Chapter 554: The Hornless and True Dragon (I)
Li Xuanfeng led the group across Lake Xian, finally arriving at the coastal waters. The waves surged as the sea stretched in endless blue, and Ning Dingbo, the elder Ning brother, stepped forward to gather the disciples.
Once the Azure Pond disciples had assembled, Ning Dingbo flashed a smile, revealing his white teeth as he explained, "This area is called the Shallow Sea… The water here is not very deep; it got submerged during the great battles of ancient times. Most of the islands you see now were once immortal mountains, while the remaining few were later transported here to fill the sea."
Li Xuanfeng stood with his hands behind his back, listening silently. Understanding his nature, Ning Dingbo continued with the introduction on his behalf, "In those days, this area was home to the six most densely populated southern prefectures, all of which were swallowed by the sea… leaving ruins beneath the waves. Since the water is shallow, cultivators have already scoured it clean over the years."
Ning Dingbo continued to explain patiently, "If you travel further, toward the Scarlet Pristine Sea and the Qunyi Gorge, you will reach what was once the Eastern Sea… Dragon Palaces cover the landscape, with flood dragons and serpents roaming freely. Going deeper, you will encounter many dragon kin; do not offend them!"
The disciples reacted with mixed expressions. Those dressed in fine robes seemed unaffected, already familiar with this knowledge, while the more simply dressed disciples looked enlightened.
Ning Dingbo continued, "The Scarlet Pristine Sea was named after the eighth child of the True Hornless Dragon, which involves the ancient Pristine Converging Water. The sea is filled with demons and treasures, most of which are controlled by the dragon kin. If you go in, proceed with caution."
A young man with a finely tailored robe and slender brows suddenly spoke up, respectfully asking, "May I ask, Instructor, why is it that… while the ruling beings here are of the dragon kin and hold the Converging Water Fruition Attainment, it is referred to as the True Hornless Dragon? Why not call it the Hornless Dragon?"
"Well…" Ning Dingbo hesitated, casting a reluctant glance at Li Xuanfeng before shaking his head, replying gravely, "That is an ancient matter… few would know the answer."
The group looked slightly disappointed, but then Li Xuanfeng stepped forward and spoke softly, "If not for the Pristine Converging Water, the True Hornless Dragon would have become a True Dragon."