The following morning, Xayne smiled with contentment upon waking up at the sight of the peacefully sleeping Serena. The sunlight delicately illuminated her face, adding to her enchanting beauty. At that moment, his phone vibrated.After checking the message from Ace, Xayne's brows furrowed at the brief yet alarming content. "Sir, there's a change in Drakonix. The emperor is summoning you!"He quickly got out of bed. After he freshened up, he put on his uniform and glanced back at the still-sleeping Serena. He gently kissed her forehead, saying, "Wait for me. I’ll be right back.”Xayne hastily left the villa. Outside, Ace and the rest had already assembled."Commander, there's a change in Drakonix. The emperor summoned you this morning," Ace reported as he approached Xayne and draped a black robe over the latter.Xayne frowned solemnly. "What happened? The emperor wouldn’t summon us unless there’s a significant border disturbance or a major event."Ace's expression mirrored the se
“But, sir..." Ace hesitated.However, the eight of them still handed over their weapons. Xayne was no exception as he handed over his Ravenclaw Dagger and Stalingrad Blade.Afterward, the Major General said, “We’ve prepared vehicles for you all. Please get in.”Xayne frowned and glanced at the man before approaching the awaiting vehicles. As he walked past, the Major General whispered to him, “Supreme Commander, Warren said not to act recklessly and do whatever the emperor says.”Xayne glanced at the Major General again and got into the car. Meanwhile, Ace and Augistin had to board separate cars. Soon, the group left the military airport and headed to the emperor’s pavilion, the most heavily guarded area in Drakonix.However, the cars carrying Ace and the others separated from Xayne’s car halfway through. Xayne noticed it and frowned again as his aura grew increasingly potent.Ace and the other Dracarium Warriors were outraged when they noticed their cars separating from Xayne’s.
Sure enough, all the sudden chaos was because of the Flame King.Xayne moved his chess piece with a faint smile. “I’ve heard about that.”The emperor continued, “You should know that international affairs are changing rapidly. Although Drakonia has five Supreme Commanders and can frighten the weaker nations, it’s still far from how powerful Westfordia is.“Flame King once commanded half a million troops. He’s strong enough and has the prestige to deter the powerful nations that were secretly eyeing Drakonia.”Xayne asked smilingly, “What do you plan to do, Your Imperial Highness?”The emperor looked at Xayne. “You’re always so impatient. I haven’t said anything yet, but you’ve already gone straight to the point.”Xayne continued to play chess. The chessboard already showed signs of encirclement as he said, “I’m a solder and only know how to serve the country. I have little knowledge of political strategies. If Your Imperial Highness has any arrangements, please speak directly.”
Xayne smiled faintly., "There are some grievances I must settle."The Emperor's expression became somewhat unpleasant, and he sighed. "The Bullards aren’t a small family you can easily deal with. Even I dare not do anything to them. If you want to deal with them because of what happened back then, you should consider the consequences.""I know," Xayne said severely, "Still, I must deal with them. If it involves some people, I hope Your Imperial Highness will step in when the time comes."The Emperor responded, "Since you’ve already decided, then go ahead. No matter who it involves, I will step in to resolve it for you.""Thank you." Xayne bowed and then turned to leave.Drake looked at Xayne’s departing figure and said, “Your Imperial Highness, if he takes action against the Bullards, I fear it’ll attract the attention of the other three major families. If the four families join forces, we might not be able to withstand it.”The emperor’s gaze turned cold. “Mr. Drake, do you thin
Two middle-aged men were having tea in a manor on Drakonix's outskirts. The leading man was in his forties or fifties, looking domineering.The man opposite him wore an expensive suit, looking refined and elegant. He had two bodyguards behind him.At that moment, the refined man said, “Congratulations on taking over the Northern Plains troops, Flame King.”The robust-looking Flame King smiled faintly and set down his teacup, saying, “Mr. Hadden, you’re too kind. I couldn’t have done it so quickly without your help.”Hadden Bullard burst into laughter as he said, “My family has always been on the same boat as you. Your interest is our interest. It’s an honor to help you, Flame King.”“You’re too generous, Mr. Hadden.” Flame King clasped his hands together and said, “Your family and I shall become one from today onward. We’ll share our fortunes. Please convey my greetings to the head of your family.”Hadden nodded and smiled. “Of course. Before I came, the head of the family said t
Xayne thought he had to take a good look around since he was leaving. When he arrived at the military theater, he saw Red Rose leading a large group of soldiers with steel spears. A thousand other soldiers followed her and rushed over.“The emperor is too harsh, Supreme Commander. We can’t just sit back and do nothing. The Northern Plains soldiers will never submit to the despicable Flame King.” Red Rose was annoyed. She was shocked when she received the notice from the Drakonian council.She assumed the higher-ups must have pressured Xayne to leave the Northern Plains.Thousands of soldiers behind Red Rose roared in unison, “We swear to follow the Supreme Commander to the death!”Xayne’s expression darkened as he took Red Rose’s spear and said, “Nonsense. Do you think this is a place to mess around? Have you considered the consequences of your actions? Return to your duties immediately.”“No! We’ll never watch you leave. We’ll go to Drakonix to demand an explanation for your term
On that day, the Northern Plains trembled, and Drakonia shook. The Celestial Dracarium Commander, the Supreme Commander of the Northern Plains, had resigned from his position at a young age.Still, he was only in his twenties. Though Drakonia’s commoners were somewhat unaware of the change, they felt immense regret.Xayne returned to Venzor half a day later. Upon reaching home, he discovered a crowd of people, most of whom were from the Swift family. Even Eric, Tim, Tony, and the others were present.Meanwhile, Serena sat on the sofa, looking worried. When she saw her husband, she ran to him and tearfully exclaimed, “Honey, where have you been?!”Xayne patted Serena’s back and comforted her, “I’m home now. Everything’s fine.”A while later, Serena let go of him and nervously asked, “The news just reported that you resigned from your position. Is it true?”Everyone eagerly awaited Xayne’s answer. He nodded faintly, replying, “Yes.”Serena sighed but said nothing. She knew his act
Violet walked over in concern and disbelief, asking, “Xayne, do you really have nothing left? Did you really resign?”She almost fainted when she heard the news. She had been counting on Xayne to bring honor and glory to the family, but the cold reality extinguished her fantasies.Xayne nodded. “Yeah, do you have any other questions?”Violet was stunned, wanting to say something, but Tony pulled her away. After everyone left, Xayne and Serena finally sighed in relief. The latter sincerely apologized, “I’m sorry they’re like that. Don’t take it to heart.”Xayne smiled and shook his head. “It’s okay. I'm used to it.”Serena looked at Xayne affectionately and said, “Whether you are the Supreme Commander or not, you are still my husband.”Xayne held her face and grinned. “Well, let’s continue doing what husbands and wives do.”“Wh-what do you mean?” Serena was startled, blushing. Although she understood his implication, it was broad daylight. Doing such a thing would be too embarras
Deanana glanced at Xayne as she coyly smiled. "Mr. Xayne, no need to be so reserved with me. After all, I used to be one of your admirers. I always thought you were an extraordinary man."Although it seems I misjudged you, still, you were a part of my girlish dreams. Don't let your current misfortunes bother you too much. People say a fallen phoenix is worse than a chicken, and while that's true, I happen to have a kind heart."Her words, though laced with laughter, were razor-sharp. Each one was a jab meant to cut deep.Her meaning was clear: "You might have been a shining star once, but now, you're nothing in my eyes—not even worth a second glance." Helping Xayne get his luggage was just an act, nothing more."Mr. Xayne, do you remember? Just a few years ago, at this very airport, you were returning from... oh yes, the Seven Nations Summit!"You know, I waited at the airport entrance for over four hours that morning just to get your autograph. But sadly, your security team didn'
"Heh, Miss Deanana, you also know that's all in the past. Even if he were still the King of the North, we live in peaceful times now. No one gets special privileges, right?" Dean chimed in smoothly, his tone laced with mockery."Dean! Do you even realize what you're doing?!" Aava could not hold back any longer, her eyes glaring fiercely as she clenched her fists in anger."Of course, I know what I'm doing, and I know neither of you are ordinary people. Thinking about hitting me? Don't forget, there are plenty of reporters over there. If you dare lay a hand on me, I'll make sure Xayne's reputation is ruined," Dean replied smugly.Dean's sneer widened into a wicked grin, the confidence radiating from him undeniable."Manager Dean, how about this? To be honest, I used to admire Mr. Xayne. Why don't you do me a favor and return his belongings? It would be a great gesture," Deanana interjected with a gentle smile.Upon hearing this, Aava bristled with fury. She knew Deanana was up to s
Dean's wild provocations quickly drew a crowd of onlookers.At that moment, a striking young woman stepped forward, removing her sunglasses as she made her way through the throng.The woman was dressed in an elegant black gown, the hemline revealing a pair of flawless, slender legs that caught everyone's attention. Her expression, however, was haughty, as though she looked down on everyone around her.She was Deanana Lovorka, the heiress of the Lovorka family conglomerate. While not exactly a household name, she was considered a minor socialite in the upper circles of Drakonix."Manager Dean, it's been a while!" Deanana greeted casually.As someone who frequently traveled abroad for business, Deanana was a familiar face at the airport and she had crossed paths with Dean on several occasions.But she was not here for a casual chat with Dean. It was far from it.She had come specifically to see Xayne.This was, after all, the legendary King of the North. Just six months ago, he w
"Do you have any idea whose luggage this is?" Aava asked coldly with a sharp and commanding tone.She was on the verge of revealing her special credentials—something she rarely used unless absolutely necessary. Xayne had been her hero, someone she deeply admired. The ridicule from Miodrag moments earlier had already pushed her to the edge, and now even a low-level airport staffer dared to humiliate him."Of course, I knew. Xayne, the King of the North six months ago; now he's just a regular civilian," the staffer replied with icy indifference. The staffer smirked. "Miss, do you think Xayne is still the mighty King of the North? There's no war, the capital isn't under siege, and he's utterly useless now. Take my advice—someone young and beautiful like you should stay far away from trash like Xayne. Get closer to someone like Young Master Dongfang instead. It'll do wonders for your future!"Dean swaggered over, cigarette dangling from his mouth, hands clasped behind his back. His ex
Upon hearing those words, both Xayne and Aava paused in surprise, then frowned in unison.The VIP lounge was clearly still operating as usual. Inside, over twenty people were relaxing—some reading newspapers and sipping coffee. There was no sign of any "closure" or "disinfection."It was obvious that this so-called announcement was deliberately targeting Xayne and Aava."Manager Li, isn't this going a bit too far? That's Xayne—formerly the King of the North. He has special privileges to use the VIP lounge. If this gets reported to higher-ups, we could all be in trouble…," whispered one of the airport staff, cautiously approaching Dean."Higher-ups? Haven't you heard? Young Master Lyuben already gave the order—anyone who sides with Xayne will see their entire family wiped out." Dean sneered, exhaling a cloud of smoke as he lit a cigarette."And even if the higher-ups find out, what can they do?" Dean added mockingly. "I'll admit, six months ago, I wouldn't have dared cross Xayne. B
Miodrag's laughter quickly caught the attention of onlookers in the bustling terminal. But their gazes were fixed not on him but on Xayne.The "King of the North" was a name nearly everyone recognized, yet no one dared approach him. Lyuben's warning had spread far and wide: anyone who got close to Xayne would face annihilation."Miodrag! What gives you the right to mock Mr. Xayne? Just hours ago, he was fighting on the front lines for this country. And you? What have you done besides indulge yourself in luxury?" Aava snapped with a sharp and clear voice."Heh, I pay taxes, don't I? Doesn't spending money generate tax revenue? Without people like me keeping the economy alive, what would Xayne have eaten in the north? Dirt?" Miodrag smirked, his tone dripping with mockery. He sneered and continued, "If not for us rich kids throwing around millions in donations every day, Xayne wouldn't even have warm dirt to eat!""Damn it! The nerve of that guy!""What's so special about the East
"Is it true that Xayne captured the so-called 'Lord of Light' alive?" Lyuben remained calm as he was playing a grand piano in the lounge."Indeed! Word is, the Lord of Light's master, Master Emin, was present as well. However, Xander also made an appearance. My analysis suggests it was Xander who forced Master Emin to retreat, while Xayne crippled the Lord of Light." An older man lowered his head respectfully as he spoke, his voice tinged with urgency."Oh? Defeating the Lord of Light… he must have had a trick up his sleeve. Was it some kind of tactic or setup?" Lyuben asked without betraying a hint of emotion."It's said that Xayne specializes in traps and ambushes. Otherwise, Hiram and his crew wouldn't have met their end in that mansion. Master Dongfang, you mustn't underestimate him!""Hmm?!" Lyuben's eyes shot open suddenly, piercing beams of icy resolve radiating toward the older man.The man immediately lowered his head further, not daring to meet the gaze of the young lead
"Lowes, what are you panicking for?" Zoro's cold gaze locked onto Lowes.Even though Lowes was several generations younger than him, as the head of the Bullard family, he had the status to stand on equal footing with Zoro."I'm not panicking, I just don't want to see more white funeral banners hanging at the Bullard family estate. If Xayne comes back and chooses to settle the score, do you think any of us can handle it? You might not know this, but back when King Quidie rebelled, even Klink didn't dare lay a hand on him," Lowes replied, his voice strained but steady.He paused, taking a long, slow breath to calm himself. "Put it another way, if Xayne comes for us, even KB Kings Circle won't step in to save us. If that doesn't scare you, then I don't know what will!"The air in the room grew colder. Lowes glanced around at the faces of the other family heads, hoping to see reason in their eyes. But then came a sneer.Zoro let out a low, disdainful chuckle. "Even if Xayne didn't die
"Xayne!" Zoro clenched his fists so tightly. If anyone had a grudge against Xayne, the Eastin family's hatred was no less than that of the Bullard family. Not to mention, Flamey had been killed by Xayne not long ago. This blood feud had to be settled.The Big Four weren't some weak, defenseless prey that Xayne could toy with as he pleased. For decades, the Big Four had controlled the heart of the Drakonia's economy. Every senator, governor, and political figure had to show them respect. But since Iver's death, the Big Four had lost their glow. People who once bowed their heads were now looking down on them. The root of all this was because of Xayne.That's why, after Flamey's death, the Eastin family had no choice but to call upon their master, a man who had been living in seclusion for decades. Every bit of information regarding Xayne's trip to Egenda, his plans, his contacts, and even his flight schedule had been deliberately fed to Lord of Light.They made it clear that the momen