The rocky landscape of Kerag-Thar stood ahead, the sharp, pointy peaks cutting into the sky like the teeth of some ancient beast. The dwarven capital was deep within the mountains, a fortress city carved from stone. Max and Merlin, escorted by dwarven guards, approached the grand gates.

Max glanced at Merlin, who was riding beside him on his stout warhorse. The old wizard’s face was unreadable, his eyes focused on the path ahead. “Why did we teleport to the entrance and then get on horses? You’ve dealt with dwarves before, right?” Max asked.

“Because I’m not stupid to walk to them, and yes, I’ve dealt with dwarves many times,” Merlin replied without looking at him. “They’re a proud people, fiercely independent. Negotiating with them is like trying to move a mountain. They respect strength and honor, but they also have long memories. Walk carefully around them.”

X, who was leading the group, turned back to them. “This meeting is crucial. The Dwarves of Kerag-That have the power to change the course of this conflict. If they side with us, we gain not just their military might, but also control over the magical veins they protect. But if they join the Demon Lord… well, you’ll see what that could mean.”

Max nodded. “No pressure, right?”

X smiled. “None at all.”

As they approached the gates, a delegation of dwarven officials greeted them, they were wearing armor with the symbol of Kerag-Thar. At their head was a tall-for-a-dwarf dwarf, with a braided beard and blue eyes. He stepped forward, extending a hand in greeting.

“Welcome to Kerag-Thar. I am Thrain Ironhelm, Chief of the Council. We’ve been expecting you.”

Merlin jumped off his horse and shook Thrain’s hand. “Thank you, Chief Ironhelm. We come in peace, seeking your counsel and, we hope, your support.”

Thrain nodded. “We shall see. Come, the Council awaits.”

The group was led through the massive gate into the heart of Kerag-Thar. The city was enormous, a real work of art, with huge pillars supporting the halls, and glowing crystals in the walls. The sound of hammers striking anvils echoed through the streets.

Max couldn’t help but be impressed. “This place is incredible,” he whispered. “But the sound of hammers is already making me crazy.”

The wizard nodded. “The dwarves have always been master builders. Their cities are amazing just like their armies.”

They were escorted into the Council Chamber, a grand hall with. The walls were covered with tapestries of the dwarven history, from their ancient battles to their more recent struggles. At the far end of the hall stood a round table, surrounded by dwarven leaders. Each wore the insignia of their respective clans, representing the diverse but unified power of Kerag-Thar.

Thrain took his place at the head of the table, gesturing for the guests to sit. Max, Merlin, and X took their seats.

“Before we begin,” Thrain said. “I must remind you that the Council of Kerag-Thar is not easily persuaded. We are not eager to involve ourselves in the affairs of others unless it directly benefits our people.”

X nodded. “We are aware of your position. But we believe that the situation we face now concerns all who live in this world. The return of the Demon Lord threatens not just the human kingdom, but all who value peace and freedom.”

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Thrain leaned back in his chair. “And yet, we have heard this all before. Each time, the humans ask for our aid, promising alliances and shared… treasures. But when the dust settles, it is the humans who gain the most, while we are left to rebuild.”

Max could sense the tension in the room.

“With all due respect,” Merlin began, “we’re not here to make empty promises. We understand that the Dwarves of Kerag-Thar have their own concerns, their own priorities. But this isn’t just about humans against non-humans. The Demon Lord doesn’t care about race or alliances. He only cares about power, and he will destroy anyone who stands in his way. If we don’t stand together, we’ll all fall separately.”

There was a murmur among the Council members, some nodding in agreement, others still skeptical. Thrain’s eyes narrowed as he studied Max. “And this is the new hero of the new age, I assume.”

“Yes he is,” Merlin said, “and I’m training him myself. Just like I was able to defeat the Demon Lord so long ago, I know he will do the same, if we all stay together once again.”

“You speak with conviction, but words alone are not enough. What can you offer the dwarves that would make us risk our lives and our future for your cause?”

X took the opportunity to speak. “The portals that the human kingdoms currently control—portals that could easily be seized by the Demon Lord if we do not act—are more than just gateways. They are the lifelines of our world’s magic, connecting the veins of power that flow beneath the earth. If the dwarves were to join us, we would ensure that your control over these veins would be recognized and respected. No more disputes, no more encroachments. The Dwarves of Kerag-Thar would have full authority over the magical veins in their territory, a guarantee of your sovereignty.”

Thrain stroked his beard thoughtfully, the offer clearly intriguing him. “And what of the other non-human nations? The Elves, the Beastfolk, the Orchis Clans? Do they make the same promises?”

Merlin shook his head. “The Elves are divided, their arrogance blinds them to the true threat. The Beastfolk are torn between vengeance and survival. The Orchis Clans… are a wild card. But the dwarves—your people—are known for their wisdom and strength. You have the power to lead, and to set an example for others. If you join us, others will follow.”

The room fell silent as the dwarves considered the proposal. Max could see the wheels turning in their minds, the calculations being made. It was a delicate balance, one that could tip in either direction.

Thrain spoke. “Your words have merit, and your offer is generous. But there is more at stake here than just magical veins and sovereignty. The dwarves of Kerag-Thar have always valued their independence, and their right to choose their own path. We will not be persuaded by fear or promises alone.”

“I understand that,” Merlin spoke up. “But this isn’t just about independence. It’s about survival. The Demon Lord’s return is inevitable, and when he comes, he will bring destruction on a scale we’ve never seen. We need to stand together, not just as allies, but as equals. The choice is yours, but I hope you’ll choose to fight with us, to protect everything we all hold dear.”

A quiet discussion ensued, with some dwarves arguing passionately for neutrality, while others saw the wisdom in Merlin’s words.

After what felt like an eternity, Thrain raised his hand, silencing the room. He turned to Max, Merlin, and X, his expression resolute. “The Council of Kerag-Thar has made its decision. We will not join your cause lightly, nor will fear sway us. But we recognize the truth in your words. The Demon Lord is a threat to us all, and we cannot stand idly by while the world burns.”

Max let out a breath he hadn’t realized he was holding.

“However,” Thrain continued, “our support comes with conditions. We will defend the magical veins within our territory, and we will ensure that they remain under our control. In return, we will offer our aid in the fight against the Demon Lord, but we will not be drawn into any human conflicts that do not directly threaten our people. Our priority is, and always will be, the safety and prosperity of Kerag-Thar.”

Merlin inclined his head in agreement. “Those terms are fair, Chief Ironhelm. We accept them.”

“Then we are agreed. The dwarves of Kerag-Thar will stand with you against the Demon Lord. But remember this: we are not your subordinates. We fight as equals, and we will not be used as pawns in your wars.”

“Understood. Thank you.”

Thrain grabbed Merlin’s hand in a firm grip, sealing the alliance. “I’m glad I can fight with you by your side once again my friend.”

Max was the only one that heard this, he watched as Thrain smiled at Merlin and Merlin returned the smile back at him. Who would’ve thought that they were old war buddies?

Merlin placed a hand on Max’s shoulder as they walked out into the cold mountain air. “This was the easy part, from now on everything else will become much more difficult.”