Chapter 411: Dwarven Council 1

The atmosphere in the stone hall shifted subtly but unmistakably after the One of the Dwarves spoke.

"These requests will be fulfilled. It may take time, especially for the armor and weapons, but the forges of Feo Berkana shall honor their debts."

But then came the real reason we were summoned.

One of the dwarves exchanged glances with the other council members. Their beards shifted as they leaned toward one another in silent, knowing nods. Finally, the eldest among them leaned forward and said, "Now that we’ve listed your rewards... there is a favor we must ask in return."

Blue Rose stiffened instantly. None of them were fools. From the moment the dwarves offered rewards so freely, they knew there would be a follow-up. That was why they had asked for everything they truly wanted, holding back nothing. The Dwarves, equally cunning, had not denied any of it—for the very same reason. This was a trade, not charity.

"If we can, we will help you," Lakyus said evenly, her voice steady and diplomatic. Her tone implied, Weexpect full disclosure now.

One of the more rugged dwarves, his beard streaked with black iron rings, spoke next. "We believe there is a leader among the Quagoa—one who commands with strength and cunning. Our scouts say this creature is more organized than the others, capable of holding ground and directing raids. We need that leader dead. Not captured. Dead."

"And where is this leader of yours hiding?" I asked, despite already knowing the answer.

The room was still for a moment before one of the dwarves answered. "In our Royal Capital."

"That’s also where the Frost Dragon is nesting, right?" Evileye asked, her voice calm, but her glowing red eyes burned with interest.

The dwarf gave a solemn nod. "Aye. The very same. The Quagoa don’t control the dragon, but they’ve made a den of the city regardless. We believe their leader uses the abandoned throne hall as a stronghold."

They also didn’t say that it’s not just one dragon but a horde; maybe they didn’t know that. I thought to myself.

Blue Rose exchanged glances.

Lakyus spoke first. "You’re asking us to eliminate this Quagoa leader without provoking the Frost Dragon."

"Precisely," said another elder. "There was not much activity from the dragon on the mountain for years. It doesn’t move unless disturbed... But we fear if a full assault is launched, it’ll awaken. We cannot afford to face the Quagoa and the dragon both."

I crossed my arms, considering.

For Blue Rose, this would be a careful operation—a precision strike that required stealth and speed. But for me... it was opportunity.

Dragons. One of the most resource-rich creatures in existence. Their scales, bones, blood, even their breath—it was all treasure in a different form. If harvested right, a single dragon corpse could provide materials for dozens of quality items. But there was another option too. I remembered what Ainz had done. How he bent a Frost Dragon to his will—made it submit without a full battle.

Could I do the same? Who am I kidding? I can do that without sweating.

If I played this right, I wouldn’t just remove a threat from the dwarves’ city. I’d gain something far more valuable.

"Do we know what kind of Frost Dragon it is?" Gagaran asked.

"We think a modern dragon lord," one of the dwarves replied.

Meaning they are not true dragon lords, they can’t use wild magic.

Evileye frowned. "We’ll have to be surgical. If the dragon even senses a major battle, it could get involved."

Lakyus nodded. "We’ll treat this like an assassination, not a siege. No open warfare. We go in, kill the Quagoa leader, and get out."

"Easier said than done," Tina murmured.

"Still doable," Tia added, twirling a dagger. "Especially if we’re smart."

Clementine leaned over to me, whispering just loud enough. "I take it you’re more interested in the dragon than the Quagga?"

"I’m always interested in dragons," I said quietly. "Whether I kill it, tame it, or harvest it, I win either way."

She chuckled. "Just make sure you don’t get eaten."

The dwarves hadn’t heard our exchange, or at least pretended not to. They seemed relieved that we were even considering the mission. One of them stepped forward and handed Gondo a thick stone tablet inscribed with the schematics of the old capital.

"We’ve prepared maps, routes, and records of what we know. But it’s old information. We haven’t had eyes in Capital since we lost it."

"We’ll make it work," Lakyus assured them.

One of the dwarves stood, his voice echoing throughout the chamber. "We ask this of you not only for revenge... but for hope. If you strike down the beast that commands them, you will have given us the first real chance at reclaiming our peace."

I met his gaze and gave a slow nod. "We’ll deliver the head of their leader. One way or another."

~~~

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