Just after leaving Romanian Plains, the news that Iron Dragon Sorog was attacked by the Legendary Realm reached the ears of Red Iron Dragon through the bond of Blood Kin Link.
Between the mountains, the wind and snow are like knives.
Red Iron Dragon's huge body stood on the rugged ridge, its dark red scales covered with thin snow.
He is maintaining a fighting form with two heads and four arms. The head on the left side is slightly lowered, and the head on the right side is raised toward the sky. Four Dragon Arm are pressed against the rocks on both sides, with their sharp claws deeply embedded.
At the same time, Frenzied Flame was swaying in my heart, and the bloodshot eyes gradually grew.
Red Iron Dragon remained calm and asked, "Did you see details such as the attacker's race or appearance?"
Iron Dragon Sorog responded, "The attackers came prepared."
"Before appearing, the attacker had covered his appearance with his domain. It could only be seen that he was a humanoid creature, but his appearance and specific race could not be seen."
The voice paused, and Sorog said with some regret, "Actually, it's still my problem, I'm not strong enough."
"If I have Legendary Realm, at least Eye of True Sight can pass through the obstacles in the field and see its appearance clearly."
"If you were Legendary Realm, there wouldn't be only one attacker."
Garos responded through Blood Kin Link: "Besides, who he is, and which kingdom or organization he comes from, these are not important. Don't worry about it for now. The top priority is to get to the Wave-Subduing Dragon Realm as soon as possible and then break through."
"When you return as Legendary Realm, it will be the time for us to officially show our fangs and ignite the beacon."
Iron Dragon and the red dragon, the first of Ferrous Dragon and the first of Chromatic Dragon.
Once these two beings break through to the Legendary Realm realm, even Ancient Dragon Beskar, who is much older than them and has become Legendary Realm decades earlier, will find it difficult to compete with either of them.
This is a bloodline difference.
After a simple exchange, Garos concentrated his attention on his career path.
The improvement speed of Dragonkin in terms of channels is as slow as that of Life Level.
The benefit of a long slumber to Path Level is minimal, so the Path Level of Dragonkin is often lower than that of Life Level. This is a common dilemma for all dragons, and it is also the reason why most dragons rely more on talent and body rather than professional paths.
Fortunately, the path chosen by Garos is highly compatible with him.
After several battles with Two-Ao War, as well as day after day of preparation before falling asleep, his level has now improved.
Star-Self Level: sixteen; wild level: fourteen; Eternal Death Level: eight.
Because of the existence of Frenzied Flame, among them, the wild level has increased the most.
The kind of flame that burns away reason, although dangerous, is controllable here, and it is the best training for Wild Path.
In addition, after reaching the wild level fourteen, Garos naturally acquired a powerful skill.
Fury Defies Death--Extreme anger will refuse death!
This skill allows Wild Dragon to obtain a short-term death saving throw state when subjected to a fatal attack.
Wild Dragon If you can end the battle during this period, you can seize a glimmer of hope and turn from death to near-death. This is the ability to walk on the edge of a knife, which requires the strongest desire to fight at the most desperate moment.
"Before getting the Undying Life trait, I can only trigger Fury Defies Death once because it requires real death."
A glint flashed in Garos's eyes. "And now, I can trigger it twice."
Thinking of this, he felt relieved.
Fury Defies Death This skill is actually a very dangerous double-edged sword. Triggering it means death. After the short-term death saving throw is over, if the battle is not over, death will come irreversibly.
For ordinary Wild Dragon, it cannot bring much sense of security.
However, Garos is different.
He has three characteristics: Rebirth at Death's Door, Unyielding and Undying Life, all of which can be combined with Fury Defies Death, interlocking with each other, and ultimately exerting a terrifying effect.
"Eternal Death Pathway The next skill requires level 11, and there is still a long way to go."
Garos thought in his mind, "Star-Self Path requires level 17. I am now level 16, so it won't take long. Moreover, the next Star-Self skill will be very powerful, and the improvement for me will not be weaker than that of Fury Defies Death."
"Go on, I need to get stronger."
Red Iron Dragon gradually converged his divergent thoughts and immersed himself in exercise again.
At dusk a few days later, the leaden gray clouds hung low and fine snow particles began to drift again.
Garos has finished a round of path training and is preparing to start a new round of field training. This round will take about seven days.
At this moment, his movements paused slightly.
Immediately, Garos took out a glowing emblem from the space equipment and stared at it quietly.
The emblem is dark gold in color, with the coat of arms Lothern Royal House engraved on the surface. The light on it flickers on and off rhythmically, like breathing.
This is Communication Artifact that he specifically communicates with King Lothern.
However, more than forty years ago, the king Lothern that Garos was familiar with had passed away.
The king named O'Brien has turned into dust in the passage of time. The current new king Lothern is what O'Brien said, more like his ninth son.
"O'Brien's ninth son."
Red Iron Dragon's eyes flickered, and then he turned on the emblem.
The light suddenly intensified, burst out, twisted and converged in the air in front, and quickly constructed a clear human-shaped projection.
This man wore a simple gold crown inlaid with sapphires. Apart from this, he did not have any gorgeous attire similar to that of a king. Instead, he wore light armor and a sword at his waist, like a warrior about to go into battle lightly.
His face has clear lines, and he has the appearance of an ordinary person in his thirties.
He looks young, his blond hair is meticulously combed and tied into a simple bun on the back of his head, his eyebrows are thick, his eye sockets are deep, his nose is high, and his lips are pressed into a straight line. Overall, he gives off a capable and determined look.
Red Iron Dragon's gaze shifted and stayed on his face and the sword on his waist for a second longer.
This person's appearance is 60-70% similar to O'Brien, especially his eyes.
The sword on his waist once belonged to O'Brien and Dawn King Sword who fought with him. The wear marks on the scabbard and the way the rope is wrapped around the hilt are exactly the same as those of the old king.
However, although Wang Jian has not changed, the sword wielder is not the same person as before.
The person in front of Garos is the current king Lothern, Raymond·Lothern.
Raymond was also looking at Red Emperor, his pupils contracted for a moment.
Although he had long known the appearance of Red Emperor through paintings, magical images and some people's descriptions, but now that he saw it with his own eyes, he still felt a little shocked.
It is hard to imagine that there can be such majestic creatures in the world.
This was completely different from any dragon he knew.
"Greetings to you, Dear King of Aura, Garos·Ignas."
King Lothern looked normal, controlled the shock at that moment, and nodded slightly to Red-Iron Dragon.
"First of all, please allow me, personally and in the name of Lothern Royal House as a whole, to offer my most sincere congratulations for your successful awakening from slumber and becoming stronger."
Raymond said in a steady voice, "We at Lothern always cherish our friendship with Aura."
"This friendship began with my father and, after the test of time, has become an indispensable cornerstone of the relationship between the two countries."
Red Iron Dragon tapped his huge head as a response, but did not make a sound. He just looked at King Lothern quietly, waiting for the other party's next words.
He knew that this formal magical communication would never be just for greetings.
Raymond chose to contact him at this time, there is a high probability that there is something important.
Under the gaze of Red Iron Dragon, Raymond stood tall and straight, and the smile on his face softened a little and became more solemn.
His hands hang naturally by his sides without any unnecessary movements. His whole figure is like a sword in a sheath, with its edge restrained but ready to be unsheathed at any time.
This king himself also has good talents and has stepped into the realm of the Legendary Realm.
"My father, the late King O'Brien, mentioned you to me more than once during his lifetime."
Raymond started a formal conversation. "He said that when Lothern and Ribos were in a stalemate, it was the support from Aura that created an opportunity for Lothern."
"He emphasized that King of Aura is a strong and reliable ally, and urged me to continue the friendship and alliance with the Aura Kingdom. He also said that in an era full of uncertainties, a trustworthy ally is more precious than ten legions."
"There are some stories about Red Emperor that I have heard since I was a child."
After hearing these words, the giant dragon's eyes were calm and unperturbed.
O'Brien's son's retelling, although the content is similar, the context has changed.
On the opposite side, Raymond observed the dragon's reaction and continued to advance the topic.
"I always bear in mind my father's teachings and have witnessed with my own eyes the vigorous development of the Aura Kingdom."
"Therefore, after taking office, I have been thinking about how to make our alliance closer and more in line with the needs of the new era."
"The old covenant was built on the urgent needs of war, but now, peace and development are the main themes of Romanian Plains."
At this point, he changed the subject. "To tell you the truth, I am very proud of my father's achievements."
"When Lothern was in danger, he stood up decisively and used his backbone to support Lothern, who was about to fall, so that the kingdom could be reborn in the disaster."
"He is a true king, a leader who knows how to make the right choices at the right time."
"And I, on the day I succeeded to the throne, swore that I would never let down the glory of the late king."
Raymond's voice rose a little and continued, "Lothern will be great again in my hands, and the peace and tranquility between Romanian States will also continue. This is not an empty slogan, but a promise that I am fulfilling."
"To this end, I have been promoting a plan to rebuild the Lothern Federation of the past."
Having said this, the king's eyes flashed with light.
"With Lothern's reputation and our efforts over the years, we have successfully won over nearly two-thirds of the original Federation countries."
"They are willing to reunite around the Lothern flag under a new framework. This is not a simple vassal relationship, but a more equal and reciprocal alliance system."
two thirds
Red Iron Dragon narrowed his eyes slightly and thought in his heart. If Raymond is telling the truth, then Lothern's influence has been restored to a considerable level.
But he didn't say much and continued to listen.
During the projection, Raymond took a step forward, and the distance was shortened.
"This is the important reason why I contacted you today."
Raymond looked directly into Red Iron Dragon's eyes and said frankly, "I think it's time to review and update the alliance between our two countries. Although the old alliance is stable, it can no longer adapt to today's era."
"Back then we needed to fight our enemies together, now we need to work together to create prosperity."
Hearing this, Red Iron Dragon raised his head slightly.
He spoke bluntly and asked, "Do you want to sign a new covenant with Aura?"
Raymond nodded calmly.
"Yes, and it's not just Aura." He replied, "This covenant is called New Federation Treaty, and Lothern will be signed with all countries that are willing to rebuild Federation."
"It will replace the fragmented treaties of the past and form a unified alliance framework."
After a pause, he briefly explained the core content of New Federation Treaty to Garos.
"After signing, Aura Kingdom will receive more preferential trade tax rates; militarily, Lothern will promise to provide assistance when any member state is attacked by an external attack. Of course, member states are also obliged to provide support when Lothern needs it."
"Federation is also willing to acknowledge Aura Kingdom's interests in some disputed areas."
"We will support Aura's legal rights in the disputed area."
Red Iron Dragon's eyes suddenly became sharp.
He said in a low voice, "Recognize interests? Disputed areas? King Raymond, which land are you referring to? Be more specific."
Raymond's voice paused slightly, and then he looked directly into Red Iron Dragon's eyes without avoiding it.
"There are still some disputes over the ownership of the two major provinces that Aura captured from Theo."
"Moreover, although Theo Kingdom signed Nolton Treaty, some of the contents are actually inappropriate, such as the restrictions on the Legendary Realm and the permanent clauses on territorial cession."
Controversial and inappropriate.
O'Brien would not say such things.
His heir doesn't really look like him, or rather, he only looks like a part of him.
Red Iron Dragon's expression became calm again, and his emotions were hidden under his thick mask.
"I want Aura and Lothern to sign New Federation Treaty."
Raymond looked at Red Iron Dragon with burning eyes and said, "This will be an opportunity to open a new chapter in the relationship between our two countries. The new alliance will definitely shape the future of Overlord Romanian Plains."
Having said this, the king waited for Red Iron Dragon's reply and stopped talking.
There was a brief silence, with only the wind and snow howling by.
Snowflakes fell on Red Iron Dragon's scales, and were instantly evaporated by body temperature, turning into fine white mist. There was the sound of an avalanche on the distant ridge, as dull as thunder.
A few seconds later, Red Iron Dragon slowly spoke, his voice low and steady, with no hint of emotion or anger.
"Raymond King."
"I admire your father, O'Brien. He is a wise and brave monarch. He knows how to assess the situation and understands the value of allies. He knows when to be tough, when to compromise, and when to fight."
"His friendship, Aura will never be forgotten."
Red Iron Dragon spoke highly of the late king Lothern, which made Raymond smile in his eyes.
This king is really proud of his father, and he also takes him as an example. He hopes to make a contribution to Lothern that is not inferior to his father, or even surpasses him.
"Similarly, I appreciate your ambition."
Garos continued with a calm tone, "Rebuilding Lothern Federation and integrating Romanian States is not a simple matter. It requires courage and skill."
Raymond nodded slightly and said with a smile, "Thank you for your understanding."
"My father often said that truly strong people know how to appreciate the ambitions of other strong people. The friendship between Lothern and Aura will last forever and shine even more dazzlingly in the new era."
However, Red Iron Dragon's next words made the king's smile freeze slightly.
"However, regarding the covenant, my choice is clear."
"The existing covenant between us and Lothern Kingdom was concluded with the approval of both parties. It clearly stipulates each other's rights, obligations and boundaries."
"In the past time, 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 covenant."
Raymond's smile faded and he said, "Please forgive me, times are changing."
"The old treaty may be stable, but it can no longer bring maximum benefits to both of us. Under the new Federation framework, Aura can obtain more..."
"If you want benefits, Aura will get them yourself."
Garos interrupted him and said, "I respect your ambitions and your national policy, but the future and path of the Aura Kingdom are decided by me and do not need to be bound to the Federation framework that has not yet been completed."
After rebuilding Federation, Lothern will undoubtedly gain more benefits.
But where will these benefits come from?
The New Federation Treaty in Raymond's mouth is a piece of poisonous honey. No matter how good it looks, Garos is not prepared to sign it.
"... I understand."
Raymond finally said slowly, with a calm tone, but lacking the initial enthusiasm.
"I already know what King of Aura means."
The king said, "Lothern still values the friendship with Aura and respects your decision. The existing covenant will continue to be valid. It may be a little outdated, but as you said, it is clear and reliable."
He paused and continued, "If you change your mind, we are also welcome to sign New Federation Treaty with Aura."
"This invitation is valid for a long time, and Lothern Federation's door will always be open to Aura."
At this point, there is no need to talk further.
But before ending the conversation, Red Iron Dragon suddenly spoke again.
"King Raymond, I have another question, Theo Kingdom... Have they signed the <New Federation Treaty> you mentioned with Lothern?"
Raymond was silent for a moment.
Then, the king nodded and chose to be honest.
There is no need to hide the signing of New Federation Treaty. As long as Aura carefully monitors the diplomatic trends and observes the interaction between Lothern and Theo, we can discover the changes in the relationship between the two countries.
"Theo is now one of Lothern's allies."
"They signed New Federation Treaty three months ago. Theo believes that joining Federation will help their economic recovery and also provide a safer environment for Theo."
"However, Lothern will not interfere with the matters between Aura and Theo."
"Under the Federation framework, historical issues between member states should be resolved through peaceful negotiations and diplomatic consultations, not war."
"We only hope that the two countries can coexist harmoniously, and together with all other countries that long for peace, let Romanian Plains become more prosperous and make peace the main theme."
"War brings only pain, but cooperation will bring common prosperity."
As these words fell, the projected light became dim and gradually dissipated.
Red Iron Dragon stood among the mountains, recalling the conversation with King Lothern just now, and suddenly let out a sneer, and flames emerged from his nose.
Peace?
What Lothern wants today is not peace.
To be more precise, it just wants peace under its own leadership.
If I had to change another word, it would be "domination".
As for the non-interference that the king said. No, he is already interfering.
However, Garos doesn't care about this.
Lothern King is ambitious and wants to go further. Why doesn't he want to?
Power is the ultimate language. Garos has had enough of the red tape with other countries. When the two Aura Princes return as Legendary Realm, he will once again show his claws after being silent for many years and personally tear apart the false scene of peace.