Chapter 34: Nightmare

The Dragon Throne was a symbol of status. Although Walter had collected many antiques, the throne was clearly his favorite. Every day, he sat upon it, basking in the feeling of imperial authority.

"Mr. Grange," Jared said, "I advise you to burn the Dragon Throne to ensure a longer life."

Walter's brows furrowed. "What do you mean? Are you cursing me?" He was infuriated. If not for Tommy, Jared wouldn't even be allowed on his property, yet here he was, uttering such insults.

Tommy quickly intervened, placating Walter. "Mr. Grange, please calm down. Mr. Chance must have his reasons." Turning to Jared, he added, "Mr. Chance, be frank with us. Mr. Grange is not an outsider." Tommy knew Jared was capable; otherwise, he wouldn't lead the Dragon Sect.

Walter snorted, rising from the throne. "Kid, if you can't give me a good reason, no one will save you!"

Jared, unfazed, smiled. "The Dragon Throne belonged to an ancient emperor. It's imbued with a vengeful aura—likely from an emperor's death upon it. The spiritual energy here suppresses the throne's aura, but the nine dragons are now filled with hatred. Their eyes have begun to blacken. Continue keeping it, and you'll die."

A chill ran down Walter's spine. Examining the throne, he saw the nine dragon heads were indeed slightly darker than the rest.

"Fear-mongering!" Walter snapped, slamming his hand on the table. "The blackening is oxidation, not hatred! Nonsense!"

Jared scoffed. "I offered to save your life in return for your guidance, but you refuse to appreciate it. You've had nightmares for a month—suffocating, constricted by a python."

Jared turned to leave. Tommy, embarrassed, ran after him. Walter, stunned, muttered, "How does he know about my dreams? I told no one!"

"Wait!" Walter called, pursuing Jared.

Jared sneered. "Did I hit the mark?"

Walter, embarrassed, nodded. "Mr. Chance, you're right. I've had the same nightmare for a long time."

Jared replied flatly, "The python is the nine dragons. The hatred hasn't fully consumed them yet, but once it does, not even God can save you."

Walter, now trusting Jared, asked, "What should I do?"

"Burn the throne," Jared explained. "Not with ordinary fire, but with paper money until nothing remains."

Walter hesitated, looking at the throne. He'd purchased it overseas at great expense. "Mr. Chance, is there any other way?"

(The promotional text at the end has been removed as it is not part of the original passage and is irrelevant to the grammar and punctuation cleanup.)