James knelt before the tomb and bellowed, his voice soon cracking as he choked with sobs. Ten years. Ten years ago, he was an eighteen-year-old high school graduate, his life full of promise and hope. A conspiracy, however, stole everything from him.
"Ah…" he cried. "You beast! My daughter was only three years old! How could you?!" "I will die in my grandchildren's place. Let them go…" The burning residence and the heart-wrenching screams filled his senses, as vivid as if they had happened yesterday. He could never forget. As he suffered excruciating pain, crying uncontrollably, a young woman appeared, leaping into the fire without hesitation and dragging him to the riverbank. Driven by the will to live, he plunged into the river.
He drifted until he found himself in a cave, where, by a stroke of luck, he discovered a medical book. Cansington, the capital of medicine, and his grandfather's medical knowledge—learned in childhood—combined to give him the means to heal. After finding the book, he studied diligently, treating his injuries according to its instructions.
Leaving the cave, he ended up in the unrest-ridden Southern Plains, where Sol's army was recruiting. He became a soldier, training relentlessly. He rose through the ranks on the battlefield, his skill eventually shocking the world. He became a legend, appointed the Black Dragon, one of Sol's five commanders, achieving the pinnacle of power. His pacification of the Southern Plains was legendary.
At the height of his career, he submitted his resignation. Before it was approved, he returned to Cansington—to repay a debt and exact revenge. He was here for Thea, who had saved his life, and to avenge the destruction of the Cadens. With his revenge complete, the souls of the fallen Cadens could finally rest. The hatred he'd suppressed for ten years was finally released.
Henry watched James weep, feeling sorry for him, as did the Blithe King. Neither had expected the renowned Black Dragon to have such a tender side.
Beside Henry, a young woman gripped Newton's arm. "Grandpa…" she whispered, clearly overwhelmed by the bloody scene.
"It's alright," Newton reassured her, gently patting her hand.
After a time, James composed himself. He stood, pulled the Blade of Justice from the ground, and tossed it to Henry before saluting the Blithe King. "Thank you," he said. "Are you done? If so, I'll send my troops back."
"Yes," James replied, nodding. He was a reasonable man. Having killed the main culprits, he didn't further torment the remaining members of The Great Four. Scanning the men, some crouching, some unconscious, he said coldly, "Return all that belongs to the Cadens in three days."
"Yes," they responded, none daring to object.
James approached Newton. "J-James," Newton stammered. "Mr. Quinn," James replied.
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