John remained standing before the empty pedestal.
Golden light from the surrounding roots bathed the ancient hall in a tranquil glow, illuminating hundreds of crystal statues that had silently watched over this place for untold ages.
The silence wasn't oppressive.
It was reverent.
Every statue seemed to carry a story.
A life.
A sacrifice.
John slowly walked around the circular chamber.
The closer he came to each statue, the more details he noticed.
Some Dragon Kings were massive even in humanoid form, with horns resembling ancient trees and scales carved into their skin like polished gemstones.
Others appeared almost completely human.
One had only a pair of golden eyes to hint at draconic heritage.
Another possessed wings of crystal rather than flesh.
No two looked alike.
"...They all evolved differently."
The World Tree answered immediately.
"Correct."
"There has never been a single path for Dragon Kings."
