Chapter 573: The Dragon Clan's Request and Parting Ways
"Big brother."
When these two words were casually uttered from the mouth of the handsome youth, it felt as if the entire world had momentarily frozen.
Countless experts stared blankly at this scene, their eyes filled with undisguised astonishment and disbelief.
They knew very well that this handsome young man wasn't only from the domineering Celestial Demon Marten clan—one of the renowned Four Overlord Clans—but was also one of its candidates for the next clan leader.
Yet, now, this youth of immensely noble background stood before another young man who appeared to be roughly the same age but significantly weaker, and genuinely addressed him as "Big Brother."
These two simple words held no reluctance whatsoever; everyone could feel their sincerity.
They couldn't fathom the reason behind this; thus, all eyes filled with complicated emotions turned toward the thin youth named Lin Dong. Once again, this young man had given them an entirely new level of shock.
In the sky, Heavenly Dragon Demon Commander and the other two commanders' pupils also slightly contracted at this scene, while Duan Tao and his companion from the Dragon Clan grew more solemn.
As members of the Dragon Clan, they deeply understood the unparalleled pride of the Celestial Demon Marten clan, especially considering this youth was a candidate for clan leadership.
They could clearly comprehend how incredibly difficult it must have been for him to naturally and sincerely call Lin Dong "Big Brother."
"Heh heh, it's truly been many years since I've seen young master Marten like this…" one of the Celestial Demon Marten clan elders remarked softly, also surprised at the unfolding scene.
Two other Samsara Stage experts from the Celestial Demon Marten clan nodded slightly in agreement, looking curiously at Lin Dong.
They knew that Little Marten had come out on this journey to find a close friend, but never expected the bond between the two to be this profound.
Under everyone's gaze, Lin Dong was momentarily stunned by Little Marten's acknowledgment. After a brief pause, he smiled faintly, replying:
"It wasn't easy for you to say that, was it? Weren't you planning to only recognize me as Big Brother after I surpassed your strength?"
"Hmph, don't get too smug! I'm only reluctantly acknowledging you because of your performance in the Great Desolate Province," Little Marten scoffed playfully.
Lin Dong smiled brightly, then closed his eyes, taking a deep breath before releasing it slowly. At that moment, he seemed to exhale all the burdens he had carried for a long time.
"Haha, I, Lin Dong, have finally reunited with you two," Lin Dong said softly, feeling an immense sense of relief and happiness now that the three brothers were finally together again.
Nearby, Duan Tao suddenly paused, his brows furrowed as if recalling something important. He then turned sharply to Heavenly Dragon Demon Commander.
"Hmm? What's wrong?" Heavenly Dragon Demon Commander asked in confusion.
"What was that human youth's name?" Duan Tao asked abruptly.
"Lin Dong... He's a human who has caused quite a stir in our Demon Region lately—why are you suddenly…?" Heavenly Dragon Demon Commander said bewilderedly, but before he could finish, he saw Duan Tao's face dramatically change, causing him to quickly swallow his words.
"Brother Duan, what's the matter?" Heavenly Dragon asked nervously.
Ignoring him, Duan Tao turned toward Lin Dong and awkwardly smiled, asking hesitantly, "Young friend, your name is Lin Dong?"
Lin Dong was also confused by Duan Tao's sudden interest but nodded cautiously.
"Hehe…" Duan Tao rubbed his hands together anxiously, asking carefully, "Then... do you happen to know Lord Qing Zhi?"
Lin Dong blinked in realization, responding, "The Green Heaven Materialized Dragon Skill I practice was taught by Senior Qing Zhi. Why do you ask?"
Whoosh!
Instantly, Duan Tao eagerly grabbed Lin Dong's hand. His formerly authoritative expression was now comically replaced by enthusiastic excitement.
"Hahaha! So it really is you, young brother Lin Dong!"
Heavenly Dragon Demon Commander and countless onlookers stared in absolute disbelief at Duan Tao's sudden enthusiasm.
"Brother Duan, you…?" Heavenly Dragon Demon Commander stammered, unable to understand what was happening.
Only Lin Langtian, standing beside Lin Dong, seemed to realize something. His eyes flickered slightly, understanding that Lin Dong's fortuitous encounter had finally arrived.
Lin Dong coughed awkwardly, gently retracting his hand, and smiled, "Have you perhaps heard of me, brother Duan Tao?"
"Heh heh, recently, Lord Qing Zhi sent a message back to the Dragon Clan, specifically mentioning you, young brother Lin Dong," Duan Tao explained joyfully.
Upon hearing this, Lin Dong nodded in understanding.
"If I had known earlier it was you, all this trouble would have been unnecessary," Duan Tao sighed with a friendly laugh, before beckoning Heavenly Dragon Demon Commander to approach.
"Heavenly Dragon, you've acted recklessly today. Hurry and apologize to brother Lin Dong," Duan Tao said firmly.
Everyone, including Little Marten and the three Celestial Demon Marten experts, stared at Lin Dong in shock. Duan Tao hadn't even been this deferential toward Little Marten himself.
"Brother Duan…" Heavenly Dragon Demon Commander hesitated, clearly confused.
"Brother Lin Dong is a chosen disciple of Lord Qing Zhi! Is he someone you can offend?" Duan Tao reprimanded sternly.
Upon hearing Qing Zhi's name, Heavenly Dragon Demon Commander visibly flinched. As part of the Dragon Clan, he knew very well how revered Qing Zhi was—one of the clan's most esteemed figures. Shocked and unwilling, he still lowered his head and apologized to Lin Dong.
"Since it was a misunderstanding, let's end it here," Lin Dong replied graciously.
"Brother Lin Dong, wait!" Duan Tao quickly intervened as Lin Dong prepared to leave.
Lin Dong turned, smiling faintly, and calmly asked, "Brother Duan Tao, do you have something else to discuss?"
Duan Tao hesitated briefly, then sighed, admitting quietly, "Actually, our Dragon Clan has encountered some trouble. We need your assistance."
"What nonsense! What kind of problem could the mighty Dragon Clan have that Lin Dong could solve?" Little Marten interrupted skeptically.
Lin Langtian, aware of some background, remained silent beside Lin Dong, observing closely.
Duan Tao waved his hand, creating a barrier around them to avoid being overheard, and continued solemnly, "Lord Qing Zhi instructed us that only brother Lin Dong can help with our current predicament."
"Oh?" Lin Dong raised an eyebrow, intrigued. "Could it involve the Yimo?"
Surprised, Duan Tao nodded helplessly. He hadn't expected Lin Dong to guess it immediately.
"What exactly is the situation?" Lin Dong questioned.
"This… I'm afraid I can only explain thoroughly once you've arrived at the Dragon Clan," Duan Tao sighed. "Ever since Lord Qing Zhi sent his message, we've been searching secretly for you. We never expected to encounter you today."
"You want him to visit the Dragon Clan?" Little Marten questioned doubtfully, visibly concerned.
"Rest assured, the Dragon Clan isn't so petty as to play tricks. Moreover, given brother Lin Dong's relationship with Lord Qing Zhi, he'll definitely be treated as an honored guest," Duan Tao reassured swiftly.
Lin Dong smiled, nodding. "Brother Duan Tao, don't worry. Senior Qing Zhi has been kind to me. Since he's part of your clan and your clan is facing difficulties, I'll gladly help."
"Wonderful! Our Dragon Clan will certainly repay this kindness," Duan Tao rejoiced.
"When do you wish to depart?" Lin Dong asked.
"At your convenience. However, the sooner, the better," Duan Tao replied earnestly.
"Let's set out in three days, then. We have a few matters to settle in Thunder Abyss Mountain first," Lin Dong decided.
"Agreed. I will come for you in three days!" Duan Tao eagerly affirmed.
With that settled, Duan Tao respectfully took his leave with Heavenly Dragon Demon Commander. The tense atmosphere gradually relaxed, and countless astonished gazes turned toward Thunder Abyss Mountain, now fully aware of its powerful connections.
As Lin Langtian, Lin Dong, and their companions returned victorious, Thunder Abyss Mountain erupted in jubilation.
That night, atop a mountain peak, Lin Dong, Lin Langtian, Little Marten, and Little Flame celebrated joyfully, recounting their experiences and strengthening their brotherhood.
"Seems like you all had quite an exciting year," Little Marten laughed, refilling everyone's cups.
After three days, the group prepared to part ways once again. Lin Dong was heading to the Dragon Clan to repay his debt to Qing Zhi, while Lin Langtian planned to head toward the Black Domain to pursue the Golden Crow.
Thus, each of them embarked upon their respective journeys, knowing full well they would soon meet again.
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