Ch. 841..850
Chapter 841
A cornered beast clinging desperately to life will lash out in desperation.
The Emperor was such a beast.
Though he knew he was about to die, he refused to simply leave quietly.He had brought his men here and planted bombs everywhere.
The Emperor stood up and roared defiantly, "I refuse to die like a dog! I’m going to live, no matter what it takes!"
The King sat on the sofa, unfazed by the Emperor’s show of defiance.
Gloom stood beside him silently, observing the scene as it played out.
The King said, "Mr.Gabriel has gone too far.It was unwise of him to revive the plan that had been abandoned a century ago.It was forbidden for a good reason.Now that things have been brought to light, Mr.Gabriel isn’t going to take a bullet for a disposable pawn like you.Just give it up, boy."
"Very well."
The Emperor gave a deranged smirk.
"In that case, I'll take all of you to hell with me!"
In that very moment, the Emperor seemed to be the real-life embodiment of the devil himself.He was the commander-in-chief of the Red Flame Army, which possessed a variety of extremely lethal weapons.
Although their use was highly restricted, even for use in the case of a war, the Emperor could not care less.He had nothing left to lose.He glared venomously at the King.
"Bring Mr.Lee here now.I want to speak to him."
The Emperor was still clinging to the last threads of hope he had.
"Mr.Lee is currently not on these premises."
"Impossible! Do you take me for a fool?! Stop playing games with me.I know he’s here." The Emperor shrieked.
The King continued to ignore the Emperor’s tantrum.He looked at the time and murmured, "He should be here soon."
Suddenly, a group of people walked in.
In its lead was an elderly man who looked to be in his 80s.He wore a suit and walked using a walking stick.
Right behind him were four women.
They were around 20 years of age and were all wearing white dresses.
They looked almost identical to each other.
Upon seeing the elderly man, the Emperor’s face lit up in delight.
He immediately cried out, "You're here, sect elder!"
The elderly man was none other than the sect elder of the Johnstons.He was the second -in-command of the family and his status was such that he was only surpassed by the patriarch.His words held power.
"Take your men and leave!"
The elderly man walked in and threw a brief glance at the King before turning to the Emperor.
"You.Return with me at once."
"Understood."
Theodore was ecstatic.
Now that the sect elder was here, he would be bailed out of this mess.
The appearance of the second-in-command of the Johnstons would force Mr.Lee to reconsider killing the Emperor.
After the Johnstons’ sect elder gave his orders, he left just as swiftly without even acknowledging the King’s presence.
The King remained silent throughout the whole exchange.
He watched the sect elder take the Emperor away.
After they left, the King asked, "When will James be here?"
Gloom looked at the time.
"Soon."
The King nodded.
"Since the Johnstons have revealed themselves, things are gradually taking a turn for the worse.However, this was the outcome Mr.Lee had hoped for.He intends to get the Ancient Four involved in the fray.Otherwise, he would have done away with the Emperor a long time ago.He wouldn’t have to wait for James to rise."
The King then stood up and stretched.
"Tonight will be an eventful night.Let us hope that James can kill the Emperor while he’s under the protection of the Johnstons."
Gloom said, "There’s bad blood between the two.In addition to that, James also has evidence of the Emperor’s crimes.Based on what I know about James, he'll surely see this through."
The King nodded gravely.
"I hope so."
In the military region of the city...
A helicopter made its slow descent and landed.
The Black Dragon Army personnel swiftly alighted and marched into formation.
James and Henry got off the helicopter as well.
Henry looked to James for his next orders.
"What should we do next, sir? Do we head to the Emperor's Mansion right away or...?"
James lightly waved to dismiss the suggestion.
"We'll head to the courthouse to retrieve the Blade of Justice first.The Emperor is the head of the five commanders-in-chief.Once he’s arrested, things will start getting ugly.He’s also a well-connected person with much influence.If we persecute him under a public trial, he might use a loophole in the law to avoid his charges.Our priority should be to execute him using the Blade of Justice before he’s tried in public."
Chapter 842
"Understood."
Henry nodded.Then, he turned to his men.
"We’re heading to the courthouse."
Rows of vehicles lined up neatly and were readied for departure at the military region.
A thousand Red Flame Army soldiers boarded and made their way to the courthouse.
The courthouse was a place where powerful figures in Sol were put on trial.
Not too long ago, James too was put on trial here.
At the moment of his return, James felt an uncomfortable sense of deja vu.
However, he immediately shook off the feeling.
He stood in the middle of the courthouse and looked at the Blade of Justice glinting sharply before him.
Behind him was a middle-aged man.He was the chief justice who was in charge of the courthouse.
Upon being presented with the King’s secret orders, he allowed James passage within.
James strode purposefully toward the Blade of Justice.
Looking at the sword which represented the highest authority in all of Sol, he whispered, "I told you I’ll be back for the Blade of Justice."
Henry said, "Congratulations, Dragon King.The sword is in the hands of its rightful owner once again."
With a determined look, James looked at his convoy and barked, "To the Emperor’s Mansion!"
Then, James left with the Blade of Justice in his hand.
When he heard where James was headed to, the court justice felt a shiver go down his spine.
Th-The Emperor’s Mansion? What on earth is going on?! Upon recalling the Red Flame Army sealing off the city, he could not help but grimace uneasily.
After retrieving the Blade of Justice, James headed toward the Emperor’s Mansion with his men.
The Emperor’s mansion was soon surrounded by 3000 Black Dragon Army soldiers.
However, the man himself was nowhere to be found.
At a gazebo in the Emperor’s Mansion...
James narrowed his eyes as he waited for the Emperor to make an appearance.
Henry walked over to him with his men and ordered, "We’re here to deliver the results of our survey! We searched the place from top to bottom but couldn’t find any trace of the Emperor.Even the servants were unaware of his current whereabouts."
Upon hearing this, James’ lips curled into a deep frown.
"What?"
At that moment, a middle-aged man in a black jacket appeared seemingly out of thin air next to the soldiers.
James stood up and looked at Gloom.
Gloom walked over to him and said, "The Emperor’s no longer here.He has gone to the Johnstons’ residence."
"Huh?"
James’ frown grew even deeper.
"Are you referring to one of the families of the Ancient Four?" Gloom nodded.
"That’s right.The King’s secret orders were leaked, and the Emperor managed to intercept it in advance.Half an hour ago, he brought his men to the palace and intended to raise hell.However, soon after, the Johnstons appeared and took him away."
James did not expect that the Ancient Four would get themselves involved in this fiasco.He looked at Gloom and asked, "Should I continue pursuing him then?"
Gloom returned James’ stare and said flatly, "What do you think?"
James’ tone reflected his resolve and determination.
"I think I’m the one who has to put an end to this."
"Do as you see fit.However, since the Johnstons are currently harboring the Emperor, it’s clear that he has the support and protection of one of the Ancient Four.Whatever comes next is dependent on your own abilities."
After delivering that cryptic line, Gloom turned to leave.
As he turned, he tossed a tiny piece of paper at James.
James reached his hand out to catch the paper between his fingers.
The moment the paper made contact with his fingers, James recoiled in surprise.
The paper was infused with a small amount of Dark Force.He wore a terrifying expression as he looked at the seemingly j innocuous piece of paper.
"This is the Johnstons’ address."
Gloom uttered as his figure slowly melted into the distant darkness.
"Such strength..."
James exclaimed softly after Gloom had left.
The vestige of Dark Force on that tiny piece of paper was enough to make him flinch.
James opened the piece of paper which contained the Johnstons’ address.After committing the address to his memory, he tore it to pieces and yelled his orders urgently, "Make haste! Head toward the Johnstons’ residence!"
Chapter 843
After hearing that the Emperor had been brought to the Johnstons, James led the Black Dragon Army toward the Johnstons.
He made his move with only a single objective in mind—dispose of the Emperor.He planned on using the Blade of Justice to execute him.
Once he was finally dead, James would divulge the Emperor’s sins to the public.
In a courtyard in the suburbs of the Capital...
The courtyard was a testament to history and was constructed using the finest wood.
Its walls were three meters high and were painted red.
In the side hall of the courtyard...
Kennedy Johnston, the sect elder of the Johnstons, sat on a red chair.
He took a deep breath from the cigar he held in his hand and exhaled a cloud of smoke.
Like a child that had been reprimanded, the Emperor sat in nervous silence next to him BAM! Kennedy slammed his hand on the table.
The table shook, and the glasses filled with water on top of the table tipped over from the impact.
"You lousy b*stard!"
Kennedy hissed, "Look at what you've done.You’ve besmirched the good name of the Johnstons."
The Emperor continued to look down in silence and said nothing to defend himself.
"You're a Johnston.How could you stoop so low as to work under someone else? What would the public think about us if they caught wind of this?"
"I-I didn’t have a choice, sect elder," Theodore spoke.
His eyes shone with tears which flowed down his cheeks.
"My father’s an illegitimate child,which makes me one too.We have no place in this family.The whole world thinks I’m a joke.I can’t even walk outside with my head held high.What was I supposed to do if I can’t rely on others for help?"
"Are you talking back to me?!"
Theodore immediately shut his mouth.He prostrated himself in front of Kenney as he continued weeping.
"I’ve learned my lesson.From today onwards, I’ll only involve myself in family matters.I won't venture outside or get involved in the affairs of others anymore."
"Get the f*ck out of my face."
"Understood."
As if he received a royal pardon, Theodore reverently stood up and left respectfully.
When his face was turned away from Kennedy, his expression hardened.
All he had known since he was a child was mockery and ridicule.
Now that he had ascended the ranks and become the Emperor, he was not going to let it all go to waste anytime soon.
Since his family had brought him back personally, it meant he was under their protection for now.
As long as he remained in the household and did not wander about, he would have a chance to steal the family’s treasure scroll sooner or later.
Outside...
James made his way to the Johnstons with the Black Dragon Army in tow.
As his eyes glimpsed the illuminated courtyard, he quietly murmured, "This should be the place."
Then, he gave the order, "Surround the place.Do not let the suspect escape."
The soldiers immediately dispersed and surrounded the courtyard.
In the courtyard...
Kennedy was sitting on the red chair still smoking his cigar.
A woman walked in and leaned into his ear.
"Sect elder, an army seems to have shown up and surrounded our courtyard."
Kennedy cocked his eyebrows curiously.
"Is James in the lead?"
"Yes."
"I understand.You’re free to go."
Kennedy waved her off.
Then, he pulled his phone out and dialed a number.
"Mr.Caden, one of your descendants has surrounded my mansion with an armed force.Since he’s a Caden, I believe it’s only appropriate to inform you of this development.If you want him to see alive, I'd suggest you move quickly.If not, I will deal with him as I see fit."
He then hung up his phone after delivering his warning.
Kennedy then got out of his chair and calmly headed outside.
At the gates of the courtyard, James stood face-to-face with the Johnstons’ guard.His eyes glinted threateningly at the guard that obstructed his way into the manor.
"The Black Dragon Army is exercising its duty.I'll have to ask any and all unrelated personnel to step aside.Otherwise, I'll charge you with obstruction of justice."
"Don’t think you can just throw your weight around here, James.This is the Johnstons’ household.Leave with your men at once or else..."
"Or else what?" James asked coldly.
"Or else you will be met with nothing less than lethal force." A voice suddenly came.
The guards of the Johnstons’ household immediately bowed their heads and gave a respectful greeting.
"Sect elder."
Kennedy walked over to James with the four identical women following close behind him.
Stopping in front of James, he looked down at him and growled, "Get lost.You had better think twice before getting yourself involved in the Capital’s power struggles.I won't warn you a second time!"
Despite the threat, James looked him right back in the eye.He was not the least bit intimidated.
Chapter 844
"I was ordered to arrest a suspect."
"Ordered?" Kennedy asked coldly as his eyes glinted at James suspiciously.
"Under whose orders?"
James knew the amount of power and authority the Ancient Four wielded.
Despite this, he did not back down in spite of Kennedy’s attempts to intimidate him.He raised the Blade of Justice in his hand and confidently declared, "I am performing my duty on behalf of the people of Sol.Theodore Johnston has committed a great many crimes while he held his position as the Emperor.In light of this, he must be brought to justice.I hope you'll refrain from interfering with my directives.Otherwise, You’ll leave me with no choice..."
"No choice but to...Do what?"
James answered him defiantly, "I'll have arrest all who dare to interfere with our duty."
"Really now...?"
Kennedy’s face hardened at James’ threat.
The four identical women stepped forward and stood in James’ path while glaring at him coldly.
James returned the ladies’ glare.
"I’m sure you’re aware that this is considered an obstruction to justice."
"Get them," Kennedy ordered.
"Arrest them all." James stepped back.
The Black Dragon Army behind him immediately marched forward and pointed their guns at the four women.
The four women suddenly leaped up into the sky.
Like a flash of lightning, they appeared before the Black Dragon Army soldiers.
A number of James’ men collapsed to the ground groaning in pain.
The women’s movements were too swift.
Before James could even react, they had already incapacitated several Black Dragon Army soldiers and returned back to their original positions.
James turned to them with anger burning in his eyes.
These women were extremely capable fighters.
However, James was not cowed.He pulled out the Blade of Justice.
"I wield the Blade of Justice.Those who stand against me, stand against Sol itself.I will smite all those that resist."
One of the women hissed smugly, "Solean law only applies to ordinary citizens.The Johnstons are above the rule of the law."
"All Soleans are equal before the law."
Gripping the hilt of the Blade of Justice, James stepped forward with conviction.
"Kill him." Kennedy told the women casually and started walking away.
James was nothing more than the descendant of a Caden pariah.
With the unquestionable power the Johnstons held, killing him and burying the incident would be a laughably simple task.
"You’ve done it now."
At that moment, a voice came from afar.
James turned his head towards it.
A woman wearing a black dress and a black mask strutted over to them.She had a slender figure, and her hair was black.
Behind her heels were four masked men in black robes.
Hearing her words, Kennedy stopped and turned to look at the approaching woman.
Frowning, he asked, "Who are you?"
"God-King Palace."
The woman gave her non-answer in a monotonous voice.
Then, she took a few steps back while the four masked men stepped forward.
In an instant, they leaped into the air and charged at the four women.
Choosing to retaliate head-on, the four women leaped into the air to meet their blows.
The sound of fists colliding rang sharply through the air.
The four women collapsed to the ground and vomited blood.
Meanwhile, the four masked men landed gracefully behind the woman in black.
Upon seeing this, James frowned and narrowed his eyes.He was puzzled by the sudden developments.
‘Who are these people?’ Kennedy’s face contorted in anger.He could not recall ever meeting anyone like the woman in black in the Capital.That aside, what the hell was this God-King Palace she mentioned?
"Who are you? Do you know who you’re dealing with?"
The group in black simply ignored Kennedy.
James had no idea who these people who suddenly appeared to offer their assistance was, but he was not about to squander the opportunity they had given him.
"Search the premise."
"You dare defy the Johnstons?! "
Kennedy screamed and slammed his walking stick against the ground in rage.
The impact was powerful enough to create a crack in the bluestone path.
A powerful aura burst forth from within his body stirring up gusts of wind around him.
The four masked men charged toward the enraged elder.
Kennedy leaped to the sky and met their fists mid-air.
Chapter 845
The four masked men in black robes were secretly stalling for time.
James recognized this and knew it was the perfect opportunity to set his plans into action.
Once Kennedy catches his breath, it would be nigh impossible for James to kill the Emperor.
"Search the premises."
Clutching the Blade of Justice, James charged toward the center of the courtyard.
Gravely injured from the earlier counterattack, Kennedy’s henchwomen lay helplessly on the ground.
They were unable to assist him.
Seeing the fully-armed Black Dragon Army, the Johnstons’ guards were conflicted.
If they continued standing in their path, the Black Dragon Army would certainly turn them into swiss cheese.
The best course of action was to lay low and wait for the storm to pass.
At the end of the day, these guards valued their own lives.
In a room in the courtyard...
The Emperor rested quietly in the room.
He was fully aware of the chaos that had befallen the estate outside the room.
Though he knew that James had come bringing the might of the Black Dragon Army, he was unafraid.
Ultimately, he was still a Johnston.
Even though this was not the family’s headquarters, he would be safe as long as the sect elder was willing to protect him.
If the King himself was unwilling to move against him, why would he be afraid of a nobody like James.He winced as he grasped his chest.His injuries had not yet recovered.
Everything that had happened recently only served to exacerbate and worsen his injuries.
Trying to channel some strength into his voice, he called out for one of his men.
The door opened, and a servant walked in and asked respectfully, "Is something of concern, sir?"
The Emperor asked, "How’s the situation outside?"
"People seem to be engaged in a fierce battle outside.James surrounded the courtyard with the Black Dragon Army’s soldiers.The sect elder brought the four sisters with him and they managed to down many of James’ men.However, a woman claiming to hail from a place called the God-King Palace suddenly emerged out of nowhere alongside four men.The new challengers managed to defeat the sisters.Now, they are currently locked in battle with the sect elder."
"What?!"
The Emperor exclaimed incredulously.
"They defeated the four sisters?!" He was utterly floored.
The four sisters were Kennedy’s chambermaids.
From the time they were mere children, they had been personally trained in martial arts by Kennedy himself.
Their youthful beauty belied the fact that they were extremely formidable fighters that had managed to cultivate True Energy.
"Continue monitoring the situation and report any changes to me."
Having understood how dire the situation now was, the Emperor was now nervous.
"Understood."
The servant turned to leave.
The moment he opened the door, he took a few stiff steps back and raised his hands in the air.
"What the hell are you doing? Hurry up and..."
The Emperor opened his mouth to start berating his servant’s lack of urgency.
As he lifted his head towards the door, he saw that his servant had a gun pointed at him.
The Black Dragon Army marched in unceremoniously with their commanders who strode in slowly behind them.
When he saw the fully armed men, all the color drained from the Emperor’s face.
He gritted his teeth, and he glared furiously at the man who led them.
James pulled out a pair of handcuffs and looked the Emperor straight in the eye.
"Your time of reckoning has come, Emperor."
The Emperor glared bitterly at James.
"Do you understand what you're doing, James? Do you know where you’re standing? This is the Johnstons’ estate.Even the King himself dares not act carelessly here."
Completely unfazed by the Emperor’s bravado, James slowly strode toward the Emperor while still holding onto the handcuffs.
The Emperor unconsciously took a few steps back.
Losing his footing, he tripped and fell backward on the sofa.
"Stay back! This is the Johnstons.You have no right to arrest me.Not even the King can protect you from the Johnstons’ reprisal."
Like a cornered dog, the Emperor growled and raised his voice in a desperate attempt to dissuade James.
James casually tossed the handcuffs aside and they clattered noisily on the floor before sliding to some inconsequential corner of the room.
Shing! He reverently unsheathed the Blade of Justice.
Although ancient, the sword was still extremely sharp.Its blade caught the light and reflected it along its length in a merciless and dangerous glint.
"Wh-What are you trying to do?!"
As the reality of what was happening quickly set in, the courage that filled the Emperor’s words earlier quickly dissipated and was replaced by pure terror.
James continued to stare him down unflinchingly before.
His words were as sharp and cold as the blade he held in his hands.
"The Emperor is guilty of resisting arrest.Additionally, his actions threatened the safety of law enforcement personnel.As such, he was determined to be an undeniable danger to society and killed on the spot."
Turning his head, he met the gaze of Henry and the Black Dragon army.
"Is that understood?"
"Understood.The Emperor resisted arrest and was killed on the spot."
James wore a satisfied look.
With the Blade of Justice in hand, he walked toward the Emperor.
Faced with the threat of his impending death, the Emperor trembled in fear.
Sweat beaded on his forehead and his heart beat so fast, he thought it was about to jump out of his chest.He glared at James menacingly.
"Are you serious about this? By doing this, you’re making an enemy of the Johnstons.If you kill me, it’s over for you as well."
"Hm...I’m not so sure about that.What I'm completely sure about is the fact that you won’t live to see the next sunrise."
As he said that, he readied the sword.
Splurt! The sharp blade pierced through the Emperor’s body.
Chapter 846
Blood trickled out the Emperor’s mouth.His eyes bulged, unable to comprehend what had just happened.He could not believe that James dared to kill him where he stood.
"You..."
With hateful, bloodshot eyes, the Emperor shrieked in denial.
"I’ll never forgive you, James!!!"
"Haha..."
"How dare you spill my blood at the Johnston estate?! Once die, you're going to follow soon after.I’ll see you in hell!"
As if irritated by the Emperor’s tirade, James pulled his sword out of the Emperor’s body.
Blood gushed forth from the gaping wound.
Almost immediately, James pulled his gun out.
Bang! Bang! Bang! He fired a few shots at the injured man.
The Emperor collapsed into a pool of his own blood as he left the world.
James took a deep breath.
At long last, the Emperor was finally dead.
The problem now was the potential chaos that would break out following his death.
"Bring his body back.We’ll put him on trial tomorrow morning and expose his crimes to the world."
After giving his orders, James started to walk out of the room.
Before he could leave, a furious cry made the room shake.
"How dare you kill a member of the Johnstons?! You’ll pay for this!"
Kennedy made a mad dash toward James.
The walking stick in his hands was poised to strike at James’ vital points.
James’ face darkened.
He summoned all the True Energy he could muster from within his body and channeled it into the Blade of Justice.
Just as he raised che sword and braced for impact, a figure appeared before him and effortlessly deflected Kennedy’s attack.
Kennedy stumbled unsteadily.
When he took a few steps back, he suddenly coughed out a mouthful of blood.
Immediately, four men in black robes surrounded him.
James glanced at the man who saved his skin.It turned out to be a seemingly elderly man.
A mask obscured the man’s facial features.
As a result, James was unable to discern his identity.
Trying to meet his savior's eyes, James uttered, "Thanks."
Kennedy watched the elderly man closely.
He was blown away by the strength of these men who easily took down the four sisters he had personally trained.
Now, what appeared to be their leader had deflected his attack with a single blow.
Narrowing his eyes, he asked, "Who are you?"
The elderly man remained silent.
Glancing at James, he left without a word.
The four men in black robes followed close behind.
James was dumbfounded.
‘Who are these people?’
Why did they help him? Were they the King’s men? He watched the retreating figure of the woman in black.
For some reason, he felt like he had seen her before.She reminded him of Thea.
He almost gave into the impulse to call out to her.
James took a moment to compose himself and make sense of the situation.
Impossible.
It could not have been Thea.How was she able to get such powerful people on her side?
"Retreat."
James wasted no time and gave the order to his men to withdraw.
Kennedy’s face twisted hatefully.
James and his men had trespassed into the Johnstons’ estate and killed one of his family members in cold blood.
Adding to that inconvenience, a woman who claimed to be part of the God-King Palace had also shown up and made a mess of things.
The God- King Palace was truly a force to be reckoned with.
Everyone who belonged to it all held the title of Grandmaster in martial arts and was able to cultivate True Energy.
"Could the God-King Palace be part of the Cadens?"
Kennedy murmured under his breath.
Only the Cadens possessed such ridiculous strength.
The more he thought about it, the old man from earlier felt somewhat familiar to him too.It was highly likely that he was also a part of the Cadens.
"Are the Cadens planning on showing their blatant disregard for the rules of our ancestors?"
Kennedy gritted his teeth and his eyes glittered ambitiously.
Whatever happened tonight was clearly anything but ordinary.He had to inform the patriarch as soon as possible.
Chapter 847
The Emperor was finally dead.
James chose to simply put an end to things with the Blade of Justice as he wanted to avoid providing an opportunity for the Emperor to escape.
He knew that had the Emperor been put on trial beforehand, the man would have used one of the tricks up his sleeve to evade the justice of the law.
Not only was he a powerful man with connections at every level of society, but the Emperor also had the Johnstons supporting him from behind the scenes.
Every turn of his mission to kill the Emperor was full of obstacles.
He never expected that the Johnstons would have the audacity to bar his path and go so far as to even attack the Black Dragon Army.
These were serious offenses against the law.
The Emperor’s body was brought back to the military region.
In a military region of the Capital...
The Black Dragon Army returned after carrying out their mission successfully.
James personally saw to their injuries.
Their internal injuries were minor at most and their lives were not at risk After treating their injuries, James chose to immediately head toward Peace Mansion.
At Peace Mansion...
The night crept by at a slow and agonizing pace for the King.
He had lost sleep and was kept up by the anticipation of receiving good news from James.
Gloom stood by his side stonily.
"I’ve just received word that James had successfully carried out the Emperor’s execution.The Black Dragon Army has returned with his body."
Upon hearing the fortuitous news, the King’s eyes lit up.
"The Johnstons had taken the Emperor back to their place in an attempt to cover for him.How did James manage to kill the Emperor who even had the sect elder’s direct protection?"
Gloom shook his head in uncertainty.
"The specifics are still unclear.We'll need to wait for James to arrive and debrief us.He should be here soon."
"I see.Let us wait then"
Half an hour later, James finally arrived at Peace Mansion.
He simply took a seat in front of the King, opting to put the usual formalities aside.
The King handed him a cigarette.
James nonchalantly picked it up from the King and lit it with his lighter.
Finally, the king asked with great trepidation in his voice, "Did everything go smoothly?"
James replied, "The Emperor was well protected by highly skilled fighters.It was a stroke of good fortune that you lent me a hand at the right moment.Otherwise, everything would have fallen apart and the mission would have failed.."
"Huh?"
The King suddenly paused at the unexpected addition to the plan.
James had assistance...
From him? To his best knowledge, he did not offer or send any additional help James’ way.
James was astonished when he saw the expression the King made.
Hesitating for a moment, he then followed up with a question.
"Is the God-King Palace not one of your men?"
The King looked perplexedly at Gloom.
With a frown on his face, Gloom asked, "What do you mean by God -King Palace?"
James gave his account of what happened that night at the Johnstons.
The King and Gloom’s faces both adopted deep, concerning frowns.
The God-King Palace? When did Sol have such a force? On top of that, they were able to brush off the four sisters without much difficulty.
The sisters by Kennedy’s side were all at the second rank of internal strength.
The ease at which the sisters were dispatched implied that the men’s strength far surpassed those of the second rank.
To add to the confusion, the elderly man that had appeared at the last moment was also able to easily repel Kennedy’s attacks.
The King and Gloom's jaws practically hit the floor with shock.
James’ unease grew as the King and Gloom’s stunned silence continued.
"So...you weren’t the ones who sent the God-King Palace to assist with the mission?"
Chapter 848
The King replied doubtfully, "I have no idea what the God-King Palace is, nor have I ever heard of it."
This strange development had James in a quandary.
If the God-King Palace had not been ordered by the King to assist him, then why did they interfere and turn the situation in James’ favor? Why would they allow him to execute the Emperor? The King looked at Gloom quizzically and raised his eyebrows.
"You’re extremely well-read.Have you ever come across any mentions of the God- King Palace?"
Gloom still had a look of uncertainty on his face.
"No, this is the first time I’ve heard of them."
James took a sharp breath.He came to see the King specifically to learn more about the God- King Palace.
However, even the King was not aware of their existence or their purpose.
Who’s side did the God-King Palace stand on? Were they truly allies? The King did not dwell too long on the subject.
"Since the Emperor is now dead, there will be a lot of work for us to do.You should return and get all the rest you need.Tomorrow morning, we’ll disclose the events that took place last night and reveal the Emperor’s innumerable sins to the world.While we’re on the topic, due to the Emperor’s death, the Red Flame Army now lacks a leader.Would you be interested in overseeing them as well?"
James politely declined the offer.
"No, thank you.I don’t even want the title of Dragon King nor do I want to still be the commander of the Black Dragon Army any longer.All I want at this point is to live a carefree life.Once the dust has settled, I plan to retire for good."
The King stared at him with a somber expression.
"Not only is this a lofty position, but this kind of opportunity doesn’t come knocking twice.You should consider it carefully before outright declining."
"Great power begets an immense amount of responsibility.I’ve had my fill of political intrigue for ten lifetimes.Thank you very much."
James shot down the offer once again.
He really had no intention or desire to become the head of the five commanders-in- chief.
"Alright then.Moving forward, you'll have to be on your guard.Not only did you kill the Emperor, but you also made an enemy out of the Johnstons.People aren’t going to take this lying down."
The King warned James.
James stopped.
The King had suddenly reminded him of something.
"By the way, the Johnstons interfered with the mission last night and their actions can be considered as their willful obstruction of justice.Can I arrest them on these grounds?"
The King and Gloom were taken aback by James’ lackadaisical statement.
He wanted to...
Arrest the Johnstons? The King burst out in amused laughter after staying silent for a few seconds.
"James, you're the first and probably the last person that has the guts to make such a ludicrous suggestion.You should consider yourself lucky if the Johnstons choose not to pursue matters further.I can't believe you just said you wanted to arrest them...Let’s hope they don’t choose to escalate the situation any further.."
James shrugged in slight disappointment.He wanted to teach the Johnstons a lesson for looking down on Solean law.
However, since the King advised against such a move, he had no choice but to let this slide.
In the first place, he did not possess the strength nor influence required to arrest the Johnstons.
"I'm exhausted after working the whole night.I'll head back first."
James stood up, glanced at the cigarettes on the table, and said cheerfully, "This is pretty good stuff.I'll take them if you don’t mind."
The King smiled.
"If you fancy them, I can always send you a couple of boxes."
"I look forward to it."
James grinned brightly and strode out of the room.
After he left, the King’s face immediately grew dark.
‘The God -King Palace...Who are they? Are the Cadens trying to stir the hornet’s nest?’ Since Gloom knew nothing about it, he remained silent on the matter.Soon, Mr.Lee arrived.The King divulge everything that had happened to Mr.Lee.Then, he asked, "Were you the one behind the God-King Palace, Mr.Lee?"
Mr.Lee shook his head, "No, I’ve never heard of them.Looks like apart from the Ancient Four, there are others paying close attention to the dynamics of the Capital.They are trying to stir the waters."
The King continued questioning him, "What’s the objective of the God-King Palace?"
I After brief contemplation, Mr.Lee opened his mouth to reply, "James managed to kill the Emperor thanks to their timely assistance.James is a Caden, while the Emperor is a Johnston.They both trace their roots back to the Ancient Four.If the God-King Palace doesn’t belong to the Cadens, their objective is likely to sow discord.If they do belong to the Cadens, it would mean that the Cadens intend to eliminate the rest of the Ancient Four."
The King stroked his chin in deep thought.
"Why would they do such a thing?"
Gloom interrupted, "Maybe they are doing this for the four treasure scrolls belonging to Prince Orchid.Legend has it that they contain the secret to advancing to the ninth rank.For practitioners of martial arts, this prospect is extremely alluring."
Mr.Lee took a deep breath before continuing, "In any case, the dominoes have begun to fall in the Capital.Now that the Emperor is dead, the Johnstons will surely make their move.Everything now hinges on the actions of the Cadens.Besides, the reason why Mr.Gabriel abandoned the Emperor was that he wished to look for opportunities to fish in troubled waters."
The King asked, "What should we do next then?"
Mr.Lee looked at Gloom and ordered, "Investigate the God-King Palace as thoroughly as you can.I don’t want anyone ruining my plans."
"Understood." Gloom nodded affirmatively.
Chapter 849
James stayed in the military region for the night.
In a room in the military region...
The table was littered with plates from dinner earlier.
James and Henry were each holding a bottle of wine in their hands.
Henry took a swig and said, "Now that the Emperor is dead, peace has finally returned to the Capital."
James shook his head to refute that statement.
"Peace? I'm afraid this is only the beginning of something terrible."
Although there were a few mishaps during the plan to assassinate the Emperor, James still managed to accomplish his mission.
However, he could see a storm brewing on the horizon.
The mysterious God-King Palace had appeared.Why did they suddenly show up and assist him? No matter how he looked at it, James could not understand.
Henry tilted his head.
"Why?"
"Forget it.Bottoms up! Tonight, we drink to our heart's content."
James did not want to continue dwelling on something so complicated.
At the same time, in a presidential suite of a hotel in the Capital...
A woman wearing a black dress gazed at the elderly man before her.
Thea asked doubtfully, "Why do we have to wear these masks? If we cover our faces, James won’t know who helped him."
Thomas, who was fiddling with a cross in his palm, simply said, "To prevent others from knowing your identity, of course.We don’t want outsiders to start looking into God-King Palace, after all."
Thea was still perplexed, "What should we do next?"
"Do as you please.However, be mindful not to reveal your identity.Otherwise, we’ll be in deep trouble.Not only will James be involved, but you will also be implicated in whatever ends up happening.When that comes to pass, you’re on your own."
After giving his strict reminder, Thomas languidly left the room.
Thea sat on a chair and mulled over Thomas’ words.She could not understand what Thomas intended to do.
However, she was content as long as she was able to help James out.
All this while, she had been the subject of ridicule for dragging James down.
The claims were not exactly untrue.
However, now that she had secretly supported her beloved, she could not help but want to divulge all of it to James.
Upon being reminded of Thomas’ words, she decided against it.
The night passed silently.
The next morning...
All TV stations were reporting on the incident where the Red Flame Army surrounded the palace.
Although the containment was soon lifted, it nonetheless created quite a sensation.
That was because the Capital was the heart of Sol.
As such, everyone paid close attention to the tiniest of details and the most insignificant of events that occurred.
Everyone knew something must have happened last night.
The specifics, however, were still up for debate.
James was still asleep.
A knock came on the door.
James dragged his body off the bed and answered the door.
Henry, who was in military uniform, stood in front of the door.
He saluted James and announced, "Dragon King, the time has come for the press conference."
James yawned as if he could not care any less.
"I'll leave everything to you."
Saying that, he handed Henry the documents Gloom had given him and ordered, "Go to the courthouse after the press conference.Expose the Emperor’s crimes.Once that’s done, lour business with him will have come to a close."
"How is that possible, sir? I need you to take control of the situation."
Henry did not bother hiding his nervousness.
"Why wouldn't it be possible? You’re a one-star lieutenant, after all."
James returned to his bed.
Henry stubbornly followed him in and said, "You were the one who executed the Emperor with the Blade of Justice.It'll be difficult for me to explain things without your presence."
"I'd like to avoid drawing attention to myself at the moment.Henry, give yourself more credit.Besides, the Emperor’s no longer of this world.We’re just performing a mere formality.As for the rest, the King will make the necessary arrangements."
Henry had no choice but to head to the press conference himself.He went straight to the General Assembly Hall.
Many high-ranking officials and reporters were already gathered there.
Chapter 850
Reporters from all over were present.
Everyone wanted the latest scoop and to hear about James’ brave exploits.
Henry’s arrival signaled the beginning of the press conference.
Henry briefly explained the events of last night, "All this while, the Black Dragon Army has been secretly investigating the Emperor, the commander-in-chief of the Red Flame Army.After a thorough investigation, we have managed to collect evidence detailing the Emperor’s crimes.Despite allowing him a chance to turn himself in peacefully, the Emperor resisted arrest and even injured many of our law enforcement personnel.As such, he had to be killed on the spot."
Though everyone knew that something of great significance was going to be announced today, they did not expect it to be about the Emperor’s demise.
Henry’s words stunned the crowd.
A high-ranking official immediately stood up and spit out a question, "Even if the Emperor is guilty of certain crimes, the Black Dragon Army has no right to take things into their own hands.Who permitted you to arrest the Emperor?"
"The Emperor is the head of the five commanders-in-chief.His arrest would require much discussion and deliberation by the relevant authorities.Black Shadow, you are a mere one-star lieutenant of the Black Dragon Army.You have no right to arrest the Emperor.Before putting him on trial, you weren’t supposed to shoot him so thoughtlessly."
As the Emperor was the head of the five commanders-in-chief, he had many political allies.
This was why upon hearing of the Emperor’s death, a few high-ranking officials attempted to shift the blame onto Henry.
The Chief Executive and the Secretary-General were also present at the press conference.
They had some idea about the events the night before.
Throughout the press conference, they remained silent.
Henry knew he would be bombarded with questions from naysayers and the Emperor’s yes-men.
Facing the reporters and the crowd, he spoke, "You are right, I have no authority to order the arrest of the Emperor.However, the Emperor was executed using the Blade of Justice.I was just a participant during last night’s mission.I wasn’t the one wielding the Blade of Justice.The identity of the wielder is strictly confidential.For obvious reasons, I won't be disclosing his identity."
Hearing this, the ones standing up for the Emperor suddenly shut their mouths.
The Blade of Justice represented the highest authority of Sol.
The wielder had the right to kill without asking any questions.
At that moment, the Secretary- General stepped forward to add, "The state has been conducting an investigation into the Emperor for quite some time now.It was only after internal deliberations that the Emperor's arrest was ordered."
The Chief Executive stood up to pipe in, "Next, we shall expose the Emperor’s crimes for all to see."
The entirety of Sol went wild upon hearing the news.
"What? The Emperor is dead?"
"It’s true.The state even held a press conference.It seems that the Black Dragon Army was headed to the Emperor’s Mansion to arrest him.The Emperor chose not to leave quietly and resisted arrest as well as hurt many law enforcement officers.As such, he was executed by the Blade of Justice right where he stood."
At the same time, at the Johnstons...
Last night, Kennedy hurriedly made his way back to the Johnstons’ headquarters and informed the patriarch about the incident.
The patriarch then called for an emergency meeting with many prominent family members.
This meeting lasted an entire night.
During the meeting, Kennedy gave his analysis of what had happened.
He believed that the God-King Palace which intervened in the matter was actually the Cadens themselves.
Since the Cadens have been lying low for the past few years, they had gotten too antsy and started to make their move.
"Patriarch, the Cadens have crossed the line.Rumors say that they have obtained the box of the Prince of Orchid and unraveled the secret of the Moonlit Flowers on Cliffside’s Edge.They are doing this to obtain the Johnstons’ treasure scroll.I foresee that they’ll make a move on the remaining Ancient Four to get their hands on the remaining treasure scrolls.I assume that they’re trying to collect all four treasure scrolls."
"James must die."
"I agree."
"Give us the order, patriarch."
The sect elders of the Johnstons looked at the patriarch in murderous anticipation.His name was Hades Johnston.
Although he was 80 years of age, his appearance was closer to that of a 50-year-old.
This was all due to his extreme proficiency and continued practice of martial arts.
Hades sat in deep contemplation.
He also believed that the God-King Palace which suddenly emerged out of nowhere was in fact the Cadens themselves.
They were almost surely after the treasure scrolls of the remaining three of the Ancient Four.
Having finished his contemplation, he opened his mouth to speak.
"Kennedy, capture James alongside the four experts—Wind, Rain, Thunder, and Lightning.Be mindful not to harm him.We want to see how the Cadens react."
Hades was a shrewd man who avoided acting rashly or carelessly.
The Cadens was the head of the Ancient Four.
Since he was not entirely sure if the Cadens belonged to the God- King Palace, he needed to first test the waters.
After all, he did not wish to have a falling out with the Cadens just because someone else was sowing discord between the two of them.
"Understood."
Kennedy stood up.
His expression was as dark as a bottomless pit and his eyes burned with silent fury.