Ch. 781..790
Chapter 781
James scratched his head.
That sounded like a terrible idea since he had no interest in political affairs.
However, the King was a wise man, so the candidate he had in mind must be an esteemed individual.
James was more than happy to pave the way for a wise leader.
“Wealth?” James murmured pensively.
The situation at the Southern Plains had just been quelled, and it would be difficult to accumulate enough wealth within a year.
His only choice was to start from Cansington.
“What did Gloom mean? The wealthy from the Capital, Oceanic Commerce, Five Provinces Business Alliance, and Infinite Commerce?”
James pondered on his words once more.
‘Is he suggesting that I use illegal means to acquire the wealth I need from these people?’
James shook his head and dismissed his thoughts.
He walked back into the ward with the medical book.
“Honey…”
As soon as he returned, Thea looked at him quizzically. “Who were you talking to outside?”
“No one.”
James did not explain himself.
He plopped himself down on the lounge chair in the ward, flipped open the book, and continued reading.
When she saw how concentrated he was, Thea chose not to bother James.
James stayed in the ward until the next morning and had finished reading the medical book.
The remaining part of the book covered a cultivation method and how to use the Crucifier. However, there was a prerequisite in order to use the weapon to its full potential. James needed to have cultivated True Energy.
It was difficult for ordinary people to cultivate True Energy even after intently learning the cultivation method. For some people, it would take upwards of a few decades or possibly even longer.
Others never reached the threshold, even after trying their whole lives.
However, it was different for James.
He had already reached the pinnacle of martial arts.
He consumed medication all year round and had constantly been training his body, allowing him to have a physique that far surpassed an ordinary person’s.
Cultivating True Energy for him was a piece of cake
After going through the book, he sat and meditated. He expanded his consciousness to feel both his body and the atmosphere.
Slowly, his thoughts cleared, and he experienced an extra-sensory phenomenon allowing him to perceive the surroundings of the whole ward.
Soon, it was dawn.
The nurse brought breakfast for Thea and her presence brought James out of meditation. After meditating for a long time, his mental state had been greatly enhanced.
Despite this, the Gu venom still remained in his body.
The Gu within his body was still active and if he wanted to get rid of it completely, he would have to cultivate True Energy.
He opened his eyes and inhaled deeply.
After eating breakfast, he checked on Thea and left the hospital.
James headed to the apartment where Blake was staying.
He knocked on the door.
Soon, the door opened, and Blake greeted him with a smile, “Hey! Back so soon?”
James walked inside and said, “You’re free to leave now. Go back and regain control of the Dark Castle. If necessary, train up stronger assassins.”
Blake met his eyes with a Cheshire grin. “I use vicious methods to train assassins, you know. They’re forced to kill one another until only the strongest remains. Are you sure you want me to train more of them? You’ll be forcing me to commit a crime.”
“Forget it then.” James waved his hand.
He did not want Blake to hurt any more innocent people.
After thinking for a while, he said, “I’ll put the Elite Eight under your command.”
“Hmm?”
Blake frowned and said, “That’s bullsh*t. It’s an excuse to keep them close to me, isn’t it? I assume they’re going to be keeping an eye on me? They used to be SSS-ranked assassins. I wouldn’t stand a chance if they all came at me at once.”
James looked at him. “If you’re sincere about working with me and aren’t planning anything behind my back, you shouldn’t be worried about them keeping an eye on you.”
“Ha! Point taken. Alright then. I’ll just go along with your plans,” Blake laughed and replied.
Chapter 782
Blake scanned James’ body.
“You look much better. Looks like your training has already borne fruit. Don’t forget your promise to teach me the cultivation method.”
James said with a smile, “Of course. However, I’m still in the process of learning. After cultivating my True Energy, I’ll pass the method on to you.”
“Did you also forget you owe me an antidote?.” Blake stretched out his hand.
“Get me a pen and paper. I’ll write the formula for you. You can go grab the medicine yourself.”
Blake immediately brought him a pen and paper.
James wrote down the prescription for the medicine that would detoxify the poison and handed it to Blake.
Blake took it and gave it a quick skim.
Countless medicinal materials that he did not recognize were written on it. Since he could not make heads or tails of it, he simply put it away.
James then spoke in a more serious tone, “I’ve got a mission for you.”
Blake looked at him and asked, “Hmm? What is it?”
James explained, “The Emperor has established many research facilities throughout the country. I don’t know where the other facilities are located, but I do know there is one in Cansington. It’s in Lily City and is heavily guarded by the Red Flame Army. I don’t know what kind of research they are doing, so I need you to find a way to sneak in and investigate.”
“What?” Blake furrowed his brows.
When he used to be an assassin, the last thing that he wanted to do was have a run-in with the military.
“Is it too hard for you?” James glanced at Blake.
“Of course! How do you expect me to secretly sneak into the facility when it’s guarded by fully -armed soldiers from the Red Flame Army? Why don’t you show me how it’s done?!”
James smiled back at him sarcastically. “You’re the Assassin King. I’m sure it’s well within your capabilities. Plus, the Elite Eight will be under your command. The Dark Castle will be nigh invincible with them helping you.”
“Fine. Whatever you say.”
Blake did not argue further.
Since he was now an ally of James, he had to help him with these kinds of situations.
“Alright, that’s all I have to say. I’ll take my leave now.”
“Okay, you can just see yourself out.”
James left Blake’s residence and walked outside.
He took out his phone and called May.
“James, what’re your orders?” May’s voice responded crisply through the phone.
James ordered, “Find an opportunity to defect from the Black Dragon Army and return to the Dark Castle as its assassins.”
May was stunned by his order.
“Are you joking, James?”
“I’m deadly serious. Go to Blake, and he’ll fill you in on the details.”
“Alright.”
May nodded and hung up the phone.
She immediately passed on the message to the others.
After receiving his orders, the others could scarcely believe what they had heard and called James one after the other to double-confirm.
They only believed May’s words after getting James’ affirmation.
In a certain room at the Southern Plains…
“What the hell is James planning? He made us join the Black Dragon army and now wants us to defect and return to being assassins? I don’t want to go back to our old ways anymore.”
“Same. It’s much better being part of the Elite Eight!”
“James must have his reasons for making such an arrangement.”
“He is no longer the Black Dragon nor the Dragon King anymore. Hence, doesn’t have the authority to make us comply. Asking us to defect is like throwing us under the bus.”
The Elite Eight discussed the matter.
May interrupt them. “James has indeed resigned, but he did so unwillingly. Don’t forget the man that helped us back in the Capital. That man easily snuck us into the Red Flame Army and got us out. He definitely has the power to order us around. If I’m not wrong, he must be working under the King James’ plans represent the King’s will.
Everyone went silent.
After a while, one of them piped up, “Then what else is there to think about? It looks like we only have one course of action!”
“Guess we’ll have to defect then. From now, the Elite Eight are no longer part of the Black Dragon Army”
That day, the news spread across the Southern Plains and out to the rest of the world.
“The latest news! The Elite Eight have defected after killing countless soldiers in the Southern Plains!
“The Elite Eight were formerly assassins but became part of the Black Dragon Army after being subdued by the Black Dragon himself. They made great contributions to the execution of the twenty-eight-nations generals and were awarded the title of the Elite Eight. After the Black Dragon was demoted, they cannot be restrained any longer and have chosen to defect!”
The news spread like wildfire throughout the country and even reached various parts of the world.
Chapter 783
The news of the Elite Eight defecting had spread from the Southern Plains to the whole. country and became an international sensation in a short amount of time.
Netizens across the country hotly discussed the matter.
James was the one who subdued the Elite Eight. Thus, he naturally became the subject of discussion.
The whole country sympathized with James.
It was a pity their justice system could not see the virtue in what he had done. Otherwise, he would have become a living legend.
James stayed in the hospital the entire day, still studying the medical book. After learning about the news, his lips curved in a faint smile.
“Darling, the Elite Eight have defected from the Black Dragon Army.”
Thea was bored while lying in bed.
Although James stayed behind to accompany her in the hospital, he hardly spoke to her. She kept looking for an opportunity to talk to him. When she saw the news on her phone, she brought it up and tried to use it as a conversation starter.
Immediately when Thea called out to him, James was disturbed from his meditation. He stood and stretched his body.
Meditating had done wonders for his mental state. It made him feel less tired and weak.
He glanced at Thea, who was holding her phone out to him, and replied flatly. “I see. I’m going out for some fresh air.”
James went directly to Daniel’s ward.
Daniel was severely injured but his life was no longer in danger after the operation.
James walked into the ward and found that Daniel was awake.
Daniel greeted him weakly, “James.”
James waved his hand, walked over, and checked Daniel’s pulse. After going over his condition, he said, “Your wounds are recovering well. With some rest, you’ll be fully recovered soon.”
“Have you got a smoke?”
Daniel’s nicotine addiction had struck, and he looked at James eagerly.
It had been a few days since he last smoked.
James took out a cigarette, lit it, and handed it to him.
Daniel took the cigarette and savored the experience thoroughly.
The nurse standing inside saw what had happened but did not dare to stop
James chatted briefly with Daniel before leaving him.
Eventually, he made his way back to Thea’s ward,
“Honey, where did you go? Can we talk for a while?”
Thea looked at James pleadingly.
Although she got him to stay, she could sense that James’ attitude toward her had changed entirely. In the past, he hung onto her every word, but now it seemed as if he was going through the motions with her.
She no longer held a special place in his heart.
“I’m tired and don’t feel like talking.”
James sat on the sofa inside the ward and muttered a curt reply.
Thea stopped trying to engage with him after his refusal.
James leaned back on the sofa, closed his eyes, and rested.
Blake had already left, and the Elite Eight had also defected from the Southern Plains to look for him. James’ plan was beginning to take shape, and he had a lot of work to do. However, he still was unaware of how Cansington was faring.
After pondering for a while, he walked out of the ward again and sat outside in the corridor. He took out his phone and called Newton.
“Come to the military hospital.”
He hung up after relaying his brief order.
It did not take long for the man he called to arrive.
Newton arrived at the military hospital with his granddaughter, Serena, in less than an hour.
“Mr. Caden.”
The two of them respectfully greeted him,
James pointed to the chair beside him saying, “Sit.”
The two sat down.
James asked, “What’s the situation like in Cansington while I wasn’t around?”
“What in particular do you mean?” Newton was unsure of what aspect James wanted to know about.
James said, “In terms of the political standings and what Oceanic Commerce, Five Provinces. Business Alliance, Infinite Commerce, and other affluent companies from the Capital are doing.”
Newton took a deep breath before explaining, “Five Provinces Business Alliance repurchased Transgenerational New City and has constantly been advertising it. Countless companies have settled in the place recently, and the business scene there is thriving.
Meanwhile, Oceanic Commerce hasn’t been idle either. They’ve established Oceanic Pharmaceuticals to compete against established pharmaceutical companies such as Celestial, Longevity, Purity, and Abundant.
“At the same time, a lot is happening in the Capital too. The new commercial city has begun construction outside the city, and a lot of funds have been invested in it. Construction has been ongoing day and night and the project is expected to be completed very soon. Judging by their current progress, they should be done before the new year.”
Chapter 784
Newton slowly apprised James of the situation in Cansington.
“Also…”
Newton said, “Recently, a new pharmaceutical group called Centennial Corporation was established in Cansington.”
“Huh? Centennial Corporation? Who’s behind them?” James cocked his eyebrow.
Newton shook his head. “I don’t know. They’re currently rising in popularity for launching several new medicines that have garnered unanimous praise from consumers. Moreover, they’ve gained quite a following on Medical Street. They have countless well-known doctors supporting them, including Jonathan who lost to you in the last medical conference.”
Hearing that made James realize something.
‘If I’m not wrong, the boss behind Centennial Corporation is the Emperor since Jonathan is his accomplice,’ James voiced his speculation out loud.
“Centennial Corporation? A hundred years? Is this a reference to their plan a hundred years. ago?” James murmured darkly.
He knew the Emperor was trying to conquer the world with Gu. It was a scheme that was pioneered a hundred years ago but had failed.
“I see. Get me some of their new medicine so I can have a closer look.”
“Okay.” Newton nodded.
James turned to Serena and instructed, “Get me a wheelchair.”
“Huh?”
Serena was perplexed.
“Why do you need a wheelchair, James?”
Serena looked at James doubtfully. ‘He looks fine, so why does he need a wheelchair?’
“Just get me a wheelchair.”
James waved off her concerns.
“Alright.”
Serena did not inquire further.
The two stood up and left.
James stretched his hands and rubbed his face. Then, he took a deep breath.
He took out his phone and called Quincy, “Are you free?”
“Huh? Yeah, I’m free. What’s the matter?” Quincy’s surprised voice came from the other end of the phone. She never expected him to look for her so soon. “Come to the hospital. I need to discuss something with you.”
“Alright. I’ll be right over.”
Quincy had been lying in bed the whole day and did not have the motivation to get out. After receiving the call from James, she suddenly felt full of energy. She quickly rolled out of bed, washed her face, changed her clothes, and put on some makeup. In an instant, she transformed into a gorgeous and sexy woman.
After getting ready, she drove to the military hospital.
When she reached it, she did not go to the inpatient ward.
After arriving outside the hospital, she gave James a call.
James left the inpatient ward and headed out to meet Quincy.
Outside the hospital…
Seeing James approaching, Quincy tucked her hair behind her ear and flashed him a bright smile. “What do you need me to do?”
“You’re the perfect candidate.”
James sat down on a bench.
Quincy sat down beside him, still confused at what he meant. “I don’t get it.”
James said, “You’re very talented and have great business acumen. I need you to help me establish a pharmaceutical company.”
“Huh? What?”
Quincy was taken aback by his request. “You want to establish a pharmaceutical company?”
“Mhm.”
James nodded and said, “I’ve learned that a new pharmaceutical company named Centennial Corporation suddenly popped up in Cansington recently. I suspect the Emperor is behind it, but I don’t know what his goal is. Apart from that, I need a lot of money right now, enough to go against an entire nation. Cansington is the capital of medicine, and establishing a pharmaceutical company would be the easiest way to accrue capital. You’re the most suitable person for the job.”
Hearing this, Quincy frowned.
“James, establishing a company costs a lot of money. Where am I going to get that amount of money?”
“Give me some time, I’ll sort something out.” James rubbed his temples pensively.
He looked at Quincy and said with a bitter smile, “I was hoping you’d turn me down.” His words struck Quincy like a bolt of lightning. She asked with a smile, “Why?”
James sighed. “I don’t want to trouble you anymore. I had hoped you’d refuse my request, but at the same time, I really need you because I don’t have anyone else I trust for this job. No one has the same capabilities you do.”
Chapter 785
James was incredibly indecisive. He really had not wanted to cause trouble for Quincy.
Nevertheless, he hoped that she would help him.
"Let me in on the details. What do you need me to do? Also. I'm not going to help you for free. There's a limit to how much I provide for free." Quincy smiled cheekily.
James thought about it for a moment and said, "I'll find a way to get the money first. You should spend the next few daysPreparing to set up the company. When I've sorted things out on my end. I'll contact you for the next step."
Quincy nodded. ‘Alright. That'll do."
She stood up and glanced toward the hospital.
Quincy wanted to visit Thea but knew that The still held some animosity toward her, so she decided against it.
She waved her hand as she walked away. "I'l head back first."
James watched as Quincy left. After leaving, he stood up and walked back toward the hospital.
"Money, huh?"
James began to worry about the money.
"I need money to start the business.
‘However, I have nothing left to my name, so where on earth will I get the money?"
He could get money from the Southern Plains but did not want Henry to make the same. mistake again. If the Emperor gets wind of his plans, it would de—rail many thangs.
While racking his brain, James returned to the inpatient ward.
Suddenly. someone came to mind.
Zane Dawn.He was an overlord in the north and had the moniker of the King of Mines.
Zane had a net worth of trillions of dollars.
"Borrowing some money from him should not be a problem.’
He arrived at Thea’s ward.
Newton and Serena had arrived and entered the ward to chat with Thea.
Seeing them conversing happily. James did not go inside. He took out his phone, searched for Cynthia's number, and made the
call after some slight hesitation.
Soon, someone answered the phone. An ecstatic voice addressed ham from the other side.
"James, you finally thought to call me! What happened? Dsd you miss me?"
James felt slightly embarrassed and coughed a few times. Gathering his courage. he finally spoke, "Cynthia, is your dad around?"
"Oh? You're looking for my dad? He isn't home right now. I'll pass you his number so you can contact him directly."
"Alright. Thank you."
"No problem!"
Cynthia bung up the phone and sent Zane's number to James.
After receiving the contact details from Cynthia, James immediately punched in the number.
"Hello, who is this?" A hoarse voice spoke.
James replied, "It's me, James."
"Oh, James? It's you, my boy! How are you? Are you doing good?"
"I'm fine. I just have something to ask you. Mr. Dawn..." James felt a little embarrassed. He had never had to worry about money before, so naturally, he never once borrowed money from anyone.
"Go ahead. You can speak plainly to me." Zane was very forthright
"C-Could...could you lend me some money?"
"Huh?"
Zane jaw hung open.He never expected James to ask him for money.
After a moment's silence, he asked, "I thought you called me for something else. You need. money? That won't be a problem.How much do you need?"
James made a rough calculation in his head.
He needed to start the company for two purposes.
First, was to compete against Centennial Corporation and stop the Emperor's scheme.
Second. was to accumulate wealth to pave the way for a new king of Sol.
James understood the King must also have arranged for other people's support.
"Of course, the more, the better."
He did not have a single penny right now. It was challenging to start a company, and he would. need a lot of money before his plan could take off.
Zane took a moment to deliberate further, then he replied. "How about I give you half of my assets? However, I'll need you to be more attentive to Cynthia's condition."
Zane's daughter meant the world to him. He was willing to even spend all his wealth if « meant she could live a happy, and fulfilled life.
Chapter 786
If this happened while James was still the Dragon King, he'd have outright refused.
However, he desperately needed the money now.
"Please consider it a debt I owe you, I'll definitely pay you back as soon as I'm able to. As for Cynthia, give me some time. I'll be able to cure her completely very soon."
James was confident in the Crucifier’s ability.
As long as he could cultivate True Energy and use it, Cynthia's illness would be as good as cured.
"Alright. Then I'll come meet you in Cansington tomorrow."
After coming to an agreement with Zane, James ended the call.
He sighed in relief after hanging up.
Fortunately, Zane was still willing to help him. Otherwise, he would not have known what to do.
After resolving the issue of finances, he walked into the ward.
Newton and Serena turned and greeted him. "Mr. Caden."
James nodded his head in response.
Newton picked up a plastic bag on the table and handed it to James.
"These are the drugs recently launched by Centennial Corporation. One is called Larcinadol, which is used to treat colds and fevers. Many people have found it extremely effective. Additionally, it's incredibly affordable. The market price is one dollar per pill. Meanwhile, the other is Partinoprofen which is used to treat headaches. The customer feedback is very positive. And countless hospitals have signed contracts for its distribution."
Serena, who was standing by the side, added on. "These medicines have been heavily Promoted by Centennial Corporation, claiming that they are made from all-natural medicinal. herbs and have no side effects."
"Alright."
James took it and said, "It's gotten quite late already. You two should head back first."
They both nodded and left shortly.
After they took them leave, Thea asked. "Honey, what were you guys talking about? I didn’t understand a single thing."
"It's nothing."
James took the bag of medicine and walked out of the ward. "You should continue getting some rest. I need to head out to handle some stuff."
He left without waiting for Thea's response.
"Hmph."
Thea leaned back on the hospital bed and sighed in frustration.
Military Hospital, director's office.
The hospital director was a man in his 50s dressed in a white coat. He meticulously prepared some tea and served it to his guest.
"Commander, how's your stay in the hospital? Is everything to your liking? Feel free to tell. me if you need anything."
The director enthusiastically welcomed James.
James waved him away, "I'm no longer the Black Dragon, and no longer serve the military. so it's fine to drop the formalities."
"How could I?! You'll always be the Dragon General in the hearts of the soldiers..."
James raised his hand to interrupt him and handed over the bag of medicines. "Take these to the lab for testing. I'd like to know their ingredients."
The director was caught off guard by his request but quickly nodded. "Okay."
He took out his phone and made a call. "Lydia. come to my office."
Soon, a young doctor walked in.She was a beautiful woman dressed in scrubs and in her 20s.
Lydia walked into the office, glanced at James, and turned to the director to ask, "How can I help you, Director?"
The director quickly introduced the woman to James. "Commander, this is Lydia Norris. She's an outstanding surgeon who is also an excellent cook."
Lydia frowned and said flatly. feeling like her time had been wasted, "If there isn't anything. to attend to, I'll take my leave first, Vector."
The director handed overs the medicine and instructed, "Take these to the laboratory and run some tests. Find out its components."
"Alright."
Lydia took the medicine and hurried away.
James had no reason to stay any longer and got ready to leave.
The director quickly stopped him and looked at him with an expectant expression. "What do you think of Lydia, Commander?"
"She sounds like 3 great women."
The director whispered, "Do you want her phone number? I'll pass a to you so you can contact her privately."
James was perturbed by the situation.
"Mr. Norris, am I right to assume that she’s your daughter? How could you shamelessly try to market her like that? I'm heading back to Thea’s ward. Please send me the results once they're out."
Chapter 787
James turned around and left
The director shouted behind him, "Lydia is a decent woman! Shell make a lovely wife!"
James ignored him and returned to Thea’s ward.
Running around the hospital the whole night had exhausted him. He lay back against sofa and gently massaged his temples.
While he was taking care of his business. Thea did not sleep at all.
"Honey, can you come over and have a conversation with me?" Thea tried once again to talk to James.
James raised his head and booked at her.
Seeing her hapless expression on her face, he sighed.
He felt bad for Thes and wanted nothing more than to protect her with his life.
However, he did not have time for that right now.
James moved a chair over and sat beside her bed. He held onto her hand and said. "I've been. really tired lately and don't have the energy to spend on a conversation. H's not that I'm ignoring you, so don't take it personally."
Thea started sobbing and said, "Honey, let's go get married again once I'm discharged, okay?"
"Thea. I don't have to live in my current condition. If we do remarry, I'll only end up being a burden to you and your family.You're still young and have a whole life ahead of you. Even if I don't die, [1 be crippled and wheelchair—bound or bedridden for the rest of my entire Life. Do you think you're prepared to shoulder that responsibility for as long as you live?"
James booked at Thea straight in the eye and deliberately chose his words.
The fewer people who know about the medical book, the better.
Onty Quincy, the Blithe King, and 5 few others knew about it for now.
James did not intend to tell Thea about it and wanted to continue pretending he was crippled.
He wanted the Emperor to let his guard down. He wanted to be seen as nothing close to being. a threat and he wanted to stop having a target over his head.
Only then would he be able to execute his plans and observe the Emperor's every move.
"loan. Let me do it. 0 take care of you for the rest of your life." Thea replied insistently.
"Alright." James nodded.
He did not say anything else and let go of Thea's hand.
James walked to the sofa, leaned back, and began to meditate.
The night passed in silence,
The next day...
Early in the morning. there was a knock on the door.
A female doctor walked into the room with a bunch of papers in hes hand.
It was the director's daughter, Lydia.
James stood up to meet her.
Lydia handed the documents to James and said. "These are the test results you requested."
"Thank you."
Lydia did not say anything else after handing over the results and promptly left the ward.
James sat down, took out the results, and scrutinized them.
The new medicines launched by Centennial Corporation were indeed comprised of medicinal herbs.
James booked at the list of ingredients and found no problems with them.
Then, he fell into deep thought.
He knew the Emperor was not that magnanimous to develop new and affordable drugs for the sake of improving public health.
There must be an ulterior motive behind his actions.
His previous worry was that Gu was added to their medicines to poison its users. This would seem in line with their plan to control humanity.
However, judging by the lab results. he might have given it way too much thought.
‘Still, James knew that there were more to these drugs than meets the eye.
"Honey, what're you thinking about?"
James snapped back to reality and shook his head. "It's nothing. Your breakfast will be served but I'm afraid you'll have to eat it alone. I've got something to do today."
"Okay." Thea replied disappointedly.
James then got up and left the ward.
After leaving the hospital, he sat at the inpatient ward's staircase and pored over the test results once more.
Soon, be got a call from Cynthia.
She had rushed to Cansington along with Zane earlier that morning and had just gotten off the plane.
Chapter 788
“I'm at the Military Hospital."
"Okay. we'll come over right away."
After James informed them of his location. he put away his phone and fell back into his thoughts.
Zane and Cynthia arrived shortly after.
James was still sitting on the staircase at the inpatient ward's endurance when they arrived.
"James?
An excited voice came from close by.
James came back to his senses and raised his head.
Agir in her 20s dressed in a white dress ran up to him cheerily. Her long black hair danced. with the breeze as she rushed to him.
Soon, she stopped in front of James.
James stood up and greeted her, "Cynthia."
Cynthia's beautiful face held an expression of delight. She clasped James’ hand and beamed brightly at ham. "I finally get to see you again after so bong! How are you getting on? Are you doing better?"
James uttered gently. "Nothing much has changed, but at least I won't die for the time being."
A few moments later. a burly man caught up to them.
"Mr. Dawn," James greeted him respectfully.
Zane nodded and said, "I tried to liquidate some of my assets last night but only managed to get three hundred billion. If you need it, I transfer it to you immediately."
"Don't transfer it to me. First, let's find somewhere we can discuss this."
James did not intend to handle the money and planned to have Zane transfer it directly to Quincy.
"Cynthia, follow me to the inpatient ward."
"Alright." Cynthia nodded.
James returned to Thea's ward again.
The custom made wheelchair that Serena ordered for him had arrived. James did not intend to be seen walking about since he knew the Emperor had numerous spies keeping tabs on him. Since he had already decided to put on an act, he wanted to play the part as convincingly as he could
He sat in the wheelchair and asked Cynthia to wheel him out
James left the hospital with Cynthia and Zane. He also called Quincy to join in on their discussion.
Inside a villa within Cansington...
This was Cynthia's residence in Cansington.
Quincy had already arrived.
‘She was dressed very fashionably in a blue plaid dress. Her curly hair was so straightened. Although she had lost her sexy and mature look, she now had a naive and cute look to her.
The few of them gathered together.
"Mr. Dawn, you can transfer the money to Quincy. She'll be the one responsible for registering the company as well as managing it"
Zane was unaware of what James was trying to do.
However, he did not ask any questions and simply transferred the money.
After transferring the money, he said, "I still have some business in the north, so I won't be staying in Cansington. Cynthia wall be staying here for a while. She's a precocious kid, so please help me watch over her..."
"That's enough. You're such a nag! Shouldn't you be leaving already? You're annoying me." Cynthia stood up and pushed Zane away.
James replied, "Rest assured. Mr. Dawn. I’ll take good care of Cynthia and will investigate her condition to the best of my ability. I'm sure it won't be long until I'll be absent to fix her condition."
Zane was relieved to have Cynthia under James’ care.
Having sorted out his business, Zane quickly left for the airport again.
After Zane left, Quincy asked. "What's our next move, James?"
James had already thought through the next step.
"Let's not worry about making money first. I'd like to prioritize capturing the market. The Centennial Corporation has been making a bot of bold moves. They've heavily invested into advertising new drugs and as result, have seized a major portion of the market. Although I'm unsure of his true motives, I'm sure we'll be able to interfere with his plans by stealing their customers."
"So now, I'll need you to take the money and register the company."
Quincy said, “It won't be hard to register the company. but what about medicines? A pharmaceutical company employs research teams to create new drugs. Not only that, they usually take years to develop one. We don't even have a research team. so how wall we develop medicines and compete against other pharmaceutical groups?"
"Leave that to me."
James confidently replied her, "Based on my understanding and knowledge about medicinal ingredients, developing new drugs using medicinal herbs won't be a problem at all. We need to put this into action as soon as possible."
The two of them spent a long time ironing out and finalizing the details of this plan.
Quincy would establish the company, while James would provide the formulas to create new medicine that can compete against Centennial Corporation.
They finalized their plans after discussing through the entire night.
James was exhausted and plopped onto the sofa.
Quincy walked over and started to massage his head. She told him in a concerned tone. "You still aren't completely recovered yet, so don't overwork yourself. Take a short nap. I'll wake you when it's time to eat."
Chapter 789
That entire discussion completely drained what was left of James’ mental energy.
Nodding lightly at Quincy, he tiredly lay on on the sofa. "Alright. I just close my eyes for a minute."
Cynthia stood up and said, "I'll help you upstairs, James."
"Okay."
With Cynthia's help, James was guided to his guest bedroom on the second floor.
‘She left ham to rest in the room and gently closed the door. Then, Cynthia headed.
downstams.She plopped herself on the sofa next to Quincy and grinned cheekily at her. "So. how far have both of you gone?"
Quincy rolled her eyes and gave a terse reply, "Stop that. There's nothing between us."
"Pfft. Do you think I'm stupid? You literally look at him with lovestruck eyes." Cynthia pouted, madly disappointed at Quincy's blase response.
Quincy sighed spotify.
‘She stopped herself from considering a future with James and what that would look like. She knew that whale Thea still clung to him. it was impossible for him and Quincy to have a happy ending.
Seeing Quincy's crestfallen expression, Cynthia could sense something was greatly upsetting her. She asked hesitantly, "Did… James get back together with Trea?"
"Yeah." Quincy nodded in resignation.
Cynthia scowled. "I don't care that she’s a gorgeous woman, I don’t like her. James treated her so well, and yet she mercilessly walked all over his feelings. If I were him. she wouldn't even be an option! I'd choose you over her any day!"
Quincy chuckled at Quincy's frank response and said. "Alright, that’s enough. I saw a lot of people around the house. You must have a chef, right?"
"Yeah." Cynthia nodded.
"Could you ask the chef to prepare a large meal? James gets hungry easily and is like a bottomless pit when be eats."
"Okay."
Cynthia quickly rushed off to tel her personal chef to start preparing a meal for James. When she returned, she sat back on the sofa and continued chatting with Quincy.
The Dawns’ housekeeper, Luther, came over to them to interrupt their lively discussion." Miss, theres someone at the door.
She's been standing there for a very long time. We tried to talk to her, but she won't give us any answers."
"Huh?
Cynthia frowned. "Who is it?"
Luther shook his head. "I don't recognize her."
"Let's go see her for ourselves."
Cynthia stood up and walked toward the door.
Quincy followed behind her.
Awoman stood silently outside the villa’s iron gate.
‘She looked to be in her 20s and was dressed in a plain dress, black stockings, and a pair of boots.
The woman had beautiful facial features and long black hair.
It was drizzling, and judging by her wet hair, she must have been standing outside for quite some time.
"Why'd she come here?"
Quincy walked out and frowned when she saw she was waiting outside.
Cynthia turned to Quincy with a confused expression. "Who's that, Quincy?"
Quincy explained to Cynthia in a hushed tone. "At the last medical conference. someone. drugged James and kidnapped him to a hotel room. That woman was also drugged and brought there. The two of them had slept together."
"Oh, that's the girl?"
Cynthia was surprised. Of course, she had heard about the incident.
However, she didn't know the identity of the woman that James slept with. Cynthia only knew that it was the daughter of a famous painter.
Quincy approached her and asked. "Tiara, how did you find this place?
Tiara stood aside and said, "I saw the news. A reporter filmed James getting in a car and coming to this place, so I followed it."
"Are you here to see James?" Quincy's frown got deeper.
Tiara nodded and said wistfully, "He promised to marry me if he made it back alive from the war in the Southern Plains."
James’ promise had been on her mind ever since.
She had gone to James’ public trial in the Capital, but there were too many people there. So she never had a chance to meet
him. She knew he would eventually return to Cansington, so she had been waiting all this time.
"This..."
Chapter 790
Quincy was troubled by the situation. She paused for a moment before speaking to Tiars again, "It's raining out here. You should come inside first."
Tiara shook her head.
Cynthia walked over, tugged at her wrist, and said, "Come inside. James isn't feeling too well right now and is resting. You can see him when he wakes up.
Tiaes finally agreed when presented with that argument.
After entering the villa, a maid got her a cup of warm water.
Tiara picked it up and took a sip.
Cynthia looked at Quincy, pulled her aside, and whispered, "What should we do, Quincy?"
Quincy shrugged. "Why're you asking me? How would I know? We should wait for James to wake up and talk to her himself."
She had never heard James mention anything about marrying Tiara. but it was not her place to question him. Afterall, it was not like Quincy and James were actually together.
Quincy exhaled sharply.
James’ relationships were a3 mess. He had not settled his relationship with Thea, and here was Tiara, coming to where he was to seek closure with him.
Soon, the meal was ready.
Cynthia looked at Quincy and Tiara. They all sat on the sofa in awkward silence. Finally she gathered the courage to speak. "S—Should I go get James?"
"Go ahead." Quincy gestured for her to leave.
When it dawned on her that their reunion was imminent, Tiara suddenly became nervous.She had fantasized about meeting James again.
Countless scenanos played out in her mind before, but she never expected to meet him this way.
Both her hands clenched on the hem of her dress.
Cynthia glanced at Tiara, then headed up to the second floor.
"James, it’s time to eat."
James slowly stirred. He had slept for more than an hour, and felt as if his brain had cleared up a bot.
He rolled out of bed, rubbed his eyes, and nodded. "Alright."
After getting dressed, James headed downstairs.
As soon as he arrived in the living room. he froze.
He stood in place with a bewildered expression while looking at Tiara, sitting on the sofa. After a few seconds, he walked over and asked nervously. "W—VWhy are you here?"
Tiara raised her head to meet James’
The moment she saw James, her heart skipped a beat.
Initially, she didn't know of James’ identity and misunderstood the kind of person he was. She hated him for what had happened. eyes.
After leaming of his identity and how he had been framed, the hatred in her heart slowly melted away into feelings of affection.
"I-l heard you were here. so I came to see you." Tiara’s airy voice tickled his ears. She smiled. revealing her two shallow dimples.
James sat down and lit a cigarette.
They had an intimate night together once, and James had promised to marry ber if he came back alive from the Southem Plains.
Seeing the troubled expression on James’ face. Tiara waved her hands frantically and hurriedly explained, "James, I didn't come to farce you to marry me. I... I just wanted to see you and know how you're doing."
Quincy and Cynthia looked at the two of them but remained silent.
"Tiara..."
James’ opened his mouth but was at a loss for words.
Tiara lowered her head and spoke dejectedly, "I-I know you still love Thea, and I won't force you to be with me. But, you're sick fight now, and I...1...simply want to be by your side and help care for you."
James did not know what to do. He glanced at Quincy helplessly.
However, Quincy simply shrugged. She also had no idea how to deal with Tiara.
"Tiara, the thing is...my condition..."
Tiacs quickly interrupted him. "James, I know. I'm fully aware. I-If you'll have me, how about making me your second wife?"
“Quincy burst out in laughter when she heard the suggestion but immediately regained her composure. She stood up and said.
"The room is too stuffy. I think I'm going out for a walk"
Cynthia also stood up and said, "I'll get the maids to bring out the food."
The two women quickly fed the scene. leaving only James and Tiara alone in the living room.