Ch. 1041..1050
Chapter 1041
James finally had a brief understanding of Mr.Gabriel's background.He was also made aware of the potential chain reaction and severe consequences of trying to get rid of Mr.Gabriel.
This plan was not something to be rushed into blindly.
After leaving Peace Mansion, James headed to the Cadens.
Maxine had already returned to the Cadens’ mansion.
In the courtyard, she kneeled beside Tobias, who was in the midst of doing a martial art squat.
Maxine kneeled for quite a while, but Tobias simply ignored her presence.
20 minutes later, Tobias finally stood up and took the towel handed to him by a servant.He walked toward Maxine while wiping off his sweat.
"Get up," he addressed her coldly.
Maxine stood up.
Tobias sat down in the backyard gazebo, picked up a tea cup from the stone table, and took a sip of tea.
Then, he asked lightly, "Tell me, what happened in Mount Littleroot?" He had already seen the footage and knew about the events on Mount Littleroot, but there were many things he could not comprehend.
Thus, when he learned about Maxine’s return, he immediately summoned her.
Maxine stood at his side with her head lowered and started explaining, "I-I went to Mount Littleroot at the Western Border.There was an imposter disguised as you..." She told Tobias the full details of what had transpired.
Bang! Tobias slammed his palms angrily on the table.
Surprisingly, the table did not break.
However, when he raised his hands, a deep imprint from the impact had been left on the table.
Maxine instinctively trembled with fear.
"What's wrong, Maxine? Is there perhaps something you're hiding from me?" Maxine immediately kneeled on the ground and blurted out.
"I would never hide anything from you!"
"So, who was the imposter?" Tobias voice was razor sharp and his eyes burned like hot coals.
"I-I don’t know."
"Are you still unwilling to tell me the truth?" Tobias roared furiously at her.
The deafening shout stunned Maxine to the point that she was unable to come up with a coherent response.
After a few seconds, she took a deep, shaky breath and answered with her head hung low, "I-It was Thea."
Tobias had already guessed as much.
He had already obtained gotten word from the Cadens’ intelligence networks that Maxine returned to Cansington with Thea.
Additionally, the powerhouses at Mount Litteroot were traced to the God-King Palace.
"My dear Maxine.So, you were the one who suggested that Thea impersonate me and bring along her men from the God-King Palace to Mount Littleroot.Did you not think that this would show the world that the God-King Palace was affiliated with the Cadens? Didn’t you think that doing so would only make us more enemies? Don’t you think we already have enough enemies?"
"I-I was left with no other option, Grandpa."
"And what a great option you’ve chosen."
Tobias’ face was filled with anger as he spat sarcastically.
"I’ve got another question.Who is the elderly man that injured Donovan? Was it Thomas in disguise?"
"I don’t know, Grandpa." Maxine shook her head repeatedly as she answered quietly.
Then, she continued, "However, I’m quite positive it was him." She thought for a moment and explained, "After James returned to Cansington, he claimed that a mysterious man rescued him.I think this very same mysterious person must also be the one that fought against Donovan.Plus, the only person in this world who'd help James and Thea is Thomas.Hearing this, Tobias’ expression became grim.
He muttered to himself doubtfully, "Could Thomas really be alive?"
Tobias knit his brow as he thought.
After pondering for a while, he asked, "If that person was indeed Thomas Caden, how could he have known about the Blithe Fist of Abomination? The ordeal at Mount Littleroot had gone viral.It was no longer a secret that an outsider had acquired the Blithes' signature martial art skill.
Everyone was curious about the identity of the person that injured Donovan.
However, no one would have suspected Thomas being the one behind it.
However, Tobias knew a lot of secrets, including the fact that Thomas was the one that founded the God- King Palace and that Thea led elites from the God-King Palace to Mount Littleroot while impersonating Tobias.
This gave him a strong suspicion that the mysterious elderly man was Thomas.
"G-Grandpa, I truly don’t have the answer to your question." Maxine continued kneeling on the ground, not daring to look Tobias in the eye.
She was afraid that Tobias would immediately see through her lies.
Chapter 1042
Maxine was afraid that if it came down to it, Tobias would force an answer out of her.She was worried she’d fold under the pressure and reveal that the elderly man was, in fact, James.
If she did, it would force James to go on the defensive and limit his movements.
A serious expression crossed Tobias' face as he sat in silence.
The only time he had ever lost to anyone was 20 years ago to an elite member of the Blithe Family.
His Thirteen Heavenly Swords technique was no match for the Blithe Fist of Abomination.
This loss had haunted him ever since.
He was now worried that another person had mastered the Blithe Fist of Abomination.
If the person happened to be Thomas Caden, then he’d have another formidable enemy that could threaten his family.
"Maxine, enlighten me.
What do you think Thomas’ scheme is? Why did he pretend to be an ordinary person in Cansington for the past 20 years? His family was burned to death, yet he did nothing.
Why did he hide for ten years only to suddenly kick his plans into action? What is he trying to accomplish? " Tobias dug out all the doubts that had been plaguing him and recited them as if they were items on a grocery list.
"Grandpa, I don’t have the answer for this either.My apologies." Maxine shook her head despondently.She genuinely had no idea what Thomas was up to.
He stayed hidden for so long and secretly established God-King Palace, only to hand it over to Thea.
Why did he fake his death again? Who was he trying to confuse? Maxine was unable to see through the series of actions that comprised his grand scheme.
"Thomas..." Tobias wore a sad expression.
"He mastered all the Cadens’ martial art skills a few decades ago.Now, he’s even learned the Blithe Fist of Abomination.He seems to have amassed many different martial art techniques in the last ten years."
Tobias was convinced that the elderly man that fought against Donovan in Mount Little Root was really Thomas in disguise.His thoughts only caused his various worries to grow.
"Sir, James is here to visit you." A disciple approached the two respectfully and announced James’ arrival.
"Got it.You may let him in." Tobias waved his hand.
"Understood." The disciple bowed and left.
Tobias looked at Maxine and said, "That’s enough.You can get up."
Maxine slowly got up.Her knees were slightly numb after having kneeled for an extended period of time.
Tobias pointed to a stone chair.
"Sit."
Maxine sat down as directed.
Neither of them spoke a word to the other.
A few minutes later, James entered the backyard and approached Tobias and Maxine.
He gave them each a once over and sat down.
Tobias said apologetically, "James, I had my reasons for not saving you from the Blithes.I can’t endanger the rest of my family in order to save you."
James glanced at Tobias.He knew that the only person he should trust in these matters was himself and that outsiders could not be relied on.
As such, he did not fault Tobias for it.
The reason he came to the Cadens’ mansion was to learn more about the ordeal that happened 30 years ago.
"I'm not here to condemn you for not saving me.I simply wanted to know what happened 30 years ago and about the kind of person my grandfather really was."
"About that..." Tobias harked back to the past with a sentimental expression on his wrinkled face.
"Your grandfather was an incredibly talented individual.However, he disregarded the family's martial arts tenants and insisted on practicing Devilish Energy.Ultimately, he suffered an Energy Deviation which led to a massacre in our family.
Our Grand Patriarch subdued him and removed his cultivation base.He stole our family painting and replaced it with a fake one before being expelled from the family.
We only realized many years later that he had stolen the real painting.
Cadens’ villa in Cansington was burned down in our family’s attempt to retrieve it.
"The main family had no intentions of annihilating your family.However, the outsiders involved misunderstood the order and killed your entire family." Tobias calmly talked about the gruesome events of the past as if it were a trivial matter.
James clenched his fists, and his expression darkened.
"You directed Trent to do it?" Tobias shook his head as he said, "I simply gave him the order to retrieve the Moonlit Flowers on Cliffside's Edge.I never asked him to kill anyone."
"Is that so?" James’ doubt was plain to see on his face.
"Yes, that’s the truth of what happened."
Tobias glanced at James and noticed his gloomy expression and the bloodlust he exuded.He raised his eyebrow.
"What’s wrong? Are you thinking that killing me would avenge your family?"
Chapter 1043
Maxine looked at James worriedly and gave him a subtle sign.
James loosened his tightly clenched fist.He took a deep breath and swallowed down his anger.
"Are you sure? Then, why did I hear that the reason my grandpa suffered an Energy Deviation was because someone ambushed him while he was cultivating? Isn’t that the reason why he killed people from the family?" James asked calmly.
"Oh, is that so? I’ve never heard such a thing," Tobias replied puzzledly.
"Do you really not know? 30 years ago, you must’ve been there when my grandpa’s cultivation base was destroyed, and he was expelled from the family.Did he not refute the decision or try to justify himself?" James looked into Tobias’ eyes and asked.
Tobias simply replied, "I was indeed there when it happened.However, your grandfather didn’t explain himself.He didn’t even utter a word.Following that, he was chased out of the family and thrown out of the Cadens’ gates.His entire side of the family was also expelled along with him."
"I see." James sat having realized some things and said, "If that’s really what happened, then there’s nothing more for me to ask." Tobias sighed.
"James.I truly never intended to kill your family ten years ago.Despite everything, your grandfather and his family were Cadens.I’m not that cold-blooded.The people working for me misconstrued my orders, and it was too late by the time I realized and rushed over to Cansington.
"I owe you at least this much, so I’m trying my best to make up for it.I even have plans to let you take over my position and become the head of the Cadens in the future." James waved his hand dismissively and interrupted Tobias.
"That won't be necessary.I'll investigate this matter thoroughly on my own.I find out you’re not telling me the truth, Ill make sure you regret it."
"Very well, do what you must," Tobias replied calmly.
Maxine sensed that there was a strange feeling she got from their conversation and quickly interrupted.
"Alright, let’s stop talking about these matters.We should discuss how to solve the Cadens’ next crisis in the upcoming Mount Thunder Conference." James had nothing planned for the Mount Thunder Conference.
His priority was to kill Gabriel and eliminate the people behind him in one fell swoop.
James replied nonchalantly, "There is still some time before the Mount Thunder Conference.My main priority is to kill Mr.Gabriel."
Hearing this, Tobias could not help but give James a complicated look.He wondered where James got the courage to deal with Mr.Gabriel.
Tobias was very familiar with Mr.Gabriel.This one person represented an entire faction.He also had the descendants of the Gu Sect from a hundred years ago behind him.
Clearly, he was not a man to be trifled with.
Maxine was startled by James’ bold declaration.
"Are you really going to do it?"
"Yeah." James nodded while saying, "Someone has to get their hands dirty eventually.I’ve already approached the King.Although he isn’t able to give me much support, he'll hold a meeting to elect anew commander for the Red Flame Army.If everything goes smoothly, I'll probably become the Red Flame Army's commander as well as the leader of the Five Commanders.This way even if I kill Mr.Gabriel and trigger a chain event of consequences, I’ll be able to handle them properly."
James glanced at Tobias as he spoke.
Tobias could not help asking, "What’re you looking at me for?" James said, "Mr.Gabriel is the one behind the scenes stirring up the conflict and also the person who proposed to solve the grievances between the Ancient Four at the Mount Thunder Conference.He’s definitely got something up his sleeve.I’m planning to use the Blade of Justice to eliminate him.Will you not show me some support?"
"Impossible." Tobias closed his eyes and answered firmly, "The Cadens will never participate in political affairs.Whether you kill him or not is up to you.However, I’d advise you to think carefully before you act.Even if you utilize the God- King Palace’s powers, you’re still no match for Mr.Gabriel.This person’s methods are beyond comprehension.You don’t even know who the person backing him is."
"Still.I'd like to try my luck." James’ eyes that twinkled brightly, I showed no fear.
Chapter 1044
"Do as you please, but don’t come begging the Cadens for help if you get in trouble.We're not here to wipe your *ss for you." Tobias was firm in his stance of not helping James.
Maxine also reminded him, "James, remember to not to make any rash decisions."
"I know.I'll need to think about the long battle ahead...Which reminds me, I'll need your help strategizing a plan."
"Absolutely not."
Before Maxine could answer, Tobias shot down the idea immediately.
"Maxine won’t be helping you in this I’m afraid.Her assistance could be regarded as a stance from the Cadens themselves, which will result in us getting dragged into unnecessary political conflict."
"Is that what you think?" James smirked faintly and replied, "From the moment you rescued me, the Cadens have already gotten themselves involved in this matter.Your family are no longer able to stand in the sidelines as innocent bystanders.If not, the Cadens wouldn’t have gotten caught up in so many incidents.Tobias, I know that you’re concerned that the Cadens won’t be able to deal with the aftermath of my actions.This is the reason why you’ve been scrambling to form alliances that will allow you to withdraw from the Mount Thunder Conference unscathed.Since you’ve considered making the Blithes your allies, has it not occurred to you to throw your lot in with the King? You must be well- aware of the capabilities one needs to lead the nation as the King."
Hearing this, Tobias fell deep into thought, falling hook, line and sinker into James’ trap.
In actual fact, James was not as confident to deal with Mr.Gabriel as her made it seer.
Thus, he planned to drag the Cadens into it.He was still unsure of the type of man Tobias was but as long as he was willing to side with him, it would be enough to deal with the likes of Mr.Gabriel.
"Grandpa, James is right," Maxine muttered quietly.
"Hmm?" Tobias looked at Maxine and his eyes widened slightly.
"Do you also think that I should side with the King and Mr.Lee in order to protect the Cadens and allow us to leave in peace?" Maxine nodded.
"Yes.Grandpa, you should know that the King represents the country of Sol.Most forces supporting the King are also ancient martial artists within Sol." Tobias sighed and ran a wrinkled hand over his hair, "If I took a side, the other families and forces would do the same.
The balance we've tried so hard to preserve will be broken and Sol will be thrown into chaos.
A fight for power will break out again.
It might even be worse than the one a hundred years ago, The possibility had definitely come up more than once in Tobias’ mind.
However, everyone was observing the general situation and were unwilling to declare their stance so hastily.
If he were to start, the other forces would quickly begin picking sides as well.
Once everyone had shown where their allegiances stood, the next step would be to fight to death.
This battle will break the peace that Sol had enjoyed for the past hundred years.
This was the biggest reason why he was so hesitant to declare his allegiance.
"Grandpa...There is a way around this.You can disown me as a Caden and I’ll be able to observe the movements of other families from the shadows.Whatever I do in the future will have nothing to do with the Cadens," Maxine suggested her extreme measure in a hushed tone.
Tobis glanced at Maxine and then cast his gaze toward James.He drummed his fingers on the tabletop and knit his brows deep in thought.
Meanwhile, James patiently waited for his reply.
After a while, he chose his words carefully.
"My every decision directly influence the life and death of the Cadens.I will stand by my decision to not choose a side until I take my very last breath.However, Maxine’s suggestion is quite reasonable.If she’s expelled from the family, then whatever she does will have nothing to do with the Cadens."
After he said his piece, he stood up with his hands behind his back, and left silently As for Maxine, she looked at James with a smile on her pretty face.
"By the way." Tobias suddenly stopped and turned to the two.
"Since you’re here, take the chance to visit our library.There are plenty of signature martial art skills inside there.You can take and practice whatever suits your fancy.You’ll need all the preparations you can to accomplish whatever you plan to do."
After he finished speaking, he continued on his way.
James sighed in relief.
Although Tobias was unwilling to choose a side, he allowed Maxine to help him.
With an intelligent strategist on his side, he could save himself a lot of trouble.
Chapter 1045
"James, this is your chance.The Cadens’ library contains countless martial art skills.This includes the best sword technique in the world, the Thirteen Heavenly Swords.If you master that, it’d be a stretch to call you invincible but there won’t be many people who can stand against you." Maxine beamed as she chattered excitedly to James.
Tobias was optimistic about James’ potential.
Despite James' thinly -veiled hostility toward him, he still allowed James to visit the family’s library.
This was not the first time that James had heard about the Thirteen Heavenly Swords.
The sword technique intrigued him.
"Alright.I'll make use this opportunity to take a look."
"I'll lead you there then." Maxine stood up and made a gesture inviting him to leave with her.
James stood up and followed Maxine deeper into the vast backyard.
After they spent a long time walking, he saw a solitary wooden house.
Maxine paused and whispered, "Do you see that wooden house over there, James?" James nodded.
"Yeah, I see it." Maxine explained in a hushed tone, "That’s the Grand Patriarch’s closed-door meditation sanctuary.It’s also an area that’s off limits and forbidden to our family members.No one is allowed to enter without permission from the family head.According to the our family tree, the person currently living there is probably my grandpa’s grandfather.I heard from grandpa that his name is Bennett.He’s currently the eldest as well as the strongest member of the Caden household."
"Bennett?" James stopped walking for a second.
He had heard this name before.
While James was in the Blithe’s underground prison, the person who passed on his True Energy to him, Spencer, had interrogated him about his relationship with Bennett.
"Yeah.Grandpa said that the Grand Patriarch is powerful.He attained the seventh rank a few decades ago.As for what rank he is right now, no one knows."
"Ohoho, are you young’uns talking about me?"
Suddenly, a spritely laugh came from somewhere.
Before James and Maxine could react, an elderly man suddenly appeared in front of them.He had a white beard and an otherworldly aura.
It made him seem as if he was an immortal god.
Maxine had never met the grand patriarch but immediately knew that the person standing before them was Bennet Caden.
She immediately bowed deeply, "It’s an honor to meet you."
James, on the other hand, remained standing and stared intently at the elderly man before him.
Bennett’s eyes were also fixed on James as he stroked his white beard in amusement.
Then, he said with a cheeky smile, "You must be Thomas’ descendant, right?" James nodded.
"Yes.He’s my grandfather.As the Grand Patriarch of the Cadens, you must know what transpired 30 years ago."
"30 years ago?" Bennett closed his eyes thoughtfully as he recalled the past.
"It was a dark day for our family.I was the one who destroyed Thomas’ cultivation base and exiled him from the family."
"Then you also know that my grandfather was attacked by someone, which in turn led to his Energy Deviation?"
"No.I know not of this." Bennett shook his head slowly.
Hearing this, James fell silent.
Bennett did not look like he was lying.
Despite that, James still firmly believed that someone must have been behind Thomas’s Energy Deviation, and that person had to be someone from the Cadens.
"You're full of energy and your body is extremely sturdy.It’s rare for someone your age to have such a significant amount of True Energy..." Bennett stared at James pensively.
Suddenly, his expression turned serious.
"Your True Energy..." He suddenly reached out his hand and grabbed James’ wrist.
He ran his hand along James’ hand and then all the way to his chest.
Then, he spun James around, pressed his arm on his back, and checked several of James’ acupoints.
James felt like he’d been held down by a powerful force and was rendered completely immobile.
After a while, Bennett released him and had a surprised expression on his face.
"You’re young, but your True Energy is powerful.There are still some vestiges of True Energy in your body that hasn’t been fully absorbed.Who was the one who passed it to you?" James was taken aback by his question.
Chapter 1046
As expected of the Grand Patriarch of the Cadens.
Even Tobias could not sense his True Energy, but Bennett quickly caught on the moment they met.
James did not hide the truth from the Grand Patriarch.He also guessed that Bennett knew and had a good relationship with his teacher, Spencer.
"I was captured and brought to the Blithes.I met a senior martial artist in the Blithes’ underground prison named Spencer.He did not have much time left so he passed on his True Energy to me after learning that I’m a descendant of the Cadens."
"I see." Bennett's eyes widened in shock when he heard this.
He let out a sad sigh.
"I never thought he’d leave ahead of me.Since he has finally passed on, do you know who’s the eighth-rank grandmaster in the Blithe family?" He had no idea and chose not to dwell on it for too long.Bennett looked at James and clapped him on the back cheerily.
" You’re not bad, young man.I’m heartened that the Cadens will have a wonderful successor.By the way, you’re here because Tobias allowed you to enter the library, right?"
“Mhm." James nodded.
Bennett looked at Maxine and waved his hand to dismiss her.
"You may take your leave for now."
"Yes, Grand Patriarch."
"Follow me." Bennett tilted his head at James and began to lead the way.
James followed behind him to the wooden house.
The two sat down, and Bennett began to speak, "The Cadens have countless signature martial arts skills at their perusal.In terms of popularity, the Thirteen Heavenly Swords has been the most renowned since ancient times.However, for thousands of years, very few have been able to completely master the technique.Even Tobias, who has a talent for cultivation is only able to master up to the eleventh sword."
James was surprised to hear this piece of information about Tobias.
"Grand Patriarch, what about you?" James glanced at Bennett curiously.
"Haha..." Bennett ran his fingers through his white beard and laughed mirthfully.
His laughter was enough to answer James’ question.
After he finished laughing, he continued.
"In terms of talent, Thomas was far better than Tobias.
It’s a pity that he went down the wrong path.
Otherwise, with his aptitude, it wouldn’t be hard for him to master all thirteen swords.
He might’ve even been able to perfect it and wield the terrifying fourteenth sword."
"There is a fourteenth sword?"
"Of course, outsiders only know it as Thirteen Heavenly Swords because our ancestors of thousands of years ago only mastered thirteen of them.No one has ever gone beyond that before."
"Have you mastered it?" Bennett shook his head.
"No, I barely reached the Thirteen Sword Realm." While speaking, he continued to scrutinize James and said, "None of our younger generations has shown any promise for it at the moment.
The Thirteen Heavenly Swords technique is in dire need of a suitable successor.
Fortunately, you’ve shown up at the most fortuitous of times.
Since Tobias has suggested that you learn it, and I’m not in closed-door meditation at the moment, I’ll give you some personal guidance." James’ face brightened and he respectfully bowed his head in thanks.
"Thank you, Grand Patriarch."
"Here’s the sword technique manual.You can go through it yourself and see what you’re able to make of it first.Ask me if there’s anything you don’t understand."
While speaking, Bennett took out an ordinary -looking manual and handed it to James.
James took it and opened it to have a look.
"Sword Energy’s force spans three thousand kilometers, conquering everything that crosses its path." A quote was recorded in the beginning of the manual.James was deeply fascinated by these words.What kind of sword technique was this to warrant such a profound opening? He began to sweep his eyes over the text.
James was absolutely amazed by the Thirteen Heavenly Swords technique after having engrossed himself in the manual for over two hours.
He closed the sword technique manual and exclaimed in awe, "I can’t believe such an impressive technique exists.It’s no wonder that it’s considered the best sword technique in the world."
Chapter 1047
"Have you finished looking through it?" asked Bennett.
James straightened himself and looked at Bennett who had a smile of delight on his face.
He nodded and said, ‘Yes, I’m done."
"Now, tell me what you’ve learned after reading it once."
James contemplated for a momet and opened his mouth.
"This swordsmanship technique is extremely profound.It’s not just a simple technique and can be divided into two parts.The first is swordsmanship, and the second is about using one’s energy to control the sword.The key is to be able to move at blinding speeds.One’s swordsmanship has to be rapid for the energy’s speed to increase in turn.The sword acts as a medium for True Energy to become Sword Energy.The Thirteen Sword Realms represent the Thirteen Sword Energies."
James explained his understanding of the techniques recorded in the book.He was not able to articulate everything precisely, but he had a rough grasp of the concept.
"That’s right."
Bennett stood up with his hands crossed behind his back and said, "
There is a prerequisite before you can practice the Second Sword Realm.
That is, you must enter the fifth rank and have potent enough True Energy that will allow you to wield your sword energy.
You also hit the nail on the head about the speed requirements and how it relates to the way you increase the speed of your Sword Energy."
Bennett raised his hand, and an iron sword lying on a rock in the distance suddenly flew over to him.
Having caught the sword in his hand, Bennett’s aura changed drastically.
In that very moment, he looked like a martial god with an aura that threatened to dominate the world.
Suddenly, he moved and swiftly swung his sword in the air.
Whoosh! Sword Energy morphed along with the sword, causing Thirteen Sword Energies to form beside the sword instantly.
James watched the display carefully.
Bennett was incredibly fast.
Despite being at the peak of the fifth rank, James could barely follow his movements and only managed to see an afterimage of the dazzling Sword Energy.
"Your energy controls your sword, and your sword controls the Sword Energy.This prevents it from dissipating.Wherever you point your sword, the Sword Energy will strike.This is the ultimate sword technique," Bennett explained as he moved as quick as lightning yet with the fluidity of water.He stopped his movements in a position where his sword was pointed horizontally toward the distance.
Suddenly, Thirteen Sword Energies burst forth and hit an artificial hill a hundred meters away.
The ten-meter-tall artificial hill was immediately reduced to rubble on the ground.
"Did you observe carefully?" James shook his head in a daze.
"I-I couldn't see clearly."
"You should slowly try to understand it yourself."
Bennett was about to pass the sword to James when he suddenly remembered something.
Then, he said, "I wanted to give you this sword but remembered that you’re the Dragon King that wields the Blade of Justice.It’s a fabled weapon that's been handed down through the ages.It suits you very well."
"Oh," James replied.
"You may use this for practice.If you can’t master and the execute the third sword at least, you won’t be allowed to leave."
Bennett tossed the sword at James.
James quickly reached out to catch it.
Contrary to his expectations, the sword was heavy, and James did not manage to get a firm grip on it.It fell to the ground instantly.
Clang! The impact kicked up the dust on the ground.
James was startled that the sword that Bennett wielded with so much ease was so heavy.He tried to pick it up the sword from the ground once more, but was unable to pick it up without using his True Energy.He channeled his True Energy and barely managed to lift it up.
James stood in front of the wooden house and closed his eyes.
The sword movements of the Thirteen Heavenly Swords appeared in his mind.
Bennett’s voice flowed beside him.
"There are two realms to the Thirteen Heavenly Swords.One is swordsmanship, which is suitable for those below the fifth rank "
The second realm involves Sword Energy and can only be executed by those of the fifth rank and above.
"The former is the basic swordsmanship and is required to be able to perform the latter.The goal I’m giving you is to be able to execute the Second Sword Realm’s third sword."
James closed his eyes and thought for a while.
Then, he started to practice the sword technique.
The Thirteen Heavenly Swords was a complex technique that required one to strike as fast as lightning.
James practiced in the Cadens’ backyard.
Under Bennett’s guidance, James was able to learn under an extremely accomplished martial artist and hence, avoid unnecessary detours.
Whenever he encountered something he could not understand, he was always able to turn to Bennett for answers.
What’s more, Bennett proved to be an exceedingly patient and wonderful mentor.
Before he had realised it, ten days had passed.
Chapter 1048
James had been single mindedly practicing the sword technique for the past ten days.His dedication intrigued Tobias.He has secretly watched him for several days and noticed James’ rapid progress.
James had already mastered the First Sword Realm in a span of less than ten days.
"This boy is without a doubt talented in martial arts.It took me several years to barely master the First Sword Realm, yet it only took him ten days."
Tobias was slightly concerned about the rapid pace of James’ progress.He left silently after having observed James for quite some time.
Tobias needed to meditate in seclusion in preparation for the upcoming Mount Thunder Conference.
A figure flitted through the backyard under the night sky.
James moved rapidly as he fluidly executed a number of elaborate sword techniques.
After practicing each move at least once, he sat down to take a break.
Clap! Clap! Clap! The sudden crisp applause broke the silence in the backyard.
Bennett approached him with a bemused smile.
"Very good.That's impressive.It’s as if you were born to be a natural swordsman.You've only been practicing for ten days, yet have already surpassed the effort that takes most people many years to accomplish."
James put away his sword and replied with a smile of his own, "It’s because you've taught me well."
It was not an understatement that the swordsmanship of the Thirteen Heavenly Swords was intricate, and it would be difficult for James to master them on his own in such a short period of time.
The reason for his rapid improvements was all due to Bennett's expert guidance.иσνєℓєвσσк.¢σмHe was able to avoid many obstacles as well as minimize his mistakes because he had an experienced teacher guiding him.
"mhm.Not bad."
Bennett stroked his white beard and said, "Now, you can start practicing the Second Sword Realm.This is where you'll get a real taste of the Thirteen Heavenly Swords technique."
James nodded.He picked up his sword once more and raised it.
All of a sudden, his body vanished.He appeared high in the air, around 20 meters off the ground, and tilted his longsword.
At that moment, the long sword suddenly began to glow with the True Energy that had been imbued into it.It did not take long for it to form Sword Energy.
However, this phenomenon was over as soon as it began and dissipated without a trace.
James was unable to form Sword Energy, let alone control it.
"Don’t worry.Take your time.
"Remember, the sword is an extension of your body.Sword Energy is also an embodiment of your energy.The way you materialize Sword Energy is practically the same as True Energy.Now that you’ve reached the summit of the fifth rank, you’re but one tiny step away from achieving the sixth rank.If you can execute the first sword, you can pretty much consider yourself to have officially stepped into the sixth rank"
Bennett constantly gave him feedback.
Keeping what he had been told in mind, James kept trying and practicing continuously.
Time flew by in a flash.
James had been immersed in refining his swordsmanship skills and had stayed in the Cadens’ mansion for a month in a blink of an eye.
In the first ten days, he mastered all the sword techniques from the First Sword Realm.
In the next ten days that followed, he uttered chants and practiced the Second Sword Realm of the Thirteen Heavenly Swords.
It was drilled into his very being that True Energy controlled the sword and the sword in turn, controlled Sword Energy.
After twenty days, he finally succeeded.
Whoosh! In the Cadens’ mansion backyard, James held a sword and struck with force.
From the sword burst out bright Sword Energy.
The materialized Sword Energy was a long sharp sword that manifested with terrifying strength and instantly destroyed the wall gate tens of meters away.
James pulled the energy back to him.
"Haha!"
Bennett laughed heartily and praised, "Not bad at all! You’re outstanding, my boy.It’s only been a little over a month, but you’ve already managed to materialize your first sword! If you’re committed, the sky is your limit.You’ll definitely be able to execute all thirteen swords and even the fourteenth sword with overwhelming strength in the future."
James wiped the sweat from his forehead.
He asked, "Grand Patriarch, how long have I been practicing here?"
Bennett said, "It has been 33 days."
James was floored when he heard that.He did not expect so much time to have passed since he began.He currently wondered what the outside was like right now since he’d been away.
"Grand Patriarch, I’m ever grateful for your hospitality but I can’t stay any longer.There are many things I need to settle."
"Go, go."
Bennett smiled as he flicked his wrist.
Initially, he set the condition to let James leave after mastering the third sword only to put pressure on him.It was unprecedented for anyone to achieve so much in one month.
"It looks like the Cadens have found their successor."Bennett was pleased.His eyes sparkled sentimentally as he put a gentle hand on James’ shoulder.
"I look forward to seeing you master the fourteenth sword someday.I’d love to see its power at least once in my lifetime."
"Thank you for your guidance," James bowed deeply as an expression of his gratitude once more.
Chapter 1049
With Bennett's guidance, James mastered the First and Second Sword Realm of the Thirteen Heavenly Swords.
In other words, he had officially entered the sixth rank with this.He was one of the few people who were able to attain such strength at his age.
James thanked Bennett profusely.
Bennett waved his hand in dismissal and lightly said, "That’s enough.You should go.All I ask is you come visit me whenever you're free."
James did not say anything else.He turned and left.He had been staying in the backyard of the Cadens' mansion for the past month and had not walked around the front yard at all.
Over the past month, he had absolutely no idea about what had happened in the outside world.
As soon as he left the backyard and approached the front, he heard people arguing.He looked in the direction of the commotion.
A good number of people were gathered outside a room.
"Maxine, do you know what you’ve done?!"
"You blatantly ignored our family’s rules and broke them.The family head has been too soft on you.How could you attempt to steal martial art manuals?"
Several people were reprimanding a young woman.She was in her 20s and dressed in casual clothing.иσνєℓєвσσк.¢σмShe was practically prostrating herself on the ground.
James frowned and walked over shouting, "What’s going on?"
When they saw James approaching, the Cadens gathered were slightly taken aback.
Every Caden knew James had been living in the Cadens’ mansion backyard for the past month and was personally supervised by the Grand Patriarch as he attempted to learn their family’s signature martial art techniques.
Many of the younger Cadens burned with envy when they saw him.
Why him? They were the direct disciples as well as descendents of the Cadens but had never received such special treatment before.
Yet, a family traitor’s descendant had the opportunity to be personally taught by the Grand Patriarch.
There was even news going around that Tobias wanted to train James to be the future head of the Cadens.
"James, this is a family problem.An outsider like you shouldn’t get involved in it."
An unfriendly voice addressed him.
James turned to the source and saw that it was none other than Bobby Caden.It was the very same brat that caused him a lot of trouble in the past.
He had kidnapped Thea and attempted to disfigure her face to force him to hand over the ancient chest from the Prince of Orchid Mountain’s ancient tomb.
"Don't assume that you’re a member of the Cadens just because grandpa is protecting you! Your family has long been exiled from the Cadens by the Grand Patriarch."
Bobby was not giving James an ounce of courtesy and pointed to the gate as he said dismissively, "Get lost."
Meanwhile, the Cadens’ seniors remained silent.
However, it was plain to see from their aloof expressions that James’ presence was extremely unwelcome.Some even threw him hateful glares.
James scanned the surroundings.He took a guess that these people who showed him such unrestrained hostility had their relatives killed by Thomas.
James ignored them and looked at Maxine, kneeling on the ground with her forehead firmly planted on the floor.
He asked, "Maxine, what’s going on?"
Before Maxine could reply, an elder stepped forward with his hands behind his back.
He glared at James and answered him coldly, "Maxine has broken our family rules by entering the family library and attempting to steal the Cadens’ martial art manuals.She was caught in the act."
James glanced at the elder.
The appearance of the older man was somewhat similar to that of Tobias.
The person was likely Tobias’ brother, which also made him James’ granduncle.
"Is that true, Maxine?"
"Is there any way it isn’t?"
Bobby grabbed Maxine off the ground and took a handwritten manual from her.
Then, he tossed her back on the floor and growled, "There’s your hard evidence."
Maxine kneeled on the ground and lowered her head.She was not defending herself.
What happened? James narrowed his eyes.
Suddenly, he remembered something.
‘Could this be Tobias’ plan, an opportunity to cut Maxine off from the family? Coming to the realization, James looked at Bobby sternly.
"Even if it was true, there’s no need for to make her kneel."
James reached out and gently helped Maxine off the ground.
Chapter 1050
"This is preposterous!"
The elder Caden shouted.His booming voice was deafening.It rocked everyone present as if it were a clap of thunder.
Even Maxine was taken aback by his outburst.
James glanced at the elder and said calmly, "What do you want?"
The elder narrowed his eyes.
"In accordance with our family rules, the lightest punishment for those who enter the library without permission is the removal of their cultivation base and the subsequent expulsion from our family.The more severe punishment states that offenders are to be killed on the spot."
"Try to kill her if you dare."
James' expression darkened and he returned the elder’s hateful glare.
Maxine pulled James to the side and whispered, "James, just leave me be.I've violated the family’s rules by sneaking into the library.Just let them punish me."
"It’s good that you acknowledge your own sins.Since we're all aware of your crime, I will be the one to abolish your cultivation and expel you from the family.The elder suddenly raised his hand, and a powerful force materialized in his palm.It forcibly pulled Maxine towards him.James had figured out that this was a ploy by Tobias and Maxine that would result in her expulsion from the family.However, Maxine’s life would be over if they abolished her cultivation base.He quickly stepped over and grasped Maxine’s shoulder, pulling her toward him.
Two forces pulled at Maxine causing her to lose her balance.She ended up falling directly into James’ arms.
James put his arms around her and slightly stepped back.
While he did this, he remained glaring at the elder in front of him.
James questioned the elder harshly, "It’s just a martial art manual.This isn’t a severe crime.There’s no need for such a cruel punishment.Can’t you just excommunicate her? Why do you have to abolish her cultivation base as well?"
The elder’s face hardened as he heard this.His name was Karson Caden.He was not only an elder in the family, but he was also Tobias’ youngest brother.
In terms of strength, he was far from being an unrivaled fighter.
However, he was still a grandmaster of the fifth rank.
Yet, James was able to snatch someone away from him.
Shock filled his eyes.
The entire scene caught the other Cadens by surprise as well.
Why was James so strong? They knew James well and were aware that he had cultivated his True Energy relatively recently.
However, they had also heard that he had his cultivation base forcefully removed by the head of the Johnston family.
How could he possibly have the strength to go against someone as powerful as Karson?
"Do you insist on interfering with the Cadens’ family problems, boy? Our family has rules that have been passed down for thousands of years.Absolutely no one is allowed to break them.Having knowledge of those rules and still choosing to break them is appropriately punishable by death"
Bobby stepped forward, jabbed his finger in Maxine’s direction, and spoke.
"I don’t care about your rules, "James replied coldly.
"You're just that eager to die huh...?"
Bobby immediately pulled out a gun and pointed it at James.иσνєℓєвσσк.¢σмHe started to speak in a loud and intimidating voice, "You're a descendant of a sinner.Who are you to meddle in our family’s problems? Kneel before me!"
The other elders watching the events unfold did not step forward to stop Bobby.
He took their silence as them assenting to his actions.
"James, forget it.I truly am guilty,"
Maxine tried to dissuade him softly.
James put his arms around her protectively and glared at Bobby along with the other family members."He said calmly, "From today onward, Maxine is no longer part of the Cadens.This means, you don’t have a say on whether she lives or not."
After speaking, James hurriedly dragged Maxine away.
"Son of ab*tch!"
Bobby fired a shot from his gun.
James did not even turn around to see where it was coming from.He simply caught the bullet with his fingers and threw it away.
Clang! The bullet fell to the ground with a loud sound.
Many were shocked by this sight.
On the roof, not far away, an old man was sitting as he watched the others from the shadows.It was Tobias.
When he saw this, Tobias murmured with a frown, "How did this kid become so powerful? He hid his strength so well.
Could he have unraveled the secret of the Moonlit Flowers on Cliffside's Edge?"
After witnessing James master the First Sword Realm of the Thirteen Heavenly Swords, Bennett went into closed-door meditation.
Thus, he missed the truly fantastic sight of James executing the Second Sword Realm of the technique.
The strength that James displayed shocked them.
"What do you take the Cadens’ mansion for? Do you think you can come and leave as you please?"
Tobias murmured and jumped off the roof, flying forward.He raised his hand and thrust his palm forward while in mid-air.