Dwarves Allegiance

Devin glared angrily at the dwarves, who were avoiding eye contact with him. "I thought dwarves were supposed to be honest and loyal," he said, his frustration evident.

"We truly had no idea that creature had grown so powerful. If we had known, we would never have allowed you to enter the forbidden ground," Lorenzo explained earnestly.

"Master Devin, please believe us. The dark aura prevents us from going inside. We would never try to deceive you," added Mim.

Devin's anger subsided, replaced by a desire to make the dwarves feel indebted to him. "Not only did I cleanse all the infected individuals, but I also purified the air in the forbidden ground. It can no longer infect anyone," he stated matter-of-factly.

"On behalf of Valendor, we are sincerely grateful to you, Master Devin," expressed Lorenzo, his gratitude evident.

Devin nodded in acknowledgment and requested some rest, making his way to the cottage that had been provided for him.

Feeling exhausted, Devin decided to log out and was pleasantly surprised to find Alex also available. "Feels like I haven't seen you in years," he exclaimed.

"I feel the same way. Who would have thought this mission wouldn't be so simple?" responded Alex.

"How's the search for the strange fire going?" asked Devin.

"It's a dead end. The news was fake, but at least I managed to level up, so it's not all bad," replied Alex.

"I've found Valendor. I just completed a task to gain their favor, hoping they'll pledge their allegiance to me. They might also be able to enhance your forging skills since they're master forgers. They might even have a clue about the strange fire," Devin explained.

"I'll be finishing up my mission soon, so I should be back soon," said Alex.

"Don't log in just yet. Let's have lunch outside with Neil and Elijah so you can meet them and unwind," suggested Devin.

"No problem, I'm down for that," agreed Alex.

Devin sent a message to Neil and Elijah, and they were able to join them at the restaurant. Alex and Devin arrived first and placed their orders, waiting for the others. Neil entered the restaurant, looking exhausted.

"You look like you haven't slept in days," commented Alex.

"Don't even mention it. It's all because of a certain hands-off shopkeeper who disappeared and left me with all the work," Neil grumbled, glaring at Devin.

Devin chuckled as he poured Neil a drink. "It's because I trust you," he replied.

Neil snorted but couldn't hide his happiness at being trusted. Alex then asked about Neil's progress.

"I'm still in the planning and design phase, but then I got swamped with redesigning the new building," Neil explained.

"I apologize for being late," Elijah said as he arrived.

"Elijah, this is my brother, Alex," Devin introduced.

Devin introduced Elijah to the group.

"Boss, how is your mission to conquer the dwarves going?" Elijah asked.

"Those cunning bastards may appear innocent, but they nearly cost me my life in their forbidden ground. I have completed their mission and am now waiting for them to come to me to discuss our next plan. You should log in soon so we can leave together," Devin replied.

"Boss, I have good news. I should be able to finalize the deal tomorrow. By tomorrow, Evergreen Cosmetic Company will belong to New Horizon," Elijah announced.

Devin smiled, pleased with their progress. He had numerous prescriptions from the pharmacopeia that could be effective in the real world. With some herbs and the assistance of pearls, the products should work well.

The group enjoyed a satisfying meal together, engaging in lighthearted conversation to release their stress.

Devin logged back in and visited the dwarves to claim his reward.

"Priest Lorenzo, I have completed the challenge you gave me. Are you satisfied?" Devin asked.

"We have discussed it among ourselves, and we are willing to follow your lead. You have demonstrated your capability to lead us," the priest responded.

[Congratulations to player Devin for successfully passing the dwarves' challenge and gaining their allegiance. You have been rewarded with 20,000 Exp.]

The next step was to discuss the relocation of the dwarves. However, they soon realized that finding enough housing for the entire population would not be feasible.

Over the course of three days, they engaged in extensive discussions until they finally reached an agreement. Devin, accompanied by Priest Lorenzo, Elder Mim, Balin, Gaz, and Bezalel, convened in the council chamber of Sun Haven Village. The room was adorned with maps, scrolls, and historical tapestries, with rays of sunlight streaming through stained glass windows, casting colorful patterns on the wooden floor.

Excitement filled the air as the men discussed and deliberated the integration of the dwarves into the village. Devlin's brows furrowed, recognizing the challenges involved in this process.

"I understand that relocating the entire dwarf population at once is not possible," Devin expressed, his voice reflecting his concern. "We must proceed with caution and ensure that the villagers are prepared for your arrival."

Priest Lorenzo, a wise and respected figure, nodded in agreement. "Indeed, Devin. Adding another clan to Sun Haven Village requires careful planning and open dialogue with the villagers. We must address their concerns and consider their feelings."

Devin recognized the challenge ahead of him, but as the village owner, his words carried weight. He knew that if he could effectively convey the value that the addition of the dwarves would bring, winning over the villagers should not be an insurmountable task.

Gaz, the man in charge of management and operations, spoke up, his graying beard reaching his chest. "We mustn't forget the practicalities of this move. We need housing for the dwarves, places where they can forge and continue their traditions."

Devin nodded, shifting his gaze between Priest Lorenzo and the other Elders. "You're right. We need to approach this in phases. Let's start by selecting a hundred skilled dwarves to accompany me back to Sun Haven Village. I trust the elders and the priest to make the selection. Having their skills will greatly contribute to the village's development."

Priest Lorenzo considered Devin's suggestion, his fingers lightly tapping on the worn table. "Very well. Bezalel and Gaz will be the leading elders in charge. They will serve as our emissaries, acclimating to the village and preparing the way for their kin."

Bezalel and Gaz straightened their backs, fully understanding the weight of the responsibility entrusted to them. They realized that their performance would reflect on the rest of their people and provide an opportunity to forge a new path and future.

With the decision made, plans began to take shape. The dwarves, known for their crafting skills, revealed a hidden secret - a ship masterfully designed by their hands, hidden away in a cove. This ship, with blistering speed and formidable weapons, could fend off powerful sea monsters that might pose a threat during their journey.

"Our vessel, the pride of the dwarves," Elder Bezalel spoke proudly. "But we will need magic crystals to power it. The level of magic crystals determines the fire power"

Devin shared a knowing glance with Elijah, recognizing the potential the ship held. The challenges they would face on their quest were significant, but their determination burned strong. The time had come for Devin and the chosen dwarves to leave the safety of the secret realm and embark on their voyage back to Sun Haven.

As the council chamber emptied, maps were rolled up, and plans set in motion, a mixture of anticipation and uncertainty hung in the air. The fate of the dwarves and the future of Sun Haven Village became intricately intertwined, setting the stage for a journey that would shape their shared destiny.

Dwarves who had been chosen stood with proud chests, knowing they were the pioneers of their clan. They were excited to finally leave the confines of the secret realm. Many of them had been born and raised within its boundaries, never witnessing the splendor of Valendor. Now, they had the opportunity to carve a new path, write a new future, and contribute to their clan's history, just as their ancestors had done.

These dwarves possessed not only their impressive forging skills but also proficiency in magic circles, making them a valuable asset to Devin.

Initially, the dwarves were excited as their journey began, but after three days of uninterrupted water views, boredom set in.

"We are nearing one of the dangerous areas marked here," Gaz informed the group.