solemn nod, the grandmaster looked at her with a gaze that was filled with both love and pride.

"YES. I WILL DO WHAT NEEDS TO BE DONE."

Her voice softened, filled with a warmth that was rare to hear in her usual commanding tone.

"BONG ME-EON… YOU HAVE BEEN A GOOD DISCIPLE. YOU HAVE BECOME STRONG, WISE, AND COMPASSIONATE. I HAVE WATCHED YOU GROW FROM A TIMID STUDENT TO A WARRIOR. I COULDN'T BE MORE PROUD."

Tears welled up in Bong Me-Eon's eyes, the weight of her master's words hitting her like a blow.

She could feel the pride radiating from her master, and it made her chest tighten with an overwhelming mix of sorrow and gratitude.

She tried to speak, but the words caught in her throat.

"Master…" Her voice was barely a whisper, her eyes glistening as she looked at the woman who had taught her everything.

The grandmaster reached out a hand, resting it gently on Bong Me-Eon's shoulder.