Storm looked up at Leyocan after his outburst in shock.
"Ha, that bull headed brute actually managed to pull it off?!" Said Leyocan.
"Are you telling me you know this minotaur?!" Asked Storm.
"Ohh yes, we go waaayyy back...
Back in Kingsport I may have accidentally released him from his cell...
He said I should look him up the next time I needed a favor...
I never thought he would actually manage to escape from the city!" Explained Leyocan.
"Are you joking!? Do you have any idea how long I've been trying to get this guy to join up?! Why didn't you say anything?!" Exclaimed Storm.
"You didn't ask?" Said Leyocan sheepishly.
Storm glared at him in response.
"Look... I know you're not officially under my command, but I'm hoping you will accompany me when I go to meet with them.
It might help if I have a familiar face with me." Said Storm.
Leyocan nodded his head.
I'd be happy to, would be good to get out and stretch my legs for a bit. When do we leave?" Asked Leyocan.
"If things go according to plan with the dwarves, hopefully beginning of next week. " said Storm.
At that exact moment, Grombrim walked in with a stack of papers that went from mid chest, all the way to his forehead.
He staggered over to the table and dropped the stack down on it.
Once he was free of the weight, he seperated the stack into 3 seperate piles.
"Hope I'm not interrupting you?"
Storm shook his head.
"Your timing couldn't be better, but what is all this?" Asked Storm.
"I've managed to thin down the list of applicants to three promising offers.
Thought you might want to go over the details, so I had someone scribe the conditions of each pact for you to read through. " Explained Grombrim.
Storm eyed the 3 stacks with a look of distain.
"Give me the short version. " said Storm.
Grombrim sighed.
"The three candidates are Clan Iron Peak, a clan famed for it's skill in smithing and forging.
The Runic Guild, who are the best enchanters in the dwarven under kingdoms.
And Clan Bronze Beard of the Dwarven Confederation, currently the largest and most influential Dwarven Clan.
Storm still remembered the day that the Bronze Beard envoy arrived at his court.
Mostly because almost every other dwarf present practically soiled themselves when he entered. Grombrim in particular seemed close to fainting on that day.
The envoy introduced himself to Storm as 'High Prince Harrod Bronze Beard'
Eldest son and heir of Dorian Bronze Beard.
Based on everyone's reaction at the time, Storm suspected he was someone either well loved or feared.
"What are the Bronze Beards known for?
You've described the others reasonably well, but why did the Bronze Beards make the final three?" Asked Storm.
"You're kidding, right!? The Bronze Beards are the most powerful Dwarven clan in existence! They can trace their bloodline all the way back to the First High King himself!!
They're currently the closest thing to a Royal family the dwarves currently have?!"
"That doesn't answer my question. " said Storm.
Leyocan grinned.
"Are you sure it's not just because you admire them?" Teased Leyocan.
"Don't question my business sense like that, fox! They will be worth their weight in gold." Exclaimed Grombrim.
He turned to Storm and began trying to explain.
"It's true that Clan Bronze Beard aren't the best smiths or enchanters, yes.
But they not only boasts the most skilled warriors, with decades of combat experience fighting off human invasion.
They also have a diverse following of numerous clans that have specializations in many fields, including smithing and enchanting." Explained Grombrim.
"Can these clan match the craftsmen from Clan Iron Peak and the Runic Guild. " Asked Storm.
"Well... no..." said Grombrim.
"Then I fail to see why they would be a better pick than the other 2.
You're suggesting a jack of all trades is a better option than a certified master?" Asked Storm.
"Usually, I wouldn't do so. But I've had a look at our current options.
Clan Iron Peak would provide better arms and armor, sure.
But equipment won't mean anything if you don't have the men to use them.
Or ones with the proper skills.
Clan Bronze Beard has promised an entire company of the Adamantine Guard as a sign up bonus. Arguably the most elite force of Dwarven warriors in the kingdoms.
With more being sent later on.
You did mention that you needed manpower, didn't you?
Clan Bronze Beard is in the best position to provide it." Explained Grombrim.
He hesitated before continuing.
"... There's... another reason too...
Clan Bronze Beard is on the rise!
More and more clans are throwing their weight behind the Bronze Beards.
They actually have a solid chance to successfully unite enough clans and get crowned as the next High Kings.
It would be best if we helped them rise to the eternal throne now, it would definitely help if you've got the High King owing you a favor. " Explained Grombrim.
"Is that why they are so eager to claim the Undercity?" Asked Storm.
Grombrim nodded.
"The Undercity would be a powerful symbol to help solidify their rule."
Leyocan grimaced.
"I don't think it's wise to involve ourselves in the inner political workings of an entire race.
We stand a chance to gain large profits, yes.
But the risks are also great.
If someone else manages to win the throne, then they might not forget that we aided their rivals. Entire families have been wiped out from backing the wrong candidates. " warned Leyocan.
"Like it or not, we are already involved in Dwarven politics. Why do you think everyone is so desperate to gain control over the Undercity? It would be best then that we pick the one with the greatest chance to win." Explained Grombrim.
"How are the Bronze Beards?
Can we still trust them once they become High King?" Asked Storm.
Grombrim nodded.
"The clan takes Honor extremely seriously.
Especially the Crown Prince. Whatever they agree to, you can be sure that they will deliver. I wouldn't have recommended them if I thought they would double cross you." Explained Grombrim.
"Fine, tell them I accept their proposal!!
I trust we are finally finished with this 'Undercity' business?!" Asked Storm.
"Well... no...
First we need both parties to sign the agreement, then we need to discuss taxes and quotas, who's responsible for what in the day to day runnings, safety regulations...."
Storm's head dropped until it was touching the ground, and he covered his face with his forelimbs.
Leyocan patted him on the head to consol him.
"This is what it means to be a leader, Storm. " said Leyocan.
"Is it to late to abdicate my position?!" Mumbled Storm underneath his forelimbs.