Chapter 426 The Golden Dragon King Departs
Time flows by silently, like the waters of a tranquil sea.
Because the fairy dragon Vera successfully attracted the attention of most of the young metal dragons, Garos was able to enjoy a rare moment of peace and quiet, leisurely appreciating the scenery of the Eternal Radiance Dragon Realm.
Over the past few days, he has strolled through this land of dragons, witnessing its magnificence and grandeur far beyond what ordinary people can imagine.
The sky over the Eternal Dragon Realm is not a constant azure blue, but rather presents a dreamlike transformation.
At times, the sky seemed to flow with molten gold, scattering golden rays of light; at other times, it appeared to be paved with liquid mithril, spreading a cool and sacred silver glow.
These are not simply light and shadow effects, but rather aurora formed by highly condensed elemental energy on the sky.
They not only illuminated the entire Dragon Realm with breathtaking beauty, but also effectively isolated it from all forms of prying and probing from the outside world.
The architecture of the metal dragons is also very distinctive, full of the aesthetics and power of the dragon race.
Galus once saw a magnificent building in the distance, known as the "Thousand-Scaled Spire".
It was not made of ordinary materials, but was carefully inlaid and constructed from the old scales that countless dragons voluntarily donated.
Under the ever-changing light, this spire reflects countless flowing colors, like a living rainbow.
It is said that it can unleash attacks equivalent to those of an ancient dragon.
Besides the dragons that form the main body, the Dragon Realm is also home to a wide variety of other intelligent or magical beings.
Flocks of crystalline birds with wings that shimmer like colorful gems, cloud spirits frolicking in the clouds during lulls in the dragon's might, and even colossal elemental giants composed of pure elements.
They typically exist as servants of certain powerful dragons.
These creatures far outnumbered actual dragons.
However, their existence is mostly related to dragons, and they are the creatures that provide various conveniences and services to the rulers of this land.
In a dense, lush forest, Garus walked at a leisurely pace.
To avoid being discovered by the dragon, he maintained his human form.
With a tall and imposing figure, smooth and powerful muscle lines, even with his dragon might concealed, his majestic and imposing aura still commands attention.
Around her, Deborah flitted through the woods like a graceful butterfly.
She enthusiastically picked all kinds of fruits that shone with an alluring luster, or collected the glistening nectar and dew that condensed on the petals and leaves, and then fed them to Galus, letting him taste the unique flavors nurtured by this land.
As always, siblings Natasha and Alberto bickered and joked all the way, their arguments and laughter never ceasing.
The atmosphere was exceptionally pleasant and relaxed.
Galos experienced a rare sense of tranquility away from the hustle and bustle, as well as a feeling of mental relaxation.
Just then, the sky suddenly darkened.
A huge shadow swept across the forest clearing.
As if sensing something, Galos looked up and met the gaze of a golden dragon circling low in the sky.
The aura emanating from the dragon was quite familiar to Galos.
It was none other than the Golden Dragon Karus, whom he had previously defeated head-on in the Arena Sea under the spotlight.
Karus's sharp dragon eyes stared down at Garos, who was in human form.
Although it was the first time he had seen the other party in this form, based on the deep impression left by that fierce battle and the undeniable qualities on the other party, Karus instantly concluded that the strong, towering man in front of him was the Red Iron Dragon Champion who had defeated him.
The golden dragon decisively retracted its enormous wings, adjusted its posture, and swooped down like a golden meteor, landing on a clearing in the forest.
At the same time as landing.
With a soft yet dazzling light shifting, his enormous dragon body rapidly shrank and reshaped, transforming into human form as well.
Appearing before Galos was a tall, handsome young man with striking blond hair and emerald green eyes.
He was dressed in a crisp and neat soldier's uniform, and his demeanor was calm and reserved.
"Wow... I feel like I've seen this somewhere before?"
As Garus gazed at the golden dragon in human form before him, a strange sense of déjà vu arose within him.
In particular, the other person's clear and deep blue eyes left a deep impression on him.
As far as he knew, unless they had undergone special disguises or were among a very few individuals with unique bloodlines, the vast majority of golden dragons had pupils of varying shades of gold, like Alberto and Natasha.
Such emerald green eyes are extremely rare among the Golden Dragon Clan.
Unfortunately, Galos searched his memory carefully but could not recall the source of this feeling of familiarity.
He could only shake his head slightly and focus his attention on Karlus in front of him.
Why did this golden dragon come looking for me on purpose?
Could it be that the opportunity I had previously envisioned—being provoked by a loser in the Dragon Realm and then staging a "show-off and face-slapping" scene—is finally coming?
Thinking of this, Galos felt a slight boost in his spirits and prepared himself to deal with any situation.
"Hey, isn't this 'Dawn Wing' Karus from the Eternal Radiance Dragon Domain? What, did you come all this way here specifically to avenge your defeat and have another fight?"
Natasha was the first to raise her eyebrows.
She leaped to Garus's left front, put her hands on her hips, and said to Carius in a smirk, "So, are you mentally prepared to get beaten to a pulp and run away with your tail between your legs again?"
"Let me warn you first, our Garos won't be lenient with you just because you're a golden dragon!"
Alberto, on the other side, was also enjoying the spectacle and deliberately raised his chin, striking an arrogant pose.
He jumped to Garus's right front and chimed in rudely to Carus, "Hmph! Want a second challenge?"
"Hehe, I advise you to think it through."
"He'll definitely beat you to your knees and then humiliate you severely, letting you know what the difference in skill is!"
Carius paused involuntarily as he took his first step.
He stared at the two men in front of him, whose behavior was completely out of character of Jinlong and who seemed more like street thugs than men. His emerald eyes revealed a look of surprise and uncertainty.
Are these two... really noble golden dragons?
Why does it feel like some evil dragon disguised itself and came to cause trouble?
Seeing the two golden dragons acting so irresponsibly, Garus almost lost his composure.
"You two, that's enough."
He spoke in a low voice, taking a step forward and using his strong body to push Natasha and Alberto to the sides, repositioning himself directly in front of Carius.
He looked calmly at Karus and nodded slightly to him.
"My two companions are rather outgoing and their words can be offensive, but not intentionally."
The look of surprise and doubt on Karl's face slowly faded, and he regained his previous composure.
He shook his head, showing no anger, and said calmly, "Hmm... a golden dragon with this kind of personality is indeed rare."
"However, genuine fellow clansmen are always better than those who are merely polite and hypocritical."
After speaking, Carius's gaze fell on Galus again, becoming serious.
"Garos Ignas, the Red and Iron Dragon".
"Although we fought in the arena in dragon form not long ago, please allow me to formally introduce myself in human form now—I am Carius Villapellion."
He straightened his back, gracefully placed his right hand on his left chest, and performed a simple yet standard metal dragon salute.
This... we've finally encountered a genuine golden dragon that matches the description in the historical records!
Galos felt a slight sense of emotion, and even a strange excitement arose within him.
Prior to this, he had only met four Golden Dragons, namely Alberto's family.
However, this family of Golden Dragons... cannot be judged by common sense. Each one has its own "characteristics," and their personalities are more and more unexpected than the last.
In contrast, Karius's words and actions are more in line with the orthodox golden dragon image described in the Dragon Legacy.
“I came here not to cause trouble or to save face,” Karl said calmly, his eyes clear and sincere. “I lost that battle fair and square.”
"I deeply admire the strength and skill you have shown."
His eyes gleamed with seriousness as he continued, "I don't consider myself weak among my peers. In fact, there was a time when I became arrogant because of the praise and compliments of my clansmen, and I thought I could sweep away all creatures below the legendary level."
"But that battle with you was like a bucket of ice water poured over my head, making me completely humble and sober up."
"It made me truly realize what it means to have heavens beyond heavens and dragons beyond dragons."
Under Galos's calm gaze, he continued, "Therefore, I hope to become your friend."
"I have no other ulterior motives; I simply want to get to know a dragon like you. If possible, I would like to have the opportunity to learn some combat skills and experience from you."
These words were spoken in a calm and composed tone, with an attitude that was neither humble nor arrogant, and were full of respect for the strong and reflection on one's own path.
Compared to him, Natasha and Alberto, who were still winking and trying to cause trouble, suddenly seemed even more abnormal.
As Galos looked into Karus’s calm and unique blue eyes, a sense of déjà vu resurfaced in his heart.
However, this feeling is still like looking at flowers through the fog, unable to grasp the exact source.
He didn't press the matter further, but instead composed himself and re-examined the extraordinary golden dragon before him.
“I admire your composure, Karus.” Galos’s voice was slightly softer than before. “In that battle, you also showed me the indomitable will and resilience of the golden dragon.”
"As for seeking advice... that's not really an option."
"Mutual learning and improvement are also very beneficial to me. I would be happy to have the opportunity to communicate with you again in the future."
Upon hearing Galus's reply, Carus was slightly moved.
The dragon's reputation is widespread.
Before he came, he had made various assumptions in his mind, thinking that he might be met with a cold reception or even verbal humiliation.
But he didn't expect that this red iron dragon would be so magnanimous and broad-minded.
Despite being the undisputed victor, he showed no arrogance or smugness in his words, instead treating his defeated opponent with equality and sincerity.
His gaze inadvertently swept over Deborah, Natasha, and the others around him, and he suddenly understood.
No wonder the Red Iron Dragon can gather these metal dragons around him... Well, although the personalities of the two gold dragons among them seem... a bit unconventional, the fact that they can all genuinely acknowledge him is itself an extraordinary skill.
“I lost that battle decisively, and I know the root cause is the huge gap in strength between us,” Carius asked earnestly. “However, I believe there must be areas where I can improve.”
"In your opinion, what is the most pressing shortcoming I need to address?"
After a moment's thought, Galos pointed out the crux of the matter: "Your talent is immense, and your potential is limitless, but the problem is that your physical strength is far from keeping up."
"If you absorb too much energy in a short period of time, your body will be the first to be overwhelmed."
"My advice is not to rely too much on the advantages that talent brings."
"A tall building rises from the ground; a body strong enough to withstand all kinds of forces is the most solid foundation for all abilities to be effective."
Karus stared at the Red Iron Dragon's still imposing and powerful body in human form, a thoughtful expression on his face.
He nodded slowly and said, "I have always been proud of my siphon talent and have devoted a lot of energy to how to use it better. Indeed... I have neglected to hone my own skills."
“You’re right. I should make my body strong enough to match my talent.”
If we disregard talent and only compare the same life level and dragon size,
In terms of sheer physical strength, he was a step below Alberto, merely at the level of an ordinary golden dragon.
Immediately afterwards, Carius naturally followed Galus to his side.
Jinlong walked alongside him, constantly asking him various questions about combat and training.
Two adversaries who once fought fiercely under the spotlight are now peacefully conversing in the quiet forest in human form, creating an unexpectedly harmonious atmosphere.
Deborah, standing to the side, blinked and watched this scene with a faint smile on her face.
She was pleased to see Garus being recognized by more metal dragons.
Natasha and Alberto exchanged a knowing glance, seemingly finding the scene a bit too formal and not lively enough.
Soon after, Garros's gaze fell once again on Karus's emerald eyes, and with a hint of inquiry, he asked, "Emerald eyes are very rare among golden dragons. Karus, if I may ask, besides your pure golden dragon bloodline, do you have the blood of other dragons flowing through your veins?"
Karlus shook his head slightly.
He said, "My eye color is probably inherited from His Majesty the Dragon King. As far as I know, he also has a pair of emerald green eyes."
Galos's heart stirred, and he asked, "I see... So, what is the current situation of the Golden Dragon King?"
Carius shook his head and replied, "I don't know."
"In fact, I only had the honor of seeing His Majesty the Dragon King once, when I first displayed my siphoning talent in my childhood."
"Aside from that, I have never seen him in person, nor do I have much information about his current situation."
Although they were descendants sharing the same blood, Karus's tone when mentioning the Golden Dragon King did not sound like that of someone treating a familiar and affectionate elder.
That respect and awe carried a distinct sense of distance.
It's more like talking about a leader of high status who is unattainable.
Deborah explained softly to Garos, "The dragon kings of the five dragon domains are all ancient dragons who have lived for thousands of years. Their lifespans are not long, and they are used to living in seclusion."
"Unless they have developed a strong interest in something, they rarely show themselves in front of their people."
Ancient dragons, with lifespans of thousands of years, have a completely different view of their offspring than ordinary metal dragons.
Even a direct descendant as outstanding as Karus has only seen the Golden Dragon King once so far.
Upon hearing the name of this mysterious Lord of the Eternal Radiance Dragon Realm, Garos became interested.
"Did you inherit your talent directly from the Golden Dragon King? Also, I've heard that this Dragon King possesses twenty-four completely different and powerful talents. Is this rumor true?"
He asked repeatedly.
"Whether my talent is inherited or a mutation I was born with, I myself am not entirely sure," Karl Ustan said sincerely, his expression becoming even more solemn. "As for His Majesty the Dragon King's talents... no one can know exactly what they are or how many kinds there are. Most of the versions circulating outside are just speculations."
He paused, then lowered his voice slightly, "However, I have heard some senior elders mention that His Majesty the Dragon King seems to have been trying to refine and fuse his many talents into a single, unique one."
"Simplifying complexity and reaching the pinnacle of achievement, it is said that this is the path to immortality he chose for himself."
"Unfortunately... judging from the current situation, it seems that His Majesty has not been able to achieve his wish."
As the group walked and talked, before they knew it, the view opened up before them, and the dense forest came to an end. Galos and his party were back on that familiar, vast beach.
Meanwhile, the fairy dragon Vera had reverted to her original form, collapsing listlessly onto a smooth rock warmed by the sun, her little wings drooping.
She's really having a blast these days, indulging in the "star-studded attention" to the fullest.
However, maintaining the illusion of the Iron King was extremely taxing on her, almost exhausting her. She had no choice but to dispel the illusion, revert to her original form, and wait for Garos and the others to return at the pre-arranged location.
Not long ago, Natasha and Alberto received a message.
After checking, they immediately informed Galos that arrangements had been made with his father, Orvis, and notified them to prepare to depart for the Fubo Dragon Domain.
"Carus, it seems we shall part ways here."
"I am about to leave the Eternal Radiance Dragon Domain. Perhaps we will meet again someday."
At the edge of the beach, after a brief farewell to the golden dragon, Galos turned around without looking back, as if to leave, while silently counting the beat in his mind.
one two three……
Sure enough, just as he paused slightly, before he had actually taken a few steps...
"Please wait!"
Almost simultaneously, Carius's clear voice called out from behind, urging her to stay.
"My dragon-taming skills are quite effective even in the Dragon Realm."
Galos's lips curled up slightly, but he quickly suppressed the smile as he turned away, regaining his calm and reliable demeanor as he looked at Karus with a composed expression.
"Is there anything else?"
He asked.
Carius stepped forward and said, "I wonder... if we could exchange contact information?"
He paused, then explained, "While the Eternal Radiance Dragon Domain is excellent, it is ultimately just a corner of the vast world."
“Sometimes I long to leave the Dragon Realm and experience firsthand the vast mountains, rivers, lakes, seas, and myriad races. But I always thought that the outside world was nothing special and that it was better to stay in the Dragon Realm.”
"And this failure made me determined."
"When I am fully prepared and ready to travel to the mainland, I hope... I can visit the place where you are. I am very curious about what kind of land could nurture such a powerful and unique dragon as you."
Galos nodded and transmitted his communication stone frequency to Carius.
He looked at Karus and said, "When you are ready to come to my territory, perhaps... you will be able to witness a grand event."
Upon hearing this, Carius's spirits lifted slightly, and he pressed for details: "A grand event? What exactly do you mean?"
Galos gave a mysterious smile, keeping everyone in suspense as he transformed into a riddle dragon: "You'll know once you go there yourself."
The in-depth conversations with Karl the Golden Dragon along the way were certainly not meaningless idle chatter.
Without a strong enough background, one is easily coveted by others.
Then let's create the background ourselves!
When he officially establishes his kingdom in the Wilderness of Sel, if he can invite this "direct descendant of the Golden Dragon King" and "genius of the Eternal Radiance Dragon Domain" to oversee things, and then do some publicity and promotion... Garos can guarantee that at least half of those potential, malicious eyes on him and his new kingdom will disappear.
Karlus was clearly intrigued and said solemnly, "Very well, then I'll wait and see."
"I'll be ready soon, and I'll wait for your message."
Immediately, under his gaze, Galos strode forward and walked to an open area on the beach.
His body rapidly expanded and transformed in a sudden burst of intense light, reverting to its majestic and imposing form as a red iron dragon.
Immediately afterwards, Deborah, Natasha, Alberto, and the others also dispelled their shapeshifting spells, revealing their true dragon forms.
Whew! Whew!
The enormous dragon wings flapped, whipping up gusts of wind that whipped up sand and caused the nearby waves to surge and churn.
Several enormous dragons flapped their wings simultaneously, their powerful force pushing through the air and soaring into the sky. Then they adjusted their direction and flew towards the location of the Fubo Dragon Domain.
P.S.: I've had a persistent fever for the past few days and have been on IV drips for three consecutive days, so updates have been infrequent. Please forgive me.
(End of this chapter)
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