James smiled robotically. Stiffly, he stood up, just like a wooden puppet. Step by step, he left Century Hospital.

He bought Thea her ranking, making her the laughing stock of Cansington and the medical conference.

He did not care.

He left Medical Street. After he left, he studied his surroundings to make sure that he was not being followed. Then, he called a cab to Common Clinic.

At Common Clinic.

Ronn was there.

He was talking to May in the clinic.

James walked in.

Both of them stood up immediately and said simultaneously, “James.”

James waved a hand and sat down before saying, “Have you found out who was trying to kill me this morning?”

Ronn nodded. “I’ve got all the information.”

“Tell me.”

Ronn said, “These people arrived in Cansington eight days ago. They’re mercenaries from the border of the Southern Plains. They’re part of the Purgatory Army.”

“Oh, the Purgatory Army?”

James narrowed his eyes.

Having been at the Southern Plains for 10 years, he was familiar with