In the heart of the Khazadrim Kingdom, the ancient Dwarf libraries and archives buzzed with unprecedented activity. The usually quiet and serene halls were filled with the sounds of rustling parchment, the scraping of quills, and the murmurs of Dwarven scholars and scribes.
The flickering light of countless candles and torches cast long shadows over the shelves laden with centuries-old tomes and scrolls.
For three days, the Dwarves immersed themselves in intense research. The king had commanded a thorough investigation into the claims made by Saeldir and his companions, and the scholars left no stone unturned.
They pored over ancient texts, cross-referenced historical events, and consulted the kingdom's most revered seers and historians.
Not just through texts, but the Dwarf king also send his soldiers outside or their mountain, and they come back bringing reports of strange occurrences filtered in from the far reaches of their realm—tales of unusual tremors, unexplained phenomena, and sightings of ominous clouds gathering on the horizon.
The Dwarves, always attuned to the rhythms of the earth and stone, could sense the growing disquiet. These events only added urgency to the scholars' quest for answers.
On the third day, as the sun began its descent behind the towering peaks of the Ironpeak Mountains, a group of scholars and soldiers approached the throne room with their findings. Their expressions were grave, their steps heavy with the weight of their discoveries.
They were escorted by guards through the grand corridors, past the forges and bustling halls, until they stood before the imposing doors of the king's chamber.
Inside the throne room, the Dwarf king sat in contemplation, his face etched with lines of worry and resolve. He looked up as the doors swung open, his steely gaze meeting the eyes of the lead scholar.
"Your Majesty," the scholar began, bowing deeply. "We have completed our research as you commanded. The texts and records confirm the warnings brought to us by Saeldir and his companions. The signs are unmistakable—this Great Calamity is indeed upon us."
The king's brow furrowed as he listened, the gravity of the situation sinking in. "Tell me everything," he commanded, his voice resonating with authority.
The scholar nodded and began to recount their findings.
The five of them approached the throne, their faces reflecting a mix of hope and resolve.
"We have reviewed the information you brought to us," the king continued. "We have confirmed the signs and portents. The Great Calamity is indeed upon us, and its threat cannot be ignored."
A murmur ran through the assembled Dwarves, but the king raised his hand for silence. "You have asked for our Sacred Hammer to forge weapons capable of standing against this darkness. After much deliberation, I have decided to grant your request."
The tension in the room broke, replaced by a palpable sense of relief. Saeldir stepped forward, bowing deeply. "Your Majesty, you have our deepest gratitude. With the Sacred Hammer, we will have a fighting chance against the forces of the Calamity."
The king nodded. "However, this will not be a simple task. The forging of such weapons requires not only the Sacred Hammer but also the skill and dedication of our finest blacksmiths. This will take time and effort. You and your companions will remain here as we prepare."
Saeldir stepped forward, "We understand, Your Majesty. We will do whatever it takes to ensure these weapons are made. I will personally present here to help your best blacksmith."
The king's gaze softened slightly. "I appreciate your determination, warrior. Our kingdom stands ready to aid you in this endeavor. Together, we will face this threat. Hopefully this is enough to stop it."
Saeldir then said to the king that he need to use their teleportation device to return to his kingdom to inform the king about this. The Dwarf king give him permission.
The lead guard gestured towards the dais. "This is our teleportation device."
Saeldir stepped onto the dais, then turned to the guards, nodding his thanks. "I will return as soon as possible."
With a deep breath, Saeldir focused his mind, channeling his own magical energy into the device. The runes on the dais flared to life, casting an ethereal light throughout the chamber. A low hum filled the air as the ancient Magic activated, creating a shimmering portal before him.
---