Defeat the entire world with the power of one dragon!

Chapter 506 Lorthorn's Ambition, The New Federation Treaty
Just as they left the Romanian plains, news of the legendary attack on Iron Dragon Sorog reached Red Iron Dragon's ears through the bond of blood ties.

Between the mountains, the wind and snow were like knives.

The massive body of the Red Iron Dragon stood on the rugged mountain ridge, its dark red scales covered with a thin layer of snow.

He was maintaining his two-headed, four-armed fighting form, with his left head slightly lowered and his right head raised to the sky. His four dragon arms were pressed against the rocks on either side, with their sharp claws deeply embedded.

At the same time, a burning rage flickered in his heart, and the blood vessels in his eyes gradually increased.

Red Iron Dragon remained calm and asked, "Did you get a good look at the attacker's race or any other details like their appearance?"

Iron Dragon Sorog responded, "The attackers came prepared."

"Before they appeared, the attackers concealed their appearance with a domain, so all that could be seen was that they were humanoid creatures, but their features and specific race could not be seen."

After a pause, Sorog said with some regret, "Actually, it's still my problem. I'm not strong enough."

"If I am already a legend, at the very least, the Eye of True Sight can penetrate the barrier of the domain and see its appearance."

"If you are a legend, there will be more than one attacker."

Galos responded through blood ties: "Besides, who he is, and which kingdom or organization he comes from, is not important. Don't worry about that for now. The most important thing is to get to the Fubo Dragon Domain as soon as possible and then break through."

"When you return as legends, that will be the moment we truly bare our fangs and ignite the flames of war."

Iron Dragon and Red Dragon, the leader of the Iron Dragon and the leader of the Five-Colored Dragon.

Once these two beings break through to the legendary realm, even the ancient dragon Beskar, who is much older than them and has been a legend for decades, would find it difficult to contend with either of them.

This is a difference in bloodline.

After a brief exchange, Galos focused his attention on his career path.

Dragons progress through pathways as slowly as they progress through life levels.

The long period of slumber provides negligible benefits to pathway levels, so dragons' pathway levels are often lower than their life levels. This is a common predicament for all dragons and is why the vast majority of dragons rely more on talent and physical attributes than on their class pathways.

Fortunately, the path Galos chose was highly compatible with him.

After several major battles in the Dual Olympiad and the daily accumulation of experience before falling into slumber, his level has now improved.

Star Level: 16; Wild Level: 14; Eternal Level: 8.

Because of the existence of the Madfire, the Wildness level increased the most.

That flame that consumes reason, though dangerous, is controllable for him, and is the best tempering for the wild path.

In addition, after reaching Wild Rank 14, Garoth naturally gained a powerful skill.

Anger knows no fear of death—extreme anger will refuse to die!

This skill grants the Wild Dragon a short-term death saving grace when it is hit by a fatal attack.

If Wild Dragon can end the battle during this period, he can seize a sliver of hope and turn death into near-death. This is an ability that walks on the edge of a knife and requires the most powerful fighting desire to erupt at the most desperate moment.

"Before obtaining the Undying Life trait, I could only trigger Fearless Wrath once, because it requires actual death."

A glint of light flashed in Garros's eyes: "And now, I can trigger it twice."

Thinking of this, he felt a sense of relief.

The skill "Fearless of Death" is actually a very dangerous double-edged sword. Triggering it means death, and if the battle is not over after the short death immunity expires, death will come irreversibly.

It doesn't offer much security for a regular wild dragon.

However, Galus was different.

He possesses three characteristics: facing death with equanimity, unwavering resolve, and immortality. These can all be combined with his fearlessness in the face of death, creating a chain reaction that amplifies each other and ultimately produces a terrifying effect.

"The next skill in the Path of Eternal Death requires level eleven, which is still quite a distance away."

Galos pondered, "The Star Self Path requires level seventeen. I'm currently level sixteen, so it won't be long. Moreover, the next Star Self skill will be extremely powerful, and its improvement on me will be no less than that of Fearless Wrath."

"Let's continue, I need to become stronger."

Hong Tielong gradually gathered his scattered thoughts and immersed himself back in his workout.

Several days later, at dusk, leaden-gray clouds hung low, and fine snowflakes began to fall again.

Galos has finished one round of path training and is preparing to begin a new round of honing his skills in the field, which will take about seven days.

Just then, his movements paused slightly.

Immediately, Galos took out a glowing emblem from his spatial equipment and gazed at it silently.

The emblem is dark gold, with the coat of arms of the Lorthorn royal family engraved on its surface, and the light on it flickers rhythmically, like breathing.

This was a communication tool he used specifically to communicate with King Lorthen.

However, more than forty years ago, the King Lorthorn whom Garros knew had already passed away.

The king named O'Brien has turned to dust with the passage of time, and the current king of Lorthorn, as O'Brien said, is more like his ninth son.

"O'Brien's ninth son."

Red Iron Dragon's eyes flashed, and then he activated the emblem.

The light suddenly intensified, bursting forth and twisting and converging in the air in front, quickly constructing a clear humanoid projection.

This person wore a simple gold crown inlaid with sapphires. Apart from that, he did not have any of the magnificent attire of a king. Instead, he was dressed in light armor and had a sword at his waist, like a warrior about to go into battle lightly armed.

His facial features were well-defined, and he looked like an average person around thirty years old.

She has a youthful appearance, with her blonde hair neatly styled and tied into a simple bun at the back of her head. She has thick eyebrows, deep-set eyes, a high nose bridge, and lips pressed into a straight line, giving her an overall impression of competence and determination.

Hong Tielong's gaze shifted, lingering for a second longer on the man's face and the sword at his waist.

This person bears a striking resemblance to O'Brien, especially his eyes.

The sword at his waist was also the Dawn King Sword, which had once belonged to O'Brien and fought alongside him. The wear marks on the scabbard and the way the rope was wrapped around the hilt were exactly the same as those on the old king.

However, although the sword remains unchanged, the person wielding it is no longer the same.

The person standing before Garros was Raymond Lorthorn, the current king of Lorthorn.

Raymond was also sizing up the Red Emperor, his pupils contracting for a moment.

Although he already knew what the Red Emperor looked like through paintings, magical images, and descriptions from some people, he was still somewhat shocked to see him in person.

It's hard to imagine that such a majestic and powerful creature could exist in the world.

This was unlike any dragon he knew.

"Greetings, Your Majesty King of Aura, Garos Ignas."

King Lorthorn remained composed, suppressing his momentary shock, and nodded slightly to the red iron dragon.

"First of all, please allow me, on my own behalf and in the name of the entire Lorthene royal family, to offer my sincerest congratulations on your successful awakening from your slumber and your increased strength."

Raymond said calmly, "We, Lorthen, have always cherished our friendship with Aura."

"This friendship began with my father and has stood the test of time, becoming an indispensable cornerstone of the relationship between our two countries."

The red iron dragon nodded its massive head slightly in response, but remained silent, simply gazing at King Lorthorn and awaiting his next words.

He knew that such formal magical communication was definitely not just for the purpose of greetings.

Raymond's choice to contact him at this time likely indicates that he has something important to discuss.

Under the watchful gaze of the red iron dragon, Raymond stood tall and straight, his smile fading slightly, replaced by a more solemn expression.

His hands hung naturally at his sides, without any unnecessary movements. He was like a sharp sword sheathed, its edge concealed, but ready to be drawn at any moment.

This king himself also possessed considerable talent, reaching the legendary realm.

“My father, King O’Brien, mentioned you to me more than once during his lifetime.”

Raymond began the formal conversation: "He said that while Lorthorn was locked in a stalemate with Reipos, it was the support from Aura that created an opportunity for Lorthorn."

"He emphasized that the King of Aura is a powerful and reliable ally, and urged me to continue the friendship and alliance with the Kingdom of Aura. He also said that in an era full of uncertainties, a trustworthy ally is more valuable than ten legions."

“There are some stories about the Red Emperor that I’ve heard since I was a child.”

Upon hearing these words, the dragon's eyes remained calm and undisturbed.

Although the content of O'Brien's son's retelling is similar, the context has changed.

On the other side, Raymond observed the dragon's reaction and continued to advance the topic.

“I always remember my father’s teachings and have witnessed the flourishing development of the Kingdom of Aura.”

"Therefore, since taking office, I have been thinking about how to make our alliance closer and better meet the needs of the new era."

"The old alliances were built on the urgent needs of war, but now, peace and development are the main themes on the Romanian plains."

At this point, he changed the subject: "To be honest, I am very proud of my father's achievements."

"When Lorthorn was in peril, he stepped forward decisively, supporting the collapsing kingdom with his own strength, and allowing it to be reborn from the ashes."

"He was a true king, a leader who knew how to make the right choices at the right time." "And I, on the day I ascended the throne, swore that I would never fail the glory of my late king."

Raymond raised his voice slightly and continued, "Lothar will be great again in my hands, and peace and tranquility among the Romanian nations will continue. This is not an empty slogan, but a promise I am fulfilling."

"To this end, I have been pushing for a plan to rebuild the former Lorthern Federation."

At this point, a glint flashed in the king's eyes.

"Thanks to Lorthern's reputation and the efforts of these years, we have successfully won over nearly two-thirds of the former Federation countries."

"They are willing to reunite around the banner of Lorthene under a new framework, not as a simple vassal relationship, but as a more equal and mutually beneficial alliance."

two-thirds
Red Iron Dragon narrowed his eyes, pondering that if Raymond was telling the truth, then Lorthene's influence had recovered to a considerable level.

But he didn't say much and continued to listen.

In the projection, Raymond took a step forward, and the sense of distance was shortened.

"This is precisely the important reason why I contacted you today."

Raymond looked directly into the eyes of the Red Iron Dragon and said frankly, "I think it's time to examine and update the alliance between our two countries. The old alliance, though solid, is no longer suitable for the times."

"Back then, we needed to fight the enemy together; now, we need to create prosperity together."

Hearing this, Hong Tielong raised his head slightly.

He asked bluntly, "You want to sign a new alliance with Aura?"

Raymond nodded readily.

“Yes, and not just Aura,” he replied. “This alliance is called the New Federation Treaty, and Lorthern will sign it with all nations willing to rebuild the federation.”

"It will replace the scattered treaties of the past and form a unified alliance framework."

He paused for a moment, then briefly explained the core contents of the new federal treaty to Galos.

"After the signing, the Kingdom of Aura will receive more favorable trade tax rates; militarily, Lorthern will pledge to provide assistance to any member state in the event of an external attack, and of course, member states are also obligated to provide support to Lorthern when needed."

"The Federation is also willing to acknowledge the interests of the Kingdom of Aura in some disputed areas."

"We will support Aura's legitimate rights in the disputed area."

Hong Tielong's gaze suddenly sharpened.

He said in a low voice, “Recognize interests? Disputed territory? King Raymond, which land are you referring to? Be more specific.”

Raymond paused slightly, then looked directly into Red Iron Dragon's eyes without looking away.

"The ownership of the two provinces that Aura seized from Theo is still under some dispute."

"Moreover, although the Kingdom of Theo signed the Norton Treaty, some of its contents are actually inappropriate, such as the restrictions on legends and the permanent clauses on territorial cession."

Controversial, inappropriate.
O'Brien would never say something like that.

His offspring did not truly resemble him, or rather, only partially resembled him.

Red Iron Dragon's expression returned to calm, his emotions hidden beneath the heavy mask.

“I hope that Aura and Lorthene will sign a new federal treaty.”

Raymond looked intently at the red iron dragon and said, "This will be the opportunity to open a new chapter in the relationship between our two countries. The new alliance will surely dominate the future of the Romanian plains."

Having said this, the king awaited the red iron dragon's reply and said no more.

A brief silence followed, broken only by the howling of the wind and snow.

Snowflakes landed on the red iron dragon's scales, instantly evaporating due to its body heat, turning into fine white mist. In the distance, the sound of an avalanche came from the mountain ridge, muffled like thunder.

A few seconds later, Red Iron Dragon slowly spoke, his voice low and steady, revealing no emotion.

"King Raymond".

“I admire your father, O’Brien. He was a wise and courageous monarch who knew how to assess situations and understood the value of allies. He knew when to be tough, when to compromise, and when to fight.”

“Aura has never forgotten his friendship.”

Red Iron Dragon gave the late King Lortheon high praise, which brought a smile to Raymond's eyes.

This king was truly proud of his father and took him as a role model, hoping to make contributions to Lorthorn that were no less than his father's, or even surpass them.

"Similarly, I admire your ambition."

Galos continued, his tone steady: "Rebuilding the Lorse Federation and integrating the Romanian states is no easy task; it requires both courage and skill."

Raymond nodded slightly and smiled, "Thank you for your understanding."

"My father often said that true strong people know how to appreciate the ambitions of other strong people. The friendship between Lorthorn and Aura will last forever and shine even brighter in the new era."

However, what Red Iron Dragon said next caused the king's smile to freeze slightly.

"However, regarding the alliance, my choice is clear."

"Our existing alliance with the Kingdom of Lorthene, which was concluded with the mutual approval of both parties, clearly defines our respective rights, obligations and boundaries."

"In the past, it has played its due role in safeguarding the interests of both countries and avoiding unnecessary misunderstandings."

"To this day, it remains effective and robust."

"Aura is not prepared to change the alliance."

Raymond's smile faded, and he said, "Excuse my bluntness, but times are changing."

"The old treaty may be stable, but it can no longer bring maximum benefits to both of us. Under the new federal framework, Aura can gain more..."

"If Aura wants the benefits, she'll go and get them herself."

Galos interrupted him, saying, "I respect your ambitions and your national policies, but the future and path of the Kingdom of Aura are to be decided by me, and need not be bound to the framework of a federation that has not yet been established."

After the Federation is rebuilt, Lorthern will undoubtedly gain more benefits.

But where will these benefits come from?
The new federal treaty Raymond spoke of was a poisoned syrup; no matter how good it seemed, Galos was not prepared to sign it.

"……I see."

Raymond finally spoke slowly, his tone steady, but lacking the initial enthusiasm.

"I understand what the King of Aura means."

The king said, “Lotharn still values ​​his friendship with Aura and respects your decision. The existing alliance will remain in effect. It may be somewhat outdated, but as you said, it is clear and reliable.”

He paused for a moment, then continued, "If you change your mind, we would also welcome you to sign a new federal treaty with Aura."

"This invitation is valid indefinitely; the doors of the Lorthern Federation will always be open to Aura."

There's no need to continue this discussion at this point.

But before ending the conversation, Red Iron Dragon suddenly spoke again.

"King Raymond, there's one more question. The Kingdom of Theo... have they already signed the 'New Federation Treaty' you mentioned with Lorthern?"

Raymond was silent for a moment.

Then, the king nodded and chose to be honest.

There was no need to hide the fact that a new federal treaty had been signed. Aura only needed to keep a close eye on diplomatic developments and observe the interactions between Lorthern and Theo to discover the changes in the relationship between the two countries.

"Theo is now one of Lortherne's allies."

“They signed the new federal treaty three months ago. Theo believes that joining the federation will help their economic recovery and provide Theo with a safer environment.”

"However, Lorthern will not interfere in the matter between Aura and Theo."

“Under the federal framework, historical issues between member states should be resolved through peaceful negotiations and diplomatic consultations, not through war.”

"We only hope that the two countries can coexist harmoniously, and together with all other countries that yearn for peace, make the Romanian plains more prosperous and make peace the main theme."

"War brings only pain, while cooperation brings common prosperity."

As soon as those words were spoken, the projected light dimmed and gradually dissipated.

The red iron dragon stood amidst the mountains, recalling his conversation with King Lorthen, when suddenly he let out a sneer, flames erupting from his nostrils.

Peace?

What Lorthorn wants now is not peace.

More accurately, it simply wants peace under its own control.

If we had to use another word, it would be 'rule'.

As for the king's so-called non-interference, no, he is already interfering.

However, Galos didn't care about this.

King Lorthorn was ambitious and wanted to go further; how could he not want to as well?
Power is the ultimate language. Galos has had enough of the formalities with the nations. When the two Princes of Aura return as legends, he will once again show his claws after years of silence and personally tear apart the false facade of peace.

(End of this chapter)