“Me?” Dustin froze momentarily, then quickly waved his hands to indicate his refusal. “Ancient Sage, you’ve got to be kidding. I’m not qualified to guard the Dracan force. You’d better find someone else.”
He knew taking on such a monumental responsibility was out of the question. Guarding the Dracan Force wasn’t like watching over someone’s garden. A single mistake could endanger not only Sacred Wyrm Summit but all of Dragonmarsh. The pressure was simply overwhelming.
“Don’t be so quick to refuse,” Arion said with a smile.
He continued, “Guarding the Dracan force has its perks. For one, it’s a spiritual entity. If you can connect with it, your cultivation will soar, and your lifespan will extend dramatically. With its power behind you, you’ll be
unbeatable. No one in the world could stand in your way.”
Arion wasn’t exaggerating. Being recognized by the Dracan force as its guardian granted access to its vast energy and created a resonance with the natural order. It was what people called the realm of terrestrial immortals.
If Alaric had fought Seth a year ago near the Dragon Guard, the outcome of that battle might have been entirely different.
“To be honest, I’m not cut out for responsibilities like that. I’ve always preferred a more carefree life. As for advancing my cultivation or extending my lifespan, I’m really not that interested,” Dustin declined.
With great power came great responsibility, and that was a burden he wasn’t willing to shoulder. He
valued his freedom and didn’t want to be tied down.
Agreeing to guard the Dracan force would be like putting himself in a cage. He wasn’t ready for that kind of sacrifice, nor was he the type to give up everything for others.
“Don’t worry about it. If you’re really not interested, I won’t push you. But if you change your mind, come find me anytime.” Arion smiled.
The Combat Tournament had been meant to choose a guardian for the Dracan force, but ultimately, it all came down to personal choice.
Since Dustin had declined, Arion wasn’t going to press the matter. Some things were just a matter of timing- everything would fall into place when the right moment arrived.
“Thank you for understanding, Ancient Sage.” Dustin let out a quiet sigh of relief. He had been genuinely worried that his refusal might provoke Arion into taking back the three Dracan essences.
But clearly, someone of Arion’s caliber, who had long transcended worldly concerns, wouldn’t stoop to threats or coercion-that would be beneath him.
“Well, if you’re not busy, stay here tonight. I’ve got some things to take care of, so I’ll head out.” After a brief chat, Arion finally got up and left.
“Farewell, Ancient Sage.” Dustin immediately lowered his head in respect.
Once Arion had left, Dustin finally relaxed. Despite Arion’s friendly demeanor and lack of overt superiority or intimidation, an invisible pressure had kept Dustin on edge. It made him
cautious, even in his breathing.
As expected, the world’s only terrestrial immortal was far from ordinary, no matter how unassuming he seemed on the surface.
After securing the Dracan essence, Dustin decided to leave. He’d already given Sacred Wyrm Summit a heads- up, so he was confident they would be ready even if the Hall of Gods were up to something.
To be safe, he still planned to reach out to Hank and see if any other ploys from the Hall of Gods were in motion.
When Dustin returned to the tavern after leaving Sacred Wyrm Summit, he found Grace waiting for him. She even arranged a feast and invited several friends to the celebration.
Alicia, Aurora, Crystal, Ruby, Dalen, Miles, and the others were gathered. Though they all came from different guilds, they were united for one purpose – to celebrate Dustin’s victory.
..”Congratulations, Dustin! You’ve stunned everyone with your performance and claimed the championship.” Dalen was the first to congratulate.
“You were incredible today, Dustin. I’m in awe of your skills!” Crystal’s face glowed with admiration.
“I never expected you to be this strong. From now on, the martial world will remember your name,” Ruby said with a smile. 1
“Of course! Dustin is now the rightful number one on the Legendary List. Even Glenn was defeated-who else could challenge him now?” Miles flattered him.
“Thanks, but it was just luck. Come on, everyone. Please sit down. Tonight’s on me. Let’s enjoy a good meal and drink together.” Dustin smiled and greeted everyone in turn before motioning for them to sit.
“Dustin, you’re now the champion of the Combat Tournament. Since you’ve also joined us as an honorary consultant for the Celestial Alliance, I hope you’ll look out for me in the future.” Alicia smiled radiantly. Her beauty, coupled with her captivating charm, made her all the more alluring.
“Dr. Rhys, do you accept disciples? I’d like to become one.” Aurora was more direct as she tried to bridge the distance between them.
Both sisters had already spoken with Alloy and knew Dustin’s true identity. According to their father, they were expected to do whatever it took to recruit him-even if it meant offering themselves.
A handsome man with unmatched skill and limitless potential, Dustin was the perfect match for them. Now, it was up to them to see if they had what it took to recruit him into the Celestial Alliance.
