Urban Divine Doctor Descends the Mountain Chapter 2694 - 2693: Leaving

Upon successfully grasping the second layer of the Earth Dragon Treasure Technique, Lin Dong refrained from basking in the delight. He swiftly began readying himself to tackle the third layer of the Earth Dragon Treasure Technique.

Lin Dong's form appeared to blend seamlessly with the nearby stones, his resolute gaze shining with unwavering determination.

He positioned himself cross-legged atop a boulder blanketed in moss, shutting his eyes to focus intently, seeking to sense the delicate pulse of the third layer of the Earth Dragon Treasure Technique.

Yet, time dragged on without progress. No matter how hard he tried, the gateway to the third layer stayed just beyond his grasp.

"This third layer must be truly remarkable," Lin Dong mused inwardly, remembering how quickly he had seized the core of the first layer within mere minutes.

The second layer had demanded more time, yet he had conquered it over the course of several days.

Now, however, the third layer loomed like an impossible peak, instilling in him a rare feeling of frustration and setback.

Lin Dong gradually lifted his eyelids, his vision scanning the area around him. The timeworn and enigmatic runes glowed softly, as though narrating the triumphs and trials of the Earth Dragon Clan's history.

Deep down, he realized that mastering the third layer demanded persistent effort and profound insight, not a sudden breakthrough.

Estimating in months might prove the most practical timeline.

But circumstances offered no such luxury. The looming threat hung over him like a blade poised to strike without warning.

The Dead Soul Curse afflicting him acted as a relentless countdown, compelling him to hurry against the clock.

Lin Dong drew in a steadying breath, striving to soothe his restless mind.

"I cannot linger here any further. It's time to exit this third Earth Dragon Treasure Vault and depart from the Earth Dragon Palace." Lin Dong resolved firmly in his thoughts, his eyes blazing with steadfast resolve.

Though the allure of the third layer of the Earth Dragon Treasure Technique proved incredibly strong, the pressing reality afforded him no opportunity to waver.

The primary objective of his expedition—securing the Earth Dragon Treasure Technique—had already been fulfilled. Now, his priority shifted to venturing forth, crafting the remedy for the Dead Soul Curse, and eradicating the affliction from his body.

Regarding the third layer of the Earth Dragon Treasure Technique, he would postpone its study for a future occasion. With the second layer under his belt, he now possessed the means to flee even from a Junior Patriarch.

Furthermore, the instructions for cultivating the third layer were firmly etched in his memory, ensuring they would not fade.

"Time to depart."

Lin Dong rose to his feet, dusted off his clothes, and cast a final glance across the venerable and arcane Earth Dragon Treasure Vault.

He offered a profound bow to the Little Winged Dragon, expressing deep appreciation for all it had bestowed upon him.

"Senior, I'm taking my leave. Many thanks for your guidance and teachings."

The Little Winged Dragon beat its wings and replied, "There's no need for thanks; you earned it yourself. It's unfortunate I won't witness the duration it takes you to conquer the third layer."

"Likely several months at minimum," Lin Dong responded, "I lack the tranquility to seclude myself here for that span; pressing matters await me beyond these walls."

"Fine, fine, no explanations necessary. Be on your way," the Little Winged Dragon fluttered its wings gently and stated.

Lin Dong inclined his head, then pivoted and strode toward the treasure vault's exit, every stride radiating unshakeable purpose.

...

Turning back the clock to two days prior, rays of sunlight angled across the threshold of the timeless and enigmatic Earth Dragon Treasure Vault, bathing the ancient site in a subtle golden hue that had lain dormant through endless eras.

Yun Ruoxian, Tang Yun, Aidan, Tian Kong, and the Crescent Wolf Emperor clustered near the treasure vault's doorway, their faces blending eagerness with unease.

Suddenly, the sacred emblems from their clans flared with intense light, relaying grave and pressing communiqués from their seniors.

"Evacuate the Earth Dragon Palace at once, regardless of whether you've secured the Earth Dragon Treasure Technique. The Earth Dragon Venerate nears his return; we must withdraw without delay."

This startling revelation hit like thunder from clear skies, instantly darkening the countenances of the five with profound seriousness.

Yun Ruoxian creased her brow, her eyes shadowed by concern: "Lin Dong still hasn't emerged. Do we abandon him?"

Her words bore a hint of hesitation and inner conflict, evidently reluctant to cease waiting for their ally.

At these words, Aidan's mouth twisted into a nuanced grin, attempting to ease the somber atmosphere with a lighthearted inflection: "How could this be called leaving him behind? Perhaps he's already encountered disaster in the third trial. One needs to know their limits—the proverb of the frog coveting the moon comes to mind, and I'm sure he gets it."

Nevertheless, a subtle quiver laced his speech, betraying how Lin Dong's earlier prowess had etched a lasting mark, stirring unease at the mere mention of his name.

Anger flickered in Yun Ruoxian's eyes, her tone steady and assertive: "Aidan, cease your baseless talk! Lin Dong won't yield so readily, nor will he perish in the third trial!"

Tang Yun aligned with Yun Ruoxian, her voice carrying a touch of admonishment: "Aidan, it looks like Lin Dong's last lesson didn't stick with you properly."

Aidan fell silent for a beat, countered by the pair, his thoughts reluctantly dredging up the indignity of his swift defeat at Lin Dong's hands previously. That dread crept back, urging him to steer clear of the subject.

Quickly, he shifted gears: "Very well, supposing Lin Dong fares well, we still can't afford to hazard staying. The Junior Patriarchs have issued direct orders; we must comply and avoid burdening them."

Aidan's statement landed like a forceful blow upon each of their minds.

Despite their inner turmoil over Lin Dong, logic affirmed that Aidan spoke truth.

Lingering aimlessly could forfeit the prime window for retreat and invite needless complications for their lineages.

Tian Kong let out a sigh, his gaze brimming with resignation and reluctance: "We should depart. We trust in Lin Dong; he'll undoubtedly transform danger into fortune."

The Crescent Wolf Emperor dipped his head, his lupine eyes sparkling with sagacity: "Lin Dong stands out as no ordinary figure; he won't succumb so simply. The greatest aid we can offer is to withdraw ahead."

Ultimately, the group agreed to pull back from the Earth Dragon Palace initially.

As they pivoted to go, intricate feelings churned inside each one.

Worry for Lin Dong mingled with doubts about what lay ahead and trepidation toward the unforeseen.

Yet they recognized this as the shrewdest choice available.

As the party slowly moved away, quietude reclaimed the Earth Dragon Treasure Vault, as if the events had never transpired.

Returning to the now, upon exiting the third Earth Dragon Treasure Vault, Lin Dong discovered the area deserted of Yun Ruoxian and her group.

Yet they had imparted a sacred talisman note for him.

"Lin Dong, return to us alive! The Junior Patriarchs informed us that the Earth Dragon Venerate approaches, so we evacuated ahead. We're forced to go without you."

"Should you emerge and read this, flee the Earth Dragon Palace posthaste!"

"In closing, we wish for you to align with the Alliance of Heavenly Realm someday. When that arrives, seek me out. I trust this isn't your end, Lin Dong, and you'll emerge unscathed."

Finally, an inscription.

Yun Ruoxian, departed!