Chapter One Hundred and Sixty-Nine
The volcanic chamber crackled with power as molten rivers flowed lazily through obsidian channels. Crow stood at the center of it all, Thalgrun beside him, the male Primordial Dwarf nodding with approval.
"This is her forge," Thalgrun said, his voice low and reverent.
From behind a cascade of glowing sparks, a towering anvil glowed red-hot—and standing before it, hammer in hand, was Beldra, one of the two female Primordial Dwarf blacksmiths. Her braided silver hair shimmered like mercury, and her crimson eyes locked onto Crow with curiosity.
"You're the one who dares summon me?" she asked, her voice strong and sharp like forged steel.
Crow didn't hesitate. He raised his hand, the golden Divine Contract rune glowing in his palm. "I offer pact, not dominance. Power for power."
Beldra studied him, then her gaze flicked to Thalgrun. The male dwarf grinned. "He's the real deal."
A long pause—then Beldra smirked. "Fine. Let's see if you're worthy of my flames."
Flames roared around them, not to harm—but to seal the pact. The contract bound with a fiery pulse. Another Primordial God unit had joined Crow.