The Almighty Dragon General

Chapter 866
Perhaps someone else was backing the Emperor apart from lr. Gabriel
In order to get a clearer understanding of the situation. James would have to return to Cansington and ask the owner of
Sovereign Boutique Shop
Although his previous attempt yielded no useful information, James had a feeling that the owner chose not to disclose anything
to him
Putting his thoughts aside, he turned to Tobias and asked, “So. why did you bring me here? I'm sure it wasn't just to regale me
with the story of the Ancient Four’s origins along with the Moonlit Flowers on Cliffside’s Edge.”
Tobias merely shook his head and pointed at the painting on the wall “The secret to the ultimate martial arts techniques are
concealed within this painting. The key to solving the puzzle is through the 18-meridian diagram Though I have been researching
it for quite some time now. despite my best efforts, I'm still unable to break the painting's cipher. I believe you are familiar with the
18-meridian diagram?”
“Yes”
James nodded. “Indeed. I was the first to open the box.”
Tobias glanced at him approvingly before continuing, “Yuo're in an extremely dicey situaytion. Everyone is gunning to kill you so
that they can upset the already tenuous balance of power, and exploit the fallout to their advantage. If you want to survive, you'll
need to get significantly stronger. You have no other options available to you. I'll graciously give you three days to see what you
can glean from Moonlit Flowers by Cliffside’s Edge.”
Tobias had brought James here to see if he had what it took to unravel the mysteries of the painting.
Although James was a denizen of the outside world, he still managed to cultivate True Energy and reach the first rank without
any guidance. The potential he possessed was extremely promising.
James uncovering the secrets of the painting would not only be beneficial to Tobias himself, but it could also help the Cadens
avert the looming catastrophe.

Even if he fails to break the painting's cipher, the Cadens stood to lose nothing. In the worst case scenario, the situation would
only deteriorate slightly further. However, with how powerful the Cadens were, other forces would have to think twice before
antagonizing them.
James gave him a weak and bitter smile. “You overestimate my abilities. If even a learned elder like yourself is unable to reveal
the secrets of the painting, what chance do I have?"
“You'll have to try regardless. For the next three days, Maxine will deliver your food to you during your mealtimes. Feel free to
make yourself comfortable while investigating the painting. You're allowed to take it down from the wall for a closer examination,
but leaving the room with the painting is strictly forbidden.”
Tobias made his exit after casually passing his instructions to James.
Silence enveloped the basement.
The lights illuminated the room.
James was interested in the Moonlit Flowers by Cliffside’s Edge. He was curious to see the kinds of secrets it held and whether it
actually possessed secret martial art techniques.
While James was trying to scrutinize the painting, he heard the sound of footsteps nearing him.
He turned his head in the direction of the noise.
A young lady in a white dress was walking over holding a small box in her hands. It was Maxine.
“James. grandpa asked me to give you this box.”
“Thanks.”
James nodded lightly and took the box from her hands
Maxine glanced at the painting on the wall and gave James some words of encouragement. “I believe you're capable of doing
this. I sincerely hope you can unravel the secrets the painting holds. If you do. grandpa will find a way to get his hands on the
other three paintings so that all their secrets can be put together and the Prince of Orchid’s millenia long mystery can finally be
solved.”

“I make no promises. but I shall try my best” James was not confident that he would be able to decipher the painting properly.
“l’ll be leaving then.”
After giving James the box. Maxine left James alone with only his thoughts.
Silence once again filled the basement
“The Moonlit Flowers on Cliffside’s Edge... A treasure scroll thousands of years old... The 18- meridian diagram... How are all of
these related?”
James wondered as he rubbed his chin thoughtfully.