After taking sufficient rest under the hospitality of the gnomes, Merslin and his party finally recovered from their fatigue. While discussing their next journey, they recalled the stories they had previously heard about the dwarves. Gnome elder Boldrak had promised to provide more details about their location once they were ready to depart.
Boldrak (spreading out a map): "The dwarves reside here, in the high mountains to the right of our city. This is their stronghold, and ever since our ties were severed, it has become a difficult place to access."
Merslin (deep in thought): "When did relations between gnomes and dwarves deteriorate?"
Boldrak lowered his head slightly, recalling the past.
Boldrak (seriously): "A long time ago, gnomes and dwarves shared resources and technology, assisting each other. However, one day, misunderstandings arose over resource distribution and technological sharing, leading to disputes. These conflicts escalated, fostering deep distrust between our races. Eventually, we agreed to stay within our respective borders, and thus, our relations with the dwarves were severed."
Aria (concerned): "That means our journey to meet them could be dangerous. They might not welcome us."
Merslin (firmly): "It will be risky, but if we can forge an alliance with them, it will be worth the effort. If they come to understand our intentions, they might be willing to cooperate."
Seeing Merslin's determination, Boldrak decided to share more crucial details.
Boldrak (solemnly): "The journey through the mountains will be treacherous. The dwarves have strengthened their defenses, so beware of traps and patrols they might have set up. Additionally, the mountain's climate is unpredictable, with sudden storms and rockslides posing a constant threat."
Elena (determined): "No matter what obstacles lie ahead, we are prepared. Meeting the dwarves could be a crucial turning point in our journey."
Serena (grinning): "I really wanted to take a train there, but I guess that won't be an option. It would be nice if we could use it one day."
Boldrak nodded in agreement, explaining that unless relations between the two races improved, using the railway was out of the question.
Boldrak (nodding): "As things stand, the railway remains inaccessible. Until we mend our ties with the dwarves, that route will remain closed. However, I have a small gift for you."
He took out a small vial of potion and a pair of specially crafted climbing gloves, handing them to the party.
Boldrak (smiling): "This potion will boost your strength, and these gloves will aid you in traversing the harsh terrain of the mountains. Your journey will not be easy, but I hope these will be of some help."
Merslin and his companions gratefully accepted his gifts.
Lisa (resolutely): "Don't worry. No matter how tough the road ahead, we can overcome anything as long as we're together."
As they prepared to depart, Serena once again voiced her desire to ride the train.
Serena (wistfully): "I really wanted to ride that train… but I suppose it's not possible right now. Still, if we can improve relations with the dwarves, I hope we get to try it someday."
Merslin (smiling): "Once that day comes, we'll ride it on our next adventure. But for now, our priority is meeting the dwarves. Let's focus on the task ahead."
With renewed resolve, Merslin and his party set off toward the high mountains where the dwarves resided, leaving the gnome city behind.
*****
The Snowy Mountain and the Dwarves' Gunfire
Merslin's party journeyed toward the high mountains where the dwarves lived. The entire landscape was blanketed in snow, and the treacherous ascent awaited them. As they climbed, the path became increasingly steep and slippery, while the biting cold wind lashed against their faces.
Aria (shivering): "It's freezing here… and with the snow falling, the climb will only get harder."
Lisa (firmly): "Don't worry. We've been through worse. As long as we stick together, we can handle anything."
Braving the icy wind and heavy snowfall, they pressed onward. After some time, they spotted massive bears in the distance, silently moving through the snow, watching them closely.
Serena (narrowing her eyes): "Those bears… they don't look like ordinary ones. We need to be cautious."
Elena (observing carefully): "This isn't just any mountain. There's a reason the dwarves chose to live here."
Carefully avoiding the bears, they climbed higher, with the snowstorm intensifying and the trail becoming even more hazardous. Exhausted and in need of shelter, they scanned the surroundings for a place to rest.
Then, in the distance, they spotted a small mountain lodge. Filled with relief, they made their way toward it.
Merslin (sighing in relief): "There's a lodge up ahead. We should rest there for a while and recover our strength."
They knocked on the door and stepped inside, where a warm fire crackled, offering them much-needed warmth. The group sat down, enjoying the temporary respite.
However, their rest was abruptly interrupted by the sharp sound of gunfire echoing from afar. Alarmed, they rushed to the window.
Merslin (shocked): "Gunfire? I never expected to hear gunshots in this world…!"
Having served in the military back on Earth, Merslin instantly recognized the distinct sound. However, unlike modern firearms, these gunshots had a rough, thunderous quality. He quickly realized that they closely resembled muskets from the past.
Merslin (recalling his knowledge): "Now I remember… Boldrak mentioned something about this. The dwarves developed firearms using gunpowder and their craftsmanship. It's likely they're using muskets rather than modern guns."
Elena (intrigued): "If their technology has advanced to this level, their alliance could be a major asset to us. But this gunfire… could it be for hunting, or are they warning intruders?"
Lisa (determined): "Whatever the case, we're ready. If we're going to meet them, we need to understand their world too."
Serena (slightly anxious): "I just hope they don't see us as enemies. It won't be easy, but if we can gain their trust, it would be a great advantage."
As they warmed themselves inside the lodge, they pondered what lay ahead. The dwarves' gunfire had added a new layer of tension to their journey. Would the dwarves accept them? Would their firearms be a threat or a tool for cooperation?
Merslin understood that their meeting with the dwarves was no longer just a simple diplomatic attempt—it could hold the key to their fight against the Ancient Gods.
Merslin (resolutely): "We're about to meet the dwarves. Whether they accept us or not… everything depends on how we handle this."
With their rest over, the party prepared to move out once more. The sound of musket fire echoed through the snowy mountains, signaling that a new challenge was about to begin. Merslin gripped his weapon tighter, ready to face whatever awaited them.