Chapter 184: Transportation of Goods
Chapter 184: Transportation of Goods
As the preparations for the transport of the minerals began, the Dwarven Kingdom was a flurry of organized activity. The dwarves worked in the cavernous chambers beneath the mountain, where the vaults and mines lay hidden from the world. Large, reinforced crates were being brought in from the workshops, ready to house the precious materials that the demons sought so desperately. The dwarves had a process-centuries of knowledge about how to handle these rare resources-and every step had to be meticulously followed to ensure that nothing was lost or damaged.
The vault doors groaned open, revealing piles of raw minerals glowing faintly in the dim light of the torches lining the walls. Some of the minerals sparkled with a dull shimmer, while others had a cold, metallic sheen. These were the treasures of the Dwarven Kingdom, safeguarded for generations, and now they were being sorted and prepared for transport with great care.
Dozens of dwarves stood around the vault, handling each piece. The more experienced workers led the process, directing the younger apprentices in the delicate task of sorting the minerals. The raw ore had to be separated based on its quality, with only the most refined and valuable portions being sent to Vincent's base at Akarios Island. Some of the dwarves carried smaller, more fragile pieces in cushioned containers, while others used carts to move the larger, bulkier minerals.
Velara oversaw the operation, her sharp eyes ensuring that every dwarf followed protocol. Though the atmosphere was heavy with tension, the dwarves worked efficiently, their determination unwavering. They knew what was at stake. The demons would not stop until they had these minerals, and if even a single shard slipped into their hands, the consequences would be catastrophic.n/o/vel/b//in dot c//om
Vincent observed the process from a higher ledge in the vault, his arms crossed as he watched the dwarves at work. The crates were being packed tightly, reinforced with iron bands and sealed with intricate locks that only the most skilled dwarven craftsmen knew how to forge. Each crate was marked with a symbol that denoted its contents, and once full, they were moved to the loading area, where the convoy would be prepared to carry them out of the kingdom.
"We're nearly done," Velara said as she approached Vincent. "The materials are being sorted, and the crates will be ready soon. Our best craftsmen are handling the packing, so nothing should be damaged during transport."
Vincent nodded. "Good. The convoy needs to be ready to move as soon as possible. The longer we delay, the more time the demons have to find out what we're up to."
Velara glanced at the dwarves below, her brow furrowed. "They know that, too. The demons have eyes everywhere. If they even suspect that we're transporting these materials, they'll strike before we have a chance to get out of the mountains."
"That's why we won't give them the chance," Vincent said, his expression hard. "I'll make sure our air support is ready. The demons might try to attack us on the ground, but they won't be able to match our air capabilities."
Velara nodded, her gaze lingering on the crates being moved into position. "We'll need every advantage we can get. The demons won't let this go easily."
With that, Vincent stepped away from the edge of the ledge, moving to a quiet corner of the vault where he pulled out his communication device. He needed to ensure that everything was in place for the convoy's protection.
"Alpha Actual to command," Vincent said, speaking into the device. "I need three Blackhawks prepped and ready for immediate deployment. We'll be transporting highly sensitive materials from the Dwarven Kingdom, and I need full aerial support. ETA on the choppers?" "Copy that, Alpha Actual," came the response. "Blackhawks are ready and standing by. Estimated time of arrival is twenty minutes. We'll maintain air superiority and provide overwatch throughout the operation."
Vincent acknowledged the confirmation and ended the call, his mind already running through the details of the mission. The convoy would be vulnerable during the transport, but with the Blackhawks overhead and his team providing ground support, they could minimize the risk. Still, he knew the demons wouldn't back down easily. There was no room for mistakes.
He returned to Velara, who was now speaking with the elder dwarves about the final preparations.
"The Blackhawks are on their way," Vincent said as he approached. "They'll provide air cover and reconnaissance. If the demons make a move, we'll know long before they get close."
Velara looked relieved. "That's good to hear. We can't afford to take any chances. Everything is nearly packed. We'll be ready to move as soon as your air support arrives."
The elder dwarf with the gray beard, the one who had addressed Vincent earlier, stepped forward once more. "Sir Vincent, I want to personally thank you for taking these measures. We dwarves are not used to relying on others, but these are strange times. If it means keeping our kingdom safe, then we are grateful for your help."
"We're all in this together," Vincent replied. "The dwarves are part of this fight, just as much as my people are. We'll make sure these materials stay out of the demons' hands."
The elder nodded solemnly. "Then may the gods watch over you and your forces. The crates will be ready for transport shortly. Our finest warriors will accompany the convoy to ensure its
safety."
Vincent looked over the rows of crates being secured. Each one represented a vital piece of their defense-a resource that could turn the tide of the war against the demons. But only if it made it to Akarios Island intact.
Moments later, Vincent received a report in his earpiece.
"Blackhawks are outside the Dwarven Kingdom, awaiting further instructions," the voice came through Vincent's earpiece, crisp and clear. He turned to Velara, giving her a curt nod.
"It's time," Vincent said, his voice resolute. "Let's get these crates loaded and secure. The Blackhawks are in position, and we need to move now before the demons catch wind of our plans."
Velara immediately called out to the dwarves, her voice cutting through the hum of activity. "The time has come! Get the crates moving."