Defeating the World with the Power of One Dragon!

Chapter 504: Lorthorn's Ambition, New Federation Treaty

Just after leaving the Romanian Plains, the news of the iron dragon Sorog being attacked by a legendary being reached the ears of the red iron dragon through the bond of the Bloodline Connection.

Amidst the mountains, the wind and snow were as sharp as blades.

The red iron dragon's massive form stood atop the jagged mountain ridge, its dark red scales covered in a thin layer of accumulated snow.

He was maintaining his two-headed, four-armed combat form. His left head was slightly lowered, while his right head was raised towards the sky. His four dragon arms pressed against the mountain rocks on either side, his sharp claws deeply embedded.

Simultaneously, the frenzied flame flickered within his heart, and the blood vessels in his eyes gradually increased.

The red iron dragon remained calm and asked, "Did you get a clear look at the attacker's race, or any details like their appearance?"

The iron dragon Sorog responded, "The attacker came prepared."

"Before appearing, the attacker concealed their appearance with a Domain. I could only tell it was a humanoid creature. Couldn't see their face or specific race."

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

"If I were already legendary, at the very least, the Eye of Truth could have pierced the Domain's obstruction to see their true form.""If you were legendary, the attacker wouldn't have been alone."

Garoth responded through the Bloodline Connection, "Furthermore, who he is, and which kingdom or organization he comes from, these aren't that important. Don't dwell on this matter for now. The urgent priority is to reach the Vophal Dragon Domain as quickly as possible and then break through."

"Once you both return with legendary bodies, that will be the moment we formally bare our fangs and light the beacon fires."

The iron dragon and the red dragon, the leader of the Iron Hybrid Dragons and the leader of the Five-colored Dragons.

Once these two existences break through to the legendary realm, even the Ancient Dragon Beskarl, who is much older than them and became legendary decades earlier, would find it difficult to contend with either one of them.

This is the gap in bloodline.

After a brief exchange, Garoth focused his mind, concentrating his attention on his own professional Paths.

The speed of a dragon's advancement in their Paths is as slow as their Life Level.

Long periods of slumber provide minimal gains to Path levels. Therefore, a dragon's Path level is often lower than their Life Level. This is a common predicament for all great dragons and the reason why the vast majority of dragons rely more on their innate talents and physical bodies rather than their professional Paths.

Fortunately, the Paths Garoth chose have an extremely high compatibility with him.

After several major battles during the Twin-Ao War and the day-by-day accumulation before his slumber, his levels have now all increased.

Star Path level: sixteen; Wild Path level: fourteen; Eternal Death Path level: eight.

Due to the presence of the frenzied flame, among these, the Wild Path level increased the most.

That flame that burns away reason, though dangerous, is controllable for him, and it serves as the best tempering for the Wild Path.

Furthermore, after the Wild Path reached level fourteen, Garoth naturally obtained a powerful skill.

Rage Without Fear of Death—extreme rage rejects death!

This skill allows a Wild Dragon to gain a temporary state of death immunity when struck by a fatal attack.

If the Wild Dragon can end the battle within this period, they can seize a sliver of life, transitioning from death to a near-death state. This is an ability that walks the razor's edge, requiring the eruption of the most powerful fighting desire at the most desperate moment.

"Before obtaining the Undying Life trait, I could only trigger Rage Without Fear of Death once, because it requires genuine death."

A sharp glint flashed in Garoth's eyes. "But now, I can trigger it twice."

Thinking of this, he felt a wave of reassurance.

The skill Rage Without Fear of Death is actually a very dangerous double-edged sword. Triggering it means one has already died. If the battle hasn't ended by the time the short death immunity period concludes, then death will descend irreversibly.

For ordinary Wild Dragons, it doesn't bring much sense of security.

However, Garoth is different.

He possesses the three traits: Born from Death, Unyielding Perseverance, and Undying Life. All of these can synergize with Rage Without Fear of Death, interlocking and mutually enhancing each other, ultimately unleashing a rather terrifying effect.

"The next skill on the Eternal Death Path requires level eleven, still quite a gap."

Garoth pondered internally. "As for the Star Path, it requires level seventeen. I'm at sixteen now, so it won't be too long. Moreover, the next Star Path skill will be exceptionally formidable. Its boost to me won't be weaker than Rage Without Fear of Death."

"Continue. I need to become stronger."

The red iron dragon gradually reined in his wandering thoughts, immersing himself once more in his training.

At dusk several days later, lead-grey clouds hung low, and fine snowflakes began to drift down again.

Garoth had just finished a round of Path training and was about to begin a new round of Domain tempering, which would likely take about seven days.

Right at that moment, his movements paused slightly.

Immediately after, Garoth retrieved a glowing emblem from his spatial equipment and gazed at it quietly.

The emblem was dark gold, its surface engraved with the crest of the Lothrian royal family. The light on it pulsed rhythmically, brightening and dimming like breathing.

This was the communication device he specifically used to communicate with the King of Lothrian.

However, over forty years ago, the Lothrian king Garoth was familiar with had passed away.

That king named O'Brien had turned to dust with the passage of time. The new monarch of Lothrian now was the ninth son O'Brien had spoken of, the one who was more like him.

"O'Brien's ninth son..."

The red iron dragon's eyes flickered, and then he activated the emblem.

The light suddenly intensified, shooting out, twisting and gathering in the air ahead, rapidly constructing a clear humanoid projection.

This person wore a simple gold crown inlaid with sapphires. Beyond that, he wasn't adorned in the lavish attire typical of a king. Instead, he wore light armor with a sword at his waist, resembling a warrior about to set out lightly equipped.

The lines of his face were clear, appearing roughly around thirty years old by ordinary human standards.

His appearance was youthful. His blond hair was meticulously combed, tied into a simple bun at the back of his head. He had thick eyebrows, deep-set eye sockets, a high-bridged nose, and lips pressed into a straight line. Overall, he gave off a capable and resolute impression.

The red iron dragon's gaze shifted, lingering for an extra second on his face and the sword at his waist.

This person's appearance was sixty to seventy percent similar to O'Brien's, especially those eyes.

The sword at his waist was also the Dawnlight King's Sword that once belonged to O'Brien, the one he fought alongside. The wear marks on the scabbard, the way the cord was wrapped around the hilt—all were identical to the old king's.

However, although the King's Sword remained unchanged, the one wielding it was not the same person as before.

The person before Garoth's eyes was the current King of Lothrian, Raymond Lothrian.

Raymond was also sizing up the Red Emperor, his pupils contracting for an instant.

Although he had long known the Red Emperor's appearance through paintings, magical images, and descriptions from others, seeing him with his own eyes now still evoked a sense of awe.

It was hard to imagine such a profoundly majestic and formidable creature existing in the world.

He was utterly different from any dragon in Raymond's understanding.

"Greetings, esteemed King of Aola, Garoth Ignas."

The King of Lothrian maintained a normal expression, controlling that momentary awe, and gave a slight nod to the great red iron dragon.

"First, allow me, in my personal name and that of the entire Lothrian royal family, to offer our most sincere congratulations on your successful awakening from slumber and becoming even stronger."

Raymond's voice was steady. "We of Lothrian have always cherished our friendship with Aola."

"This friendship began with my father. Having stood the test of time, it has become an indispensable cornerstone in the relations between our two nations."

The red iron dragon gave a slight dip of his massive head in acknowledgment but did not speak. He simply gazed quietly at the King of Lothrian, waiting for the other party to continue.

He understood that such formal magical communication was definitely not just for greetings.

Raymond choosing to contact him at this point in time most likely involved important matters.

Under the red iron dragon's gaze, Raymond stood tall and straight, the smile on his face receding somewhat, becoming more solemn.

His hands hung naturally at his sides without any superfluous movements. The entire man resembled a sharp sword sheathed, its edge concealed but ready to be drawn at any moment.

This king himself also possessed considerable talent, having stepped into the legendary realm.

"My father, the late King O'Brien, mentioned you to me more than once during his lifetime."

Raymond began the formal conversation. "He said that when Lothrian was locked in stalemate with Reebos, it was the support from Aola that created an opportunity for Lothrian."

"Some stories about the Red Emperor, I've heard since I was a child."

Listening to these words, the dragon's pupils remained calm and unrippled.

The son of O'Brien's retelling, though similar in content, had changed in context.

Opposite him, Raymond observed the dragon's reaction and continued advancing the topic.

"I have always remembered my father's teachings and have personally witnessed the flourishing development of the Aola Kingdom."

"Therefore, after ascending the throne, I have been contemplating how to make our alliance closer and more suited to the needs of the new era."

"The old alliance was established under the urgent demands of war. But now, peace and development are the main themes on the Romanian Plains."

At this point, he shifted the direction of his words. "To be frank with you, I take great pride in my father's achievements."

"When Lothrian was in peril, he decisively stepped forward, using his own backbone to prop up the falling Lothrian, allowing this kingdom to be reborn from great calamity."

"He was a true king, a leader who understood how to make the right choices at the right time."

"And I, on the day of my succession, vowed that I would never betray the glory of the late king."

Raymond's voice rose slightly as he continued, "Lothrian will become great again under my hand, and the peace and tranquility among the Romania nations will also continue. This is not an empty slogan but a commitment I am actively fulfilling."

"To this end, I have been promoting a plan to rebuild the former Lothrian Federation."

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

"Relying on Lothrian's prestige and efforts over these years, we have successfully drawn in nearly two-thirds of the original Federation nations."

"They are willing to reunite under Lothrian's banner within a new framework. This is not a simple vassal relationship but a more equal and mutually beneficial alliance system."

Two-thirds...

The red iron dragon's eyes narrowed slightly as he pondered. If what Raymond said was true, then Lothrian's influence had recovered to a considerable degree.

But he didn't say much, continuing to listen.

In the projection, Raymond took a step forward, closing the sense of distance.

"This is precisely the important reason for my contacting you today."

Raymond looked directly into the red iron dragon's eyes, speaking candidly. "I believe it is time to review and update the alliance treaty between our two nations. The old alliance, though solid, can no longer adapt to the current era."

"Back then, we needed to jointly resist enemies. Now, we need to jointly create prosperity."

Hearing this, the red iron dragon raised his head slightly.

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

Raymond nodded frankly.

"Yes, and not just with Aola," he replied. "This treaty is named the New Federation Treaty. Lothrian will sign it with all nations willing to rebuild the Federation."

"It will replace the scattered treaties of the past, forming a unified alliance framework."

After a pause, he briefly outlined the core content of the New Federation Treaty to Garoth.

"After signing, the Aola Kingdom will receive more favorable trade tariffs. Militarily, Lothrian will pledge to provide assistance whenever any member nation suffers external attack. Of course, member nations also have the obligation to provide support when Lothrian needs it."

"The Federation is also willing to acknowledge the Aola Kingdom's interests in certain disputed regions."

"We will support Aola's legitimate rights in the disputed regions."

The red iron dragon's gaze suddenly sharpened.

His voice was low. "Acknowledge interests? Disputed regions? King Raymond, which lands are you referring to? Be more specific."

Raymond's voice paused slightly, then he looked directly into the red iron dragon's eyes without evasion.

"The ownership of the two major provinces Aola took from Theo is still subject to some dispute."

"Moreover, although the Theo Kingdom signed the Norton Treaty, some of its contents are actually inappropriate. For example, the restrictions on legendaries, the permanence clauses regarding territorial cession."

Dispute, inappropriate...

O'Brien would never say such things.

His offspring wasn't truly like him. Or rather, he was only like him in part.

The red iron dragon's expression became calm once more, his emotions hidden beneath the heavy faceplate.

"I hope Aola and Lothrian will sign the New Federation Treaty."

Raymond gazed intently at the red iron dragon and said, "This will be the opportunity to open a new chapter in the relations between our two nations. The new alliance will undoubtedly dominate the future of the Romanian Plains."

Having said this, the king waited for the red iron dragon's reply, saying no more.

A brief silence fell, with only the howling wind and snow.

Snowflakes fell on the red iron dragon's scales, instantly evaporated by his body temperature into fine white mist. In the distance, the sound of an avalanche came from the mountain ridge, dull as thunder.

A few seconds later, the red iron dragon slowly spoke, his voice low and steady, betraying neither joy nor anger.

"King Raymond."

"I admired your father, O'Brien. He was a monarch possessing both wisdom and martial prowess. He understood how to assess the situation and knew the value of allies. He knew when to be firm, when to compromise, and when to fight."

"His friendship, Aola has not forgotten."

The red iron dragon gave high praise to the late King of Lothrian, causing a trace of a smile to appear in Raymond's eyes.

This king truly took pride in his father and also saw him as a role model, hoping to make contributions to Lothrian that were no less than, or even surpassed, his father's.

"Similarly, I also admire your ambition."

Garoth continued, his tone steady. "Rebuilding the Lothrian Federation, integrating the Romania nations—this is no simple matter. It requires boldness and skill."

Raymond gave a slight nod and smiled. "Thank you for your understanding."

"Father often said that true strong individuals know how to appreciate the ambitions of other strong individuals. The friendship between Lothrian and Aola will endure, blooming with even more dazzling brilliance in the new era."

However, the red iron dragon's next words caused the king's smile to stiffen slightly.

"But, regarding the matter of the alliance treaty, my choice is very clear."

"The existing alliance between us and the Lothrian Kingdom was concluded with mutual recognition. It clearly stipulates each other's rights, obligations, and boundaries."

"In the past, it served its intended purpose, safeguarding the interests of both nations and avoiding unnecessary misunderstandings."

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

"Aola is not prepared to change the alliance."

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

"The old treaty may be solid, but it can no longer bring maximum benefit to both of us. Under the new Federation framework, Aola can gain more..."

"If we want benefits, Aola will take them ourselves."

Garoth interrupted him, saying, "I respect your ambition, your state policy. But the future and path of the Aola Kingdom are determined by me. There is no need to bind it to a Federation framework that hasn't even been established yet."

After rebuilding the Federation, Lothrian would undoubtedly gain more benefits.

But where would these benefits come from?

The New Federation Treaty in Raymond's mouth was a piece of poisoned honey. No matter how good it looked, Garoth had no intention of signing it.

"...I understand."

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

"The intention of the King of Aola is now clear to me."

The king said, "Lothrian still values its friendship with Aola and respects your decision. The existing alliance will continue to be effective. It may be somewhat outdated, but as you said, it is clear and reliable."

He paused before continuing, "If you change your mind, we also welcome Aola to sign the New Federation Treaty."

"He emphasized that the King of Aola was a powerful and reliable ally, instructing me to **be sure to** continue the friendship and alliance with the Aola Kingdom. He also said that in an era full of variables, a trustworthy ally is more precious than ten legions."

At this point, there was no further need to continue the conversation.

But before ending the dialogue, the red iron dragon suddenly spoke again.

"King Raymond, one more question. The Theo Kingdom... have they already signed this 'New Federation Treaty' you mentioned with Lothrian?"

Raymond fell silent for a moment.

Then, the king nodded, choosing candor.

There was no need to hide the matter of signing the New Federation Treaty. Aola only needed to pay close attention to diplomatic movements and observe the interactions between Lothrian and Theo to detect the change in relations between the two nations.

"Theo is now one of Lothrian's allied nations."

"They signed the New Federation Treaty three months ago. Theo believes joining the Federation will aid their economic recovery and also provide a safer environment for Theo."

"However, Lothrian will not interfere in matters between Aola and Theo."

"Under the Federation framework, historical issues between member nations should be resolved through peaceful negotiations and diplomatic consultations, not war."

"We only hope the two nations can coexist harmoniously, together with all other nations yearning for peace, to make the Romanian Plains more prosperous and let peace become the main theme."

"War brings only pain, while cooperation will bring shared prosperity."

With these words spoken, the projection's light dimmed, gradually dissipating.

The red iron dragon stood amidst the mountains, recalling the conversation just held with the King of Lothrian. Suddenly, he let out a derisive snort, flames emerging from his nostrils.

Peace?

The Lothrian of today does not desire peace.

More accurately, it only wants peace under its own dominance.

If one were to choose another word, it would be 'rule'.

As for the non-interference spoken of by its king... No, they are already interfering.

However, Garoth was not concerned about this.

The King of Lothrian had ambitions, wanting to advance further. How could he not want the same?

Power is the ultimate language. Garoth had had enough of the cumbersome formalities with the various nations. Once the two Royal Dukes of Aola returned with legendary bodies, he, who had been dormant for years, would once again bare his claws and fangs, personally tearing open the false facade of peace.