When faced with Charlie’s question, Nanako Ito found herself at a loss for words.


    Initially, she was taken aback by Charlie’s silence, which made her blush with embarrassment.


    Emotionally and logically, Charlie’s statement held truth; at its core, it was about his mentor seeking to be challenged, and Charlie was justified in his perspective.


    Feeling ashamed, Nanako Ito bowed respectfully to Charlie and said, “Mr. Wade, I was impulsive. Please forgive me, and I kindly ask that you refrain from being too discerning with me.”


    Charlie nodded in acknowledgment.<h3 style="background-color:DodgerBlue">


    In many ways, he understood Nanako Ito’s situation.


    People often find it easy to be objective and fair when the issue doesn’t involve them personally; however, when ites to their own interests, maintaining that objectivity can be quite challenging.<fn926c> For original chapters go to Find_Novel(.</fn926c>


    It’s akin to how one might wish for a lesson to be learned when someone else’s child misbehaves, yet when it’s their own child, they hope for forgiveness and another chance.


    Yamamoto Kazuki serves as Nanako Ito’s mentor. The cultural traditions of Japan and China, though separated by water, share amon emphasis on respecting teachers. Thus, Nanako Ito’s admiration and defense of Yamamoto Kazuki is both understandable and eptable.


    However, understanding does not equate to agreement.


    While Charlie empathized with her feelings, it would not sway his opinions or decisions.


    He addressed her in a calm tone: “Miss Ito, since he is also a participant in thispetition, we must honor the integrity of this event. It’s important not to withdraw or forfeit mid-way, as that would be disrespectful to martial arts.”


    Desperate, Nanako Ito replied, “Mr. Wade, your strength has truly opened my eyes to the essence of real martial arts. Compared to you, my skills are merely at the beginner level, and it feels utterly shameless to continuepeting in your presence…”


    Charlie shook his head and responded, “Martial arts isn’t solely aboutpeting with others. It embodies not just a sport, but a culture and a spirit. Does having lesser strength mean one is unworthy of pursuing martial arts? If your skills are far below mine, would you simply give up thispetition without a second thought?”


    He paused for emphasis, then spoke seriously: “If that’s your stance, then I must say you don’t truly love martial arts. What you cherish is merely your ranking. When you feel superior, you embrace martial arts; when you perceive yourself as inferior, you abandon it! Ultimately, you’re not a devoted martial artist!”


    With urgency, Nanako Ito protested, “No, that’s not true! I love martial arts! I am a dedicated warrior! I’m just…I’m just…”


    Charlie pressed, “Just what?!”


    Startled by his intensity, Nanako Ito bowed her head, conceding her defense and murmuring, “Mr. Wade, you’re right…I was wrong. I shouldn’t consider dropping out of thepetition! I shouldn’t betray martial arts now!”


    Charlie encouraged her, saying, “Compete well. I hope to see you face Aurora in the finals.”


    Nanako Ito’s eyes sparkled with determination as she nodded vigorously, replying, “I understand, Mr. Wade! Don’t worry, I will definitely fight my way to the finals! I’ll discuss this with my master!”


    Charlie waved dismissively, “Aurora is not my student; she’s my friend, or more urately, she’s the daughter of a friend. I’m just providing her with some guidance during these few days.”


    Intrigued, Nanako Ito asked, “Mr. Wade, aren’t you a professional coach?”


    Chuckling, Charlie replied, “Not at all. I’m just an unemployed drifter without a job.”


    “Unemployed?”


    Shock and disbelief washed over Nanako Ito’s face.