The dojo was filled with silence and anticipation as the Knights sat on their mats, watching Master Von.
He sat on his own mat, with his legs crossed and his eyes closed in deep meditation... as always.
Some students were eager to make use of the time, closing their eyes as they attempted to cultivate and draw in mana info their dantian.
The silence stretched for several minutes, until finally, Master Von's eyes snapped open.
The students straightened immediately, and their voices rose in unison.
"Good morning, Master Von!"
He nodded and his gaze swept over the mats before pausing on the single empty.
His brow furrowed, and he shook his head slightly before a faint sigh escaped his lips.
"Everyone is here… except Adrian," he said in a calm voice that carried a touch of disapproval. "It's been a week already. Karl?"
Karl sighed in defeat and his shoulders slumped.
"He usually leaves for the city during the weekends," he explained, rubbing the back of his neck.
