Chapter One Hundred and Sixty-Four
Ardyn's steps were never far behind Crow as they made their way through the obsidian-lit caverns that led to one of the hidden primordial dwarf strongholds. Her hand subtly brushed his arm every so often, and her gaze rarely left him. The warmth of her obsession was palpable—gentle now, but undeniably intense.
Sylvanna walked ahead, clearly pretending not to notice.
Liana glanced back once, her eyes narrowing slightly.
Valeria kept close, staying quiet but watchful.
As they reached the massive iron doors engraved with ancient runes, the air grew heavy with divine energy. Crow placed a hand on the stone tablet, triggering the old mechanism.
With a deep rumble, the doors slowly parted, revealing the first of the three Primordial Dwarves—Thalgrun, the Forgeheart.
A towering, armored dwarf with a beard of molten silver stepped forward. His presence radiated power and heat, the faint clang of invisible hammers echoing around him.
"You come seeking the Flames That Shape the World?" Thalgrun growled, his eyes settling on Crow. "Then prove your worth, Summoner."
Crow nodded, stepping forward as Ardyn clung tighter to his side, her eyes burning with something dangerously close to devotion.