Ashen Dragon

"To hear you say this brings me relief. I believe Lord Ed would also be proud of you. But now is not the time. The evil dragons and their claws and fangs are far too powerful. Our strength... is not yet enough," the Ancient Gold Dragon said.

Zeen gazed into the distance and said, "I know, Lord Titus. But one day, evil will be conquered by justice, and darkness will be illuminated by light, won't it?"

"Of course."

Titus smiled kindly, then turned his head, his wise golden eyes fixing on the Dwarf Prince. "Your Highness Zeen, before Lord Ed departed, he entrusted me with something and told me to pass it on to you at the right time."

The Ancient Gold Dragon extended his giant claw and drew an object from the void—a crown forged of gold, adorned with gemstones of many hues, exuding the distinctively robust and dignified essence of dwarven craftsmanship.

"This is..."

Zeen's eyes sparkled instantly. Soon, he recognized the origin of this item.

—It was the Mountain Crown, a symbol worn only by a king who had gained the unanimous approval of all Shield Dwarves, crowning them as the rightful Master of High Mountains.

Titus picked up the crown and solemnly declared, "To wear the crown is to bear its weight. I think you... are qualified to wear it now."

Zeen, filled with emotion, looked at the diligent dwarven subjects around him, at the city under construction, and at the towering figure he held in his heart.

He knew, at this moment, he must assume the responsibility of being the Master of High Mountains, leading his people toward a glorious tomorrow.

"Master of High Mountains!"

"Long live Lord Zeen!"

Shouts rose from below the mountains as Zeen turned in surprise. He saw elderly, disabled, and weak dwarves shedding tears while cheering and encouraging the Dwarf Prince.

—It turned out that Titus had amplified their earlier conversation to every corner of the volcanic sanctuary.

Every dwarf was now aware of Lord Ed's passing, and that their Highness Zeen would bear the mantle of Master of High Mountains and become their new king.

Titus chuckled, "See, you needn't worry, young king. You've already gained the recognition of your future subjects."

Listening to the voices of encouragement, a warm current swelled in Zeen's heart, and his sense of responsibility grew ever stronger.

Zeen stepped forward resolutely and lowered his head.

Titus carefully placed the crown upon his head, his voice gentle as he said, "Congratulations, Your Highness Zeen—no, now it should be Lord Zeen."

"Lord Titus, thank you for your trust.

I swear— I will lead the Shield Dwarves toward a bright future. One day, I will reclaim Aivendel and avenge my father," Zeen said, lifting his head, his voice brimming with conviction.

It was a promise to his subjects, and a vow to himself.

His expression grew resolute, already bearing the demeanor of Lord Ed, the former Master of High Mountains—now, the burden of Shield Dwarves' revival rested completely on his shoulders.

"Lord Zeen!"

"Master of High Mountains, Lord Zeen!"

"Reclaim Aivendel! Restore dwarven honor!"

"Yes, we will avenge Lord Ed!"

The dwarves shouted louder, waving their iron hammers. Though mourning Lord Ed's death, they poured forth unreserved encouragement and support for Zeen.

Meanwhile, Titus stood nearby, watching the young king with deep satisfaction, clapping his claws. The Ancient Gold Dragon's face carried a look of wistful remembrance, his weathered tears flowing as he murmured, "So alike, truly so alike..."

He was every bit the image of an elder, gratified to see the son of an old friend become accomplished.

—All one could say was that Cassius's performance had reached an extraordinary, unsurpassed level.