As the expedition neared the outpost ruins, a sudden disturbance erupted at the front of the caravan. The clamor of orcish wolf riders filled the air as they charged forward, launching their deadly projectiles before swiftly retreating. Without hesitation, the Ranger captain issued the command to give chase.

But amidst the chaos, a strange sensation tingled in my mind. I recalled something from my younger years, something I learned from my clan. I called out to Sgt. Ironheart, who was nearby, and as he hurried over, I shouted, "It's a trick! The rest of them are about to attack us!"

The words hung in the air, and in an instant, the atmosphere shifted. Those nearby swiftly readied their weapons, the tension palpable. Tink, armed with her trusty crossbow and a bag of grenades, climbed atop the wagon, the other Gnomes doing the same on their wagons, they were prepared for the impending assault. Dwarves armed with shields formed sturdy walls of defense, while others armed with long-guns and crossbows joined me on the wagons. My loyal dire wolves nearby, ready to face the enemy.

Sgt. Ironheart swiftly took command, ordering his scouts to seek cover near the wagons. And then, it happened. A thunderous war cry erupted from the depths of the forest.

RAAAGHHH!!!

Orcs, adorned in furs and chainmail, mounted on ferocious dire wolves, charged forward with a fierce determination. Their scimitars and war axes swung wildly as they closed in on us.

Without hesitation, shots rang out and bolts flew through the air. Orcs and wolves fell under the hail of our projectiles. But the battle had only just begun.

"Khazgorim daz!" Sgt. Ironheart's commanding voice echoed across the chaotic scene.

The Dwarves forming the shield wall raised their pistols in response, shouting in unison, "DAZ!"

"Karnak az Engrin!" the Sergeant bellowed; his voice filled with unwavering determination.

The Dwarves took aim, their pistols trained on the approaching enemy.

"Thergel-ath!" Ironheart commands.

"Khaz-karag" the dwarves cry out as they fired their pistols, sending a storm of lead. More orcs and wolves were struck down, their onslaught disrupted.

"Skornar!" Sgt. Ironheart commanded, and the Dwarves holstered their pistols, bracing themselves for the incoming charge.

With unyielding resolve, the shield wall absorbed the full force of the orcish assault. Their formation held strong, protecting those behind them. It was a testament to Dwarven discipline, strength and unwavering bravery.

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BTOOOM! BTOOOM! BTOOOM!

Suddenly, Tink and the other Gnomes unleashed a volley of grenades, the explosions wreaking havoc among the enemy ranks. The chaos intensified as the raiders found themselves thrown off balance.

"Mor'kaz Thrum!" Sgt. Ironheart's voice boomed once more.

Several of the builders run up with strange looking guns, these guns had short but large barrels with a fluted muzzle.

“Kaz'Mor!”

As one the shield wall kneeled and the builders fired.

BOOM! BOOM! BOOM!

The entire orcish line disintegrated…literally. Garrok stares in awe.

“Drek'thul!” The shield wall stands as one and charges. The raiders retreat. As the Rangers that gave chase earlier finally return and cut off the retreat.

As the dust settled and the chaos subsided, I found a moment to catch my breath. Amidst the lingering echoes of battle, I approached one of the builders who had wielded the peculiar gun, eager to learn more about this impressive weapon. The dwarf had a weathered face, etched with lines of experience, and his eyes gleamed with the fire of a seasoned warrior.

"Excuse me, friend," I called out, my voice laced with curiosity. "I couldn't help but notice the gun you wielded during the battle. It's unlike any I've ever seen. What exactly is a it?"

A wide grin spread across the dwarf's face as he turned to face me. "Ah, I see your interest has been piqued, lad," he replied with a hearty chuckle. "A donderbuis, or thunder pipe in the common tongue. It's a formidable weapon, only given to our dwarven militia for defending our settlements. Though we do have a shorter version that we’ve exported to the human lands, heard they use it for that blasted cavalry of theirs "

I listened intently, eager to absorb every detail about this mysterious firearm.

"The thunder pipe," the dwarf continued, "is a short-barreled gun known for its devastating impact at close range. While it may not have the longest reach, it makes up for it with sheer power. When fired, it unleashes a handful of shot, about eight or nine, which can turn the enemy into naught but a memory."

I marveled at the description, envisioning the destructive force unleashed by such a weapon.

"The thunder pipe," he added, "is designed to cause havoc within a short distance. It's especially effective when facing enemies directly in front of you. A well-placed shot can wreak havoc on their ranks."

My curiosity grew, and I couldn't help but inquire further. "You mentioned shorter versions. What are those?"

The dwarf's eyes sparkled with enthusiasm as he continued, "Ah, the Dragons! Those are a variation of the thunder pipe, crafted specifically for human cavalry forces. They feature a compact design, allowing them to be wielded on horseback. The Dragons provide a fearsome punch, empowering the cavalry with the ability to unleash devastation from atop their steeds."

I nodded, captivated by the tales of these formidable weapons.

"Intriguing," I replied. Fascinated by this new weapon, I turned to Sgt. Ironheart and asked, "Can I have one?"

The dwarf's smiled, and he clapped a sturdy hand on my shoulder. "Garrok, my lad, your interest and dedication to the craft is commendable. Once we've secured the area, I'll ensure you have a donderbuis of your own.

As the battle started to wind down, my mind reflects on the day’s events. This journey had taken an unexpected turn, but it had also presented me with new opportunities and the chance to wield a new weapon unlike any I’ve seen. Little did I know that the trials we faced on this expedition were only the beginning, and that the outpost would test our resolve in ways we couldn't yet comprehend. But I stood with my comrades, ready to face whatever lay ahead, and to forge a path forward in this untamed wilderness.