"My liege, we found it," the Hell Guards reported upon their return from the shopping mall. "We've discovered the Sorensen family's origin. They trace back to Apollo Sorensen, the world's second-strongest martial artist thirty years ago. The mark on the pathway of their villa was made by him. Rumor holds that anyone traversing the pathway inherits Apollo's martial arts."

Dustin's interest piqued. Stepping onto the path, he immediately recognized the mark as belonging to a martial arts elite. He knew Apollo had been the second strongest thirty years prior.

"Who was the strongest then?" Dustin asked.

Having learned from Lucas, the Wyatt family patriarch, Dustin had secretly built Hell Hall, overthrown the Shadow Dynasty, and dominated the underworld. Years of protecting the Wyatt family had brought him into countless battles—most won, but some perilously close. He knew superior fighters existed. He was not arrogant; he did not believe himself invincible. The pathway's mark, however, revealed a strength far surpassing his own.

"The strongest thirty years ago was Master Draco Leo, a member of Lovellia's royal family," the Hell Guard replied. "The top two martial artists, Apollo and Draco, clashed on Mount Taolo. The outcome remains unknown, but Draco returned safely to Central Harbor, while Apollo vanished. The martial arts world concluded Apollo lost and perished at Draco's hand. Since then, Draco has been considered the world's strongest."

Dustin's eyebrows rose slightly. Master Draco Leo, patriarch of the Leo royal family—his adoptive father had mentioned the name once, his expression unusually grave.

"Apollo, though second strongest, possessed exceptional talent and technique, mastering his art in just twenty years," the Hell Guard continued. "At Mount Taolo, he was in his prime, facing Draco, a lifelong practitioner."

This further intrigued Dustin. Initially, he'd intended only to assess the Sorensen family's capabilities, planning to return in three days to traverse the pathway. Acquiring Apollo's martial arts technique would be a significant bonus. Lucas had warned of the Fox family's formidable enemies; mastering Apollo's techniques would bolster his skills.

"Two days remain. I must prepare," Dustin declared. He was unaware others had also uncovered the Sorensen family's background.

At the Martial League's local branch, Timothy, growing suspicious from his subordinate's report, declared darkly, "We must prevent Dustin from succeeding!"

Dustin had already taken seven steps on the pathway, possessing the strength for an eighth. He might fully traverse it.

"Apollo's technique is said to be supreme," Timothy instructed. "Inform my family; send elite fighters. We must secure it before Dustin! Even if the Bones family fails, we must spread the news to thwart Dustin!"

Simultaneously, in Lannopolis's secret underground, Metal Mask, having recovered from his injuries, declared in a deep voice, "It seems I must visit the Sorensen family villa." The news of the Sorensen family had spurred him to action. Others also received the news.

…

On the third day, Dustin, at peak physical condition, accompanied by a Hell Guard, journeyed to the Sorensen family villa.