One Piece: The Strongest Asura

The Shadow Sect was an organization created to maintain the balance between the Sword Continent and the Ancient Continent. Known for its immense strength and enigmatic nature, the sect acted as a supervisory body for both sides. The agents of the Shadow Sect appeared and vanished without a trace, making them nearly impossible to track. However, whenever they surfaced, it was always a sign of trouble.

The Zhuo family patriarch knew why a member of the Shadow Sect had appeared at their doorstep. In fact, he had anticipated this visit and had already prepared accordingly. The Shadow Sect's intelligence network was formidable, but there were matters that even information alone couldn't resolve. Zhuo Wei intended to feign ignorance, as clashing with such a powerful force would spell disaster for the Zhuo family.

The Lord of Beigu City had long been planning to eliminate the Zhuo family, so it was only a matter of time. For Zhuo Luo, however, time was crucial. He had just begun his training, and any disruption would be detrimental. Furthermore, this matter had little to do with him directly—the incident in question was merely an excuse for someone seeking trouble.

No one knew the full story of what had transpired. Over two months had passed since the event, and all evidence had been thoroughly destroyed. As for why Zhuo Wei knew the details, it was because he had once done something similar. By carefully concealing his actions and preparing for the worst, he ensured he was always a step ahead.

The Shadow Sect operated with efficiency and required concrete evidence for their actions. Acting recklessly would lead to public outrage and could spell their downfall. While the Ancient Continent was under the Sword Continent's control, it remained a looming threat—a hidden danger that couldn't be ignored.

The only way to truly rule the Ancient Continent was through assimilation. Without that, unrest would always be a possibility. This was an unchanging reality.

"Zhuo Wei, we meet again. This time, I have questions for you about an incident two months ago. A Level One swordsman from the Sword Continent was killed, and the investigation points to your family. I hope you can provide me with answers. If you wish to avoid the destruction of your clan, I suggest full cooperation. You are aware of what we're capable of, aren't you? With your mere Level Four strength, we could obliterate your family in an instant."

The shadowy figure spoke coldly. His identity was unknown, and no one had seen his true face. He was like a shadow, moving through the underground, concealed and untraceable—a testament to the Shadow Sect's secrecy.

"How could I dare deceive a member of the Shadow Sect?" Zhuo Wei replied with a feigned smile. "There must be some misunderstanding. My family has always been law-abiding. Surely this is a mistake?"

Having led the Zhuo family for many years, Zhuo Wei knew how to navigate such situations. Besides, over two months had passed since the incident, enough time to erase any traceable evidence. This time lapse was his shield.

"That may be so," the man retorted, "but there are witnesses who claim your eldest son was involved. Could you bring him out for questioning?"

The assassin didn't hesitate to mention Zhuo Luo's name. The incident had started because of Zhuo Luo, and he was the primary target of the investigation. Capturing Zhuo Luo would mark significant progress for the Shadow Sect.

"My son?" Zhuo Wei feigned shock. "Ah, you must mean that unfilial child of mine. I've already severed ties with him after he offended the wrong people. I haven't heard from him in over two months. If he's caused trouble again, feel free to deal with him as you see fit. There's no need to spare my feelings for such a disgrace."

Zhuo Wei quickly realized the situation. If Zhuo Luo fell into the hands of the Shadow Sect, it would spell doom. Having experienced the terror of the Shadow Sect firsthand, he knew the importance of deception, no matter how elaborate.

"Is that so?" The shadowy figure's voice carried skepticism. "If that's the case, I'll ensure the matter is resolved if I encounter him. But let me warn you—don't try to deceive me. There are countless ways to expose you, and the consequences could be dire."

With those parting words, the assassin left.

Zhuo Wei, however, knew this matter was far from over. The sudden investigation had caught him off guard, and while he had temporarily deflected suspicion, he knew the Shadow Sect wouldn't stop. These agents were relentless and unpredictable.

"It seems I must send Zhuo Luo away," Zhuo Wei murmured to himself. "If he stays, it's only a matter of time before something happens. The Shadow Sect knows too much already. It won't be long before they uncover the truth. They're too dangerous, and I can't hide this forever."

The patriarch felt a deep unease. This was perhaps the greatest crisis the Zhuo family had ever faced. Though the storm had yet to break, the seeds of disaster had already been sown.