Courtyard House: Report enemy agents at the start, and you'll take off immediately.

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As night fell once more, Zhao De stood at the entrance of a cave, the campfire illuminating his resolute face. Recalling the old man's teachings, he closed his eyes in meditation, attempting to explore the "spiritual spring" deep within his heart.

"How can I discover the true power within my heart?" Zhao De asked himself.

Just then, a faint sound came from deep within the cave, seemingly the panting of some creature. Zhao De gripped his longsword warily and slowly ventured deeper. At the end of the cave, he found a wounded young dragon, its eyes gleaming with an eerie light, looking at him helplessly.

"So it was you who needed help," Zhao De said softly, his inner tenderness awakened. He carefully approached, wrapped the young dragon in his cloak, and began to heal its wounds.

If outsiders were to witness this scene, they would surely be astonished. Who would have thought that the legendary hero Zhao De would also have such a delicate side?

As night deepened, Zhao De fell into a deep sleep beside the young dragon. In his dream, he heard the little girl's voice again, and this time, she seemed to be saying, "True power comes from love and protection."

……

"So, where is the hero you mentioned now?" The next day, when Zhao De woke up, he found the cave surrounded by people who had come after hearing the news. They were full of curiosity and respect.

Zhao De smiled as he stepped out of the cave, his gentle gaze sweeping over everyone: "I am here, but the real journey has only just begun."

In the crowd, an old man asked in a trembling voice, "So, the Heart of the Spirit Spring... have you found it?"

Zhao De lowered his head, pondered for a moment, then looked up, his eyes gleaming with determination: "Found it. It's not in any place marked on the map, nor is it hidden deep in the mountains and valleys. It's here." As he spoke, he gently patted his chest.

The crowd immediately erupted in discussion, some expressing amazement, some bewilderment, and others deep admiration.

"Unbelievable! True power comes from within? This kid must be crazy!" muttered a burly man named Zhao De, his tone tinged with envy.

“No, perhaps he’s right,” a gentle woman retorted. Her voice was soft, but remarkably clear amidst the noise. “Power, if unguided, is nothing but a source of tyranny. Zhao De, he showed us a different possibility.”

Chapter 383 Dragon!

Chapter 384 Dragon!

Upon hearing this, Zhao De smiled faintly, looked in the direction of the woman, and a gentle light flashed in his eyes. Then he changed the subject: "However, I also brought back a little guy who needs everyone's help." As he spoke, he called out softly, and the injured young dragon staggered out of the cave, causing a stir among the crowd.

"A dragon! Is that really a dragon?!" The burly man with the thick beard stared wide-eyed, taking several steps back, his face filled with disbelief.

The merchant, dressed in fine clothes, stepped forward, scrutinizing the young dragon closely, his eyes filled with curiosity: "It's truly a miracle; a legendary creature has appeared before us. Zhao De, what do you intend to do?"

Zhao De knelt down and gently stroked the young dragon's head, saying softly, "I will protect it until it can spread its wings and fly. This world should not only be about struggle and plunder, but also about love and symbiosis."

Whispers arose from the crowd, some in agreement, some in doubt, but most in a sense of unprecedented shock.

“Zhao De, your idea is bold and wonderful.” The old hunter squeezed through the crowd, came to Zhao De’s side, and patted him on the shoulder. “But this road will definitely not be smooth. It requires not only courage, but also wisdom.”

Zhao De stood up, gazing into the distance. The first rays of dawn bathed the earth in a golden glow. "I know, but I'm willing to give it a try. For this continent, and for myself. After all, every great story begins with a seemingly impossible dream."

As they spoke, the young dragon's wings fluttered gently, emitting a faint glow, as if responding to Zhao De's resolve. The surrounding murmurs gradually subsided, and all eyes turned to the young hero and his extraordinary companion.

"It seems our world is about to enter a new chapter," a scholar-like man murmured to himself, his eyes filled with anticipation.

"Yes, and it all started with a choice—choosing to fight the world's indifference with love," the businessman said with emotion.

Every flap of the young dragon's wings caused the surrounding air to tremble, as if even the heavens and earth were touched by its presence. In the crowd, a mother holding her baby whispered, "Look, baby, that is a true warrior. He teaches us that even in the face of the unknown and fear, we should bravely lend a helping hand."

The child's father stood aside, his eyes gleaming with respect: "Zhao De, your name will be sung for generations to come, becoming an immortal legend."

Zhao De turned around and smiled slightly at everyone, a smile that was both gentle and firm: "In each of our hearts there is a pure land, where seeds of love and peace grow. As long as we are willing, we can let them take root, sprout, and eventually bloom into the most brilliant light."

Just then, a gentle breeze swept by, bringing the scent of distant mountains and forests. Curiosity gleamed in the young dragon's eyes, as if it were filled with longing for this new world. Zhao De sensed its anticipation and whispered to it, "Soon, you will be able to fly freely in this sky. I will accompany you until that day comes."

A young witch pushed through the crowd, her eyes reflecting the young dragon's image, her gaze filled with an eerie light: "I can sense the ancient and powerful magic within it. Zhao De, if you're willing, I can help it recover, and perhaps even reveal its mysterious origins."

Chapter 384 The True Magic

Chapter 385 The True Magic

Zhao De nodded gratefully, knowing that every act of help was a transmission of love and trust: "Thank you very much, your strength will be a valuable asset on its path to growth."

As the witch began her spell, clusters of ethereal elemental light gathered in the air, slowly merging into the young dragon's body. Its wounds healed at a visible speed, and its small body seemed to be subtly changing, plunging the surrounding crowd into another wave of amazement.

"This...this is real magic!" A young apprentice stared wide-eyed, unable to believe what he was seeing.

The old hunter sighed, his gaze distant: "It seems that there are still many unknowns in the world as we know it, waiting for us to explore."

When everything calmed down, the baby dragon was completely transformed. It lightly leaped onto Zhao De's shoulder and gently nuzzled him with its head. The trust and affection it showed were conveyed to everyone present without a word.

"Alright, friends, today is just the beginning, and the road ahead is long." Zhao De looked at everyone, his eyes shining. "Let us join hands and move forward, not only for the peace of this continent, but also to prove that even in the darkest moments, the flame of love and hope will not be extinguished."

Just as people were still immersed in emotion and contemplation, a series of hurried footsteps broke the tranquility. A messenger came running up, panting, his face full of anxiety: "Lord Zhao De, something bad has happened! An anomaly has appeared in the frozen lands of the north. It seems that an ancient evil force is stirring and threatening the neighboring villages."

Upon hearing this, Zhao De frowned, then looked at the young dragon on his shoulder, his eyes flashing with determination: "It seems the test has come sooner than I expected. But no matter what lies ahead, I will not back down. Because we are fighting for a better tomorrow."

The young dragon seemed to sense its master's determination, letting out a long and clear cry that resounded through the sky, seemingly in response to the impending challenge.

"Then let's set off together, toward the unknown, toward the light." Zhao De's words were full of power, like a war drum, stirring the heartstrings of everyone.

As everyone watched them go, Zhao De and Youlong embarked on their journey to the north. Their figures gradually disappeared into the distance, but they left a deep impression on everyone's hearts.

Zhao De and Youlong's shadows stretched long in the morning light, each step seemingly treading on fields of hope. The townspeople stood still, watching them leave until the two disappeared below the horizon, leaving only a series of firm and powerful footsteps echoing in the air.

“What an incredible fellow,” the blacksmith muttered to himself as his hammer slammed heavily onto the anvil, the clanging of metal unnoticed. “A man, a dragon, daring to say ‘no’ to the darkness of the entire world.”

“I am willing to follow him,” the young apprentice suddenly said. His voice stood out in the crowd, full of youthful enthusiasm and impulsiveness. “Even if I am just a tiny glimmer among many lights, I want to be a part of illuminating this world.”

The old hunter patted his apprentice on the shoulder, a pleased smile on his face: "Good boy, that's spirited. Remember, a true warrior isn't someone who is fearless, but someone who, even when afraid, bravely takes that first step."

Chapter 385 Evil Beast

Chapter 385 Evil Beast

In one corner of the market, several vendors huddled together, discussing the matter.

"Have you heard? That dragon is actually a descendant of the legendary Light Dragon!"

"No wonder, something that can attract magic of that level is no ordinary thing."

"If I could go on adventures with them, my life would be worthwhile!"

Just as the discussion was in full swing, the mayor hurried over, holding a roll of sheepskin map in his hand, his face grave. "Everyone, listen to me," he said, "Zhao De and his men are facing extremely dangerous circumstances. The frozen lands of the north are not only home to evil beasts, but also to ancient forces that are dormant. Although we cannot go into battle ourselves, we can make some preparations for them."

Suddenly, the town seemed to be united by an invisible force, and everyone began to busy themselves preparing supplies and intelligence for the heroes who were about to embark on their expedition. There were even children who, under the guidance of their parents, drew flags symbolizing courage and blessings.

A few days later, when Zhao De and Youlong returned to the town, what they saw surprised and moved them. In the town square, villagers lined up in long queues, holding all sorts of supplies and weapons, their eyes shining with determination and support.

“Lord Zhao De, this is a small token of our town’s appreciation.” The town mayor stepped forward and handed him a sword forged from a special alloy. “This sword is the pride of our town. We hope it can lend you a helping hand.”

Zhao De accepted the heavy sword, feeling not only the cold, hard metal, but also a profound sense of trust and expectation. "Thank you everyone. With your support, I am even more convinced that we can overcome any difficulty."

The young dragon flew low around the crowd, seemingly expressing its gratitude in its own way. With each flap of its wings, it stirred up a warm breeze that dispelled the winter chill.

Just as everyone was preparing to say goodbye, an elderly man with white hair slowly stepped out from the crowd. His gaze was deep, as if he had seen through the vicissitudes of time. "Child," he said, "remember, true strength comes not only from external equipment and skills, but more importantly from the belief in your heart. When you face darkness, remember to light the lighthouse in your heart, and let love and hope guide you forward."

Zhao De bowed deeply, and Youlong also lowered his head in respect. "I remember, Grandpa. No matter how difficult the road ahead may be, I will never forget my original aspiration."

With a resounding dragon roar, Zhao De and the young dragon set off again. This time, they were no longer alone, for they knew that the hearts of the entire town were with them.

"Have a safe journey, heroes." Countless voices converged into a warm current, accompanying Zhao De and Youlong's departing figures until they completely disappeared into the northern horizon.

"Lord Zhao De, what exactly is this ancient evil force you mentioned?" the young dragon asked telepathically, his voice tinged with curiosity and wariness.

Zhao De gripped his sword tightly, gazing at the unknown journey ahead, his eyes filled with both worry and determination. "I don't know the specifics either, but whatever it is, if it threatens the peace of this continent, we have a responsibility to stop it. Get ready, little one, our story has only just begun."

Zhao De and the young dragon traversed snow-capped peaks. The scenery along the way was beautiful, but they had no time to appreciate it. Villages became increasingly rare, replaced by desolate wilderness and the occasional roar of ferocious beasts. Along the way, they encountered many challenges. In each battle, Zhao De spared no effort to protect the young dragon, while the young dragon continued to learn, using its wisdom and budding strength to assist Zhao De.

Chapter 386 The Abandoned Castle

Chapter 386 The Abandoned Castle

One day, they arrived at an abandoned ancient castle, said to be the place where ancient warriors sealed away evil forces. Weeds grew rampant among the castle ruins, and the wind whistled through the cracks in the stones, as if telling a long-ago story.

"Is this the place we're looking for?" The young dragon looked around, feeling both excited and a little nervous.

“It should be. According to the ancient map, the seal is marked here.” Zhao De lightly touched the hilt of his sword, a sense of mission welling up within him. They explored cautiously, each step taken with extreme care.

Suddenly, a gust of wind swept up, and from within the sandstorm-like fog, an old and eerie voice rang out: "Heh heh, finally someone has come... How many years have I waited for this moment..."

Zhao De immediately became alert, shielding the young dragon behind him. "Who are you?! Show yourself!"

As the voice drew closer, the mist gradually dissipated, revealing a figure—a strangely dressed wizard with a distorted face. "Who I am is not important. What is important is that you have come at the right time, and can become the sacrifices for me to break the seal."

Zhao De gripped his sword hilt tightly, unwavering. "I won't let you succeed! Whether you're a servant of evil forces or anything else, don't even think about harming a single life on this continent!"

A battle was about to erupt, and Zhao De and the strange wizard clashed fiercely. Just as the battle reached a stalemate, the young dragon suddenly emitted a dazzling beam of light, illuminating the entire castle. The wizard, momentarily blinded by the intense light, was exposed. Zhao De seized the opportunity and struck with his sword, repelling the wizard. But before disappearing, the wizard left behind a sinister smile: "This is only the beginning; the real test is yet to come..."

After the battle, villagers from the surrounding villages, having heard of the hero's deeds, flocked to the castle, their expressions filled with awe and gratitude.

"Look, that's Lord Zhao De, the hero who defeated the evil spirit!" A child pointed excitedly at Zhao De, his eyes shining with admiration.

"And that amazing dragon! Its light is even brighter than the sun!" exclaimed a villager nearby.

Zhao De responded with a smile, but deep down he knew that the road ahead was still fraught with unknowns and dangers. "Friends, today is just a small victory; the real battle is far from over. The threat of evil forces still exists, and we need more strength and more courage."

The young dragon gently nuzzled Zhao De's arm, conveying through telepathy: "We are not alone, Lord Zhao De. We have each other, and all those who believe in the light."

As night fell, Zhao De and Youlong, surrounded by villagers, left the ancient castle and ventured deeper into the mysteries. They knew that each dawn heralded new challenges and opportunities.

"Lord Zhao De, where should we go next to look for clues?" Young Dragon asked, his eyes sparkling with curiosity and determination.

Zhao De gazed into the distance, where the stars shone brightly, as if guiding them in the right direction. "There is a place with a rich collection of books, which may hold crucial information about evil forces—it is the Tower of Wisdom at the edge of the continent. But the journey is long and perilous, and we must be fully prepared."