Rising from the Ashes (Andrew) novel Chapter 2266

Philip said, "Either way, giving him some Heavenly-tier martial arts would've been fine. It could've at least boosted his strength."

Adriel gave a cold laugh. "Do you think I didn't consider that? At first, he did seem interested, but the moment I offered, he looked at me with disdain and walked away. Philip, that boy's resentment and hatred have not eased one bit."

He continued, "You've run the military for 50 years, and your biggest mistake was what happened back then. I don't want to meddle, so you'd better figure out how to make it right with him."

Philip snorted. "You're wrong. My biggest mistake wasn't owing Andrew; it was failing to wipe out those Chetvine clans and a few royals. I should've killed every last one of them. You say I owe him?

"Let me tell you, not just me, but you and plenty of others all owe him. You dumped the weight of morality on me while you hid in the shadows, so screw that. Every scar on his heart and body from back then is on all of us, and none of you can shirk that responsibility!"

Adriel sank into dead silence, acquiescing to the statement.

Dust floated lazily in the tower's quiet air, drifting in and out of the light, as if time itself had been sealed away here.

Philip's projection slowly faded, leaving everything silent again. Only a weary sigh lingered, heavy with age and helplessness.

Andrew had come to Martial Tower with one goal: to use high-level techniques to force a breakthrough in his energy core. It was a reckless plan, but he did not care because he had to at least try.

Yet, it seemed Reginald had already thought of this years ago and tried that himself.

Since even Reginald had failed, Andrew saw no point in banging his head against the wall. Rumor had it that the top three floors of Martial Tower held treasures so rare they could drive men mad.

Luna stood ten steps away, staring at him. The light and shadows made his face look hazy, and she wanted to move closer to see him clearly. Yet, for some reason, she could not take that step.

She mumbled, "I'm sorry I stopped you for no real reason. I just wanted to say… thank you."

Andrew frowned. "Thank me? I haven't done anything worth your gratitude. On the contrary, you must have heard a few things about me from Conrad, right? Let me give you some advice: stay away from me.

"The Chetvine clans are lining up to kill me, and if anyone finds out we knew each other, especially after what happened at Gabo Creek, your career will take a serious hit."

Luna's lips trembled, and her voice came out hoarse. "I'm not afraid! And I don't think anyone has the right to blame you. I already know the truth about what happened with the Iron Cavalry squad back then…"