Chapter 197: Dawn
The scene shifted dramatically, moving far from the bustling marketplace of the Fourth Ring to the distant, perilous landscape where molten rock poured relentlessly, and volcanic vents spewed columns of toxic fumes.
Beneath a blood-red sky, a solitary figure ascended the harsh slopes of an enormous volcanic mountain.
The landscape was barren, twisted rock formations standing like dark sentinels amid bubbling pools of lava. Sulfurous vapors rose upward in thick plumes, choking the air and dimming visibility.
Dawn—a middle-aged man bearing a solemn, resolute gaze—climbed steadily toward the volcano’s peak, each step leaving a deep imprint on the volcanic ash beneath his sturdy leather boots.
He wore a long, weathered cloak that fluttered behind him in the scalding wind. In his right hand, he firmly grasped an ancient-looking katana, its polished blade shimmering faintly with mysterious runes, emanating a subtle, yet overwhelming aura.
His expression was stern and unyielding, and his dark eyes burned with unshakable determination.
Despite the oppressive heat and hazardous terrain, his breathing remained calm and steady, showing his deep strength.
Upon reaching the volcano’s summit, Dawn stood unwavering at the edge of the enormous crater, overlooking the blazing inferno below.
Sweat glistened on his forehead, but he seemed oblivious to the blistering heat as he looked downward into the molten lake of fire.
Taking a deep breath, his voice thundered clearly and firmly into the fiery abyss, echoing like a call from ancient legends, "Draconius! Come meet your old friend!"
His powerful shout reverberated across the volcano, the air trembling faintly. Moments passed in tense silence, the volcanic roar the only reply, until suddenly, the molten lake began to churn violently.