Chapter 42 - Godbard of the Splendid Celestial Peak
One of the guards followed Rygar to ensure he wouldn't be stopped for entering with a beast in tow.
As they passed through the gates into the dwarven city, Rygar noticed a subtle change in temperature. The air became heavier, laden with heat and the scent of molten iron. Walking beside him was Fortwind, a dwarf with a thick, unruly beard and sharp eyes that never strayed from him or Skoll. The finely crafted hammer in Fortwind's hand symbolized his strength and rank.
The entrance was a vast gallery leading to a larger cavern. The walls were adorned with runes and reliefs depicting ancient battles, blazing forges, and what appeared to be dwarven gods wielding tools instead of weapons. Fortwind remained silent as they descended a gentle slope, their footsteps echoing in the passage.
With each step, Rygar noticed the environment transforming. The natural rock gave way to tunnels reinforced with wooden beams and intricately carved stone. Using his magical eye, he detected faint mana flows within the walls, like shimmering veins pulsing in rhythm. "Magical minerals," he thought. The energy was denser here than on the surface, almost as if the mountain itself were alive.
When they reached the city proper, Rygar paused to take in the sight. The dwarven city was entirely subterranean, built within a colossal cavern that stretched for what seemed like miles. Massive crystals in the ceiling shone like stars, casting golden and orange hues that mimicked an eternal sunset. The air was filled with the rhythmic clanging of hammers striking metal, resonating from all directions.
The buildings were sturdy, carved from stone with intricate details. Rounded doors and small windows adorned homes that, though compact, exuded resilience. Suspended bridges connected various parts of the city, while small underground rivers flowed along the edges, channeled through artificial canals likely used for drinking water or cooling the forges.
The city wasn't solely comprised of forges; it hosted a variety of trades, though the dwarves' penchant for craftsmanship was unmistakable.
The stares were unavoidable. Dwarves paused their work to watch him pass. Some eyed Skoll with obvious distrust, while others seemed genuinely curious. Rygar noticed children, even smaller than the adults, pointing at them, whispering excitedly to each other. A bolder group attempted to approach, only for an adult to pull them back with a stern glare directed at Rygar.
"You sure cause a stir," Fortwind remarked without turning around.
"Maybe they're not used to visitors," Rygar replied, his eyes scanning the surroundings.
"Visitors, yes, we see plenty—merchants coming to sell rare minerals or buy the world's finest weapons. But you... You and that beast," he gestured slightly with his thumb toward Skoll, "are something they don't see every day."