The Dragon Warriors transformed into streams of water, swiftly disappearing into the depths of the East Sea. However, just as the team was about to leave the Dragon Palace's barrier, a familiar figure blocked their path—Ao Lie, followed by a squad of fully armed Dragon Clan Guardians.
"Brother, have you truly made up your mind?" Ao Lie's expression was inscrutable. "To take such risks and sacrifice everything for the Dragon Tribe?"
Ao Bing's demeanor was calm. "The bloodline of the Dragon Tribe carries a heavy responsibility. As the prince, it is my duty to protect our people."
After a moment of silence, Ao Lie suddenly waved his hand, signaling the Dragon Clan Guardians to disperse. "I won't stop you, but there are things you must understand. That Secret Technique..." He lowered his voice, "may have side effects I haven't mentioned. Once invoked, you will not only lose your dragon power but also..."
"I understand," Ao Bing interrupted him. "No matter the cost, I am prepared."
Ao Lie gazed deeply at Ao Bing, as if wanting to say something more, but ultimately just nodded. "Take care, brother. Whatever choice you make, remember that we are family."
These almost farewell words sent a jolt through Ao Bing's heart, but he did not dwell on them and led the team onward. They had to compress three days' journey into two; there was no time to waste.
Along the way, Ao Bing found a secluded spot and took out the conch communicator he always carried with him. He sent a brief message to Nezha: "The Li Yang Sect will hold a ceremony at Western Sea Flame Island. I have led my team to stop it. No matter what happens, please remember our agreement. Ao Bing."
He did not mention any potential sacrifices he might make or indulge in lengthy farewells. He knew Nezha's character; if he learned that Ao Bing intended to sacrifice himself, he would undoubtedly rush to help, complicating matters further.
The two days of rapid marching left the Dragon Warriors exhausted, yet none complained. By dusk on the third day, they finally reached the edge of the West Sea. The distant Flame Island was now faintly visible—a small island perpetually covered by volcanic activity, where seawater could not approach; it was a natural forbidden zone for the Dragon Tribe.
Ao Bing gathered everyone and laid out a detailed battle plan: "According to our intelligence, the Li Yang Sect's ceremony will take place near the volcano at the center of the island. We will approach in three groups: the main force will draw attention from the front, Ao Run will lead an elite team for a surprise attack from the left flank, while I will approach the volcano alone from the right side to find an opportunity to seize the Sea Stabilizing Needle and disrupt the ceremony."
Ao Run frowned. "Your Highness, acting alone is too dangerous!"
"That is an order," Ao Bing replied firmly. "The primary target of the Li Yang Sect is me; if I bring others along, it will only attract attention. Moreover, only I possess the Secret Technique 'Dragon Soul Return to Origin,' which can give us an advantage at a critical moment."
Though everyone had their doubts, no one pressed further. Ao Bing went over some additional details and concluded solemnly: "Remember, our mission is to reclaim the Sea Stabilizing Needle and prevent Lady Shiji from being resurrected. If... if anything happens to me during this operation, you must retreat immediately and bring back intelligence to the Dragon Palace. The safety of our people comes above all else, even my life."
The warriors responded in unison with respect and determination in their eyes.
As night fell, they began their operation. The Dragon Warriors transformed into streams of water again and silently approached Flame Island. The closer they got to the island, the more suppressed their Water System energy became; actions for the Dragon Tribe grew increasingly difficult. Ao Bing could feel his dragon power waning in Flame Island's environment but remained resolute.
Following their plan, the main force created a grand distraction at the front to draw most of the Li Yang Sect Cultivators' attention. Ao Run led his elite team to break through from the left flank swiftly, causing chaos elsewhere.
Seizing this moment when enemy attention was diverted, Ao Bing quietly approached the volcano from the right side. The temperature here was extremely high—too much for ordinary people—but still bearable for Dragon Tribe cultivators. A more daunting challenge was posed by the dense fire attribute energy in the air; it suppressed Ao Bing's dragon power and slowed his movements considerably.
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