You nodded to the group as the massive gates of Hammerhold closed behind the caravan.
"First, let's claim the escort reward from Thrain. Then we'll find a good inn or dwarven hall to rest and plan our next moves."
Thrain was more than happy to pay the full 300 gold plus a generous bonus of fine dwarven ale and a set of high-quality mountain cloaks as thanks. He bowed deeply to all of you — especially Mira and Lukas.
"You saved our caravan and our livelihood. If you ever need anything in Hammerhold, the Thrain Clan is at your service!"
With the quest officially completed, you asked around and secured two excellent rooms in The Iron Anvil Lodge — one of the finest inns in the upper levels of the city. The rooms were spacious, carved directly into the mountain stone, with glowing crystal lanterns, deep baths fed by hot springs, and balconies overlooking the glowing forges below. The beds were large and comfortable, and the inn provided excellent dwarven meals (roasted boar, mushroom stew, and strong ale).
After settling in and enjoying a hearty dinner together, the four of you relaxed for the evening. Mira stayed close to you, stealing affectionate touches whenever possible. Lukas and Liora shared quiet, intimate moments in their room. The night passed peacefully.
Meanwhile, far to the south in the Azure Kingdom capital…
A small, ragged group stumbled through the eastern gates of the capital — a handful of terrified children and three elderly villagers from Eldenwood. Their clothes were torn and bloodstained, faces pale with exhaustion and grief. They looked like they had walked for days without proper rest or food.
The guards at the gate took one look at them and ushered them toward the Adventurers' Guild for help, as was standard for refugees.
The survivors entered the bustling guild hall, drawing concerned glances from adventurers and staff. One of the elders — an old woman with a bandaged arm — approached the main counter with trembling steps, clutching a small child's hand.
"Please… we need help," she said hoarsely. "Our village… Eldenwood… it was attacked. Demons came from the sky. So many died. The barrier… the food mountain… everything is gone. Only we few escaped through the old tunnel."
Another elder added weakly, "There was a great Wish Djinn who saved us once… called Grim. And a fox-eared guardian named Mira. They protected us before. Please… if anyone knows them, tell them. We beg you."
The guild hall fell into a heavy silence for a moment, then erupted into murmurs.
"Eldenwood? That quiet village with the miracle barrier?"
"Demons? A full massacre?"
"A Wish Djinn named Grim…? That sounds like an old legend…"
The receptionist quickly wrote down their story and promised to spread the word. Some kind-hearted adventurers offered the survivors food and temporary shelter, but no one could provide real answers about "Lord Grim" or "Mira the Sword Mage."
The survivors sat huddled in a corner of the guild, exhausted and grieving, still quietly asking anyone who would listen if they had seen a man named Grim or a silver-haired fox girl with emerald eyes.
They had no idea that you and Mira were currently hundreds of miles away in the Dwarf Kingdom, completely unaware of the tragedy.
Back in Hammerhold, morning had arrived in the Iron Anvil Lodge. Dwarven breakfast (thick bread, cheese, smoked meats, and strong coffee) was served in your private dining area.
Mira sat beside you, tail curled around your leg under the table. Lukas and Liora looked well-rested and closer than ever. The rhythmic sound of hammers echoed from the forges below.
Lukas took a bite of bread and asked, "So, big brother… what's the plan for today in Hammerhold? Explore the forges? Meet the Dwarf King? Or start planning our next destination?"
Mira leaned against your shoulder. "I'm ready for whatever you decide, my lord."
The tragedy at Eldenwood was still completely unknown to you.