Rising from the Ashes (Andrew) novel Chapter 2553

The day of Sheena's departure finally arrived. She was going alone, leaving Chetvine and traveling thousands of miles east to Swordhaven Keep in Holtrien.

"I should send a team with you."

The head of the Lloyd family's assassination operations department turned out to be a short, stocky man. Despite his small stature, his strength was formidable. He had reached the second level of martial emperor, and he went by the nickname "the Leopard."

This man possessed incredible explosive power, making him a force to be reckoned with. Even back when all of the Lloyd family's various operations divisions were under Reginald's command, he had been one of their most capable and powerful fighters.

Sheena shook her head. "Uncle Alan, after I leave, I'm putting you in charge of the Lloyd family's morning training sessions. Don't worry. I know what I'm doing when it comes to Swordhaven Keep."

His name was Alan Garland, a pretty ordinary name by any standard. However, the nickname "the Leopard" was anything but ordinary.

Over the years in Chetvine, the Lloyd family's fearsome reputation had been built largely on Alan's efforts. After all, the two best fighters and most aggressive members, Andrew and Reginald, had already left the Lloyd family.

"I still don't feel comfortable with you going alone," Alan said, his face etched with worry. "You're the future of the Lloyd family. I honestly don't know what Patriarch Donovan is thinking."

Sheena smiled warmly. "Uncle Alan, you really don't need to worry so much. Grandpa and I have already discussed everything thoroughly. This is a path I ultimately have to walk on my own."

Alan fell silent for a moment before speaking again with clear resentment in his voice. "What about that kid? He's been back for quite a while now, so shouldn't his anger have cooled off by now? You're his senior, so no matter what, he should accompany you on this dangerous journey."

She turned on her heel, her high ponytail swaying as she walked toward the waiting car. Behind her stood about three dozen young family members, half-hidden in the shadows.

They had been trained hard under Sheena, disciplined and often scolded, so now that she was leaving, they could not bear it. However, none dared to step forward to say goodbye, fearing she might see it as a sign of weakness.

Alan's frustration only grew the more he thought about it. He muttered, "You're the future of the Lloyd family, and anyone can see that. Swordhaven Keep will definitely be dangerous, and danger doesn't scare us. But Andrew is not even showing up to see you off? That's just low. Damn brat! When he comes back, I'm not talking to him ever again."

A man nearby chuckled dryly. "Alan, quit acting like you matter. Do you think Andrew cares if you talk to him or not? He's the Dragon Prince of the Lloyd family, Mr. Lloyd Senior's only son. Like father, like son. He's not exactly waiting for your approval."

Alan scowled. "Yeah, well, I don't need his approval either. I serve Ms. Lloyd and Patriarch Donovan. That kid has nothing to do with me."