The air in the temporary camp of the elves and dwarves was tense, filled with frustration and pent-up rage. The recent battle against Lu Ming had ended in humiliating failure, and both the Elf King and the Dwarf King knew that the situation called for drastic measures.
In a large tent adorned with banners from both kingdoms, the silver-haired Elf King, with cunning eyes, addressed his dwarf counterpart. The Dwarf King, a robust warrior with a braided golden beard, slammed his fist on the table, making the cups and maps scattered on it rattle.
"That cursed dragon! None of our attacks made a dent in its skin!" the Dwarf King roared. "Our warriors are strong, but they are not prepared to face such a monster."
The Elf King, always calm and calculating, stroked his chin as he studied a map of Lu Ming's territory. "We cannot afford another direct confrontation. We lost many men today, and Lu Ming proved that his strength is unmatched. We must think more strategically."
"What do you suggest, then? Run and hide?" the Dwarf King replied, sarcastically.
"No. But we could seek the help of someone who knows the secrets of those abyssal dragons," the Elf King replied. "There is an ancient dark mage living in the mountains to the east, someone who has studied draconic magic for centuries. He might have the knowledge we need to counter Lu Ming's power."
The Dwarf King frowned, not entirely convinced. "A dark mage? There is always a high price with those kinds of individuals. What will a change ask of us?"
The Elf King hummed lightly, displaying cold determination. "Any price will be small compared to the risk of Lu Ming expanding beyond his territories. Don't forget that he's building an empire, and we're in his way."
The Dwarf King ascended, finally understanding the gravity of the situation. "So, do we seek his help? But we should be prepared for his betrayal. I won't trust any dark wizard."
"Neither would I," the Elf King replied. "But sometimes, we must make uneasy alliances to ensure our survival. In the meantime, you should focus on upgrading our troops' weaponry. We need weapons and shields capable of withstanding his magic."
The Dwarf King grunted in agreement. "My blacksmiths are already at work. We will forge weapons imbued with our own magic. They won't be as easy to break as before."
***Meanwhile, in Lu Ming's territory, the atmosphere was one of controlled calm. The Draconic Priest bowed in front of Lu Ming in the newly constructed throne room, where the banners of the Abyssal Dragon Empire hung proudly.
"Sir, the enemies have been repelled, but we must not underestimate their next move. I suggest we erect magic barriers at the borders of our territory. These barriers could alert us of any intrusion and weaken anyone who tries to cross them," the Priest said in a calm voice.
Lu Ming nodded. "Good idea. We won't let them surprise us again. Also, I want our soldiers to be trained in new tactics. Next time they fight, they must be prepared to face not only brute force, but also traps and ambushes."
The Priest lightly chimed. "We could also use these barriers to channel the magical energy of the territory, strengthening our soldiers as they fight near them."
"Do it. "I want this territory to be impregnable," Lu Ming ordered. "In the meantime, what news do we have from the Draconian General?"
"The General continues to advance, razing the enemy villages. His efficiency is impressive. So far, he has captured six more villages," the Priest reported.
Lu Ming disappointed, satisfied. "Excellent. But we must not rely on our current forces alone. Continue the summons and make sure the territory is well defended."
***In the enemy camp, tensions were rising. Some minor leaders of the elves and dwarves were beginning to question the wisdom of their kings, whispering amongst themselves that this war could cost them more than they would gain. The situation was becoming increasingly delicate, and any mistake could lead to a fracture in the alliance.
However, both the Elven King and the Dwarf King were determined. With new strategies in mind and the possibility of a powerful alliance with the dark mage, they believed they could still turn the tide of the war.
The chapter ends with both armies preparing for what was to come, as Lu Ming strengthened his territory, knowing that the real battle was yet to come.
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