Episode 2

In the City of Katao.

On the outskirts of Katao, the densely populated capital of the state of Trukotan dominated by skyscrapers, there lies a grand residence belonging to the Button family. They chose the city's periphery for its fresh atmosphere, far removed from the urban congestion of the downtown core.

The Button household is arguably the foremost family in Katao, though there are three other families of comparable stature. These families represent the high society's elite.

These four families collectively wield control over the city's economic reins, but it is the Button lineage that holds sway over three critical aspects of the capital's power dynamic.

This influential family dominates the corporate industry, governmental affairs, and a slice of the underground strength.

At the expansive Button family estate.

In a rear house, there is a large office where the patriarch works. Seated is a middle-aged man dressed impeccably, a trusted confidante of the esteemed Mr. Button.

He is absorbed in his duties which are relentless and substantial each day.

This is Haris, a loyal servant of Mr. Button for over three decades, dedicated to the Button lineage.

As he busies himself, his phone vibrates in his pocket with a distinct ringtone! It's a sound he has anticipated for years, and upon hearing it, he jolts in surprise.

Swiftly securing his phone, he then reads a terse message.

'I will come out of hiding tomorrow.' The words shaken him to the core, as their import leaves him trembling.

He hastens to a special room nearby, the secretive sanctuary of Mr. Button's retreat.

Upon reaching the imposing entrance, Haris hesitates, but the gravity of the message empowers him to knock gently.

"Sir, it's Haris—I have something of grave importance to convey!" he announces nervously.

No response; he repeats the plea, imploring entry due to the pressing nature of the news.

"Enter...!" At last, a deep, permitting voice sounds from within.

Mr. Button is pensive, eyes closed, reclining in a rocking chair. Upon Haris entering, the calming scent of aromatherapy floods his senses.

Yet, his purpose here is not for tranquility, he bows immediately.

"Forgive the intrusion, sir!" Haris stammers.

"Deliver the news you bear..." Mr. Button commands once more.

"Sir, I received a message from the young master that he will emerge from his seclusion tomorrow!" asserts Haris swiftly.

Thump...!

Mr. Button's shock is palpable.

His eyes, previously closed, now snap open revealing a sharp, decisive glint.

This moment, long-awaited after over a decade without a trace of Alda.

With ardent relief, he learns of the coming news amidst the current chaos engulfing the Button household.

"Are you certain, Haris?" Mr. Button inquires for reassurance, maintaining composure despite his emotional turmoil.

"Absolutely, sir. The message was explicitly conveyed by the young master," assures Haris promptly.

"What exactly did he say?" inquires Mr. Button, eager to grasp the precise words his grandson conveyed to his trusted aide.

"He stated simply that he would leave his seclusion tomorrow; no more was said!" replies Haris.

"Well then, let him return to the Button residence as he pleases! Should he choose not to now, it's no concern. He surely still possesses the credit card I furnished him with, so merely ensure you stay alert for further updates." Mr. Button advises.

Despite the Button family's current troubles, Mr. Button maintains control. Yet, without an official heir, complexities abound—due to rival branches aggressively expanding their power in business and the underground.

Therefore, Mr. Button keeps a vigilant watch over these branch families.

"As you wish, sir!" Haris responds, then takes his leave.

Mr. Button speaks thus, knowing his grandson has no desire for a welcoming party upon his return to the Button estate. That much is clear from Alda's brief message to his confidant.

Alda merely intimates his impending descent from the mountain, signaling his availability should urgent assistance be required.

A smile graces the corner of Mr. Button's mouth.

*

The night passes in silence over the southern mountain slopes of Trukotan—a region renowned for lofty peaks and extreme seasonal weather changes, an ideal secret martial arts monastery location.

Come morning, Alda, who usually trains martial arts with his senior fellow disciples, breaks routine.

He's packing, set to descend the mountain with three senior companions: Riko Setiadi, Dion Narendra, and Tama Aditya.

Each hails from different families within the nation, yet remain unaware of one another's lineage.

Emerging from their rooms, they converge in the central courtyard facing their mentor's abode.

A venerable man in a white robe stands unaffected by the biting cold morning air.

His four apprentices draw his focused scrutiny.

"Commence real life now! Existence in such seclusion holds little merit for youths like yourselves!" the elder man advises.

His life, replete with bitter and sweet, informs his counsel.

"I impart no provisions nor further guidance. That is all I can offer," he adds, then turns to leave before any response comes.

The four exchange glances, silent agreement conveyed, heads nod in unison.

Together, they charge towards the main gate, hefty rucksacks on their backs, and swiftly descend the mountain's path beyond the grand portal.

Watching from the gate's top are five other youths.

"We'll feel their absence keenly!" one laments.

"Don't be foolish; reunions lie ahead! We need only venture down the mountain," retorts another.

"You're right; time will bring us all together again," the eldest among them concurs, his smile wide and knowing.

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