Luke observed intently and was instantly enlightened when he discovered that William was a Soulmancer, albeit a novice.
Although just a beginner Soulmancer, it was notable. After all, there aren’t many Soulmancers around these days. Perhaps William’s master is an old acquaintance of Daniel Bell or a respected elder in the Soulmancer community.
It’s entirely possible.
Just as Daniel Bell turned away, Brian Bell quickly adjusted his attitude towards William. Clearing his throat, he said to Bella, “Bella, learn from William in the future. You two chat; I’ll spend some time with your grandfather.”
Upon hearing his son address William so casually, Daniel Bell had to resist the urge to lash out.
Good heavens, who allowed you to call him William?
Brian Bell may have realized a few things, but not everything. After all, even a Soulmancer would bear some signs of aging, unless they’ve reached the intermediate level. But intermediate Soulmancers are as rare as hen’s teeth. If William were indeed an intermediate-level Soulmancer, why would he dine with Bella for a mere thousand dollars?
Little did he realize, not only intermediate Soulmancers but even more powerful beings, including high-level Soulmancers, are mere ants in front of William.
Bella smirked inwardly. As expected, William had some significant background, given her grandfather made a special appearance just for him.
Actually, she’d sensed something was up from Anthony Carter’s demeanor towards William the previous night. While she hadn’t given it much thought then, considering everything, including information from Lila and William’s sudden appearance in New York City, there’s a good chance he’s a Soulmancer.
Bella might not be a Soulmancer herself, but she’s well-informed about them.
It might not be William’s power but someone behind him that’s significant. Her grandfather was likely asked by some influential figure to look after William, who’s just “come down from the mountains.”
Everything now made sense to her.
After staring at William for some time, Luke Murphy also figured it out. The reason he couldn’t determine Bella’s marital fate earlier was probably because of William. If William indeed had a significant background, interacting with him might change Bella’s energy field.
“Young William, may I ask who your master is?” Luke Murphy grew intensely curious about the figure behind William.
With an innocent expression, William replied, “My master has forbidden me from revealing his identity.”
I knew it!
“I apologize for my intrusion,” Luke mused. The only Soulmancer linked with the Bell family he could think of was Mr. Timothy Hill from Mount San Juan Teotihuacan.
In just a few decades, reaching the pinnacle of a novice Soulmancer and perhaps someday advancing to an intermediate level. Only a disciple of such a master would warrant a personal meeting with Brian Bell. They just couldn’t reveal too much due to the many ordinary people present.
Bella blinked. Whatever William and Luke Murphy were discussing seemed to concern spiritual cultivation. William certainly had a mysterious master. ．
Suddenly, Bella felt as if she had an epiphany. She seemed to have understood everything!
William had invited other so-called VIPs or experts to their table. However, they paled in comparison to Luke.
Even those who are not Soulmancers know of William’s legendary strike from tens of thousands of years ago. It was so powerful that it almost destroyed the world. Even ancient gods, after reincarnating, chose to live humbly, not daring to show off their powers anymore.
They believed that strike signified the world’s anger, leading to a great catastrophe that involved all the gods.
Once dinner began, William focused on his meal. Although the dishes looked exquisite, they couldn’t compare to what Daniel Bell made.
After Brian followed Daniel Bell into a private room and shut the door, Daniel immediately asked, “What gift did Mr. Johnson give you?”
“Mr. Johnson?” Brian was taken aback. He never expected his father to address William with such a title.
“Hmph! You always brag about your unique perspective, but you’re just blind,” Daniel Bell retorted. “When you see Mr. Johnson in the future, show some respect. Mr. Johnson prefers peace and quiet, so don’t bother him. Also, don’t interfere with Bella and Mr. Johnson’s relationship.”
“I understand,” Brian replied. He took out the amber necklace William had given him. He had initially just stuffed it into his pocket, thinking it was a mere trinket that he would toss aside later. But now, his father was inquiring so earnestly about this gift?
“This is…” Daniel Bell’s eyes welled up with tears as he looked at the amber necklace. He recalled a time when he was younger and saw William playing with the same piece of amber. He had asked William about it, and William had openly shared its origin. Found tens of thousands of years ago in a primal forest, this mystical amber was transformed into a necklace by William himself. And now, such a priceless artifact was casually gifted to his son?
Only a few days ago, they had worried if William would take everything away from them.
“You should always wear this amber necklace,” Daniel Bell advised, holding back his emotions. He was aware of its priceless nature. Even though Daniel wasn’t a Soulmancer and couldn’t see the faint protective energy surrounding Brian, he knew the necklace would ensure good health and ward off ailments. If its seal was broken and it was used as a divine artifact, it would be a treasure even surpassing the trident of the ancient sea god, Poseidon.
While Brian hadn’t yet grasped the significance of the gift, his father’s words hinted at its unique value.
“Dad, who exactly is William?” Brian couldn’t contain his curiosity and asked.
Daniel Bell closed his eyes and replied, “You don’t need to know his identity. Just remember, if he doesn’t wish to be friends, stay away. Treat him with the reverence one reserves for a deity. Never offend him. Everything else will fall into place.”
“Also, when you see him, if there are others present, act as if you don’t know him. If no one’s around, greet him as Mr. Johnson. It’s the least you can do to show respect.”
Brian’s face twitched in realization. He began to wonder if William himself was a significant figure.
William, meanwhile, paid no mind to Daniel’s words and focused on his meal. After sleeping for fifty years, he had missed good food.
Once satisfied, William began contemplating his next steps. He couldn’t simply rely on dining with Bella to pass the time. If he continued this way, his bond with Bella would grow too deep.
Perhaps it’s better if they don’t interact too much.