Starko'gus explained that Norgriw was a nation of free trade, a place where any race could settle, as long as they followed the local laws. This ensured a harmonious coexistence between different peoples, and racial diversity was a defining feature of the city. However, as in any place of freedom, there were rules, the most important of which were against theft and violence. Order was maintained with a firm hand, but with a touch of justice that allowed everyone to coexist without fear of oppression.

  Something that struck me was the fact that the Northern Empire, Zanath, recognized Norgriw as a legitimate kingdom, which prevented any kind of aggression against the dwarven kingdom. However, Queen Grunhild’ s relationship with the cardinal nations of the West was more troubled. Despite this, there had been no direct or indirect conflict so far, which demonstrated the queen's impressive political skill.

  Despite their height, the dwarves were known for being excellent warriors. Their strength, combat skills and physical endurance were legendary. And they were not only formidable warriors, but also renowned craftsmen and blacksmiths. Their weapons and armaments were in demand by various kingdoms, and their skill in working with precious metals was unparalleled. The dwarves' skill with forges and hammers was part of their identity, and their mastery of the art of war made them a people to be respected and feared.

  I looked at the imposing fortress before us and wondered what the future held for us there. One thing was certain: Norgriw was no ordinary place. It was a nation that, although small in size, possessed immeasurable greatness in its history and its people.

  Starko'gus, with a confident smile, told me: “Be kind to a dwarf and he will reciprocate, face a dwarf and he will never forget.” It was a simple saying, but loaded with immense truth, which made perfect sense as he spoke about the kingdom and its people. I couldn't help thinking that having enmity with the dwarves would be one of the worst possible choices. I've made many decisions in my life, but I believe that the help I offered Starko'gus was the right choice. He was right to count on me, and now, it seemed, I too would have a powerful ally.

  As we went on our way, Starko'gus shared with me an old story involving the father of the current queen of Norgriw. The tale was a glimpse into a turbulent time, when the kingdom was being challenged by outside forces. A small mistake, an oversight between the current kingdom of Norgriw and the cardinal lands of the West, resulted in a confrontation that narrowly avoided tragedy for the dwarves. But even with the support of the church and the resources of the human guild, a modest onslaught by a few dwarves and their allies was enough to turn the tide. They prevailed, maintaining their dominance of the kingdom to this day.

  The story, although brief, clearly showed the strategic strength of the dwarves. Even after a few centuries, the nation's power remained unchanged. What impressed me most was how the dwarves, despite their stature, were not only formidable warriors, but masters of strategy. They were known not only for their brute strength, but for their intelligence and ability to create weapons that in many ways surpassed what other peoples were capable of forging. Their armor and equipment were a marvel of engineering, a reflection of the ingenuity of a race that never allowed itself to be underestimated.

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  There was no denying that the intelligence of the dwarves was something that other peoples had to respect. And even with their propensity for war and the constant defense of their territory, the dwarves also knew how to take advantage of peace when it presented itself. The capital of Norgriw, a land where the different races coexisted - dwarves, humans, demonoides and other species - was an example of this. It was a place where the possibilities were endless, a center for the exchange of ideas and culture, although the kingdom was always prepared for war.

  I, for one, couldn't help but feel a little envious of the peace that Norgriw seemed to enjoy. Even with its readiness for combat, the ability to take advantage of calm was a rare virtue and, honestly, something I'd like to have for my own nation.

  ***

  As we approached the kingdom, I realized that something was different. Anthalia and the other ants, who until then had been walking with determination, began to slow down. They were hesitant, with a visible resistance to going any further. The problem was not with Norgriw himself, but with the prejudice that existed against his species. Almost everyone had a negative image of ants, something that could not be ignored, and Starko'gus, despite his firm stance, said that there would be no problem with them being present in the kingdom.

  However, the ants were still reluctant. Anthalia, as the leader of her species, made it clear that the decision was hers to make. She didn't want to force her companions into a place where they might be rejected. I understood her hesitation and, as much as the desire to integrate them into the nation was great, there was no point in pressuring them. After all, they were there to help, and if they weren't ready to join, that was fine.

  I didn't insist. Anthalia was the one who made the decisions for the good of her kind, and if she thought it was best to stay apart, then so be it. I just asked them to stay close. We wouldn't be gone long, and it would be safer if they were close by in case something happened. The ants remained silent, still pondering the situation. And, as much as I respected their decision, there was a feeling of uncertainty in the air, as if something had yet to be resolved.

  They complied with my orders, but Anthalia made a point of assuring me that, if necessary, a simple connection with the [Mental Link] would suffice and she would do her best to cross the barriers of this realm and assist me, should the situation require it. Of course, I recognize that she was exaggerating a bit, but knowing that I could count on her support in times of trouble made me feel better. Not that I was expecting any great danger, but you never know when the situation might turn, and it's good to have allies ready to act.

  The food we had brought would be enough to keep them fed during the day, so we decided not to carry any more luggage. Even so, if necessary, they could hunt at will, since the forest was only a few meters away. Nature around the kingdom seemed generous, and hopefully we wouldn't need any more provisions.

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