Both Ni Tian and Uncle Han entered the main building. Contrary to Ni Tian's expectations of a simple martial arts hall, the interior was luxurious. It seemed as if this place had once been the residence of a noble family, yet now it bore the marks of time and the lingering spirit of strength that remained within its walls.
Uncle Han led his new disciple through the wide corridors to a private room. He sat on a comfortable mat and gestured for Ni Tian to sit across from him.
Once Ni Tian settled into place, Uncle Han took a deep breath, then looked at the young man before him with eyes filled with both confidence and gravity. His voice carried the weight of years as he spoke:
"Ni Tian, my boy… listen carefully. I did not bring you here just to teach you how to fight. I brought you here to become a part of my family. I am no longer young, and as you can see, time waits for no one. Someone must take care of this hall after me, and I want you to be that person."
Ni Tian's eyes widened slightly, but he quickly regained his composure. Bowing slightly out of respect, he replied seriously:
"Thank you for this opportunity, Master."
For him, this was another chance granted by fate—a chance to have a place to belong, a family he never had before. He had to accept this new reality, even if he had yet to fully comprehend it.
Uncle Han smiled warmly before saying:
"Now, it's time to tell you the rest of the promises."
Ni Tian raised an eyebrow, his interest piqued.
"I'm listening."
Uncle Han lifted two fingers and spoke in a deep voice:
"The third promise… You must protect my daughter with everything you have. Do you understand?"
Ni Tian's expression hardened for a moment, but he quickly responded with firm resolve:
"I understand."
His master nodded in satisfaction before continuing:
"As for the fourth promise… never give in to hunger."
Ni Tian frowned in confusion and hesitantly asked:
"I don't understand this promise."
Uncle Han let out a short chuckle and replied in a calm voice filled with hidden meaning:
"There's no need for you to understand it now… but in time, you will."
Silence filled the room, making the distant sound of birds chirping outside seem even louder. Ni Tian studied his master carefully. This man seemed kind, but the world Ni Tian grew up in had taught him that even the kindest people harbored dark secrets. This world was unforgiving, and he knew better than to let his guard down.
After a moment of thought, he spoke in a low voice:
"Tell me first… what is this hunger about?"
His master looked at him and answered with a calm yet mysterious tone:
"First, make me the promise. Once your training begins, you will understand everything."
Ni Tian took a deep breath before slowly responding:
"Fine, I promise… but if you try anything foolish, I'll kill you."
Uncle Han burst into laughter, his voice filled with confidence:
"Of course, you will! Hahaha!"
Before Ni Tian could reply, a familiar voice called out from outside the room, sounding slightly exasperated:
"Lunch is ready!"
Uncle Han sighed, then rose to his feet leisurely before turning to his new disciple with a gentle smile:
"Come, Ni Tian."
Ni Tian stood up, casting one last glance at his master before following him toward the dining hall, where his first meal as part of this new family awaited.