บท 22: Fang Hao, The 'Dragon'

"City Lord Fang, who will be responsible for bringing these youths to the sect?" an old man inquired, his gaze drifting to his daughter in the distance. She was a peak talent, much like Hao and the others.

Fang Xiong recognized the man, having known him since the founding of the city, and was well-acquainted with his concerns.

"Old Gu, don't worry. This time, I'll personally accompany them to the sect. With me there, you can be confident that nothing will happen to your daughter. I'll ensure their journey is not only safe but also quite impressive,"

Fang Xiong assured, chuckling as he offered reassurance to the concerned elder.

Old Gu's eyes widened as he looked next to Fang Xiong and noticed a young child among the recruits, realizing that it was his son.

"I see, time sure flies. With you escorting them, the sect will treat them better. This must be Fang Hao, right?" Old Gu inquired, his gaze shifting towards Hao.

As he spoke, both the youths and the older generation turned their attention to Hao, closely inspecting him and realizing that he appeared to be just like any other recruit.

"Yes, it's time for him to enter the sect," Fang Xiong confirmed with a nod. He then turned his attention to the recruits, his gaze landing on the less talented individuals among them.

"The blue-ranked talented individuals will have to undergo a trial in the sect to join. The rest can be recruited immediately," he announced his tone firm.

Voices from the seated youths began to murmur and complain, prompting Fang Xiong to raise his aura, quelling the unrest. "Do you think I am being unfair?" he asked, randomly pointing at one of them.

"Lord, I wouldn't dare," the intimidated youth quickly shook his head.

Another, more audacious one beside him spoke up, "I believe some of us are stronger compared to a few individuals with more talent," a young woman with rough, training-worn hands and several scars said, her eyes fixed on the seemingly more gifted candidates.

"You're right, you are stronger," Fang Xiong agreed, his gaze filled with a sense of satisfaction that someone had spoken up.

"The sect prioritizes talent for the easier path, but as blue-ranking talented individuals, you possess the potential to reach the top. Of course, it won't be easy—talent is an important factor. However, considering your abilities, passing the trial should be well within your reach."

Observing her lack of reply but understanding the situation, Fang Xiong appreciated her candidness.

This kind of straightforwardness was what a true cultivator should possess—a strong backbone and the wisdom to know when to advance and retreat.

He then turned his gaze toward the mountain and shouted, "Long Chen, do you want to give us a ride, or should I do it myself?"

A slight tremor ran through the city as everyone's attention shifted upward, observing a colossal dragon head emerging from a misty array.

This mighty creature acted as the guardian of the mountain, having forged a pact with the city lord to offer aid when required, serving both their interests.

"Fang Xiong, did you genuinely awake me for this?" grumbled the dragon, its tone clearly vexed by the interruption.

"It's for my son. I want to leave a favorable impression," Fang Xiong explained, winking at Fang Hao, who stood there speechless, wondering, 'Am I really that important?'

The dragon, known as Long Chen, paused momentarily before extending its colossal form and gracefully soaring towards them. "Fine, but just this once," it grumbled, its boredom evident, yet still agreeing to a short journey.

Every gaze remained fixed upon the massive dragon as it descended onto the plaza. Its head boasted a sleek, serpentine shape, adorned with curving horns that gleamed like polished ebony in the light.

The dragon's eyes, akin to pools of iridescent onyx, bore a gaze that seemed capable of piercing into the depths of one's very soul. Its formidable jaw displayed sharp fangs, a clear testament to its predatory nature.

When it landed, its big wings stretched out, and the thin pieces between its bones formed a pattern that looked like the colors of sunset. The dragon's presence made everyone feel amazed, and a quiet respect filled the air.

"Get on!" The dragon's resounding roar jolted everyone, causing them to startle and gather around quickly. Its powerful wings stretched wide as it lowered itself, creating a platform for them to climb onto.

Fang Xiong confidently stepped onto the dragon's head, his stance steady, with Hao at his side. Despite feeling a bit awkward on the massive creature's back, he quickly found his balance as the dragon began to ascend.

As the dragon slowly lifted into the sky, Fang Xiong erected a protective barrier around them, ensuring their safety.

The city below began to shrink rapidly, its features blurring into tiny details until it resembled nothing more than a dot amid the vast expanse of clouds.

With a mighty roar that reverberated through the air, the dragon announced its presence to all. 'I, Long Chen, have awakened!'

With a single powerful wing flap, it propelled itself forward towards the sect, leaving an imposing spectacle that struck terror into anyone who happened to be on the ground below.

Both cultivators and mortals alike shared a common awe as the colossal dragon passed overhead, casting a vast shadow that enveloped them. With a wingspan of 1000 meters, the dragon's impressive size was a sight to behold.

Outside the cave, Hao's mother and Yu Rui stood together, amused by Fang Xiong's dramatic entrance. Fang Hao's arrival was undoubtedly going to be a surprising moment.

Fang Jing then looked at her disciple, understanding that it was her choice to let the sword pass.

Yu Rui kept up a innocent look, as if she didn't know what was happening, and she kept watching the dragon leave with a smile.

Hao's mother shook her head, choosing to overlook it, even if it went against their instructions. After all, she had also made the choice to ignore it. It was not bad to have a backup, considering what happened earlier.

Meanwhile, Fang Hao looked out at the world from a height he had never known before. The world below seemed tiny and far away, making everything appear small and minuscule.

The moving air caused his lengthy black hair to softly sway as they continued their journey through the skies.

Standing on the dragon's head, Fang Hao could almost be called a 'Dragon' himself, the playful nickname the castle guards had given him years ago, surprisingly seemed quite fitting now.