Meanwhile, Thea sat beside James and remained silent. After some time, James looked at Thomas and Nicholas and said, “Grandpa, Dad, I’m not interested in participating in your plans. However, I promise I won’t get in your way. Do whatever you wish. Thea and I will be living in seclusion from now on.” Upon hearing this, Thomas was dismayed. “James, I really wish you can lend me a hand. You’re the only one closest to crossing into the ninth rank. Not only that, but the Cadens are besieged by enemies on all sides—the Prince of Orchid Mountain, the Omniscient Deity, and the Blood Race. We’ll all benefit greatly from slaying the dragon. Soon, many powerful martial artists will emerge. Without your help, it’ll be impossible for us to achieve our goal.” Thomas continued, “James, I really hope you can lend me and the Cadens a helping hand. With you and Thea by our side, it’ll only be a matter of time before the Cadens dominate the world.” Still, James was unimpressed. He looked at

“By the way, Thea…” Upon thinking about the herb he picked in the mountains, James immediately took it out of the pack basket and handed it over to Thea, saying, “Look what I found.” Thea took it. The moment she made contact with the herb, she was stunned. “What powerful Empyrean Spiritual Energy!” “Indeed.” James said, “I’ve been collecting herbs for three years. This is the first time I’ve encountered a herb that possesses such majestic Empyrean Spiritual Energy. However, there are no records of this herb in the Medical Book. What about the Book of Malice?” Thea scrutinized the herb for a moment before shaking her head slightly, saying, “No, I don’t know what this herb is either.” “In any case, we should plant it.” “Mhm.” Thea returned the herb to James. James immediately headed to the backyard, dug a hole, and planted the herb. Then, he watered the plant. After planting the herb, he returned to the courtyard. Thea was sitting on a swing caressing her tummy. Upo

However, he did not expect his grandfather to be a part of this. “Apart from that, many powerful martial artists and sects have emerged in Sol. You know Maxine Caden, don’t you?” James looked at Callan and asked, “What happened to Maxine?” “Huh…” Callan said, “She’s an impressive woman, I must say. Though she also obtained the Dragon Essence and the dragon’s blood, she’s kept a low profile over the past three years. She’s been in closed-door meditation all this while and seldom left her residence. Just three months ago, she suddenly appeared and announced her separation from the Cadens. She’s now known as just Maxine to the outside world. Not only that, she even established Floret Palace. She’s now known as Master of Floret Palace to the ancient martial world.” Upon hearing this, James was lost in contemplation. The fact that Maxine left the Cadens and established Floret Palace deeply stunned him. “What else is there?” James looked at Callan. Callan continued, “Japura h

“Pipe down! She could be Favion Hansel’s friend. She looks like she possesses extraordinary strength.” Many conversed in whispers. Upon seeing Maxine, Favion momentarily froze. Wearing a puzzled expression on his face, he murmured, “Isn’t she Maxine, Master of Floret Palace and the woman who left the Cadens’ household? Why is she here?” After collecting himself, Favion walked over to Maxine with a bright smile. “Welcome, Master of Floret Palace. What a surprise this is! Please make yourself comfortable.” Maxine’s name had been well-known by all recently. It was natural for Favion to recognize her almost immediately. As he thought Maxine was here for his birthday banquet, he welcomed her warmly.However, Maxine looked at him coldly and simply raised her arm. Powerful energy gathered in her palm, and she struck Favion.Favion was immediately sent flying. “…” The crowd fell silent as they watched Favion crash against the wall and collapse heavily to the ground. Vomiting a

In his room, James contemplated ways that would allow him to cross into the ninth rank. At that moment, he wanted to seek those who had crossed into the ninth rank for assistance—Sky, the Prince of Orchid Mountain, the Omniscient Deity, and even his grandfather. Thomas had made a breakthrough and had become a Half-Saint. Soon, Thea walked in. “Darling.” She spoke in a gentle and melodious tone. James collected himself and looked at Thea with a smile. “Hey, there.” Thea sat beside him. “The baby’s due soon.” “I know.” James nodded and grabbed Thea’s hand, saying, “I promise to always be by your side. Until the baby is born, I won’t be going anywhere. After living here for three years, I’ve grown attached to this carefree and peaceful life.” Though this was what James said, Thea knew he wanted to leave to the outside world. “Mhm.” She did not say anything more. That day, James remained at home. In the courtyard, he repeatedly swung his wooden sword. Though his movem