Chapter 33: The Dragon Throne

"Please, come in!"

Walter nodded to Jared in greeting. From Walter's perspective, Tommy's respect for Jared stemmed solely from his family's wealth and power, not Jared's own abilities.

The moment Jared entered the villa with Tommy, he sensed a powerful surge of spiritual energy. In the garden, he saw a cluster of trees with incredibly thick trunks, so large they almost blocked out the sun. As they walked further, he admired the exquisitely landscaped grounds, culminating in a pavilion of classical design.

"Mr. Grange, your trees must be very old," Jared remarked, sensing the energy emanating from them.

"Mr. Chance, these trees are hundreds of years old," Tommy explained. "That's why Mr. Grange built his villa here."

Jared nodded, understanding Walter's choice of Horington, despite its unassuming nature. Places imbued with spiritual energy were ideal for a long and healthy retirement; the energy countered the effects of aging.

After walking down a corridor, they reached the main hall. It was filled with antique furniture, each piece at least a century old. A dragon throne, carved with nine giant dragons, dominated the center of the hall. Draped in a golden throw, it appeared constantly in use.

Jared frowned, staring at the throne.

"Please, have a seat."

Walter gestured casually before settling onto the throne.

Once Tommy and Jared were seated, Walter summoned servants to serve coffee.

"Mr. Lewis," Walter began, "whatever you need my help with, please speak freely." He clearly knew Tommy had a request.

After a glance at Jared, Tommy said, "Mr. Grange, since you're known for your antique collection, we'd like to ask if you have any spiritual calligraphy brushes—the kind used by ancient scholars? Also, we're looking for cinnabar rosaries imbued with fresh animal blood."

Walter knitted his brows in thought. "Spiritual brushes?"

"Mr. Grange, we're not asking for them for free," Tommy interjected, reassuringly. "If you have them, we're happy to pay whatever price you name."

Walter smiled. "There's no need. If I have them, I'll gladly give them to you. Money is of no use to me."

"That's true," Tommy agreed, nodding repeatedly. "Money is meaningless to you."

Walter shook his head. "Calligraphy brushes are consumables; it's nearly impossible to find old ones. As for cinnabar rosaries imbued with fresh animal blood—I've never heard of such a thing. However," he continued, "you might find them in a monastery. Priests often use them in exorcism rituals, and their brushes might retain some spirituality."

Jared's face lit up. He'd forgotten that possibility. Priest's brushes would certainly be imbued with spiritual energy, and a cinnabar rosary was also likely. He could focus his search on monasteries rather than scouring Antique Street.

"Mr. Grange, thank you for your guidance," Jared said, bowing.

Walter chuckled. "Don't mention it. It was just a suggestion."

"Mr. Grange, where did you acquire the dragon throne?" Jared asked.

"Oh? You recognize its significance?" Walter said proudly. "I purchased it overseas—a genuine dragon throne from an ancient dynasty. An emperor once sat on it." He gently traced his fingers across the throne, his affection evident.