Chapter 381: The Black Dragon's Lair
Deep within the territory of several clans, nestled in the heart of a desolate valley, lay the black dragon's nest. This secluded valley was surrounded by tens of thousands of orcs and jackals, acting as guardians and protectors.
The valley itself was a barren expanse, covered in withered grass and devoid of any signs of life. It was an area tainted and corrupted by the dark forces that had taken hold. To restore it to its former glory would require years, if not centuries, of purification and cleansing.
At the entrance to the valley, there were numerous guards and patrols. Among them, a group of ogres stood as the front line of defense. These massive creatures were known for their ability to sleep while standing, making it challenging for them to remain vigilant. Even the presence of the Black Dragon only affected them momentarily.
William, the group's leader, had once studied an ogre closely. He knew that despite their towering stature, their brains were no larger than a baby's fist. This knowledge gave him confidence in their ability to pass unnoticed.
With silent and cautious steps, the group moved past the guards, their presence shrouded by an invisible scroll that refracted light, rendering them virtually invisible. A breath scroll masked their scent, preventing the keen-nosed orcs from detecting their presence.
Soon, William and his companions entered the valley, surrounded by barren stones, dead trees, and desolate weeds, all devoid of life. It was clear that this had once been a demon cave, now completely consumed by dark elements. Only magic could drive away these malevolent forces, and even then, it would take decades or even centuries for light-adapted plants to grow here once more.
The large hole in the valley's head marked the black dragon's entrance and exit. Flying in unnoticed was impossible, as using their fighting spirit during flight would inevitably reveal their presence.
The entrance to the dragon's nest was guarded by four tall, high-ranking orcs armed with heavy axes. William communicated telepathically with his companions, and they silently entered the dragon's nest.
In an instant, the four masters struck simultaneously, covering the orcs' mouths as they became visible and driving their short swords into their temples, piercing their brains. A fatal blow that few ordinary creatures or NPCs could survive.
The brain, regardless of a creature's Health Point, remained its fatal weakness, except for extraordinary beings with unique talents or immense vitality. Even creatures like dragons, who relied on Dragon Crystals for survival, had their limitations. Only Epic Level dragons could survive a direct head injury, thanks to the energy within the Dragon Crystal that could gradually heal such wounds.
The group of Dawn City's masters quickly assumed the guise of the fallen orcs, donning their equipment to blend in. This was the black dragon's lair, and only those summoned by the dragon dared to approach.
As they ventured deeper into the dragon's nest, they deployed magical barriers behind them to deter pursuit should their intrusion be discovered. They had to be prepared for a potential siege by the dragon's kin.
Meanwhile, the black dragon's lair underwent significant changes as they moved deeper inside, the caves becoming more spacious and majestic.
Descending further into the valley, the group encountered a well-trodden path, marked by giant dragon footprints. Dimly lit by magical torches, the path appeared devoid of guards.
After a considerable descent, the group's leader, the prince, finally signaled to proceed with caution and ventured ahead alone. As the others entered the dragon's nest, they were met with a stunning sight.
Before them lay a grand underground palace, its entire structure crafted from obsidian, giving it a dark and ominous appearance. This underground space was bathed in a shimmering glow, courtesy of the abundant obsidian.
The prince was taken aback, as the palace bore striking similarities to Nibelungen's palace, raising questions about the black dragon's memories and whether it had encountered ancient relics.
William pondered the black dragon's memory and the limited knowledge he possessed about its past. His priority was to locate the dragon, and the details remained a mystery.
The entrance to the palace was wide open, offering a glimpse of the black dragon within. The prince observed the scene, trying to determine their next move.
Inside the grand chamber, the black dragon, over 20 meters in length, reclined on a dragon throne, flanked by six high-ranking pale orcs. However, it wasn't just orcs present; also in attendance were Makhu Redd, Adolf, as well as master vampires and high-level vampires.
Over 20 Grandmaster Level Professionals had gathered, including some of their old foes, united in their quest for vengeance.
The conversation reached the ears of the prince as he listened intently. The situation appeared different from what he had expected.
The black dragon, Sagrita, spoke with skepticism. "You want me to lead the attack on Dark City and then hand it over to you? Sounds appealing! Yet, I'd not only incur the wrath of the Lord of Dawn, William Blackleaf City, but also face the retaliation of hundreds of thousands of troops from Dawn City. If your intentions are not sincere, it may be better for you to leave."
Makhu Redd responded, "Have you not heard that the Lord of Dawn, William Blackleaf is known as the Dragon Butcher? What do you think is his mentality? I know him better than anyone; he is a tyrant who won't tolerate potential threats near his territory. He sent troops to eliminate my former master and even exterminated a white dragon in the far north. He has an unknown dragon race in his possession."
As the conversation continued, the black dragon's doubts grew. While it was greedy, it also understood the strength of Dawn City and the risks involved.
Makhu Redd continued, "The Lord of Dawn, William Blackleaf is not only my master's murderer but also the slayer of a white dragon. He keeps a dragon of an unknown race within his family. Moreover, I've made another startling discovery."
The black dragon inquired, "What is it?"
Makhu Redd revealed, "The dragon he keeps has transformed something it consumed into a massive magic egg, over ten meters in size, and appears to be in a state of breakthrough. Could it be that the Lord of Dawn, William Blackleaf is using sinister methods to breed and raise dragons?"
The revelation stirred the black dragon, who rose and approached Makhu Redd, his massive head extending towards the speaker, his breath washing over him.
Makhu Redd held his ground and continued, "What I have said is the truth. I swear to the gods."
The black dragon contemplated the information, his thoughts racing. The Lord of Dawn, William Blackleaf's actions were concerning, and the presence of so many adversaries in his lair had intensified the situation.
Unbeknownst to the dragon, William and his companions, invisible and concealed, were poised to take action and rescue their allies. The stakes were high, and the outcome hung in the balance.