Chapter 41 - Dwarf Hospitality
Rygar felt the cold wind on his face as he rode atop Skoll. The scenery around him had changed drastically. Trees still spread out on one side of the landscape, but on the other, immense mountain ranges began to dominate the horizon. He knew he was nearing the Blue Dragon Mountain Range, a legendary formation that harbored tales of ancient glories and Blue Dragons. At the foot of those mountains lived the Coal Mine Tribe, renowned for their exceptional skills in mining and forging. Rygar's destination was close, and he couldn't wait to reach the dwarves to finally strengthen his sword.
Skoll advanced with steady strides, his sharp eyes scanning the terrain. It was then that Rygar noticed something peculiar in the distance. A small camp of about 20 people stood out among the trees, near a trail leading to the mountains. Rustic tents made of hides reinforced with wood surrounded an extinguished campfire. Curious to find out who they were, Rygar decided to approach.
However, before he could get close, a metallic glint caught his attention. It was fast, almost imperceptible, but instinct and training acted faster. An axe hurtled toward him at high speed, slicing through the air with a menacing sound.
Rygar raised his hand in an automatic gesture and conjured a physical barrier in front of himself and Skoll. The impact was loud, echoing through the area. The axe ricocheted off the barrier, flying to the side and embedding itself in a nearby tree. Skoll halted his run with an agile leap, landing on a boulder as if preparing for the next move.
Rygar, still mounted on the wolf, looked toward the camp with a firm gaze. His voice rang out clear and commanding:
"Is this the Coal Mine Tribe's welcome?" He wasn't certain, but the odds were high.
The impact of his words was immediate. The dwarves, who had been grabbing weapons and shielding their women and children, froze, confused. Murmurs spread among them, and then, from the trees, a dwarf emerged.
He was short, as expected, but of sturdy build. His skin was marked by the harsh life of mining, and his reddish hair was tied back with leather strips, while a thick beard adorned with metallic beads hung down to his chest. A runic axe, heavy and lethal, rested on his back.
"A Doldia!" the dwarf shouted, raising his hands in a gesture of apology. "Forgive me. I saw an Ebony Wolf charging toward the camp and attacked without thinking! Is it yours?"
Rygar nodded, maintaining his composure atop Skoll. "Yes, he is."
The dwarf scratched his head, visibly uncomfortable. His eyes shifted between Rygar and Skoll, clearly impressed by the wolf's imposing presence. "Well... you don't see a Doldia around here often, let alone one commanding a beast like that. Come in, lad! Let's make up for this misunderstanding."