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 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."
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.