Hero Stories: The Rise of the Great Mortelix

Mort's rite of maturity is coming to an end.

Yes, next on the agenda is...the Mentor Contest.

Hmm... I hope everything goes off without a hitch.

You seem rather restless. Perhaps...you are worried that Sir Mortelix might get injured?

...It hasn't been long since you moved here, has it?

How much do you know about Mort?

I know that he is your only son, and that he excels at all he does.

"Excels"... That word doesn't do him justice.

He was born with a gift. He is capable of surpassing those who have dedicated their entire lives to their fields in mere hours.

However...that gift has also given him an unquenchable thirst.

I'm afraid I don't fully comprehend what you mean.

...It would be easier for you to see it for yourself. Pay attention to what's about to happen.

Witness the true potential of the being you will serve with your life.

I can't watch this. Is that man really Sir Mortelix's mentor? He seems...incompetent compared to Sir Mortelix.

You don't know the half of it. He is a renowned spearman from the south, and the only mentor who managed to last a month with him.

Even so... This is brutal. I think somebody should stop the fight.

...If you have an extra life to spare, be my guest.

Urk!

*clinking*

Have you completely forgotten your own lessons? What did you say? Jog my memory.

I told you...dropping your s-spear mid-battle is a veritable death sentence...

But...S-Sir Mort... I can't...

Utterly disappointing. Is this really all you are capable of?

Then there's nothing further to see here.

I think that's enough.

...Intervening in the Mentor Contest goes against tradition.

Yes, but what you were about to do cannot be justified either.

...

The people who gathered here are here to celebrate your foray into adulthood, not to see a bloody corpse.

So lower your spear.

...You are right. I was too harsh.

Today is Mort's final lesson. I will compensate you for today later.

Th-Thank you, sir.

Before anything else...you should get your right arm treated.

If someone were to see, it would only stir up trouble.

...Thank you for your concern, but we have a rite to finish.

As you wish, Father.

So, that's Mortelix... He's composed and dignified just like his father.

But there is one thing that definitely sets them apart.

The way he stares at everything as though it's worthless...

That is a magnificent jewel. And I sense immense power inside of it...

It has one of my father's scales in it. It was given to me at the rite of maturity as a gift.

More importantly, did you say those insidious ancient Dragons of the south were on the move?

That's right. They appeared to have been spurred by the recent expansions of the east and the west.

If that's the case...Father will make a move soon as well.

Do you know why we haven't witnessed the Dragon Lord in the Dragon Valley for centuries, Lucius?

Because Dragons are so diverse and spread out...

No, the truth is simpler than that. It's because there is no pivotal figure with absolute power.

As a matter of fact, I did hear that factions are being formed around Ranok in the west and Zoranox in the east.

Word on the street is that one of them will unify the land and become the Dragon Lord.

What is your opinion on that?

I wouldn't even dare to speculate...

The answer is right under your nose, Lucius.

Control of this land will go to neither Ranok nor Zoranox, but my father, Uberius.

B-But... We're gravely outnumbered compared to other factions. There's also...

The results of the Dragon War will be determined by the power of the chosen ones, not the headcount of their lowly foot soldiers.

It baffles me how you still fail to comprehend that. Or...don't tell me you're still under the delusion that I might be defeated?

O-Of course not! Please forgive me.

*chuckling* Sure. Today is a monumental day, after all.

W-What do you mean...?

Sir Mort, Sir Uberius requires your presence urgently.

Pack your armor, Lucius.

It's time to leave the nest.

The valley is swarming with enemies.

Their numbers are greater than we anticipated. We shouldn't be...

Are you afraid of those lowly creatures?

Th-That's not what I meant...

*slashing*

THUNK...

Follow me, Lucius, but keep a distance.

Yes, Sir Mortelix.

...Surrounded by worthless creatures. It is not you I seek.

Wh-Who are you!?

SLASH...!

Aren't there any worthy opponents here?

So you are the reckless greenhorn hatchling everyone's talking about.

...Ignorance begets pain, and pain leads to tragedy.

Come, I will liberate you from the fetters of your ignorance.

The ancient Dragons of the south all agreed to join us.

I believe they were overwhelmed by Sir Mortelix's devastating strength.

Though they are bound by their obstinacy and conventions, they are still practical... They chose the best option available to them.

Once we eliminate some members of the resistance, the southern Dragon Valley will belong to you, sir.

Indeed. Now I am the ruler of the south...

What about the other regions?

The west fell into the hands of Ranok the Walker, and the east is...

The east is held by Sentinel Zoranox?

That's correct, sir. There are only two factions left on your way to becoming Dragon Lord.

...Being brash makes one careless, and being careless pitches one into crisis.

We lack troops compared to those two factions. Moreover, efforts to integrate the south have been taking their toll.

Therefore, it is time to regroup.

Does it have to be now? Sir Mortelix wants to go to war right this moment.

Several ancient Dragons are ready to follow him as well...

...Did I not make myself clear?

I-I apologize, sir. I'll excuse myself now.

So Mort's followers are increasing. I expected this might happen.

But if I leave it be, their numbers will grow exponentially, and that will pose a serious threat to me in the end.

...I can't allow that. The lordship must be mine and mine alone.

To avert any potential problems in the future, I'd better nip this in the bud.

H-How have you been, Sir Mortelix?

My father must have been keeping you quite busy, I presume?

M-My apologies, sir. I'd planned to return as soon as possible, but...

...It's fine. I'm sure he had his reasons to keep you there.

In any case, how did he respond to my request?

He said now is not the time to expand our territory but to ensure internal stability, so we should all stand by until further instruction.

...Exactly as I expected.

S-Sir, was there a particular reason I needed to stay there?

Yes, he kept you there out of consideration of those who come to visit me.

Some are reluctant to visit you...if I am around?

You are a servant sent by my father. Some might think you are here to spy on me.

I-I would never, sir, I swear!

On top of that, why would Sir Uberius do such a...

My father seems like a still lake on the surface.

But if you dive down to the bottom of that lake, you will find a raging vortex of ambition.

That's why he doesn't want to leave even the smallest problem unchecked.

It's...beyond my comprehension.

Perhaps you are too young to understand all of this.

Since there is no need for me to stay here right now, I'm going to leave for some time.

Understood. I will go prepare for the journey.

No, you will stay and act as if I am still here.

Why... N-Never mind, sir. Will this trip take long?

I'd say so, as I will be touring the south. But I'm sure those who've visited will be satisfied.

Their journey here will not be fruitless.

I believe I told you to stay put on the front lines... What are you doing here?

I've come to relieve you of a little problem.

THUNK... *rolling*

These are...

These belong to the distinguished guests from the south who tempted me with the quite tasteless proposition of becoming my followers.

Unfortunately, as we weren't able to see eye to eye...I was unable to bring them here intact.

...You read my mind.

Who could understand the intent behind your words better than I?

Right. I've taught you everything I know, so it's only logical.

But don't act so hastily next time. I am the one calling the shots, not you.

...I'll keep that in mind, Father.

We have sorted out our internal issues faster than I anticipated, so there's only one thing left to do.

A war to unify the Dragon Valley. When do you plan on launching the first attack?

A grand task like this requires thorough preparation. You must be patient.

No preparation is necessary. I can take care of it all by myself.

Of course you are more than capable of seizing everything. However, you won't be able to protect the entire region on your own.

The upcoming battle is going to be nothing short of all-out war.

Another day of boredom ahead of me as our troops prepare for the front lines...

Are you that eager to measure yourself against other champions?

If I'm deprived of that amusement as well, my life will be nothing but unbearable tedium.

And if you are to take the throne as Dragon Lord...

We should unite the Dragon Valley and resume the Council of Ancient Dragons as soon as possible.

Dragon Lord... Once, it was merely a daydream, but it's getting closer to becoming a reality.

I was about your age when I first began to consider that dream. It was during the time I traveled the world in search of a good fight.

So you went through that phase as well. Did you find anyone worthy?

I came to the brink of death several times, but I was always the last one standing.

However, there was one match...

I had passed through a blizzard and found myself in an unfamiliar place.

Ack...

You possess immeasurable power. To think there is such a mighty being in this world...

Why are you still bound to this place? With your power, you could easily rule the Dragon Valley...

...It's because I've been entrusted with a mission.

A mission... What would that be?

To receive the Chosen One.

The owner of the cavern, and the ruler of this land.

The ruler of this land... The Chosen One.

Most Dragons were unaware of both the First Land and the Dragons living there.

My chances of finding any relevant documents were slim to none. But I refused to give up on my research...

Finally, I uncovered the truth in an old tome I found at the ruins.

They were guarding the Sacred Cavern, a place that holds the power and will of the Dragon Lord who passed away centuries ago.

That means that the beings you fought were...

They were the Dragons who protected the Dragon Lord in the past and now the Sacred Cavern.

Amongst them all, I was defeated by the strongest, the Protector.

The Protector...

...Why do you think I'm telling you this story?

I believe you're trying to tell me that the Dragon Lord is not decided by just the council.

Correct. To become the true Dragon Lord, one must go to the Sacred Cavern.

Before that, one has to prove oneself worthy by...

Becoming the ruler of this land.

And I cannot reach that without the power of my only son.

So I'm asking you once and for all. No matter what the future holds...will you follow me?

You have my word. I'd like to remind you of the oath I took upon the jewel you gave to me at my rite of maturity.

Yes, I remember. You declared that you would make me the Dragon Lord before the crowd.

If you want me to, I will cut the Protector down right this moment.

*chuckling* I'm afraid it cannot be done.

I went back several times afterward, but I only found myself trapped in even stronger blizzards.

It's as if...no one is allowed in until proven worthy.

But I could just press ahead through the blizzard.

Don't be so sure of yourself. It's a remnant of the late Dragon Lord's magic.

Even you could end up being stuck there forever. So never enter without my permission.

I do not wish to see my only child buried under the eternal blizzard.

...Understood.

Sir Uberius, it's time to attend the meeting with the elders.

How time flies... I think the gifts you brought me are going to make today's meeting longer.

Return to your nest for now. I will send a messenger once I determine the next move.

Well, now that I've fulfilled my intention of advancing the war, I ought to return.

But I'm intrigued by the fascinating story Father just told me.

Simply checking the place out shouldn't do me any harm.

And, if it's possible...

It should be around here...

A voice... This must mean I'm inside the First Land.

Odd... I didn't see any sign of the blizzard Father mentioned...

...Whatever the reason is, I should go straight to see the Protector.

If you want me to stop, make me.

Ugh...! How did you know...

...A minion. Nonetheless, you can be useful.

I won't ask you twice, so act wisely.

Where is the Sacred Cavern?

Do you really think I would reveal something like tha...

Urk...!

THUNK...

You have one last chance. This time, I won't stop at your legs.

Haha...ha... I see where your confidence comes from, but...

*growling*...!

Calling for reinforcements... You think numbers will solve your problem?

SPLAT!

Tragedy follows those who don't know their place.

Come. I yearn for a good fight, however brief.

...You bore me. This ends now.

BOOM!

I see more and more enemies on their way...

That must mean I'm getting closer to my goal.

But you will never reach it!

Ha... Not half bad.

He blocked my attack so effortlessly...

You are different from the ones writhing in pain on the ground.

Urk...!

But you cannot be the Protector from Father's story.

Will I finally get to face the one who is ostensibly the strongest Dragon in existence after I defeat you?

You know about the Protector? Who are you!?

You wish to know? Then...entertain me.

He is no ordinary being. I should fight with everything I have, otherwise...

I haven't had this much fun in a while. I applaud your skills, but...

They fall quite short of pleasing me.

I may have been able to stand against him at the start of this fight, but I'm no match for him.

But it would be a shame to bring this to an end so early, so...

WOOSH... THUNK...!

What are you doing? Why did you thrust your spear into the ground?

Don't be too upset. I'm making this a fair fight.

Try again, and amuse me for a little longer.

What an arrogant ass... I'm going to wipe that smirk off your face.

If I catch him off guard with my final blow...!

Hmm... Nice try, but...

He blocked this too... Wait a second, that stance...!

Urrrgh!

I tried copying some of your skills, though I'm not sure how much I got right.

He picked up my skills while fighting? What IS he...?

Your last attack seemed like your best shot... I'm certain you have nothing else left to show.

Since you entertained me for a moment, I will spare you. In return, I will ask you one thing.

...The Protector's whereabouts?

You're sharp. Now, tell me, where is...

I see a guest has come in my absence.

Your injury looks grave. Stand back, Alencinox.

You've returned... Yes, I understand.

So it was true... And just as Father described.

This familiar power... I see. You are a descendant of Uberius, the Unproven One.

...Do you wish to become the Chosen One?

No, the only reason I've come here is to find someone who will bring color back to my dreary life.

A battle against someone worthy, someone mighty!

CLANG!

Such a foolish, meaningless reason.

You can insult me after defeating me.

CLASH!

Perhaps that was too easy for you...

How about...this!

SPLAT!

*dripping*

I used my full strength...but I barely even scratched him?

Just how long are you planning to stay on the defensive?

What extraordinary talent... I'm sure it's allowed you to claim countless victories.

Nonetheless...

Urrrgh!

I saw the attack coming, so why...

Your spear is like an empty shell, it contains nothing inside.

How dare you...

Countless challengers have stood before me. Ones just like you.

The Perfect Yet Incomplete Ones.

Don't treat me like one of those inadequate losers.

Then what makes you so different from them?

*rumbling*

Magic...? Where are you sending me?

This is it for today. But if you are worthy of becoming the Chosen One...

And if you find the answer to my question...

We will see each other again soon.

Ack...

P-Protector! Are you all right?

Do not worry. I'm just a bit tired...

But there is a silver lining to today, I may be able to fulfill my duty.

What do you mean?

Anyone who sets foot onto the First Land has to break through the barrier of the blizzard.

But that wasn't the case for Mortelix.

Does that mean he has what it takes to become the Dragon Lord?

Well, we shall see.

Will a Dragon who's never even dreamed of flying spread his wings and soar into the sky? Or...

Fall headfirst to the ground?

*crashing*

...

So this is how it feels to be defeated... Is this humiliation and frustration?

No... What I feel right now is nothing like that. This is an exhilaration like I've never experienced before...

It's like I've just stepped into a whole new world.

I never realized that having an obstacle to overcome and a goal to achieve could be so fulfilling.

...An empty spear.

Perhaps I've yet to outgrow the shadows of my mentors that I held in such contempt.

The Perfect Yet Incomplete Ones...

...Fine. I cast everything aside. I will start from the bottom and reach the top once again.

That's...the only way to surpass him.

Father... What brings you here?

You disappeared for months.

Oh... I didn't realize how much time had passed already.

What is it you are doing here, exactly? What are these broken pieces of armor scattered all over the place?

I took some time away to face myself.

And to create my own spearmanship technique.

It wasn't designed for an ordinary weapon, so I crafted one specially for my purposes.

You're making your own technique?

That's correct, although there is a slight hint of that one's skills...

That one...?

Allow me to demonstrate.

It's not entirely the same, but those moves are definitely...

So you clashed with the Protector.

That means you went to the First Land.

...That's correct.

Such a foolish, Why did you disregard my word?

I warned you about the danger of being eternally buried under a merciless blizzard. More importantly, if the Protector decided to take your life...

I apologize for breaking my promise, but I believe that as a result, I've finally found a goal in life.

This newfound goal of yours... Is it to defeat the Protector?

Yes. The only being who's ever defeated me.

If only I could surpass such a powerful entity, I could break free from my own limits and evolve into something new.

...Mort is to defeat the Protector anyway. Maybe this is for the best.

I just remembered... I noticed something odd while I was there.

I didn't experience any blizzard in the First Land.

He wasn't barred by the blizzard...?

The fact that you are hurriedly looking for me can only mean one thing. Is it time?

...Yes. Ranok and Zoranox are on the move.

Excellent. They will be the perfect test subjects for my new skills.

Don't be so conceited. They are nothing like those you've faced so far.

*chuckling* You don't need to worry about me. I have no intention of losing.

All you have to do is to sit back and watch as I fulfill my oath.

Now... I'll head to the battlefield.

The blizzard represents a barrier that keeps anyone unauthorized out of the First Land.

Anyone but Mort.

Does this mean he's been accepted by the Dragon Lords' will that lies within that cavern?

...

I might be able to use this to my advantage.

But some preparations need to be made beforehand.

You stand in my way? Fool.

You're distinctly different from the other Ruby Dragons. Are you Ranok?

Yes. I am Ranok the Walker.

The Walker... What an absurd name.

You smug little hatchling, burn to the ground!

WOOOOOSH...!

Hmm... Not so impressive. Is this all you can do?

You withstood my flame... You are no ordinary opponent.

That's correct. I'm the one who will crush you and put an end to this little war.

What? Hahaha! That arrogant tone and blue hair, now I know who you are.

You are the son of that old fool Uberius.

What a shame. Uberius is about to see his precious son die of his own hubris.

That's quite the speech for someone who's about to become the first victim of my new spearmanship.

What...? I was planning on ending your life quickly and painlessly for Uberius's sake...

But I've changed my mind. I'm going to bring you to your knees and make you my lackey forever.

*scoffing* If that's how you want to play this... All right, I, on the other hand, was going to slay you mercilessly, but I will take you in if you prove yourself worthy.

Keep dreaming.

I, Ranok the Walker, will never be defeated by a child like you!

*chuckling* I hope there's more to you than just walking.

You are the one who took down Ranok.

And I'll be the one to take you down, too.

Your reputation precedes you. I've heard that you've never been defeated.

But that heroic tale ends today.

...That's not how this is going to unfold.

Haha, I like your confidence. I hope your skills live up to that.

That's not what I meant. Unlike Ranok, I don't fight a losing battle.

Mortelix, son of Uberius. An unparalleled warrior in the Dragon Valley.

Now that I see you with my own eyes, I realize that everything I've heard about you has been an understatement.

Are you saying you are going to surrender without a fight?

Do you know why I'm called the Sentinel? Every battle I've ever fought was done to guard.

If I fight you now, everything I've spent my life guarding...will disappear.

I can see that you are nothing like Ranok. But...let me make one thing clear.

The decision of ending this war is not yours to make.

...Is it Uberius's will to trample over everything I've worked so hard to protect?

He wants to see you and your followers fall to the ground.

But taking you down is my own will. The moment my spear pierces someone as indomitable as you...

The spearmanship technique I need to defeat the Protector will finally be complete.

The Protector...

You don't want to shed innocent blood? Then gather all your strength. Satisfy me.

Otherwise...there won't be a single soul left to tell your story.

...I see. If that is your will, I'll submit.

...Impressive. I've had my fair share of battles against other Dragons, but you were the first one to pierce through my scales and wound me.

Not to mention... I've never seen anyone wield a spear as fiercely as you.

You are not completely worthless either, unlike the others I've encountered so far.

There... I fought with all my might just like you wanted me to. Now...

...!

Are you channeling your power so that I can heal myself?

I told you to satisfy me with a good fight. I was able to achieve what I wanted thanks to you.

I'm simply returning that favor.

That's unexpected. Many colorful words have been used to describe you, but "merciful" was not one of them.

Between Ranok, an avid believer in brute force, and you, who are levelheaded and reasonable...

I simply thought you were the one who would be capable of providing the help my father needs to rule the Dragon Valley.

Of course, if that isn't what you want...I can just take your life and end the whole thing here.

I gladly accept your act of mercy. I, Sentinel Zoranox, solemnly swear to be your loyal follower.

You should redirect your loyalty to the future Dragon Lord.

You mean your father, Uberius?

Yes. He is the one and only being who will rightfully take the throne as Dragon Lord.

No, Mortelix. The Dragon Lord is a being destined to bring all Dragons in this realm together.

A being chosen by the Sacred Cavern.

And that being...is not Uberius.

What do you mean?

There is a prophecy that has been passed down to us for generations.

"One accompanied by many Dragons shall pass the Protector's trial and be reborn."

...What does it mean by "trial"?

I do not know... I just believe that you are the one spoken of in the prophecy.

Flattery will get you nowhere.

I'm merely stating the truth. You brought down countless champions and united the Dragon Valley.

...

You must realize who you are meant to be and find your own place. That's...

Stop. I...don't want to hear any more.

...As you wish.

I'm supposed to be the Dragon Lord...?

No, I couldn't care less about that. The only thing that keeps me going is...

Becoming stronger than the Protector.

How's the investigation coming along?

It is as you predicted, sir.

Ranok of the West and Zoranox of the East as well as both of their followers have defied your orders and decided to join Sir Mortelix.

As expected... But there's nothing to worry about. Their numbers are few.

Yes, they are just a drop in the ocean for now. But those drops will soon form a stream, and a river.

Then...they may stir up Sir Mortelix.

Are you saying Mort may set his sights on my throne?

That is highly unlikely. He swore loyalty to me on the jewel.

Even so...the Council of Ancient Dragons will recommence shortly. And the motion to enthrone the Dragon Lord will be one of the items on their agenda.

...I thought I told you the Dragon Lord is not decided by the council.

You're right, sir, but most Dragons will follow the agreement the council reaches.

If that tide rises, Mort may decide to swim with it.

Or...perhaps he already has.

What...are you trying to say?

We've already heard Zoranox's prophecy from this little one.

"One accompanied by many Dragons shall pass the Protector's trial and be reborn."

Yes, it indicates that the one who defeats the Protector will likely become the Dragon Lord.

He went to the First Land without saying anything to you, so...

A-Ah... That can't be. The Sir Mortelix I know...

Would never do such a thing? If you were that confident in his loyalty, why did you report this to me?

You've even watched and reported on his every move.

...

We are running out of time, sir.

...Right. His reasons for going there don't really matter.

But once he defeats the Protector, he will become the owner of the Sacred Cavern, the Chosen One, and...

The Dragon Lord.

I would just like to remind you that they are all ready, as always.

S-Sir... You aren't planning to...

Do you really think I would do anything to harm Mort? Hahaha, what a ridiculous notion.

Why would I cut down my only son, who also happens to be my bridge to the throne?

Then...what are you planning to do?

I think your role here is finished, Lucius. This has become something far out of your league.

Advisor! Summon them. Now.

I will leave for the First Land immediately.

The Protector awaits you within the cavern.

...

What's that look on your face? Are you nervous?

Certainly not. What I'm feeling is closer to fear.

Fear that I will never find another worthwhile opponent after this fight...

A fear as immense as an endless void.

...You are just unbelievable. Shouldn't you save that ridiculous sentiment until later? You have a trial to pass.

Haha, you're right. It's rather meaningless to worry about something that hasn't even happened yet.

By the way, I quite enjoy our conversation. I might visit you later.

Hmph, seriously... Just go inside already.

...Right. Thank you for showing me the way here.

...

Hundreds of years have passed since we separated ourselves from the outside, waiting for the new Dragon Lord to appear.

And now here we are, witnessing the first to ever face the trial.

Mortelix... Could he be the one we've been waiting for?

Perhaps. But it will be me who claims that title in the end.

Oh dear... We have an uninvited guest.

You... You look quite different from before.

Have you found the answer to my question?

The Perfect Yet Incomplete Ones you defeated in the past...

You asked me what sets me apart from them.

They were imperfect to begin with.

*chuckling* So you are different...innately?

Those who failed to see that probably crumbled before you as they cursed their destinies.

But I'm different. Now...I know exactly what I am.

You found the answer. You're right. It is not me you have to overcome today.

The entire trial of going beyond the Wall of Potentiality and becoming the Chosen One...

It starts and ends with overcoming yourself.

You have successfully overcome your own limitations, Mortelix.

This is the end of your trial.

What are you talking about? I haven't...

You haven't defeated me yet. But I don't need to remind you that we both are physically drained right now.

Now is the time to stop. Besides...there is something you should take.

...!

Although it's tiny... I feel an immense power within this orb of light...

This orb contains the power and will of former Dragon Lords. We have held onto this for a long time.

I, the last Protector, am relinquishing the orb to you today, Mortelix.

You're choosing me as the Dragon Lord?

That is who you are meant to be. Didn't you say it yourself? You are not the same as those defeated by me.

...

If I were to become the Dragon Lord, what would happen to your position?

Whatever you wish. You would be entitled to decide everything.

That means I would be able to battle you whenever I want.

You haven't given up on that idea...? Sure, that is possible. Now, come and take hold of your destiny.

Be reborn as Mortelix, the Chosen One.

I won't let that happen. That belongs to me.

Urrrgh!

U-Uberius...? How did you...

F-Father...?

It seems I made it just in time.

How did you...get past the barrier...?

Something that's been running for hundreds of years ought to have a weak spot or two.

Even if it is a barrier made of the late Dragon Lords' magic...

Well, it may be long overdue, but it's time to get even.

SMACK!

*tumbling*

F-Father... What have you done? Why did you...!?

The Protector was standing in my way of becoming the Dragon Lord!

On top of that, tricking you into taking the throne? You nearly broke your oath.

What, so you're just doing what needs to be done to reach your goal...?

That's right. Now, hand over that orb of light you're holding, and fulfill the oath you took.

...That's not going to happen.

What...?

...!

W-What are you doing!

I told you in my cave that defeating the Protector was the first goal I'd ever had.

But now I'll never achieve that goal.

It's only fair to reciprocate.

Mortelix, stop!

...!

Y-You broke the orb of light. This can't be happening...

Don't worry.

You'll still get to become the Dragon Lord, the owner of Sacred Cavern, and the Chosen One, as I swore, but...

CRACK...

You broke the jewel...I gave you...

You will not be getting what you've yearned for either, Uberius.

Just as I never will.

I knew you would be here. You aren't going to visit Sir Uberius this time either?

I heard he made an altar inside the Sacred Cavern and is now accepting offerings from Humans?

That old Dragon will do anything in his power to let the world know who he is.

...You haven't visited him for a long time. He's probably worried about you.

It might not be a terrible idea to make an appearance for once...

Well, it will be if I turn the place into a Human bloodbath.

...

Don't worry. My only mentor and rival lies in rest there.

I wouldn't dare desecrate the place with filthy blood.

Then...I'll let them know you will not be attending.

No, I'll go this time.

It may be amusing to see him keeping up appearances every once in a while.

Besides...there's someone I need to see.

Ugh. You again.

You are the only one I can talk to about the Protector.

And more importantly, your mission here is complete. You have no reason to stay here.

Yes, most of the others have already left for the Dragon Valley. The only ones left are my blood kin.

Are you planning on staying here?

I'm not sure. I've developed a bit of an interest in Humans, so I'm considering observing them at close range, but...

I don't think I'll stray too far from this place.

Humans... I don't understand either you or that old Dragon. Why do you care so much about those lowly creatures?

...I take you're not a big fan of Humans.

It's only natural for the weak to bow down to the strong in order to survive.

But I saw something else in their eyes today.

Cunning creatures... They will bring great disaster to this land someday.

Of course, the old Dragon seems satisfied with the offerings on the altar...

What Uberius wants is peace, not only for Dragons but for every creature in the land.

And...he is doing a better job than expected.

I don't know how much any of this matters, but I'm glad to hear that you are not leaving.

You are the only Dragon alive I find tolerable.

Again with this nonsense. You came all the way down here to tell me that?

As a matter of fact... I've been meaning to ask you something. Did you see the Protector in his youth?

Yes, he was the Protector for as long as I can remember.

I mean, he wasn't exactly young back then either, but I can tell you one thing for sure.

In his prime, he was invincible. The state you fought him in doesn't even begin to compare.

So it wasn't I who defeated him after all...

Nonsense! You are the only being to ever pass the Protector's trial.

I, Alencinox, can vouch for that.

True, but when I think about it, the fight itself wasn't all that fair...

As one of us was much closer to death at the hand of every mortal's enemy... Time.

Protector, that old Dragon, and...even I will eventually wither away with time.

Yes, it's fair to everyone. But keep this in mind.

As the being to take on the power and will of the former Dragon Lords, you are the true ruler of Dragons.

Haha, that reminds me of how that old Dragon really emphasized that name, "the Chosen One."

It's one of his attempts to fortify his position.

The Chosen One... I've never liked that name.

So self-serving... It's not a fitting name for the Dragon Lord.

So you want me to address you as something else?

Haha, yes. True greatness is something that is judged by others.

So from now on, I want you to call me...

The Great One, Mortelix.