Chapter 170
To slay the evil flood dragon, it was clear that the cooperation of the people from Shijia Village would be essential. Without their help, the creature would remain hidden underwater, making the task exceedingly difficult. Charging into the dragon’s lair alone would be akin to walking into a death trap.
However, involving the villagers would undoubtedly expose them to significant risks. To prevent them from backing out, Xu Ming declared firmly, “I will not leave until the flood dragon is dead,” putting their minds at ease. Of course, Xu Ming would still take precautions against the village chief. Trusting him completely would be unwise—if the chief were to betray him and inform the flood dragon, the situation could turn dire.
With adequate precautions in place, even if the chief betrayed him, Xu Ming was confident he could retreat unscathed, though he might not be able to slay the flood dragon. A mere Golden Core realm demon wasn’t enough to stop him.
Killing the flood dragon wasn’t purely altruistic—it served Xu Ming’s purposes as well. He planned to use the dragon’s heart blood as ink to create Dao Rain Talismans, which would enrich the spiritual energy in the Baiwa Secret Realm and improve the yield of spiritual rice. Dao Rain Talismans were finite, and once he used up his five remaining talismans, he would need to craft more. The flood dragon’s heart blood was indispensable for this purpose.
Moreover, the flood dragon’s body was a treasure trove. Its tendons, scales, and demon core were all invaluable. Even its “dragon whip” was a prized item, highly sought after by noble families, middle-aged cultivators, and aristocrats for its renowned health benefits. Throughout the ages, such supplements have always been in high demand. The dragon’s flesh was a delicacy for martial artists, enhancing their true qi. Though the dragon’s blood wasn’t as potent as that of a true dragon, it was excellent for body refinement or could fetch a high price if sold to other martial artists.
In essence, slaying this flood dragon was as much about self-benefit as it was about aiding the villagers.
The village chief agreed to Xu Ming’s plan, pledging to delay the dragon and coax it onto land.
The next morning, the village chief led a group of strong men to the banks of the Yellow Sand River, while Xu Ming observed from a distance. The villagers erected an altar, lit incense, and performed a solemn ceremony of worship. The chief then called out loudly, “Honorable Dragon King, we are grateful for your blessings that have brought prosperity to Shijia Village. Today, we were prepared to present offerings to you. However, the pair of children you requested will not reach nine years of age for another four days, which is the age you specified. We beg for your understanding and forgiveness.”
Swallowing hard, his legs trembling, the chief continued, “Furthermore, in four days, our village wishes to host a grand festival in honor of the Dragon King’s two decades of protection. If possible, we humbly invite the Dragon King to grace Shijia Village with your presence. It would be the ultimate blessing for all the villagers, young and old, to see you in person, a moment we would cherish for a lifetime!”