Chapter 3, Confusion! The Melancholy of the Plain

The only way to confront Long Feiyang is to be stronger than him. The weakness of the Dragon Bow is that it must rely on its dragon to sustain its own power, and even its life. Therefore, the Dragon Bow will not kill its own dragon, except in one circumstance

Whether it is the villagers or the elves, they are not fighting each other. Some stand there in confusion, glancing at me and then looking into the forest, unsure of what has happened

The melancholic tree still stands tall in the center of the forest, its lofty crown extending above all the other trees. Below it lies a sea of flames, completely surrounding it and gnawing at its massive trunk. Those with keen eyes can see that the animals in the forest helplessly cling to the crown, gazing down at the terrifying inferno. At this moment, some green sprites also appear atop the crown, striving to drag each animal up to safety, protecting them from the onslaught of the flames. The fire burns beneath the tree, slowly creeping up the trunk. The sprites, seated on the crown, do not look at the inferno below; it seems they are gazing this way. My heart aches, as if I can see their mournful eyes, devoid of anger, filled only with despair and melancholy, waiting to be buried alongside the melancholic tree in this hellish sea of fire.

Leilong smiled, a smile so gentle and pure, just like the Leilong I am familiar with, yet somewhat different. Perhaps it is due to the night and the mist, but this Leilong seems different from the usual one.

No, no, I mean no harm

A sprite approached the hammer, attempting to stab its back with the spear in hand. The hammer heard the sound of the wind, turned around, and swung down with a hammer strike aimed at the spear. The sprite was caught off guard, and the spear was unexpectedly smashed in half by the hammer, falling to the ground. The sprite was taken aback, covering its hand and jumping back, wanting to escape. The hammer, filled with murderous intent, let out a thunderous roar, startling the sprite into a daze, forgetting to evade the massive hammer, which was about to land on its small head. Suddenly, a crisp sound of an arrow slicing through the air rang out, and an arrow shot out from the forest, accompanied by a strong gust of wind. With a loud bang, the heavy hammer in the hammer's hand was knocked out of its grip by the arrow, soaring into the sky. It took a long time to crash down, creating a deep pit upon landing, while the hammer's palm had already been shattered, bleeding profusely. The hammer's weapon flew so high, it seemed as if it had struck a giant rock. After a long while, it finally crashed down, creating a deep pit, and the hammer's palm had already been shattered, bleeding profusely. The hammer's weapon flew so high, it seemed as if it had struck a giant rock. My heart sank; what a powerful bow!

Meteor Pursuit Arrow

I have come to seek the way of the bow, the way of the bow, do you know it? I asked patiently, somehow feeling that this elf would not harm me. "Look," I took the book out of my backpack and opened it for him to see, "there is a tree on this page, and it is the same as your tree.

I could no longer bear it, so I pushed through the crowd, jumped into the circle, and snatched the water bottle from the hand of the person holding the hammer

"That is a warning to the elves hiding in the forest," said the hammer. "Due to the mischief of the melancholy tree, all the trees around our village have died. When someone thought to go there to chop wood, they were shot by the elves. Those elves are truly unreasonable, forbidding us from touching a single blade of grass there. However, we villagers are not to be trifled with, which is why such a significant conflict has arisen"

"It is the root of the tree!" I shouted loudly, "It is the root of the tree of melancholy, we are saved, we are saved!"

My gaze fell upon those who were chopping wood

What happened

The sun rises and sets again, while the moon gradually becomes full. After the sun has risen four times, we have entered a vast plain.

All of this is for the master

However, ... ... the forces of nature are merciless. What if ... ... " another villager said softly, but his voice was quickly drowned out by the surrounding outcry.

However, in that fleeting moment, my eyes were filled with those sparkling objects, leaving me no time to evade them. My whole body felt as if it were being pricked by needles, a chill penetrating to the bone. My chest felt as though it had been struck heavily, and then everything went dark before I lost consciousness

The trunk continuously stretches towards the sky, as if attempting to pierce through it. The flames are so fierce that they are about to reach the treetop, causing everyone's hearts to rise to their throats. At this moment, no one can believe their eyes; the melancholic tree suddenly struggles violently, and even the earth feels this unusual tremor. Suddenly, the treetop forcefully detaches from the trunk, floating in the air, slowly rotating, hovering above the entire sea of fire. At this moment, no one can believe their eyes; the melancholic tree suddenly struggles violently, and even the earth feels this unusual tremor. Suddenly, the treetop forcefully detaches from the trunk, floating in the air, slowly rotating, hovering above the entire sea of fire

I stepped forward and took the cloth bag

The forest has turned into a wasteland, and the melancholy trees have been burned down, leaving not even a trace behind. At this moment, the village chief halted his steps. Before him stood a group of elves, who did not notice our arrival; they were silently digging at something, as if their sorrow had rendered their hatred for humans insignificant.

"Stop talking nonsense," the hammer muttered, and walked forward again

I helplessly released my fist, gazing at my blood-stained palm, the pain piercing deep into my heart; however, the greater pain comes from within my own heart. Tears rolled in my eyes, as if with the slightest misstep, they would fall.

Before me appeared that elven archer once again, along with the arrows he shot. I felt a sense of familiarity, something only an archer could comprehend. He bore no malice towards me; after all, his arrows did not seek my life

The hammer looked at me in surprise and asked, "What are you doing, Lei? Your injury has not yet healed!"

Open it and take a look, hurry up! The hammer completely ignored my thoughts and continued to shout beside me. So, I carefully opened the book.

I stood there, made a friendly gesture, and said: "Hello, elf. My name is Lei, what is your name?"

I understood the meaning of the spirit, reached out to take a seed, dug a hole in the ground with my hands, carefully buried the seed, and attentively covered it with soil

Countless mysteries roll within my heart, rising and falling; however, a warm current surges within me. At that moment, my master still worried about me.

What does that have to do with the water of Broken Mirror Lake?

"Indeed," the master said, "but as members of the elven race, they may have learned to use the bow and arrow long before you did"

Very good, those blue eyes, as clear as the waters of a lake, belong to the dragon-like creature. I do not know when it arrived by my side, quietly lying at my feet, gazing at me

After an unknown period of time, a villager who had climbed the highest murmured

Oh dear! Why aren't you watching where you're going? It turned out to be a plump farmer woman, rubbing her waist like a water bucket and complaining.

What happened? That person stopped in their tracks and looked at me

A chubby person straightened up, as I had accidentally stepped on that individual

As I was about to release the arrow, the visage of my master suddenly appeared before my eyes. I spoke slowly, gazing into the distance, "I have never seen my master with such a countenance, so sorrowful. My heart hesitated, became confused, and the once hardened heart began to melt. What force prevented me at the last moment? I believe my master would rather die than see me stray from the path of archery. Although she is thousands of miles away and her life hangs by a thread, at that moment, I clearly felt my master's thoughts and will.

However, I want to say something, yet I do not know how to express it; I only have a vague feeling that something is amiss

The bowstring emitted a creaking sound, while the dragon-like creature remained there, circling and absorbing the last trace of light

Yet I feel somewhat anxious. Magdala said that the master only has forty-nine days, and after accounting for the journey to Broken Mirror Lake, there is not much time left.

Magtala took a step forward

Thus, we did not delay and went directly to the Melancholy Plain

"Indeed," said the hammer. "Look, that forest is where the elves reside. Those detestable elves, those loathsome trees. Everywhere else has been turned into a wasteland, yet the elven forest remains lush and green. If not them, who else could be behind this?" The hammer displayed a look of deep resentment.

The melancholic tree still stands resiliently amidst the sea of flames

I do not know when, but a sprite appeared before me. It was entirely green, blending seamlessly and harmoniously with the entire forest; if one did not look closely, one would not see it there at all. It was quite short, holding a bow, and was looking at me. It was indeed the archer who had engaged me in combat.

Why not? He did not speak

When another group of people migrated here, the trees still opened their tolerant embrace, welcoming them. However, somehow, since their arrival, the animals on the plains began to dwindle, the grass withered, and the joyful songs that once filled the plains disappeared, leaving only vast stretches of desolate land

"Class Dragon?" I raised my body in surprise

"Who says otherwise?" Hammer retorted discontentedly, "Those elves are attempting to seize the entire plain, wanting to drive the people away, which has led to the current state of the plain. Later, the brave villagers ventured deep into the plain and discovered a strange large tree growing in the center. The tree was remarkably tall, with branches and leaves spreading out, blocking the sun. The elves were worshipping the tree, for it possessed magic that could control the climate of the entire plain, rendering it arid and barren." Later, the brave villagers ventured deep into the plain and discovered a strange large tree growing in the center. The tree was remarkably tall, with branches and leaves spreading out, blocking the sun. The elves were worshipping the tree, for it possessed magic that could control the climate of the entire plain, rendering it arid and barren.

I still do not understand I muttered The master's words are always half-spoken leaving one in a state of partial comprehension

Stop, stop! I shouted desperately, pulling at everyone with my hands, but like leaves in a river, I was tossed about by the crowd. I could not stop a group of people, a group intent on destruction.

No, I wiped my tears vigorously and shook my head fiercely. "I won't cry, Lei won't cry..." I sniffed, turned around, and strode forward. The road lay ahead. For my master, and for the hammer, I must be strong, strong, and even stronger.

What is the principle of heaven? Is it the principle of heaven to destroy others in exchange for one's own survival? Is destruction really the only path? I turned around and ran out of the village, catching up with Tie Chui and the others

Suddenly, someone shouted loudly: "Look! The tree, the tree!"

"Dragon, where are you?" I murmured to myself, gazing at the sky. I sat by the lake, waiting for the sky to darken, and my mood gradually became heavier.

Unbeknownst to me, under the gentle caress of the breeze sweeping across the lake, I felt a wave of drowsiness. Despite my efforts to stay alert, I could not resist the gentle temptation and gradually slipped into a sweet darkness

The third tone breaks through the silence

When I opened my eyes again, it was already midnight

But you are not a match for those elves I said

"Of course I am," said the dragon, opening its mouth and chuckling, "a dragon that uses its brain." As it spoke, it looked up at the sky and nodded.

"There will definitely be a solution," I said firmly, looking at Magdala. "There will definitely be one."

The master smiled and said, "Natural archers are even more formidable."

"What is it for me?" I asked in astonishment

Do not cause trouble, this is for his treatment. The holy water I obtained with great difficulty is meant to save him

"It is the sky, it is the ocean, it is the earth, it is spring, it is the four seasons, it is the sun, it is the moon, it is life, and it is also death. This peculiar bow technique that merges with nature is called the Elven Bow," the master said enigmatically

"Lei, when did you start learning archery?" the master asked in response.

The hammer chuckled, scratched his head, and said: "I don't know what happened either. I thought I was done for, but it turns out I just took a tumble on my backside."

A villager sighed

My heart sank, what should I do now, holding a book of heavenly scriptures, yet not knowing how to interpret it

Forgive me, Master, the way of the bow, I can no longer continue

All the villagers were running, with a raging fire behind them, fiercely chasing, almost singeing everyone's heels. Cries, shouts, and desperate curses rose and fell, but were quickly drowned out by the frenzied roar of the flames, like a furious sea

A sudden gust of fierce wind

"That is the name given by the people living on that plain," said the hammer. "It is a beautiful plain, rich and abundant, with lush grass and plentiful water. Long ago, a group of people traveled a great distance and settled there. At that time, I was still a child, and in my memory, the grassland of my childhood was so beautiful, it was almost like paradise. But then everything changed"

Jinshi seems to be confident. "The next sacred domain should be Broken Mirror Lake. Go there, Lei, but you must be mentally prepared; it is not an easy place to reach"

I took out the water bottle from my chest and solemnly handed it to the hammer. The hammer received it carefully, excitement gleaming in its eyes, cradling it in its hands and examining it repeatedly. Magdala turned to me again

"Tell me more?" I said with patience.

With a sudden sound, movement was heard in the forest, and I halted my steps

It is somewhat smaller than the other sprites, yet its arms are remarkably long, almost reaching the ground, holding a bow. That bow is also quite peculiar, much taller than it is; when it grips the middle section of the bow, the tail of the bow nearly touches the ground. I became increasingly tense, aiming at it, my breathing starting to quicken

This is a long story. The old habit of the hammer is to make everything lengthy.

Is this the way of the bow? Is this the clue I have been searching for? I am completely perplexed, gently stroking the trunk of the tree. What exactly does the image of this divine bow signify?

I tilted my head and thought for a moment, then said: "Ever since I followed my master, it has been since I was very young"

This is my purpose for coming to Broken Mirror Lake, to kill the dragon-like creature

I walked unimpeded through the path and emerged from the valley. In the night, a figure stood quietly on the other side of the road; it was Magdala. He seemed to have been standing there for a long time, the night breeze gently stirring the hem of his white robe, giving him an elegant and serene appearance. One of his hands was behind his back, while the other held a spellbook. I saw him, stopped in my tracks, and said nothing.

"No one needs to teach it," Jinshi looked at me, shook his head, and said: "This is instinct, Lei. Dragons have the instinct to seek the sacred domain, and with their bloodline, dragon-like beings can find the sacred domain."

I ignored him, took off my clothes, and desperately beat at the flames. The heat wave scorched my face, making it almost impossible to breathe. Before my eyes, the red light rolled wildly, swaying like a mad snake, shifting and devouring everything. I struggled to pat down the flames; fire had already appeared on my clothes, and the thick smoke made my tears flow uncontrollably. However, before those tears could hit the ground, they evaporated, turning into a wisp of vapor, disappearing into the scorching air

I am confused

"We have to wait until dawn," said Tie Chui, pulling me back. "It's pitch dark; what are you blindly wandering around for?"

I decided to follow the elf's words, took down the bow and arrows, and nocked an arrow on the bowstring

At that moment, a sprite stood up. He was shorter than the other sprites, with a long bow slung across his back. His face was somewhat charred from the fire, and his green leaf clothing was tattered. He silently gazed at the villagers, who dared not meet his eyes and lowered their heads, standing awkwardly. Finally, he saw me and extended his hand, in which was a small cloth pouch. He silently gazed at the villagers, who dared not meet his eyes and lowered their heads, standing awkwardly. Finally, he saw me and extended his hand, in which was a small cloth pouch.

"It has been a full three days," said the hammer. "If we include tonight, that makes it three days and three nights."

Only the sound of the wind rustling the dry grass could be heard, and apart from that, the entire plain appeared quite lonely and desolate. However, as a gust of wind blew by, it seemed as if there were one or two faint unusual sounds. I decided to crawl on the ground, pressing my ear to the earth, listening intently. After a while, I stood up, brushed off the dust from my body, and pointed towards the east. "The sound is coming from that direction"

The sprite turned around and smiled. His large eyes were dark, yet they always revealed a hint of melancholy. Could it be the influence of the Tree of Melancholy?

"Wait a moment, Long," I looked at the sky in confusion and asked, "Isn't it a full moon today?"

"Iron Hammer, why is that plain called the Plain of Melancholy?" I asked curiously on the road

You might as well go back and ask Magdala; these wizards all have such foul tempers, speaking halfway, being vague, and trying to fool people with these strange things

No, it is not over yet. I suddenly raised my head and said, "I... did not kill the class dragon."

I lowered my head helplessly, and before my eyes, the melancholic gazes of the fairies resurfaced... Suddenly, I felt ashamed and embarrassed to be a human, wishing I could find a hole to burrow into! In an instant, I forcefully broke free from the grip of the person holding me and dashed toward the sea of flames!

"This is terrible!" The hammer leaped high, swinging the hammer in hand, spreading its long legs, and also dashed down to join the crowd.

Master! I suddenly sat up with a start.

"I apologize, I was lying," Margatala made an interesting expression, "Watching you all struggle is truly amusing."

The hammer stepped forward, glanced at Magdala's head, and then looked at its own hammer

Indeed, he is an archer, and his appearance is very elegant. With a bow drawn and an arrow nocked, behind him is a sun that is rising. His expression is somewhat melancholic and serious as he aims his bow at a target. Below him, there is a small map, with an arrow traversing the map, pointing towards the destination. Beneath the map, there are a few small characters, the handwriting fresh as if just written. I carefully discerned and found that it was a phrase I could recognize: The Way of the Bow

Melancholy Plain? Are you certain?

It seems that my existence has long since desecrated this sacred place. I hurriedly fled the forest like a criminal, yet that melancholic feeling has always accompanied me, gripping my heart. No matter how far I escape, it tightly entwines me, leaving me breathless. Before my eyes, the sorrowful and melancholic gazes of those spirits emerge.

Master, Master, look, look, I have found Broken Mirror Lake, the iron hammer, the iron hammer, this is Broken Mirror Lake, Broken Mirror Lake!

"Will you take me to the Tree of Sorrow?" I asked. The elf nodded and continued walking, the intricate forest paths seeming as straightforward as a flat road to the elf. I became excited and followed closely behind.

I hope they all burn to death! The village chief jumped up, cursing, his beard soaked with tears, "This is self-destruction; it is intolerable by the heavens!"

Who is at fault

At the foot of the hill, a dense crowd of people gathered, dressed as farmers, in tattered clothes, with sallow faces and emaciated bodies. Their long necks were hunched, and they were indeed the kin of the iron hammer. Each of them held various strange farming tools; some carried forks, others bore axes, and some even brought rakes. However, they were all heading in one direction, leaving me confused as to whether they were going to farm or to fell trees, as neither seemed likely. From the excited manner in which they wielded their tools, it appeared they were not going to engage in agricultural work, but rather seemed prepared for battle. The villagers were scattered chaotically, some in groups to the east, others to the west, with no semblance of order, raising their peculiar weapons and making a cacophony of noise, shouting incomprehensible phrases, creating a scene of extraordinary commotion. Suddenly, someone in the crowd let out a shout, and all the villagers echoed it, encouraging one another as they charged forward, with the forest lying ahead of them.

Still human

I strapped on my bow and arrows and left the village alone. Upon reaching the village entrance, I was taken aback to see a massive trench surrounding the entire village, over thirty feet wide and deep, with only a narrow bridge spanning it. To enter or exit the village, one could only use that small bridge. Clearly, this trench was dug by the villagers specifically to prevent disturbances from the elves. This trench, evidently, extends beyond the surface; the chasm in people's hearts is likely even deeper.

I know, that is where the dragon grows. I said, but what is the next sacred domain?

"Leilong, Leilong!" I jumped up and embraced Leilong, unable to hold back any longer, and began to cry softly.

"Yes, you." Magdala appeared quite pleased, as if relieved from a burden

When the Dragon Bow desires to bring about mutual destruction, it will kill its own dragon to absorb the dragon's power before its death. The explosive force of the dragon at the moment of death undoubtedly allows the Dragon Bow to unleash its greatest power. However, after the dragon dies, the Dragon Bow will quickly perish as it can no longer obtain dragon blood. Thus, the Dragon Bow regards its dragon as it does its own life. To surpass Long Feiyang in a short time, it can only rely on this final move of the Dragon Bow. Thunder, I know it is difficult for you, but you must make a choice between your master, the dragon-like entity, and your own life.

Look, the sky has brightened. Indeed, at this moment, the rising sun is casting its first rays of light upon the earth

"You have no idea," said the hammer, full of pride. "During the days you were unconscious, we devised a plan that will surely drive those little dwarfs out of the entire forest"

You are truly strange. The world is so vast. Look, she casually pointed and said: "How expansive the land we can see is, its resources are inexhaustible and limitless. Why should we worry about such trivial matters? Instead, we should focus on how to eliminate those spirits that disrupt human life. Without them, our lives would be much better now. It is precisely because of them that our land has become so barren. Last year's harvest decreased significantly, and we had to allocate more manpower to cultivate more land; otherwise, we would not be able to survive."

"We have never considered why nature despises us so," the village chief said resentfully. As he spoke, he struck the ground heavily with his cane and wobbled out of the village.

When I woke up again, I found myself lying in bed

I am pondering whether my hammer is harder or your head is harder.

I sighed, slowly took the bow and arrow from behind, drew the bow, nocked the arrow, and aimed at the dragon-like creature

However, humanity also exists for survival

It turned out to be a dream... I felt somewhat disappointed, murmuring to myself. Then, I remembered something and immediately grabbed Iron Hammer by the collar, asking, "Iron Hammer, how long have I been unconscious?"

Is this the elf? I focused my gaze. Indeed, the hammer did not speak falsely; those individuals appeared quite short, about my height, and some even shorter. Their figures were remarkably well-proportioned, with green skin, and their clothing seemed to be made of leaves, light and flowing. They moved swiftly, and the most striking feature was their pointed, long ears. I had heard from my master that elves are natural hunters living in the woods, possessing extremely keen hearing. They are a sensitive and intelligent race, yet I had not heard that elves would harm humans. They moved swiftly, and the most striking feature was their pointed, long ears. I had heard from my master that elves are natural hunters living in the woods, possessing extremely keen hearing. They are a sensitive and intelligent race, yet I had not heard that elves would harm humans.

What?" Magdala was surprised

The village chief walked quickly, heading towards the Tree of Melancholy, as if he knew what to do.

The villagers ran to the edge of the forest but stopped in unison, as if afraid of something. After a while, the villagers with axes, encouraged by the cheers of those around them, mustered their courage and stepped forward to chop down the trees. Each time an axe fell, it was met with a round of applause, and everyone was filled with excitement. I couldn't help but chuckle; what was there to cheer about when it came to chopping down trees? Back in the Breezy Valley, I could fell many trees all by myself, but the trees I cut down were all dead, suitable for firewood. After a while, the villagers with axes, encouraged by the cheers of those around them, mustered their courage and stepped forward to chop down the trees. Each time an axe fell, it was met with a round of applause, and everyone was filled with excitement. I couldn't help but chuckle; what was there to cheer about when it came to chopping down trees? Back in the Breezy Valley, I could fell many trees all by myself, but the trees I cut down were all dead, suitable for firewood.

I do not believe that tree will save us! The hammer was also unusually excited, the light in its eyes was dazzling. The fire will spread along those tree roots, it wants to destroy the entire village!

I stepped out of the door, breathing in the fresh air, and the village had already regained its vitality, bustling with activity. Several robust villagers were chopping firewood, their axes raised high and falling heavily, producing a pleasant sound; in the distance, one could see figures moving in the fields, singing simple folk songs, the melodious yet rugged voices creating a scene of a busy rural landscape. Several robust villagers were chopping firewood, their axes raised high and falling heavily, producing a pleasant sound; in the distance, one could see figures moving in the fields, singing simple folk songs, the melodious yet rugged voices creating a scene of a busy rural landscape

I was astonished to see that humans and elves had completely engaged in a chaotic battle. Although the elves were not large in stature, they appeared well-trained amidst the disorderly crowd, skillfully maneuvering and charging in all directions, quickly scattering the assembled villagers into disarray, causing them to flee in panic. Dense volleys of arrows occasionally shot out from the woods, each time accurately striking the most concentrated areas of the crowd, posing a significant threat from afar. The villagers' brief resistance was soon shattered; despite their numbers, they had no choice but to begin retreating, and it seemed that many had been injured. Only the Hammer was still swinging his large hammer, fighting valiantly. Due to his formidable strength, many elves surrounded him but dared not approach. At this moment, the Hammer had completely transformed; his usual lazy smile had vanished, replaced by a face filled with rage, veins bulging, and his two hammers whirling like windmills.

The once bustling earth suddenly fell into a deathly silence, a stillness that momentarily made it difficult to breathe

"Why are you still standing there?" he said, and began to dig as well. More people came over and took a seed. ... One person, two people, three people ... All the villagers gathered around, silently taking seeds, imitating the elves, digging in the ground, burying them, and busying themselves. Tie Hammer felt somewhat at a loss, anxiously looking at the elves, hesitating. Another elf stood up and silently placed a bag of seeds in Tie Hammer's hands, without saying a word, and continued with its work. Tie Hammer scratched his head, sighed in relief, and busied himself alongside the elves.

The sprite nodded.

Burn, burn! Burn those little dwarfs! Burn, burn! The plains are ours! Burn, burn! The damned tree of melancholy can no longer harm the world!

My fate has thus transformed, shifting back and forth with the books. However, when the morning sun reappeared, I set out once again with renewed confidence. Broken Mirror Lake gradually faded from view, along with its guardian, Margatala. In my hand, I held the book he had given me, while the hammer had also obtained the lake water it desired.

Look, a tree, a tree

Indeed, I temporarily forgot my worries and asked, "What Master said is not without reason. If you cannot fly, how did you come here?"

I once again drew my bow, nocked an arrow, and steadily held the bow, like a full moon, aimed at the forest, while my heart began to pound violently. Because I knew that there, there was an archer, an archer who was no less than I, an archer of the elven race

Is that so? I have become interested.

At this moment, the villagers finally realized what was happening and hurriedly ran past the tree roots, entering the village. Once the last person had entered the village, Tie Chui picked up an axe and rushed towards the tree roots

The dragon-like creature danced in the radiant light, eventually coming to a halt in mid-air, bathed in a magical glow, completely still. Gradually, I was astonished to discover that the creature's body began to enlarge, entirely white, and even started to become somewhat transparent, as if it were in a mist, in a dream. Its wings spread out, growing longer and wider, emitting a shifting radiance, while the horns on its head also elongated. All of this indicated that the creature was growing, not only in body but also in power. A thin layer of light gathered around it, seemingly emanating from the creature itself. The light on the surface of the lake began to dim, yet the radiance surrounding the creature grew stronger. Ultimately, the creature's body formed a bright orb of light, and under the most intense illumination, it suddenly raised its head and let out a long, clear, and soaring cry that pierced the heavens. It was the first time I had heard such a sound from the creature, a sound that looked down upon all things: the roar of the dragon!

I hope nothing happens to them

Is that the tree of melancholy? I asked, puzzled.

The hammer was the first to run over, raising its arm and shouting loudly: "Come over quickly, come over quickly!"

"Lei, are you awake?" The cheerful voice of Tie Chui reached my ears. I moved my body slightly and found it sore, as if filled with lead, as if every bone had shattered.

The fire has gone out

"Seize him." At the command of the hammer, several strong arms firmly restrained me

The wind has ceased

I will say it again, you are not allowed to harm the Tree of Melancholy, unless you step over my dead body

I really cannot stay any longer

What is inside? I asked. The elf ignored me and continued digging on the ground. I hesitated for a moment and opened the cloth bag

Heavenly Principle

One day, a tiny seed fell onto this plain, quietly taking root and sprouting. When it broke through the soil, it saw the first ray of sunlight. As time passed, after enduring countless winds, frosts, snow, and rain, the seed transformed into a seedling, the seedling grew into a small tree, the small tree became a large tree, and the large tree turned into a giant tree. Throughout its growth, new seeds continuously fell here, growing around it and seeking shelter from the wind and rain under its vast shade. The plain began to come alive, birds flew over, and rabbits made their nests beneath the tree. As time went on, many years passed, and the entire plain flourished, with various forms of life thriving here, continuing to contribute to the prosperity of this plain. The tree had grown tall enough to see the entire plain, gently extending its protection to every corner of the plain, joyfully listening to the cheerful sounds emanating from it. After a long time, a group of little green gnomes arrived here, and their presence further enhanced the harmony of the plain. The tree enjoyed watching them nimbly climb up and down its body and loved listening to their stories directed at it. The tree had grown tall enough to see the entire plain, gently extending its protection to every corner of the plain, joyfully listening to the cheerful sounds emanating from it. After a long time, a group of little green gnomes arrived here, and their presence further enhanced the harmony of the plain. The tree enjoyed watching them nimbly climb up and down its body and loved listening to their stories directed at it.

Indeed. The dragon-like figure shrugged its shoulders and said, with an expression as if it were something very glorious

He still aimed his bow and arrow at me, watching me.

He did not speak; I saw a hint of hostility in his eyes

"Come back, Lei, come back, are you crazy?" Hammer shouted loudly behind me

I strive to imagine that I once heard my master mention the existence of a certain kind of fairy race. However, in my memory, fairies do not seem to be very malevolent, which led me to voice my doubts.

The surface of the lake remains so beautiful under the moonlight, rising with a thin layer of mist that silently spreads over the water, adorning the entire lake with a mysterious and tranquil aura. At this moment, I saw a pair of eyes watching me, blue eyes

The villagers cheered, encouraging one another as they surrounded the iron hammer and left the village, each holding a torch. Only the village chief stood there, dazed, watching helplessly as they departed. After a while, he suddenly sat down on the ground and began to cry loudly. At his age, he showed no shame in weeping like this, clearly overwhelmed with sorrow. Some villagers stood silently, not leaving, their faces reflecting concern.

At this moment, the dragon-like creature had begun to hover above the lake, circling from a distance. An incredible event unfolded. The moonlight began to brighten, and on the surface of the lake, small, sparkling points of light appeared—one, two, three, and increasingly more—rising slowly from the water, dancing upward. Soon, countless points of light ascended from the lake, illuminating the entire surface with an extraordinary brightness. These points of light resembled snowflakes and falling petals, but instead of descending, they soared upward, densely packed and remarkably beautiful. The entire surface of the lake was filled with this magical phenomenon, as if it were alive. Eventually, many of them gathered together, forming a faint white beam of light that shot straight up into the sky. Meanwhile, the moon began to cast its moonlight, a gentle crescent-shaped glow. The two beams of light eventually converged in mid-air, merging together, bright and beautiful. I began to understand why the dragon-like creature chose to appear during the crescent moon; it was because the entire Broken Mirror Lake was crescent-shaped, resembling a mirror that had been shattered halfway, perfectly aligning with the crescent moon above.

Is it a fairy

The elf nodded slightly

The master once said: Elves are born archers

I was astonished; I did not expect to see the image of the divine bow here. To be precise, it is not painted but carved with some sharp object. Although it is ancient, the marks remain deeply etched on the trunk. Below, there is a line of strong, vigorous small characters: The Way of the Bow

Bastard! I lunged to grab the axe of the hammer, but was knocked to the ground by his punch

However, at this moment, clusters of flames have already begun to ignite across the plain

"Hammer, how are the injuries of the people in the village?" I asked

"We are saved!" A villager shouted, and all the villagers cheered, waving their garments towards the Melancholy Tree. Some even embraced each other and began to weep. The Melancholy Tree once again displayed its magic, not only saving the villagers but also rescuing the fairies trapped in the sea of flames. The inferno continued to rage fiercely, yet it could no longer harm the creatures of the plain. The tree's crown floated in the air, so beautiful, so moving, yet it appeared somewhat desolate.

At that moment, someone called to Iron Hammer. Iron Hammer nodded at me and said, "Once we drive away the elves, you will be able to enter the forest. For now, you should rest well." With that, he left with that person, gesturing and talking about who knows what along the way.

Suddenly, my emotions could no longer be contained, like a flood that has burst its banks. A wave of heat surged from my chest, rushing to my head, transforming into scalding tears that poured forth.

What other options do we have? Should we just let those spirits bully us?" said the hammer.

At this moment, the rain has become heavier

"Can you elaborate a bit more?" I said somewhat hesitantly

But, but... my mind was working hard, yet I couldn't think of any reason, and my face turned bright red. I knew what they were doing was wrong, but I just couldn't pinpoint where they were wrong. I wish the master were here.

Is it the way of the bow? I asked

"What does it matter if it's innate?" I asked curiously

Can I choose? I cannot. For the sake of my master, what else is there that cannot be done? I am sorry for Lei Long. When I defeat Long Fei Yang and rescue my master, I will use my own life to compensate Lei Long. Please forgive me, Lei Long. When my arrow is aimed at Lei Long, I will completely sever my ties with the way of the bow, stepping into the boundless darkness, descending into the abyss of corruption and destruction. At this moment, countless images emerge in my mind. When my arrow is aimed at Lei Long, I will completely sever my ties with the way of the bow, stepping into the boundless darkness, descending into the abyss of corruption and destruction. At this moment, countless images emerge in my mind. When I first met Lei Long, that chubby Lei Long, and the joyful days we spent together, the beautiful phoenix tail bird, the lovely pomegranate, and... once again, my hands begin to tremble. Lei Long's blue eyes constantly flash before me, a blue as pure and clear as lake water, devoid of any impurities... once again, my hands begin to tremble. Lei Long's blue eyes constantly flash before me, a blue as pure and clear as lake water, devoid of any impurities...

I stood up and looked around. Now, it was time to attend to my own matters. Where is the dragon? At this moment, I recalled the admonition from Jinshi.

I do not know where the strength came from, but suddenly I broke free from my restraints and knocked over the kettle in the hand of the blacksmith. The kettle fell to the ground, and clear water gushed out from inside.

When the fire grew weary of destruction and slowly receded from the plains, what remained was only a vast expanse of blackened earth, with wisps of blue smoke weakly rising. The plains returned to tranquility, but what was left was only the desolate wind; nothing else remained—neither grasslands, nor forests, nor the melancholic trees.

Here I come again! I am intrigued, although I do not know what he intends to do, I will once more draw my bow and prepare my arrows

"Spirit, where are you taking me?" I asked breathlessly

If I am not mistaken, the master must have sent the dragon to a place: the Sacred Realm of Dragons said Jinshi

The hammer listened carefully and suddenly asked, "Lei, have you heard any sounds?"

"Excuse me, sir, do you use fresh wood for firewood?" I asked

The Way of the Bow

The earthquake has struck, the earthquake has struck! Some villagers shouted loudly, despairingly collapsing to the ground, waiting to die in fear. The soil began to heave, in lines, as if countless gigantic pythons were slithering underground. With a loud crash, a thick object suddenly burst forth from the ground, dark and stretching towards the sky, twisting as if it were alive. The villagers let out another scream, unsure of what this monster was. More snake-like entities emerged from the depths, writhing and crawling on the ground, advancing towards the ravine, and then, astonishingly, they crossed over the ravine, resting on the other side, ceasing their movement. With a loud crash, a thick object suddenly burst forth from the ground, dark and stretching towards the sky, twisting as if it were alive. The villagers let out another scream, unsure of what this monster was. More snake-like entities emerged from the depths, writhing and crawling on the ground, advancing towards the ravine, and then, astonishingly, they crossed over the ravine, resting on the other side, ceasing their movement. Continuously, these entities traversed the ravine, intertwining, forming bridges one after another.

I saw it, a tree, a gigantic tree. I do not know when we have already stood before it. Beneath our feet, there are protruding roots, sprawling on the ground, intertwined, covering the entire surface. The trunk of the tree is marked with deep grooves left by the passage of time. The trunk is so thick that it stands before me like a wall; if one were to run around it, a whole day might not suffice. The bark has turned brown, ancient and robust. I raise my head, yet I cannot see the top of the tree. This is the Tree of Melancholy, the very soul of the entire Melancholy Plain.

The roots of the trees began to retreat, withdrawing from the chasm one after another. Some roots were already scorched by the flames, desperately thrashing in the air as if in excruciating pain, yet still striving to pull back. Other roots, seemingly imbued with spirit, rushed towards them, extinguishing the flames above. All the roots retracted, remaining on the other side of the chasm. The fire was halted at the edge of the chasm, unable to cross over, while those roots, as if bereft of life, hung limply on the ground, allowing the flames to rage unchecked, occasionally twitching. All the roots retracted, remaining on the other side of the chasm. The fire was halted at the edge of the chasm, unable to cross over, while those roots, as if bereft of life, hung limply on the ground, allowing the flames to rage unchecked, occasionally twitching.

"That is the direction of the village." The hammer became tense and urged me to run quickly

"Lei," he said quietly, "people often feel lost because choices, whether right or wrong, can cause pain. Everything has come to an end, Lei"

It seems that he is indeed ill. The villagers around me whispered to each other, casting cold glances at the village chief, saying, "He has been like this since returning from the forest; he must have been possessed by the evil tree of melancholy."

Looking at the way the hammer is, I know that further persuasion would be futile; this kind of resentment has not been built up in just a day or two

What is this?" he said with disappointment. "Is it text or a painting? It's simply baffling.

It is burning, it is burning! The villagers stood at a distance, watching and cheering, their faces illuminated by the flames, appearing flushed. The expression of hatred on their faces remained unchanged, looking even more terrifying.

Perhaps, it would be worthwhile to listen to what he has to say... At this moment, a timid voice emerged from among the onlooking villagers

The Way of the Bow

Ray, you must find the dragon-like creature

We are truly fortunate; this conflict has a long history, and although people have been injured, thankfully, there have been no fatalities

"First, save yourselves and the books." The village chief, unable to move his hands and feet, continued to shout, his face flushed red, "To harm the tree of melancholy is to harm the entire plain"

My contemplation was interrupted by him, and I was momentarily taken aback, "What sound is that"

I stepped aside, and suddenly my legs went weak, nearly causing me to fall

Be careful! shouted the hammer loudly

So it was like this... I murmured, and suddenly a thought flashed through my mind, but I couldn't grasp it.

Magtala remained silent for a long time, then nodded and sighed

In our village, "Iron Hammer comfortingly said, I saw his relieved face, I have saved you, don't worry, Lei, your injury is not serious, just rest for a while and you will be fine. It is truly a miracle that you managed to survive, at that time I thought you would definitely be shot to pieces like a hornet's nest."

I shook my head

At this moment, several sturdy villagers surged forward, restraining the village chief with their hands and feet. Tie Hammer stepped forward, removed the lid of the water jug, and forcefully poured the holy water down the village chief's throat. The village chief struggled, making muffled sounds, in excruciating pain

Indeed, indeed. Some people echoed.

The iron hammer was commendable, not paying attention to its own wounds. It turned to look at the forest, raised another hammer, and shouted as it charged forward. With another sound of something breaking through the air, the iron hammer's final weapon was also shot away, tumbling and disappearing into the forest. The iron hammer was completely enraged, its mind heated, and it rushed into the woods empty-handed, its outstretched arms seeming as if they intended to strangle the unknown archer to death.

What should we do if the grassland is completely burned? I asked in confusion

He smiled nonchalantly. "We have always done it this way; those firewood pieces are meant for winter. When the cold winter arrives, they will be completely dry."

"Alright," I said, shooting an arrow into the sky. The arrow whistled as it swiftly passed through the trees and disappeared into the horizon. However, at that moment, the elf displayed a look of disappointment, a hint of disdain, and some displeasure, as if criticizing me for being perfunctory.

"Do you mean that it is my bow, and it is the way I use the bow and arrow?" I guessed correctly, and the elf nodded again.

He stretched his neck, looking curiously, without turning his head

"Thunder, to defeat Long Feiyang, you must obtain the life of a dragon-like being." Jin Shi's words seemed to echo in my ears again, my heart was bleeding, yet my hand holding the bow and arrow remained exceptionally steady, not trembling at all

"Have you also been driven out by the master?" I wiped my tears and asked

What is that? I asked

The elf turned to look at me and suddenly took an arrow from my quiver on my shoulder. In my astonished gaze, he examined the arrow, looked at me again, and gently tapped the shaft with his finger, returning the arrow to me. As I held the arrow in my hand, a miracle occurred; the arrow began to sprout. Tiny buds, the size of beans, appeared on the shaft, followed by delicate young leaves, right before my eyes! Could this be the secret of the elven bow, the bow of the elves that merges with nature?

Open it and take a look, open it and take a look! The hammer was full of excitement, jumping around me, even more anxious than I was

I sighed, closed my eyes, yet the shimmering objects before me continued to sway, so clear, so dazzling. What could they possibly be? Could they be arrows? But how could arrows take on such a form? Or, as my master said, perhaps the elf's bow is not a bow, and the arrow is not an arrow? My head throbbed painfully, and the golden stars still danced before my eyes, causing me to drift into a faint.

"Where are you aiming? Surely not at me?" I said half-jokingly. The elf displayed a peculiar expression, put away the bow and arrow, and gestured towards the sky.

"That is abandoned farmland," the aunt said. "Farming is quite difficult now; we lack fertilizer. We burn a patch of grassland and then use the ash from the grass to plant crops. Once the harvest is complete, we clear another patch of grassland."

Our village chief has fallen ill; ever since he returned from the Tree of Melancholy, he has become this way

The elf raised the bow

"Why are you taking me?" I asked curiously

At the same time, my arrow was also shot out

I do not know, I scratch my head, my master never allows me to cut down fresh trees, only uses dead trees for firewood

Although he is short in stature, he is exceptionally agile, weaving effortlessly through the dense forest, while I have to struggle to push aside the weeds and branches, ending up covered in dirt and dust

At this moment, a miracle occurred. The tree of melancholy struggled to grow upwards, its trunk rising higher and higher, towering above the sea of flames, as if to protect all the lives beneath its vast canopy, keeping them far from the scorching waves of fire. The flames, unwilling to yield, climbed menacingly up the trunk step by step.

At last, the enormous canopy of the Weeping Tree appeared before me, followed by the forest, the only vibrant area in the plain. I lingered at the edge of the forest for a while, then slowly walked in

"Is it appropriate for you to bully an elderly person like this?" I asked somewhat angrily, surveying the people around me

That moment is approaching, I went, Lei

The elf did not speak, drew out a bow, and pulled it back, aiming at the sky. On the bowstring, another arrow slowly gathered, a transparent arrow. As he relaxed his hand, the arrow flew into the sky, then shattered, transforming into countless sparkling fragments that rained down, landing on my head and shoulders, and I immediately felt a slight chill

Inside is a bag of seeds, tree seeds

"Village head, stop fooling around and take your medicine quickly," said Tie Chui while dodging the old man's cane, referring to the so-called medicine, which was actually the water bottle in his hand

What are you doing?" Hammer was taken aback and asked

The ground began to shake, and all the villagers struggled to maintain their balance, supporting each other to avoid falling. From beneath, a rumbling sound emerged, growing louder, and in conjunction with the flames, it appeared increasingly terrifying

However, you mentioned... I expressed some confusion and said

At last, the breathtaking night has passed

Meteor Pursuit Arrow

Unanimously, all the villagers silently followed him, their heads bowed

"Do you still not understand?" I shouted, "Holy water cannot save us, nor can it save the plains. Stop it quickly; the melancholic tree is the guardian of the plains. It has not destroyed the plains; it is precisely..."

Where am I? I asked weakly

But aren't you afraid of cutting down all the trees? I asked

The tree of melancholy is the guardian of the plains, it is not at fault; the ones at fault are us, we are the ones who have destroyed the plains. You foolish people, how can you think of burning the trees? Do you know what you are doing? Such actions will bring down lightning upon you!" The village chief continued to shout

"Rest assured," I suddenly stood up, "there is nowhere that can stop me." After a while, I remembered something and asked, "Jinshi, why do dragons need to go to the Sacred Realm to grow? How do dragon-like beings know where the Sacred Realm is, and who teaches them how to get there?"

Look, look, a tree!" The sharp-eyed villagers pointed into the distance and shouted loudly. At this moment, the villagers who had escaped danger all climbed onto the rooftops in unison, nervously gazing into the distance. For the first time, anxious expressions appeared in their eyes.

I walked alone for a long time, and along the way, I encountered abandoned farmland everywhere, along with half-cut tree stumps, a sight that was shocking. I quickened my pace, trying not to look at the scene. At that moment, I suddenly thought, if Breeze Valley were to become like this, I wonder if my master would be angry. Would she accept these people, or would she drive them away like a spirit? What about me? I do not know the answer. I quickened my pace, trying not to look at the scene. At that moment, I suddenly thought, if Breeze Valley were to become like this, I wonder if my master would be angry. Would she accept these people, or would she drive them away like a spirit? What about me? I do not know the answer.

The wind has changed, the wind has changed! From afar, the terrified shouts of the villagers echoed together. Indeed, for some unknown reason, the wind suddenly shifted direction. The fire, like a beast unleashed from its reins, surged forward fiercely towards its master who had set it free, clawing and roaring wildly.

Even more sinister is the fact that since that person approached the tree, they became tainted by its magic, bringing a strange illness to the village, causing the villagers to feel weak and lethargic, perpetually gloomy, and unable to work. Thus, this plain was named the Plain of Melancholy, and this tree was called the Tree of Melancholy

"It is a dragon," exclaimed the hammer. The dragon was exceedingly majestic, raising its neck, spreading its wings, twisting its head, and gazing thoughtfully at the sky, exuding an air of nobility

A sudden chill swept across my face, followed by my shoulders, one drop, two drops, three drops, just like tears

There is no tree of melancholy there. However, in the end, we still had to migrate

No, I insisted stubbornly, "I want to go, I must go."