Light's Dawn of Azeroth

Chapter 488, Section 27. Next, Saberian will give his defense of justice. A bad performance will be your undoing!
Blackhorn is a minotaur with a very complicated identity, or rather, a black dragon.

Right there in the "luxury picnic camp" set up by the Time Eaters, it held a cup of fragrant High Elf tea and described its life to Aegwynn and the Time Eaters who were preparing dinner with very delicate and sophisticated eloquence.

After the War of the Ancients, Huon Highmountain, the Tauren hero of the Highmountain clan, struggled to return to his homeland in the shattered world, desperately needing to eliminate the Destroyer's lair in Highmountain due to Deathwing's corruption.

At that time, Deathwing was resting in his lair. In order to fight against the Destroyer, Hun Highmountain, wielding the Highmountain clan's sacred relic, "Hammer of Khaz'goroth," stormed into the dragon's lair. Using the power of the Titan artifact, he drove Deathwing away, and then they discovered a nest of corrupted dragon eggs.

Huen did not destroy them.

It used a Titan artifact to purify one of the dragon eggs that was not completely contaminated, and then adopted the little black dragon that had nowhere to go.

This is how Blackhorn came to be.

It was raised by Huon Highmountain, and when Huon died of natural causes, it swore to take care of the minotaurs of the Highmountain clan as Huon had taken care of it.

It fulfilled its vow, diligently maintaining the unity and continuation of the Highmountain Minotaur for ten thousand years.

This has been so long that Blackhorn himself may have forgotten that he is a black dragon. Only the successive chieftains of the Highmountain Minotaur would know this secret.

However, cruel fate would never give up pushing such a complex character back to its original trajectory; this was fate's wicked humor, something Diakum, who was also listening with a cup of red tea, was well aware of.

"Poor Sabelion fled to Highmountain on a stormy night. He was in a sorry state, being chased by a horde of filthy creatures from the Sea of ​​No Light. He hid in Deathwing's former lair, hoping to heal himself with the lava there."

I found it.

Blackhorn took a sip of red tea, then let the light-elf attendant carrying the teapot refill his cup. After politely thanking him, he continued speaking to Diakum and Aegwynn:

"Don't laugh at me, you two, but I really didn't want Saberian's arrival to disrupt the peaceful life I had long been accustomed to. I even brought the Highmountain Clan's holy hammer with me, intending to kill it."

The filth it brings could very well drag the entire Highmountain into a desperate situation; mortals have no way to withstand the malice emanating from the void.

Sabrian sensed my murderous intent.

It begged me, tearfully recounting the whole story.

After Nefarian was transformed into the Twilight Dragon by the wicked Void Witch, Sabelion realized that Deathwing's madness was unstoppable, and that all the black dragons, including Nefarian, would be transformed into monsters like the Twilight Dragon.

It had no choice but to resist.

Being corrupted by the defilement of its bloodline was not a fate Saberian could choose; in fact, it had always struggled against it.

The big black ox sighed and said:
"I still couldn't bring myself to do it. After all, that's not how Hu En taught me. Saberian also showed me the various methods it had been searching for over the past few thousand years, including but not limited to finding Titan artifacts, cooperating with mages, and even making all sorts of adventurous attempts."

Its efforts were effective.

Of all the black dragons in the Black Dragonflight, Saberian is the least affected by the void.

He was a pitiful person struggling to survive in the undercurrents of a whirlpool.

Although it also possessed the cunning and gloom of a black dragon, I did see Saberian's painful struggle, so I spared it and helped it heal.

I also tried to use the same method that Huon used to save me, attempting to purify the corruption of Saberian with the Hammer of Khaz'goroth.

But our attempt failed.

Aside from causing Saberian more suffering, this Titan relic clearly couldn't save it.

"You were able to be purified because at that time you were just a dragon egg that was not completely contaminated. Your life had not yet truly taken shape, so Titan energy could intervene to cleanse the void of its filth."

However, the void corruption of the other black dragons exists within every inch of their blood and bones, growing alongside them and long since becoming one with them; this is not a problem that can be solved by simple purification spells.

Diakum put down his teacup, shook his head, and said:

“You’re trying the wrong direction. Since it’s a curse of the void, the solution must come from the power of the void.”

"Yes, we realized that after arriving in the wetlands and seeing Onyxia and her lightforged dragons."

Blackhorn nodded and said:
"Saberian has gone to Grimbator to scout ahead. He will be back soon. Please let him convey his request to you personally."

I will not hide the purpose of my visit.

I heard that the eggs of the Dragon Queen Senestra and the Black Dragonflight are hidden in the ruins of the dwarves, so I brought the Hammer of Khaz'goroth specifically in the hope of replicating my miracle.

This generation of black dragons may be beyond saving, but the unhatched dragon eggs might still be salvageable.

They are the future of the Black Dragon Legion!

After the big black bull frankly stated his purpose, he shut his mouth, leaving Aegwynn looking at the minotaur with a surprised expression.

It is a black dragon, yet it bears none of the corrupt traits of other black dragons.

Besides the absence of Void Corruption within her body, the teachings from Huen Highmountain may have also played a significant role.

This guy really is like a minotaur stuffed into the body of a black dragon. His speaking style, his strategy, and his kind and dignified demeanor are all perfectly displayed in the minotaur way.

"So, you think Huen Gaoling is your 'father,' right?"

Aegwynn asked bluntly.

The question was a bit sharp, but Blackhorn nodded without hesitation and answered:

"I have no feelings for the Black Dragon Legion. This is not because I am cold-blooded. In fact, their current state makes it difficult for me to get close to them."

Saberian was an exception, but he was the only one.

The other black dragons who joined it had no remorse, nor did they feel that their current state was bad; they were simply forced to rebel by the persecution from Deathwing and the Void Witch.

I will not join such a black dragon legion!

This is contrary to my moral principles.

I don't believe that the so-called 'blood ties' should force me to give up my 10,000-year-old way of life and the teachings I received from Hun. If they dare to force me, then the Hammer of Khaz'goroth will teach them what 'reason' is.

To be honest, however, it's hard for me to feel close to the Lightforged Dragons led by Onyxia.

Blackhorn glanced at Diakum and whispered:

"In my opinion, the problem with the Lightforged Dragons is also obvious. The Holy Light purified the pollution of the Void, but it also brought them fanatical habits."

Lightforged dragons are not products of nature, and Onyxia's ability to suppress her inner fanaticism does not mean that other Lightforged dragons can do the same.

As Saberian said, they simply replaced the "Curse of the Void" with the "Curse of the Holy Light," a conversion of energy that made them seem divine, but in essence, there was no difference between the two.

Aegwynn blinked at this.

This big black bull really dares to say that. The Lightforged Dragons are Diakum's creations. Aren't you just slapping the Vigilant in the face?

But Dick remained remarkably calm about it; in fact, a look of approval appeared on his face.

"But you also already know of the existence of Mother World, Blackhorn."

Aegwynn pressed on, asking:

"If you successfully purify the dragon eggs in Grim Batol, where will you lead the newborn black dragonflight?"

"I do not know."

Blackhorn looked a little confused and said:
"I don't know if my life can be replicated, and I don't think I'm qualified to raise a group of dragon hatchlings in the way of the Tauren. I know that my current state is not 'normal' either. After all, dragons have their own way of life."

Therefore, if the World Mother is willing to personally teach those purified dragon hatchlings, I would be very happy to send them to the World Mother's temple.

I heard about the story of transforming into a giant dragon.

Actually, I quite agree with some of the ideas about transforming into a dragon.

If dragons are children of the world, then only the world itself is qualified to teach us.

"Great, I'll do this for you."

Aegwynn was very satisfied with the answer and immediately said she would get involved.

Although the Hammer of Khaz'goroth is a true Titan artifact, there is clearly no trace of Titan energy left on Blackhorn's body. Its aura is natural and does not come from the system of the Guardian Dragons.

Moreover, aside from his fondness for boasting about his "father" Huen Takane, Blackhorn has a truly upright set of values, which will surely earn it the favor of Mother World.

“I’m fine with that.”

Onyxia stood beside the Watcher with her arms crossed and said in a deep voice:

"I also want to see if Blackhorn can use that stone hammer to purify the corroded dragon eggs. If it can't, then I'll have to lightforge those corroded hatchlings that have broken out of their shells."

Regardless of how you view us, it's far better than leaving those fledgling dragons to continue wreaking havoc in the void!

"Well, I have no objection to that either."

Blackhorn nodded.

However, some people have objections to this.

Amidst the dark aura blowing near the camp, a "human" dressed in a black robe and sporting cool lava shoulder armor strode over.

This is a standard member of the "Pristo" family.

Its neat short black hair and black beard make it look older than it actually is, while the black pupils that gleam with fire reveal its true identity.

Baron Saberian, also known as Baron Sabermane, was a key member of House Prestor for many years. Within the Black Dragonflight's power structure, Saberian's power was once second only to Nefarian and Onyxia.

However, Onyxia only recently learned that Sabelian was also her "brother." Sabelian's mother was not the Dragon Queen Senestra, but he was indeed Deathwing's direct blood relative.

"You have no right to take the baby dragons away from their parents, Onyxia!"

Sabrian rationally stood at a "safe distance" of ten steps away from Diakum, then fiercely rebuked him:
"How is your behavior any different from what the Guardian Dragons did to the Proto-Dragon back then? You're just using the guise of 'doing it for their own good' to forge them? What kind of monster are you?!"

"Stop talking nonsense! Do you want me to beat you up?"

Onyxia retorted even more directly:

“If you disagree with my approach, then come up with a solution! At least Abismian brought that stone hammer; he really came to help. But what about you?”

Aren't you planning to take advantage of the overthrow of Deathwing's corrupt dynasty to build your own Black Dragon Dynasty?

You're not here to help, you're not a champion of justice, you're just here to inherit Deathwing's 'legacy'!
You bastard, you're no different from any other black dragon.

I was once one of you, so I don't need to guess what you're thinking.

Diakum clearly had no intention of getting involved.

He watched the "brother and sister" arguing with great interest, while Black Horn looked pained. Clearly, such arguments had become the norm after the two black dragons merged.

The kind-hearted black ox initially tried to mediate, but now it's too lazy to bother with it anymore; such arguments are just how the black dragons pass the time.

They even enjoy it.

"Of course I have brought a solution, and you'd better listen carefully."

Saberian gave Onyxia a somber look, then bowed very respectfully to the Watcher and whispered:

"You have molded my ill-tempered sister into a divine form, a noble and vigilant saint, but I have been observing her recently and have discovered her secret."

Onyxia was Lightforged after the Void Curse was cleansed, right?
This means you can actually complete only the first step without doing the second step.

You can heal us from the Void Corruption, but you won't bring us into the Holy Light?

“Yes, when I was dealing with Onyxia’s corruption, my understanding of the Curse of Flesh was not deep enough, but now I have truly grasped the essence of that reshaping.”

Diakum nodded, then changed the subject, saying:
"But why should I help you? Sabrian, you know, I prefer Blackhorn's style of doing things to your desires and ambitions."

I hope the pure Black Dragonflight will return to Mother World's embrace; this is of great significance to Her.

"But Blackhorn perceives itself as a minotaur, a noble saint. It knows it is abnormal, and it is clearly incapable of fulfilling its duty to raise and lead the young dragons and rebuild the Black Dragon Legion."

Saberian was clearly prepared, and it patiently explained:

"Blackhorn is our benefactor. It sheltered us when my followers and I were hunted by the dark minions of Xalatas and had nowhere to go. For this, we can only be grateful."

I don’t think we should make Blackhorn bear this responsibility that it doesn’t actually want to do. After we black dragons’ corruption is cleansed, we are happy to return to serve Mother World!

Yes!

I can here make a promise to the esteemed Star Soul Spokesperson: I will lead the pure black dragons to serve the will of Mother World.
I have also observed the 'saviors' chosen by Ms. Aegwynn. They are all heroes of excellent character. Such people are certainly valuable and can shoulder the burden of saving the world at critical moments. However, their noble character means that they cannot accept acting in the dark.

But how can the work of serving Mother Earth always be done in the sunlight?

The ambitious leader of the black dragon rebels spread his hands and said to Aegwynn, who was listening intently:
“There are always some dishonorable things that need to be done. We can’t dirty the hands of heroes and great men. We need to find people who are willing to reach into the mud to dig out something better, just like the ‘Way of Light and Shadow’ preached by Saint Diakum, just like those fearsome shadow hunters.”

Mother World needs us, the schemers tempered by time, to handle the problems that must be solved in the dark for Her.

The simplest example, Your Excellency.

I have heard that Mother World intends to let the dragon Lysages, who was once her incarnation, take over the power of the wind element, and that the Balrog King has been dealt with, but the remaining two elemental lords are both cunning!
They will never directly confront Mother World's call, but when Mother World needs them to withstand pressure, they will certainly outwardly comply but inwardly defy her!

'Two-faced' is a tradition among the elemental beings of Azeroth.

Mother World needs some trustworthy servants to monitor the movements of the Deep Rock Continent and the Throat of the Abyss. Can you find more suitable infiltrators than us?

The Black Dragon has been active in the Deep Rock Continent for tens of thousands of years. We already knew the place inside and out before the War of the Ancients broke out!

We will become the eyes of the Supreme Star Soul, observing the changes in civilization throughout the world.

This guy must have prepared his speech in advance. He must have been preparing for this "defense" for a long time. He carefully put forward his point of view and found a unique area of ​​advantage for the Black Dragon Legion.

These words made Aegwynn nod slightly, and then Saberian looked at Diakum and said:
"Your benevolence is renowned throughout the world, and you are the supporter behind Marshal Lothar. However, can you allow Marshal Lothar to kill all the dragonborn of Lordaeron?"

Those were indeed corrupted creatures created by my father, but the Dragonborn have already appeared. Their ability to reproduce means they will become 'new life forms' like werewolves, and how to deal with them is a thorny issue.

I can help, I'd be happy to help.

The Black Dragon created the Dragonborn, and we know exactly how to guide and appease them. In just a few generations, the Dragonborn will become the backbone of the human empire.

Yes, all we need is for you to give us a chance!
Following the Void is not a choice we can make, and Deathwing's fall did not give us a chance to refuse, but we still yearn to take our destiny into our own hands.

Even though Onyxia, now standing in the light, despises our cunning and ways of doing things, I still believe that we have our place in this world. For this reason, I have prepared a 'gift' especially for you and all the saviors.”

Sabrian took a few steps back and clapped his hands.

A large black dragon mother, who bore a striking resemblance to Onyxia but sported a noblewoman's hairstyle, emerged from the darkness in human form, carrying a magnificent orange-red dragon scale cloak that emanated a warm, radiant power.

She presented her hands to Diakum, who took them in his hands to examine them before handing them to Aegwynn.

The Star Soul Spokesperson observed the cloak, and after a moment, she said:

"Can this thing resist the erosion of the mind by the void?"

"Yes, I have spent countless years searching for ways to combat the corruption of the void. Although that knowledge and wisdom did not cure me from the corruption, it did give me a lot of inspiration."

Sabrian introduced himself humbly:
"This 'Ashra Kamas, Guardian of Resolve' is a treasure that my sister Nysiondra and I crafted ourselves. It can protect the mortal mind from the erosion and harassment of the Old Gods and the Void forces."

We even wore it into the reflection of the Sleeping City of Nyolosa.

I know this treasure is insignificant to you and the Vigilant, for you two possess the power to protect your spirits. But the Saviors need such treasures to protect themselves. The Heart of Azeroth arms their bodies with power, and this protection will arm their minds.

I am also happy to offer its creation method to the noble Mother World, in order to express the Black Dragon Legion's determination to return to Mother's embrace.

We only ask that Mother World will once again have mercy on us and embrace us.

Aegwynn glanced at Diakum, indicating that it was up to him to decide.

The vigilant stroked his chin thoughtfully for a moment, then said:

"I have shattered Deathwing's body."

These words made Saberian and its sister Nysiondra tremble, whether from fear or excitement, it was unclear. Then they heard the Watcher say:

"But its soul has fled into the Sea of ​​No Light. I believe that at the end of this Northern Expedition, we will have to face Deathwing, who will return from the Void with hatred. Without dealing with it, the corruption of the black dragons cannot be undone."

Therefore, I will give you an answer after Deathwing has truly fallen.

Mother World is watching you; she will no longer be deceived by simple language.

He wants to see your actions, so start with Grimbator right now.

I will bring Daenerys Targaryen back from her despair, and as for who will lead the Black Dragonflight in the future, that is not for me to appoint.

Children who serve the world's mothers with utmost dedication deserve rights.

This answer made Saberian's eyes light up. It bowed and said:
“You are right. Rights and obligations have always been twins. We will do our best to prove our struggle and determination. May Mother World bless us.”

After saying this, the black dragon led his sister back into the shadows and disappeared.

They've already stormed Grim Batol, and now that the Vigilant are involved, it's time to speed things up.

After they left, Diakum said to Blackhorn:
“I understand your dilemma of separating your identities as Soulwalker Blackhorn and Abhisian, but I advise you not to do so. Soul splitting is risky, and even if your corruption is cleansed, I suspect you can still hear whispers from the void, right?”

Blackhorn nodded somewhat sadly and sighed, saying:
“I have been battling those whispers for a long time, especially after I saved Sabelian. The whispers seem to have found me again, which is very annoying. I am afraid that the tragedy of Deathwing will be repeated in my life.”

"Then you must not arbitrarily divide your soul."

Onyxia warned:

"Don't underestimate the power of the void. I believe you can find a balance between the two identities. If all else fails, then ask the Vigilant to cast a spell to save you."

Or join the Lightforged!
Blackhorn, don't listen to Sabrian's nonsense, the Holy Light is not a curse.

Believe me, the Holy Light will protect your soul, strengthen your righteousness, and make you a better and more outstanding Black Dragon.

"As long as you're willing, brother, the Lightforged Dragonflight will always welcome you."

"do not do that."

Diakum stopped him:
“You have your people, and Blackhorn has its family. You shouldn’t make it choose between the two. In fact, Blackhorn isn’t confused; it’s much more resolute than you and Saberian.”

Let's go.

Rescue your mother and face the persistent challenge from your father's collaborator.

(End of this chapter)