In the Shadow of the Dragon: Isekai Adventure

Onward to Carosso – A City of Power and Secrets

With unwavering ambition, Li Ran set forth toward Carosso, accompanied by the Darkmoon Dragon Princess.

Officially, he traveled as an adventurer, seeking greater opportunities. But deep down, his true purpose was far grander—to establish influence, gain political leverage, and carve out a powerful presence in this new world.

The road to Carosso was treacherous, yet filled with unexpected encounters.

They defended villages from vicious monster raids.

They rescued stranded adventurers on the brink of death.

They forged alliances with warriors, merchants, and scholars alike.

Their deeds spread like wildfire, and whispers of their strength reached far beyond the roads they traveled.

However, what intrigued Li Ran most was not the battles—but the rumors he overheard along the way.

The Mystery of Other Transmigrators

One evening, in a crowded roadside tavern, Li Ran's ears caught a hushed conversation.

"Something is strange lately," a rugged adventurer muttered, swirling his drink. "Some folks are using weapons unlike anything we've ever seen."

"Yeah," another added, lowering his voice. "I heard one guy had a bow that fires arrows without sound—no string, no mana… just instant death."

Li Ran's eyes narrowed. He leaned in.

"Where did these people come from?"

A grizzled mercenary shrugged. "No one knows, but many of them are heading to Carosso."

Li Ran's heartbeat quickened.

Other transmigrators.

It was both a thrilling and terrifying realization.

If others like him had appeared in this world, what were their motives?

Were they allies? Rivals? Or something even more dangerous?

From that moment, Li Ran became more cautious. He carefully gathered intelligence, strengthened connections with trustworthy figures, and ensured that when he arrived in Carosso, he would not be walking in blindly.

"Carosso holds more than just wealth and power—it holds secrets."

The Grand Entrance – Carosso's Splendor

At last, Carosso came into view.

Unlike the trading hub of Alva City, Carosso was a monument of power, discipline, and unshakable authority.

Vast, fertile lands stretched as far as the eye could see, ensuring the kingdom's wealth.Towering castles and fortified walls stood in defiance of time, a testament to their military might.A diverse populace bustled through the streets—humans, dwarves, elves, and beastkin alike.

Unlike in Alva City, the markets here were thriving with higher-quality goods:

Dwarven merchants openly advertised weapons forged from Mythril Steel, offering unparalleled craftsmanship at the lowest prices.

Dark Elven merchants discreetly sold potions imported from Alva City, a sign that Seraphina's potions had already reached the capital—a surprise that both Li Ran and the Darkmoon Dragon Princess welcomed with pride.

Halfling jewelers showcased legendary gemstones, which immediately captured the attention of the Darkmoon Dragon Princess.

Her crimson eyes sparkled. "We're going in."

Li Ran sighed. "Of course, we are."

The Carosso Adventurers' Guild – A VIP Welcome

Upon reaching the Carosso Adventurers' Guild, the bustling hall was alive with chatter.

The moment Li Ran and the Darkmoon Dragon Princess presented their introduction letter from Regnas, the half-elf receptionist, Elara Sylven, a woman with short silver-green hair and striking heterochromatic eyes, gasped in astonishment.

"Regnas personally recommended you?" she murmured, scanning the letter again to make sure she wasn't imagining things.

Moments later, a deep, commanding voice resonated through the hall.

"So, you're the ones Regnas spoke so highly of."

Stepping into the Guild Master's office, Li Ran and the Darkmoon Dragon Princess were met with the imposing figure of Garrick Ironfist—a towering, battle-hardened warrior whose very presence radiated authority and raw power.

His office was lined with trophies of war, from gleaming weapons and battle-worn armor to ornate medals and banners commemorating great victories.

With a booming voice that carried the weight of countless battles, he greeted them with a grin.

"Li Ran and the Darkmoon Dragon Princess, huh?

Regnas always had an eye for talent. How's that old bastard doing these days?"

He leaned back in his massive chair, crossing his arms over his broad chest, waiting for their reply with an amused smirk.

After exchanging friendly banter about Regnas' antics, the Guild Master's tone grew serious.

"There's an S-rank mission that suits you two perfectly."

He slid a document across the table.

"The Undead Plains – A Treasure Hidden in the Undead Lands."

The Darkmoon Dragon Princess smirked. "Undead? Sounds fun."

Li Ran grinned. "We'll take it."

A Stir in the Guild – S-Rank Celebrities

The moment Li Ran and the Darkmoon Dragon Princess were called into the Guild Master's office, murmurs rippled through the hall.

"Who are they?"

"S-rank adventurers from Alva City!"

"Damn, they must be incredible!"

As the news spread, many adventurers—especially the women—gathered to catch a glimpse of them.

Li Ran, despite being a legendary fighter, had the pale skin of a shut-in gamer, contrasting sharply with the sun-weathered, battle-scarred adventurers around him.

From innocent village girls to bold female knights and even mysterious sorceresses, curiosity and admiration burned in their gazes.

"He's… actually kind of cute."

"Do you think he's single?"

Meanwhile, the Darkmoon Dragon Princess also attracted her fair share of admirers.

Her ethereal silver hair, piercing crimson eyes, and regal poise commanded attention.

A knight squadron and several noblemen approached, eager to introduce themselves.

However, with one cold, chilling glare, she sent shivers down their spines.

Even the boldest suitors quickly withdrew.

More importantly, she subtly positioned herself to block Li Ran from his growing number of admirers.

Li Ran smirked. "You're doing that on purpose, aren't you?"

She gave an innocent tilt of her head. "Oh? Am I?"

He sighed. "I'd rather not cause a diplomatic incident, so thanks, I guess."

A Night of Reflection – Carosso's Next Kingmaker?

That evening, Li Ran and the Darkmoon Dragon Princess checked into the finest inn in Carosso, a grand estate reserved for high-ranking adventurers and nobles.

Standing on the balcony, overlooking the royal city bathed in moonlight, Li Ran's mind churned with plans.

How would he establish influence in Carosso's political landscape?What secrets did the transmigrators hold?How could he leverage the Adventurers' Guild to his advantage?

This was no longer just about survival.

This was about seizing power.

A gentle weight pressed against his shoulder.

The Darkmoon Dragon Princess had leaned in, her silver hair gleaming beneath the moonlight.

"You're thinking too much," she murmured.

Li Ran smiled, exhaling. "Maybe I am."

She lifted her gaze slightly. "You can keep thinking, but first…"

She nudged closer. "Pet me."

Li Ran chuckled, running his fingers through her soft, silken hair.

As the night stretched on, the two stood in silent companionship, gazing upon Carosso—the kingdom where their destinies would unfold.