Ch. 1071..1080
Chapter 1071
The seven or eight generals stepped forward and greeted James one after another.
James nodded lightly in response to them.
Under the guidance of several generals, James entered the Red Flame Army base.
As soon as he entered, he saw the countless soldiers training.
They quickly stopped and saluted upon seeing James approaching.
James gently waved his hand.
Nathaniel walked over with a smile.
"Emperor, I’ve prepared the detailed information about the Red Flame Army overnight and placed the documents in your office.You can head over and look through them to understand the army's situation whenever you like.I’ve included everything, including the number of soldiers, annual military expenditures, equipment status, and the number of soldiers scouted from different military regions annually." James nodded and said, "Alright.Good job.By the way, prepare a name list for me of all the personnel in the Red Flamy that are above deputy commander rank in detail."
"No problem." Nathaniel nodded.
"Also...
Send a message that I’ll be holding a succession ceremony here in three days.
Invite all the powerful figures in the Capital for me, including those from the political, military, and business circle."
"Understood.I’ll complete the task without fail."
James did not waste any time and headed directly to an office building in the distance where the Emperor’s office was located.
Unexpectedly, the office was far from luxurious and was very plain with only a lounge area and a computer.The generals followed after him.James waved his hand and said, "That's enough.иσνєℓєвσσк.¢σмYou're all dismissed.Go back to doing whatever you need to do.I’ll stay here alone for a while."
After speaking, James closed the door.
The generals outside the door exchanged worried glances at each other.
One of the generals asked concernedly, "General Carlson, do you think this new commander will target us right after he takes office? He used to be hostile toward the previous Emperor and even beheaded him.Plus, we were promoted by the previous Emperor."
Nathaniel replied calmly, "There’s nothing to worry about if you’ve done nothing wrong.Even if he wanted to get rid of us, he would need a good reason.Despite being the commander, it would not be easy for him to get rid of a general so easily.He’ll need to go through the military council and court."
Afterward, he looked at the other generals and warned them, "Hurry up and wipe your *sses.
And don’t get caught."
After speaking, he left.
In the office, James picked up the materials that Nathaniel had prepared for him and read through them.
The information was incredibly detailed, and the overall situation of the Red Flame Army was apparent at a glance.
James quickly grasped the Red Flame Army’s situation after going through it.
Soon, there was a knock on the door.
"Come in."
Nathaniel walked into the office and saw James sitting on a chair with his leg crossed, deep in thought while smoking.He walked over with a smile and said, "Emperor, the list you requested."
James pointed at the table and said, "Leave it there."
"Alright."
Nathaniel walked over and placed the documents on the table.
James waved his hand slightly.
"You can go."
"Understood."
Nathaniel turned and left.
James picked up the prepared list on the table and began to look through the information about the personnel above the rank of deputy commander in the Red Flame Army.
After reading through it, he fell into thought.
The Emperor promoted most of these people, and they had to be diehard loyalists of his.
Some might have been placed in the army by Mr.Gabriel.
James began thinking about how he could investigate these people.
The official channels he could use now were the Red Flame Army and the King’s intelligence network.
Chapter 1072
He definitely could not use the Red Flame Army to investigate or ask the King for assistance since he did not want him to know about his following plans.
On the other hand, there were several unofficial channels he could put to use, including Jay's intelligence network, the Dark Castle, the God- King Palace, and the Dragon Palace.
The intelligence network of the Red Flame Army must not be used to investigate.
Unfortunately, Jay’s intelligent network had not penetrated the Capital.
Meanwhile, the Dragon Palace had only been established not too long ago, and they were mainly based overseas, The only two that he could rely on were the Dark Castle and God- King Palace.
Compared to the God- King Palace, James had more trust in the Dark Castle.He took out his phone and called Blake.
The call connected quickly, and Blake’s hoarse voice sounded from the phone.
"James, it’s only been a few days.How could I possibly get a result so quickly? Give me a few more days!"
James replied calmly, "I’m not calling to ask about the research facilities.I've got alist of important personnel in the Red Flame Army.I need you to use the Dark Castle’s underground intelligence network to check them for me.I need everything about them, including information about their ancestors."
"That’s so much easier."
Blake smiled and said, "I’m an assassin and investigating people is my forte.I do detailed investigations on my targets whenever I receive missions.I’ll give you a result within three days."
James nodded and said, "Mhm.I’ll send the list to you in a bit.Pay attention and see if you receive it."
After speaking, James hung up the phone.
Then, he photographed the list and sent it to Blake.
After sending it, he immediately deleted the message.
Next, James walked around the Red Flame Army base and left.
During this period, a piece of news was spreading throughout the Capital.
"Three days later, the newly appointed Emperor will hold a succession ceremony in the Red Flame Army base."
"I heard many people were invited, including all the bigwigs from the military and political circle."
"Even the King will be attending."
"He's amazing.He’s serving as two commanders simultaneously.On top of that, he’s the Dragon King of the Southern Plains and has more than a hundred cities that enemy countries have given as compensation to our nation."
"I heard that outsiders are also allowed to attend.However, attendees must have a pivotal figure in the business world."
Countless news spread, and the entire city discussed James’ appointment as the Emperor and his succession ceremony.
Meanwhile, a young man rushed toward Lex at the Callahans’ villa in Cansington and shouted, "Grandpa! Something happened! Something huge happened!"
Lex was sitting on the sofa reading his newspaper when he heard someone shouting for him.иσνєℓєвσσк.¢σмHis face darkened as he put down the newspaper, saying coldly, "Where are your manners? Do you not have any regard for our house rules?"
"Grandpa! Haven't you read the news? The morning news announced that the parliament had voted for James as the new commander of the Red Flame Army.The official letter of appointment has been completed.After it was issued, a press conference confirmed that James had always been the commander of the Black Dragon Army and was even the Dragon King.He basically has the final say in the Southern Plains.Also, three days from now, James will hold his succession ceremony at the Red Flame Army base in the Capital."
Tommy was out of breath from running but still managed to blurt everything out in one breath.
"What? Is this true?"
Lex stood up abruptly, his wrinkled face showing visible shock.
"Of course, it’s true! The news has spread all over the country.It’s the main topic of discussion online right now!"
Tommy’s face flushed red from excitement.
The Dragon King of the Southern Plains, the commander of the Red Flame Army! The titles were incredible! It was not an exaggeration to say that he was the most powerful man in Sol.
Howard overhead their conversation while walking down the stairs and trembled uncontrollably as he asked, "Tommy, is what you said true?"
"Absolutely, Dad! You can search the internet for the morning news.I told you James was putting on a show last time when he was demoted.The purpose was to let the Emperor’s guard down.James had been investigating the Emperor in secret! He’s the best! He even beheaded the commander of the Red Flame Army!" Tommy said excitedly.
Chapter 1073
The Callahans were shocked by the news that Tommy had shared.
Lex and Howard took out their phones simultaneously and searched for the news.
Their jaws dropped as they watched the morning news.
"Hurry up.Call and gather the whole family.I need to hold a family meeting," Lex immediately gave an order.
Howard quickly headed to do as told.
In less than half an hour, all the family members were gathered in the Callahans’ villa.
Howard, John, and Benjamin’s families were present.
"Dad, what happened?"
Gladys, who had heavy makeup on and wore a branded dress, sat down with dissatisfaction.
"I already invited some other ladies to play poker together."
Since the rise of Thea, Gladys’ status in the Callahans had been growing continuously.
Benjamin's status had also improved.
In the past, he never had the guts to say anything during family meetings, but this time, he asked, "Dad, did something happen for you to call everyone here? Lex asked excitedly, "Benjamin, Gladys.Is Thea still with James?"
Gladys shook her head and said, "I don’t know.Thea seldom comes home these days, and I don’t even know what she’s up to.James never shows up, either.Maybe Thea finally figured things out, and they’re separated.The current James isn't worthy of Thea."
The Callahans had not watched the news and were unaware of what had happened in the Capital.
Tommy was startled by her words and shouted, "No way! We’re over if she isn’t with James! It’s all over! The Callahans have lost the opportunity to prosper!"
"Huh?"
Gladys was startled and looked at Tommy perplexedly.
Even David was confused by Tommy’s behavior and asked, "What are you talking about, Tommy? What do you mean we've lost the opportunity to prosper?"
Tommy explained, "James has always been the commander of the Black Dragon Army.Moreover, he’s also the Dragon King! The Dragon King! Do you understand?! He’s the first person to be given the title of a King since the founding of Sol! He reigns over Dragonville in the Southern Plains! He has the final say in the Southern Plains! Now, he’s even been appointed as the Emperor! Do you get it?! The Emperor! He's also the commander of the Red Flame Army, the leader of the Five Commanders!"
"F*ck..."
David stood up abruptly and stared at Tommy in shock.
"Are you for real? Is he that great?"
"How can it be fake? It was broadcasted on the morning news!"
Tommy sat down dejectedly.
The rest of the Callahans were in shock.
How was James so powerful? He was the Dragon King and the commander of both the Black Dragon Army and Red Flame Army.иσνєℓєвσσк.¢σмHe concurrently served as the commander of two armies.
The Callahan members quickly took out their phones and searched for relevant news.
Lex frowned and asked, "Where’s Thea? Call her and ask about her relationship with James.I told you to treat James better, but you guys wouldn’t listen."
Gladys said regretfully, "H-How would I know? He was demoted, so I thought he was now a commoner and wasn’t worthy of Thea.If he had said so earlier, I would’ve definitely..."
"Enough nonsense.Call her quick!"
Lex interrupted Gladys with dissatisfaction on his face.
"Okay, Pll call her right now."
Gladys immediately called Thea.
The call connected shortly.
"Mom, what's the matter? Did something happen in Cansington?"
"Where are you, Thea?"
"I’m in the Capital."
"I-Is James the Dragon King and was he recently appointed as the Emperor?"
Gladys asked with trembling teeth.
If that were true, his status would be beyond extraordinary.Being the Dragon King and the Emperor would make him the most powerful man in Sol.
"Mhm."
Thea did not deny it since it had already been broadcasted, and it was not surprising that the Callahans had found out about it.
"Yeah, it’s true.I’m currently staying at the Emperor’s Mansion in the Capital," Thea replied.
Gladys had the call on loudspeaker.
Hearing this, the Callahans were over the moon.
Chapter 1074
Lex stood up immediately and announced excitedly, "I announce that the Callahans will sell off all our properties in Cansington and enter the Capital! From this moment onward, the Callahans are officially a wealthy and powerful family in this world!"
Clap! Clap! Clap! The Callahans applauded excitedly and shouted their praises.
In the Emperor’s Mansion at the Capital, Thea overheard Lex’s voice through the phone and frowned.
"Grandpa, what are you doing? We've been doing well in Cansington.Why would you want to come to the Capital? The Capital is a dangerous place.Please don’t come."
The Callahans had finally taken root in Cansington after developing for a few decades.
Thea did not want Lex to bring the whole family to the Capital.
Although the Capital was the Imperial City, Cansington was not bad either.
Cansington had Transgenerational New City, and a new city was being built in the suburbs.
It was about to become an international city.
Moreover, the Callahans had been developing well during this period.
Although Centennial Corporation was suppressing them, they had been able to continue growing with Messiah as their backbone.
Hearing Thea’s words, Lex quickly said, "Thea, what’s the use of rising to the top in Cansington? It'd be better in the Capital where the rich gathered.I’ve already decided that we'll go to the Capital to develop."
"Don’t even think about it."
Thea quickly denied his idea.
"Grandpa, let me tell you the truth.The situation in the Capital is perilous, and the relationships between the major forces are incredibly complicated.Although James is the commander, he has plenty of enemies.Stay comfortable in Cansington.If you come to the Capital and something happens, I won’t be able to do anything."
"This..."
Lex started to hesitate.
It was his dream for the Callahans to prosper into a wealthy family.
Although the Callahans could be considered a wealthy family now, he did not want to miss the opportunity to reach a higher level.
Thea dissuaded him again, "Grandpa, listen to me this time.The Capital is too chaotic, and you definitely won’t get any benefits from coming here."
"O-Okay.I'll take your advice."
Lex compromised.
Then, he asked, "By the way, what's the situation with you and James? Have you remarried?"
The Callahans held their breath and listened carefully for Thea’s answer.
Thea replied dejectedly, "N-Not yet.There are too many women around James, all of who are excellent.I’ve no advantage at all.However, I'll work hard to win James’ heart as soon as possible."
Lex frowned upon learning that Thea had not remarried James yet.
He thought for a while and asked, "Can I announce to the public that James is my grandson-in-law and use this opportunity to hold a banquet, inviting all the big shots in the Capital? I want our family to shine once again."
"What?"
Thea hesitated.
James had just taken office, and their relationship was genuine.
Thea knew that the Callahans loved vanity and did not want to miss the opportunity to show off.
Plus, it was not a big deal.
However, she was worried that James would get angry and blame her if he found out.
After thinking for a while, she replied, "Y-you do as you please.I'll pretend I don’t know about this matter.Also, don’t tell anyone else I know about it.If James gets angry, it’ll be troublesome.
"I promise I won't tell."
Suddenly, Gladys interrupted them and said, "Thea, you need to work hard! You need to use some tricks to tie down a man, especially someone with great power like James.Don’t interfere too much with his matters.As long as you can remarry, you should just turn a blind eye to the other things."David also added to the conversation, "That’s right.Which man doesn’t cheat? Let alone someone like James, who stands at the top of Sol’s hierarchy.Thea, you have to butter up to him as much as possible! The future of the Callahans depends on him."
Thea was rendered speechless by their words.
"Okay, I’m busy.I’m hanging up."
Beep! Beep! Beep! Lex looked at the Callahan members and immediately ordered, "
Start sending invitations! Three days later, James will succeed as the Emperor! The Callahans will also hold a grand banquet.
I want to announce that my grandson-in-law is James! He’s the Dragon King, the commander of the Black Dragon Army, and the Emperor! He’s the most powerful man in Sol! "From now onward, the Callahans have the final say in Cansington!"
Lex exclaimed excitedly.
Chapter 1075
After the Callahans learned that James was succeeding the position of Emperor in three days, they became incredibly high-profile.
Meanwhile, Yaroslav had gone to seek his leader.
However, he did not even get to see him.
Yaroslav was unsure why the leader refused to see him now but made a guess that he had been abandoned and was to become a sacrifice just like the Emperor.He refused to give up and die like this.
After returning to his courtyard, he immediately called Madelyn.
"Come to the Capital right now."
Madelyn never returned to Cansington.
Instead, she was trying to find out the identity of the person helping Mr.Gabriel but to no avail.
After receiving the call, she hurriedly headed over.
Yaroslav fueled his coal fire inside a room of the courtyard house while Madelyn stood aside respectfully.
"Mr.Gabriel."
Yaroslav looked at Madelyn and asked, "You didn’t return to Cansington?"
Madelyn nodded and said, "Yeah.There’s more to James than the surface.The Emperor fought with him for so long and still got beheaded.I’ve been secretly investigating him.What happened, Sir? You were in a hurry for me to return."
"Madelyn, I need you to tell me how I can protect myself right now."
Yaroslav looked worried.
Hearing this, Madelyn was stunned.
Yaroslav pointed to the sofa and said, "You can sit while talking."
Madelyn sat down and asked, "Sir, don’t you already have a plan? I thought James wasn’t a threat to you?"
"Madelyn, there are many things you don’t understand.
My faction has complicated relationships, and many people are behind me.I’m just a puppet that’s been pushed into the light to carry out their plans.If necessary, I'll also be sacrificed.James has succeeded the Emperor’s position, and his current strength..."
Yaroslav sighed and continued, "A reliable source told me that James disguised as the old man that hurt Donovan at Mount Littleroot."
Madelyn immediately exclaimed, "Impossible! That couldn’t have been James.How could he have grown so strong in such a short time?"
"It’s true.How should I protect myself now?"
"Mr.Gabriel, where did you get this information from?"
Madelyn looked at Yaroslav.
"Don’t ask about it.It’s no good for you to know too much."
Hearing this, Madelyn fell into deep thought.иσνєℓєвσσк.¢σмThen, she asked, "Mr.Gabriel, have you really been abandoned? You’ve been the main person in charge and have done so much over the years.You’ve had absolute power in the organization.Would they abandon you like this?"
Yaroslav sighed.
"Yeah.Some sacrifices must be made to achieve great things, but I don’t want to go down so easily.The only person I can count on is you.James is going to kill me.After I die, James won’t have another target.Thus, the Capital will temporarily be in peace.However, the situation will be different after the Mount Thunder Conference."
Yaroslav looked helpless.He was unsure of what the leader was planning right now.
The Mount Thunder Conference would be critical, and nothing could go wrong before it.
James wanted to kill him so that more people would expose themselves, which was why he was now abandoned.If he died, others would not dare act rashly.They would wait patiently for the Mount Thunder Conference to arrive.
Chapter 1076
Madelyn was lost in thought.
After a while, she said, "Sir, what did the upper-ups says about your survival?"
"They didn’t say much, except that I could live if I found a way to survive."
Madelyn nodded and said, "If that’s the case, we’ll stir up the situation.As long as it doesn’t affect the progress of the Mount Thunder Conference, we can buy as much time as possible.The conference is only less than a month away."
Yaroslav asked, "Is there anything I can do?"
Madelyn said thoughtfully, "There’s a way.James must’ve gotten the King’s permission to kill you.However, the King fears that the situation will get out of control after you die.This is the only reason he hasn’t touched you all these years.Since he’s allowed James to kill you, he won’t be providing him any help.Judging by how Maxine was expelled to help James, the people supporting James are the Cadens.
"That cunning man, Tobias, knows the severity of the situation and doesn’t dare to act rashly.Thus, their plan was to get Maxine to advise James.
"Some time ago, the paintings of the other three families were stolen, and the biggest suspect was the Cadens.The Ancient Four’s relationship collapsed, which is why the holding of the Mount Thunder Conference was suggested.
"Now that the Cadens are trying to make a move, we could ask the other three families for help.
"Under the circumstances that the King doesn’t give James any help and Tobias refuses to make big moves, we could try to win over the other three families.We can’t expect complete protection, but we can at least take measures to ensure that James won’t act recklessly.It shouldn’t be difficult to stay alive until the Mount Thunder Conference."
Yaroslav's eyes lit up after hearing Madelyn’s plan.
"you're right! As long as we win over the other three families, James won’t be able to act recklessly.Then, I'll be able to survive.At the same time, I won't be sabotaging the leader’s plan.I'll be able to regain my power after the Mount Thunder Conference."
"Exactly.It’s just that the Ancient Four isn’t going to pick sides easily, so it’s not going to be easy to win them over.However, it’s still worth a try.We don’t have to make them pick a side.We just need them to stand against the Cadens," иσνєℓєвσσк.¢σмMadelyn replied.
Madelyn gave Yaroslav a plan.
They did not need the three families to stand on their side but against the Cadens.
The other three families had had enmity with the Cadens for a long time and might be afraid of them, but they would not be scared of merely James.
Madelyn’s analysis made complete sense.
"I can’t delay this any longer.I have to go and seek out the three families."
Seeing hope of survival, Yaroslav stood up without hesitation and said, "Madelyn, come with me."
"Of course, Mr.Gabriel."
The two left the courtyard and went to look for the three families of the Ancient Four.
Meanwhile, James returned to the Emperor’s Mansion from the military region.
Thea was practicing Heavenly Breath in the courtyard, while Maxine was sitting in a gazebo nearby, holding onto a pack of nuts and chewing on a few while watching Thea practice.
Thea saw James walking over and quickly rushed toward him.
She stretched out her hand, straightened his collar, and asked warmly, "Honey, did your trip go well?"
"Of course, why would it not? I just went to the military region for a walk," James replied and glanced at Thea while wondering why Thea had become so caring.
"James." Maxine also walked over.
"Mihm."
James nodded in response.
Maxine frowned and said, "After thinking about it again, I think our plans were too simple.Mr.Gabriel has been in the Capital for many years, and even the King never dared touch him.It seems arrogant for us to think we can kill him."
James was unbothered and replied calmly, "What’s so difficult about it? After thoroughly investigating and obtaining information about him, we can immediately proceed as planned.I control the Red Flame Army and the thousands of soldiers in it.This time, it’ll be extremely difficult for him to escape from the Capital."
Maxine glanced at James and said, ‘"That’s true, but Mr.Gabriel is a shrewd person and would’ve guessed that the King’s purpose in giving you the position is to get rid of him."
"He may know that I’m going to kill him, but he doesn’t know my strength.He might not be taking me seriously at all."
Chapter 1077
Only a few reliable people knew about James’ strength.It was unlikely that Mr.Gabriel would feel threatened if he did not know about his strength.
Thus, James felt that Mr.Gabriel would simply ignore him.
Maxine thought about it carefully and felt that James’ logic made sense.
If she were Mr.Gabriel and knew James was not strong, she would not pay attention to him either.
Even if James had authority, he was not going to be much of a threat.
"I was worrying too much."
Maxine did not say anything more.She continued eating her nuts as she entered the house.
"Honey..."
Thea was hesitant to speak.
James asked, "What's the matter? Why are you hesitating?"
Thea thought about it and felt that she should tell James about what was happening in Cansington to prevent him from blaming her for it in the future.
Thea murmured, "The Callahans found out about your appointment as the Emperor and are planning to hold a banquet in Cansington on the day of your succession ceremony.They want to use the opportunity to invite bigwigs in Cansington and show off."
She lowered her head like a child who made a mistake, not daring to look James in the eye.
Hearing this, James frowned.
However, it was as expected from them.He knew very well the virtue of the Callahans.
They were just a bunch of ungrateful snobs.
"Let them do as they please."
James had no time to bother with such things and did not care as long as they did not do anything out of line.
After thinking about it, he reminded her, "Tell them to maintain a low profile as much as possible.I don’t have time to be distracted and won't be able to protect them if something happens."
"Mhm.I'll relay the message."
Thea nodded.
James yawned and said, "Yesterday, I was teaching you all night and didn’t sleep.I’m a little sleepy, so I'll rest for a while.Don’t call me for dinner."
He walked away while speaking.
Afterward, Thea continued to practice.
Now, she was at the third rank and was incredibly strong and invincible in an ordinary person’s eyes, but against the powerhouses of the fourth rank, she was like a weak lamb waiting to be slaughtered.
After Thea started practicing, Maxine leisurely walked over and sat nearby.иσνєℓєвσσк.¢σмShe ate her nuts and continued watching Thea practice.
Thea felt uncomfortable about Maxine staring at her the whole morning and coming back to do the same again.She stopped practicing and walked over to Maxine.
"Why do you keep watching me?"
Maxine pouted and smiled, saying, "There are only the two of us in such a huge mansion.Who else am I going to look at if not you?"
Thea sat down and said, "If you’re so free, why don’t you practice?"
Maxine replied with a smile, "Strength isn’t something that can be improved overnight.You don't just suddenly become strong; it takes years.Also, I got injured and am tired of practicing.It’s much more comfortable just being free."
Maxine’s current state was different from the past.She had never felt so relaxed before and was unwilling to trouble herself.
"Thea, I’ve always had some doubts."
"Yeah?"
Thea looked at Maxine.
Maxine said, "Why did Thomas contact you to ask you to help James kill the Emperor and disguise as me to save him from the Johnstons? Instead of taking him back to heal, he asked you to leave him at the Cadens’."
Maxine had been thinking about these questions for a long time.
Chapter 1078
However, Maxine could not figure it out.
"How would I know?"
Thea shook her head.
She, too, was unsure of Thomas’ intentions.
All she knew was that everything was not to harm but to help James.
"Is that so? Then, have you ever felt that Thomas is the one behind everything?"
"What do you mean?"
Thea looked at Maxine.
Maxine thought for a while and said, "Let's start from when James killed the previous Emperor.Once he died, the Cadens and the Johnstons’ conflict began, but they didn’t completely fall out with each other.Shortly after, the Johnstons and Sullivans’ paintings were suddenly stolen, causing them to take action against the Cadens.Then, the Lees surfaced claiming that their painting was also stolen, pointing their fingers at the Cadens too."
"What does this have to do with Sir Caden?" Thea asked indifferently.
"Haven't you thought about the possibility the three families didn’t lie, and their paintings were really stolen, and the culprit could be Thomas? His purpose is to arouse conflict between the Ancient Four and make them fight against each other."
Thea glanced coldly at Maxine and said, "Why would he do that? Stop thinking you’re so smart, Maxine.These are just your conjectures, and you shouldn't spout nonsense without any evidence."
"Indeed, these are just my conjectures.As for why, if the person behind Mr.Gabriel is Thomas, won’t it make so much sense that Mr.Gabriel stood up and proposed the Ancient Four resolve their conflicts during the Mount Thunder Conference?"
Maxine continued to analyze the situation.
"Thomas was the person behind Mr.Gabriel, and his purpose was to make the Ancient Four turn against each other.That way, he could propose the Mount Thunder Conference.If a conflict didn’t exist between them, no one would be interested in the conference even if it was suggested.However, if the Ancient Four were fighting against each other, the conference would be lively as countless martial artists around the globe would actively participate to see what the Ancient Four would do at the conference."
Hearing this, Thea frowned.иσνєℓєвσσк.¢σмMaxine’s analysis was straightforward and logical, making her slightly convinced.
After thinking for a while, she asked, "Then, why would Sir Caden want the conference so desperately? What would he gain from it? What is he trying to accomplish?"
"Of course, the position as the Great Grandmaster.The power of being the leader of the ancient martial world is much greater than being the King of Sol.Although the King is the country's lord, he doesn’t have authority over the ancient martial artists.However, being the Great Grandmaster will give one the power to command all the martial artists in Sol.Wouldn’t it be easy to become the ruler of the world with countless martial artists under one’s command?"
Thea laughed.
"That simple? The ruler of the world? You're overthinking it."
Maxine rolled her eyes at Thea and said, "You don’t understand the temptation of power.It’ll make one insane and possess one’s mind.Throughout the ages, countless wars have broken out, and many lives have been lost for this position.Standing on top, looking down on the world, and being in control is incredibly tempting."
"Sir Caden isn’t someone like that."
Thea shook her head and rejected Maxine’s suspicions.
"He may not be, but there isn’t just one person behind Mr.Gabriel.There’s a whole faction behind everything.According to my analysis, Thomas has other plans and is using the faction to his advantage."
"Then, what do you think Sir Caden is trying to do?" Maxine fell into thought.
What exactly did Thomas want to do? She could not figure it out yet.
Judging from the current happenings, it seemed that Thomas was indeed trying to help Mr.Gabriel or was the person above him.
"Could it be that the people behind Mr.Gabriel have something Thomas wants? So, he’s helping them in exchange for it? "Maxine murmured.
"Stop acting smart and making random guesses, Maxine.Things might be completely different from what you think," Thea said disdainfully.
Maxine gently shook her head and said, "No, I have to be right.But, what’s the reason?"
From her understanding of Thomas, he was obsessed with martial arts.
"Could it be the ninth rank?"
The ninth rank was the most significant height of martial arts.No one knew what being in that rank was like nor how powerful it was.
Chapter 1079
Meanwhile, James was fast asleep.
On the other hand, Yaroslav was busy running around for help.
First, he went to the Johnstons with Madelyn.
Hades, the current head of the Johnstons, was seated in the front seat in the living room of the Johnstons’ villa.He was dressed in casual clothes.He held a cup of tea in his hand and took a sip.
Then, he glanced at Yaroslav, who was sitting in front of him and said, "Mr.Gabriel, we’re not acquainted.So, what’s the purpose of your visit today?"
Yaroslav was seated while Madelyn quietly stood aside.иσνєℓєвσσк.¢σмHe asked with a smile, "Fire God, you must still be unaware of what the Cadens are up to, right?"
Hades was nicknamed the Fire God because of the True Energy he cultivated.He asked casually, "What are the Cadens up to?"
Yaroslav said, "James has assumed the title of Emperor."
"I know.It isn’t a big deal.The Emperor is dead, and it’s only natural for the King to push him into the position.However, I didn’t expect it to happen so late," Hades replied indifferently, as he did not take James seriously.
Yaroslav sighed and said, "You must still be unaware of James’ current cultivation.The old man that injured Donovan in Mount Littleroot was James under a disguise."
Clank! Hades dropped the teacup in his hands, and it shattered into pieces.He looked at Yaroslav in shock.
"Impossible!"
Hades was in disbelief.He had personally witnessed the strength of the old man on Mount Littleroot.
Donovan was completely suppressed and even vomited blood, eventually asking for help from the Blithes’ Grand Patriarch.
Additionally, the old man used the Blithes’ signature martial art technique—the Blithe Fist of Abomination.
On top of that, Hades had personally abolished James’ cultivation.
How could James become so strong in such a short period? Hades would have believed it to be anyone else, but it was impossible for him to link that old man with James.
Yaroslav said earnestly, "It’s absolutely true that it was James.Now that he’s in power, the Cadens have expelled Maxine from the family to help James.Guess what James is going to do next?"
He continued to explain meaningfully, "He’s going to get rid of the Cadens’ obstacles and will surely wipe out the three other families of the Ancient Four."
Madelyn noticed Hades’s astonishment and disbelief and could not help but add to the conversation.
"You must be wondering why James’ strength improved so rapidly, right? If I’m not mistaken, he must’ve cultivated with the cultivation methods recorded on the Four Great Paintings."
"T-The Four Great Paintings?"
Hades sat back down on the chair.
Yaroslav continued, "The Ancient Four has guarded the paintings for thousands of years.The Cadens were the first to obtain the item within the ancient tomb of the Prince of Orchid Mountain and unraveled the secret of the Moonlit Flowers on Cliffside's Edge, which is why they stole the other three paintings.After combining all four paintings, James must've cultivated a powerful martial art technique.Hades remembered the old man’s expression while fighting against Donovan on Mount Littleroot.The old man’s whole body turned a bronze color.
It was a martial arts technique that he had never seen before.Thus, it must have been the one recorded in the four paintings.Thinking of this, Hades took a deep breath.
Chapter 1080
Seeing Hades’ expression, Yaroslav struck while the iron was hot and said, "The Ancient Four have already fallen out, and Tobias is pushing James out right now to get rid of the other three families before the Mount Thunder Conference.Tobias has already allied with the King.The Cadens will help the King eliminate dissidents and consolidate his position."
Bang! Hades slammed the table, causing it to break.
He said furiously, "Never! The Johnstons will never fall prey to the Cadens! I’d like to see if James has the ability to touch the Johnstons!"
An imperceptible smile formed on Yaroslav’s face, and he continued, "Hades, the three families have to unite to protect each other.I came here for the sole purpose of uniting the three families and dealing with James.We must deal a blow to the Cadens by capturing James alive and forcing him to hand over the painting’s secret."
The suggestion slightly tempted Hades.However, he did not agree to it immediately.
Instead, he glanced at Yaroslav and said, "Mr.Gabriel, you should head back first.I'll hold a family meeting to decide on this matter.
"Send our guests off," Hades instructed the family servants and walked away to leave.
After leaving the Johnstons’ compound, Yaroslav asked, "Madelyn, do you think the Johnstons will agree to our suggestion?"
Madelyn said confidently, "Yes, he’ll definitely agree to it.The Johnstons suspect the Cadens of stealing their painting.They’ll believe it’s true since James has suddenly become so strong.They’ll definitely be tempted to capture and interrogate James about the family painting.Even if they don’t cooperate with us, they’ll privately deal with James.If James was in trouble, he wouldn’t have the time to get rid of you, and you'll survive until the Mount Thunder Conference."
Yaroslav smiled and said, "You’re the best, Madelyn.All my effort training you all these years was not in vain."
Madelyn said, "Next, we have to visit the Sullivans and the Lees.иσνєℓєвσσк.¢σмWe’ll use the same method since I’m sure the three families are all desperate to find out the secret of their family paintings.After all, the secret could make one a powerhouse in a very short period.Anyone would be tempted by it."
"Haha! We'll make them fight among themselves!"
Yaroslav laughed loudly.
Next, the two visited the Sullivans and the Lees.
The two families were shocked after learning that James was the old man in disguise.
They were also tempted after learning that James had practiced the cultivation method recorded in the four paintings.
Yaroslav left after visiting all three families.
Soon, the three families gathered together.
For the first time in thousands of years, the head of the three families gathered in one place.
Hades said solemnly, "The Cadens have acquired all four paintings and unraveled their secrets.James practiced the cultivation method and became overpowering in such a short time.If we allow him to continue practicing it, who in this world could be a match against him? He must be eliminated as soon as possible."
The head of the Sullivans, Zaiden, asked, "Fire God, what do you suggest?"
Hades’ face darkened as he said, "Three days later, James will have a grand ceremony to celebrate his succession as the Emperor.We will go there, capture him, and force him to tell us the painting’s secret.It’ll also be our warning to the Cadens not to mess with us."
The head of the Lees remained silent.She was a beautiful woman about thirty years old, radiating a mature and dignified temperament.
Hades looked at the gorgeous woman and asked, "What do you think, Yasmine Lee? Although she was a woman, no one underestimated her.
The Lees had always remained mysterious and rarely exposed themselves to the outside world.
Yasmine parted her lips and said softly, "Alright.The Cadens have gone too far this time.After they unraveled the secret of the Moonlit Flowers on Cliffside's Edge, they should’ve asked us to gather our paintings.Instead, they stole from us.We should capture James and interrogate him about the painting’s secret."
Hades’ face was full of resolution as he said, "Okay, it’s settled.Our families will gather at the Red Flame Army base three days later to capture James alive."
Zaiden nodded.
"Alright.I'll speak to the King about it.After all, James is currently the Emperor and still the Dragon King.We must inform the King if we want to touch him."
Yasmine said, "Yes, we should inform him.Although our families have been independent and unrestrained by the country, it'll be troublesome if we offend the King."