Chapter 183: A Good Suggestion
Chapter 183: A Good Suggestion
At the Dwarven Kingdom, the reconstruction efforts were well underway. The once-proud walls and buildings, battered by the relentless attacks of the Demon King's forces, were now being restored brick by brick. The air was filled with the steady rhythm of hammers striking metal, the scrape of stone being shaped and lifted into place, and the low hum of dwarven voices giving orders or coordinating the work. The mood was somber but determined. Though the dwarves had suffered, their spirit remained unbroken.
Vincent walked through the main square of the kingdom, watching the dwarves as they toiled tirelessly. Their resilience reminded him of why it was so critical to protect this place. The Dwarven Kingdom wasn't just a strategic location; it was home to a people who had stood for centuries, guarding their treasures and skills that others could only dream of possessing. Now, their knowledge and resources were a target of a much larger and deadlier force.
He spotted Velara, who was working with the dwarves.
"How are things going?" Vincent asked as he approached Velara, who stood near a group of dwarves working on reinforcing the outer wall of the kingdom.
Velara turned, her gaze sharp but weary. "As well as can be expected, considering what we've been through. The dwarves are resilient, but the damage to the kingdom is extensive. We're rebuilding, but it'll take time-time we may not have."
Vincent nodded, his eyes scanning the bustling activity around them. The dwarves worked with a determined focus, each one contributing to the reconstruction in their own way. The walls were being reinforced with thick slabs of stone, the gates repaired with iron, and various structures around the kingdom were being brought back to their former strength. It was clear that the dwarves took pride in their work, but there was also an underlying urgency, knowing that the demons could strike again at any moment.
"They've done an impressive job so far," Vincent observed. "But we can't afford any delays. The demons won't sit idle for long."
Velara sighed, her hand resting on the hilt of her sword, Stormbreaker. "That's what worries me. The demons are regrouping, and when they come back, they'll be more determined than ever. We need to fortify not just the walls, but the heart of this kingdom-the vaults and mines. If they get their hands on the dwarves' materials, it'll spell disaster."
Vincent crossed his arms, his expression grim. "I've already ordered my team to place additional defenses around the vaults. Traps, barriers, and sensor systems are being set up as we speak. We'll know if anything is moving underground or if the demons try to breach the tunnels."
"Good," Velara replied, her voice firm. "The demons will be expecting a fight. They'll come with more than brute strength next time. We need to outthink them."
Vincent smiled, nodding approvingly.
"Sir Vincent, I can't express my gratitude for you extending your help to the Dwarven Kingdom. You have done a huge help to us dwarves and I don't think we can even repay you." "We only need the materials for enhancing our technology," Vincent said simply. "If the demons wants to have some of it then I will not let them have it. To do that, we only do a simple thing, and that is protecting you. I will not let them take a single shard. After all, those materials are too valuable to fall into the wrong hands."
Velara nodded, her eyes filled with the same determination. "You're right. These resources are not just treasures for the dwarves, they are the key to defending against the demons. If they manage to harness them for their own twisted purposes, they'll be unstoppable."
Vincent sighed, crossing his arms again as he watched the heavy iron gates of the kingdom being reinforced. "That's why we have to be one step ahead. It's not just about protecting the kingdom-it's about denying the demons access to anything that could strengthen them." "Perhaps we can expedite the process of exporting those materials to your base," Velara suggested. "That way, your men could start using them immediately, ensuring we stay ahead of whatever the demons are planning."
"I have my scientist ready at Akarios Island where they would immediately scan and analyze the materials," Vincent said and continued. "Once we get them there, they'll begin enhancing our technology. But are you willing to do that? We have transportation that can bring the goods safely to our island without risking exposure to the enemy."
Vincent's tone was firm, though there was a hint of concern in his eyes as he considered the weight of their next steps. The transportation of such valuable materials, essential to both the dwarves and his own forces, would undoubtedly attract attention from the Demon King's army.
Velara sighed, her gaze shifting toward the horizon. "We have no choice. If these materials fall into the wrong hands, it will mean disaster for not only the Dwarven Kingdom but for the entire region. I'll speak with the elders; they'll understand the urgency. We'll prepare the shipment and make sure it's ready by dawn."
Vincent nodded, satisfied with her response. "Good. I'll make sure our air transport is in place, and the convoy is heavily guarded. We won't leave anything to chance."
As the two of them discussed the details of the plan, a group of dwarven elders approached. One of them, a dwarf with a long gray beard and deep-set eyes, stepped forward to address
Vincent.
"Sir Vincent, we've heard of your plans to transport the materials to Akarios Island," the elder said. "We have long kept these resources hidden, guarded with our lives. But these are dark times, and we know the stakes. We trust you, but know this-if even one shard of these materials falls into enemy hands, it will be on all of us."n/ô/vel/b//jn dot c//om
Vincent met the elder's gaze with unwavering resolve. "You have my word. Not a single piece will be lost. We'll protect this shipment with everything we have."
The elder nodded slowly. "Then may the gods watch over this mission. We'll have the materials prepared by nightfall, and our best craftsmen will oversee the packing."
"Thank you," Vincent said.