After the triumph over the slimes, the dwarves were filled with a sense of relief and gratitude towards me. They decided to celebrate this great achievement by organizing a feast in my honor, as well as in honor of the restored safety of their gold mine.

The banquet hall was adorned with garlands of flowers and shimmering lights. The dwarves were dressed in their finest attire, proudly displaying their meticulously groomed beards and shiny armor. Tables were set, overflowing with delicious delicacies, sparkling beverages, and delectable cakes.

As the festive music filled the hall, I found myself at the center of attention, surrounded by joyful dwarves. They presented me with gifts, finely crafted weapons, and jewelry adorned with precious gemstones from their gold mine. Each gift was a testament to their gratitude and respect for me.

The dwarves' celebration was in full swing, filling the banquet hall with a lively and joyous atmosphere. The dwarves danced and twirled to the rhythm of the spirited music, their laughter resonating in the room.

Talented troubadours played the flute, lute, and drum, creating a cheerful melody that invited everyone to sway. The dwarves engaged in traditional dances, executing intricate steps with incredible skill, while others sang festive songs, their powerful voices filling the hall.

The tantalizing aroma of savory dishes filled the air. The tables were adorned with delicious fare, such as succulent roasts, golden pies, and fresh vegetable dishes. Dwarves gathered around the tables, sharing hearty meals, and exchanging anecdotes of past battles.

Barrels of beer and wine were placed at various locations in the hall, emanating an intoxicating fragrance. Dwarves raised their brimming tankards and toasted to my health, shouting celebratory chants.

Jugglers and acrobats performed amidst the crowd, executing incredible feats. They tossed flaming balls into the air, performed spectacular backflips, and mesmerized the guests with their extraordinary talents.

The celebration provided an opportunity for the dwarves to set aside the worries and concerns of their daily lives, to rejoice in their accomplishments, and to celebrate their solidarity. They now considered me one of their own, warmly welcoming me into their community and making me feel like a member of their family.

Amidst the revelry, an imposing dwarf approached me, his face adorned with a thick beard and sparkling eyes. He introduced himself as Borin, a wise advisor to the dwarven chief.

"Riko, dear gobelin friend, I have a story to tell you," he said in a deep voice. "There is a legendary city known as the City of Enchantments, where the most powerful sorcerers of the kingdom reside. Legends say that this city holds incredible knowledge and powers."

Intrigued, I interrupted him and asked, "Why are you telling me this, Borin?"

The wise dwarf looked at me intently. "Riko, you have proven your worth by fighting the slimes and protecting our gold mine. But I sense that your destiny extends beyond these mountains. The dwarves have connections to the City of Enchantments, and we have learned that the city is seeking a hero capable of facing an imminent threat. I believe you are the one they are looking for."

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Borin's words resonated within me, awakening a thirst for adventure and discovery. If the City of Enchantments was truly in search of a hero, perhaps I would find answers about my origins and destiny there.

"I am ready to journey to the City of Enchantments," I declared with determination. "If that is where my destiny calls me, I will follow that path."

The dwarves present around me exchanged approving glances, filled with respect and admiration. They knew this decision marked the next step in my journey, and they were proud to have helped me make it.

"But be careful, few are as tolerant as dwarves when it comes to mixed races. Don't ever let anyone walk all over you!" Borin advised me.

Borin then provided me with detailed instructions on how to find the City of Enchantments, along with a hand-drawn map indicating the paths to follow through mountains and valleys. On his map you could see to the west the forest where I come from with the border between the dryads and the goblins. All the way to the north is the dwarven villages I'm in, and to the east is finally the famous City of Enchantments, at the edge of the map.

As the celebration continued in full swing, I mentally and physically prepared myself for the journey that awaited me. The dwarves' encouragement and blessings echoed in my ears, giving me the strength to embark on this new quest.

During the lively feast, as the music resounded and the dwarves reveled, I searched for Gromaron amidst the crowd. Finally, I spotted him standing near the grand fireplace, exchanging laughs and anecdotes with other dwarves.

I approached him with a broad smile and a gleam of gratitude in my eyes. When he noticed my presence, Gromaron turned his attention towards me, a benevolent expression lighting up his bearded face.

"Gromaron, chief of the dwarves, I wish to thank you," I sincerely declared. "You have welcomed me among your people, offering me hospitality and the trust of your tribe. I am honored to have been part of this magnificent celebration and to be a part of this courageous community."

Gromaron placed a hand on my shoulder, his gaze filled with respect and appreciation. "Riko, gobelin friend of the dwarves, you have proven your worth time and time again," he said with great emotion. "You have fought alongside us, protecting our mine and our way of life. We welcome you with open arms, grateful for your bravery and loyalty."

I nodded, deeply moved by Gromaron's words. "I cannot express how grateful I am for this opportunity," I humbly responded. "I am honored to have gained your trust and to be an ally in your struggles. I promise to do everything in my power to deserve that trust and to continue aiding you in the trials to come."

Gromaron bestowed upon me a warm smile. "We know we can rely on you, Riko," he declared. "Your courage and determination are an inspiration to us all. So, if you are heading towards the City of Enchantments, as I believe I understood, know that our thoughts are with you, and we eagerly await the tales of your exploits. If you meet other dwarves, feel free to use my name."

I thanked Gromaron once more, filled with deep gratitude towards this dwarven chief and his community. We exchanged a firm handshake, sealing our bond of trust and mutual respect.

Blending back into the festivities, the spirited music and joyful laughter enveloped me. The dwarves, my newfound friends, had become true brothers to me. I knew that their teachings, courage, and friendship would guide me in my future adventures. As the night wore on and the celebration carried on, I knew that new challenges and adventures awaited me. The City of Enchantments beckoned, and I was ready to embark on a journey filled with mystery and magic.

The next morning, I bid farewell to the dwarves and set forth on the road that would lead me to the City of Enchantments. The majestic beauty of the mountains stretched out before me, with its snow-capped peaks and verdant valleys.

I walked with a determined stride, aware that this journey would be fraught with challenges and unexpected encounters. The City of Enchantments called to me, and I was prepared to uncover the secrets it held.

The journey to the City of Enchantments marked a decisive turning point in my adventure. I had left behind the safety of the dwarven mountains to venture into the unknown, in search of answers and new alliances. The road would be long, but I was ready to face all dangers and overcome any challenges that lay ahead.

to be continued...