I sat comfortably in Albert's Ferrari 488 GTB as he skillfully manoeuvred through the town's streets. After a few minutes, I calmly instructed him to pull over at a secluded area near an abandoned factory.
Following my command, Albert parked the car near an abandoned factory that had been left desolate for eight years. I turned to Albert, ready to delve into a more personal conversation.
"So, Albert, how long have you held the title of the underground king in the Southerland district?" I inquired.
Albert, with humility, shared his life's journey. "I've been in the Southerland district my whole life. Academic pursuits weren't my forte, so after finishing high school, I joined my father's steel business. Over time, I recognised the potential in the underground market, dealing in steel initially and eventually expanding into protection fees and control over mid-level companies. That's how I carved my place as the king of the underground world."
Reflecting on Albert's extensive experience, I decided to tap into his knowledge of the martial arts scene. "Okay, tell me about the Martial Arts Society. What do you know?"
Surprised, Albert questioned, "Aren't you a martial artist yourself, sir?"
Acknowledging my seclusion from the martial arts world, I explained, "I've cultivated in isolation, so my knowledge about the martial arts world is limited."
Albert proceeded to enlighten me, revealing, "The martial arts world is divided into factions, each exerting influence over specific districts. Though they don't have complete control, their sway over people and the government is undeniable. Obtaining favors from martial artists is akin to possessing a life-saving string, earning them respect and reverence. In the Southerland district, the Blue Lotus Academy is the strongest, followed by the Sun Lion Academy, and the weakest is the Bright Light Academy."
Intrigued by this revelation, I sought clarification. "So, these academies not only control parts of the city but also influence the government?"
Albert affirmed, "Yes, martial artists hold a higher value than any other individuals in Somerland. Their path is perilous, taking a lifetime to ascend from a mortal cultivator to a Master level cultivator. Consequently, the martial arts society operates cohesively with strict exams and stringent rules."
As our conversation unfolded, a revelation struck me, prompting a question that had lingered in my mind. "Who is the most formidable martial artist in the district?" I inquired, bracing myself for the answer.
Albert's response left me awestruck. "That would be Master Alex, the leader of the Blue Lotus Academy. Having attained the pinnacle of Advanced peak Master level, he now sets his sights on the prestigious Martial Arts Master level."
The gravity of Master Alex's stature left me momentarily speechless, but before I could fully process this information, a familiar ping from the system interrupted our discussion.
The system's timely notification interrupted our conversation with a familiar ping, presenting a new quest: [Become the Master of the Bright Light Academy]. It seemed fate had aligned once more, guiding my path.
The timing of the quest was impeccable, as always. I turned to Albert, seeking clarity on a matter that had long intrigued me. "Why do you treat me with such deference, Albert? What am I to you?"
Albert's response was immediate, tinged with a mixture of reverence and apprehension. "Sir, to be honest, you're a monster—a true force to be reckoned with."