Chapter 80: Ironpeak As Xin traversed the snow-covered expanse on the back of a Snow Bear en route to Iron Peak, the online community was buzzing with anticipation over the impending clash between Snow Angels and Doom Serenity. Yet, the spotlight seemed more fixated on the drama than the impending battle. "Xiaxia is going all out to win Tristan back. She’s literally challenging Tiffany’s guild." "Snow Angel is doomed for failure. This seems like Xiaxia’s final attempt to salvage her relationship and rescue her guild. A desperate move if you ask me." "Doom Serenity is bound to crush them. With their resources and support, Snow Angel doesn’t stand a chance." "Why would Doom Serenity even accept the challenge in the first place? Have they lost all sense of pride? What’s the point in defeating Snow Angel?" "Apparently, they’re gunning for some seriously rare loot –– a legendary-grade weapon and shield. That’s what the rumors say." "Impossible! How in the world did Snow Angels manage to acquire something like that? They don’t even have a record of first blood, let alone defeating hidden bosses and world bosses." Amidst the internet’s fervent discussions about the drama and the legendary-grade equipment wielded by Xiaxia, several top-ranking guilds from the game’s elite echelon had taken notice of the impending battle. Their focus, however, was not solely on the battle itself but on the legendary-grade gear owned by Xiaxia. The prospect of obtaining such coveted items for their own guilds spurred their closer attention to the upcoming clash. While they entertained thoughts of theft or hoping for a lucky drop during PvP encounters, it was likely that Xiaxia had already secured these items within her guild’s inventory. It was improbable that she would openly display them, opting for a more strategic approach. Yet, one thing remained certain amidst the flurry of conversations –– whoever emerged victorious in this battle stood to gain possession of these legendary-grade items. Such equipment was a rare treasure, scarcely encountered even in their four years of playing the game. Meanwhile. Unperturbed by the chaos unfurling beyond his focus, Xin embarked on an odyssey through the rugged and perilous terrains of the Dwarven continent. His journey led him through mist-shrouded mountains and snowy pathways, gradually transitioning into a realm dominated by towering cliffs and rugged landscapes. The journey to Ironpeak unfolded in a frigid panorama of awe-inspiring wonder, with majestic frozen waterfalls cascading down mountainsides and rare, resilient flora adorning the landscape like nature’s jewels. After a roughly two-hour trek, Xin’s path culminated in the heart of the Dwarven continent, where Ironpeak stood in resolute grandeur. This city served as a testament to the unyielding determination of the Dwarven people and their profound communion with the earth. Embedded into the very bosom of the mountains, Ironpeak embodied a graceful fusion of organic rock formations and the meticulous craftsmanship of stone architecture. Each structure seemed to rise organically from the very stone it was hewn from. The atmosphere reverberated with a rhythmic symphony of resounding hammer blows and skillful chiseling, a melodic tribute to the unmatched artistry of the Dwarves. This sonorous cadence echoed through the intricate labyrinth of tunnels and caverns that formed the city’s solid foundation, a masterpiece woven into the heart of the mountain itself. One of the notable features of the fortress, at the city’s center, lies the heart of Ironpeak –– the legendary Great Forge. Flames dance within the massive hearths, tended to by skilled blacksmiths who shape the city’s wealth in the form of exquisite weapons, armor, and tools. The Forge was both a place of industry and reverence, as Dwarves paid homage to their ancestors by creating objects of unmatched quality. Xin only thought that he would see something like this in movies, but he was here right now in an actual fortress of the dwarves inside a mountain. Illuminating the underground passages were intricately carved crystals that radiated a soft, ethereal light. These glowing gems, meticulously harvested from deep within the earth, provide a mesmerizing glow that guides visitors through the intricate maze-like corridors of the city. Xin went to the bustling heart of Ironpeak’s commerce, the Market Square. It was alive with activity. Stalls overflow with precious ores, gems, and exotic minerals. Traders from all corners of the realm haggle, barter, and trade, contributing to the city’s bustling economy. Xin lingered much as there were some things to be done here. He only had less than two days to gather the materials he needed for the battle. On the way to the mine, Xin passed by another one of the town’s attractions. A solemn and awe-inspiring chamber carved out of the living rock, the Hall of Ancestors. This was where the Dwarves paid homage to their forefathers. Ornate stone statues and grand tapestries line the walls, depicting the history and achievements of the Dwarven people. It was a place of reflection, where whispers of ancient tales echoed in the hallowed halls. Rising above the city, the Skybridge Tavern offered breathtaking panoramic views of Ironpeak and its surroundings. Here, travelers and residents alike gather to share stories, indulge in hearty Dwarven cuisine, and sample the city’s famed ales. Xin went on his way, unbothered by the presence of other players and diverse races sharing the same mining area. He had a clear objective in mind and wasted no time in setting his plan into motion. Arriving at the entrance of the mines, Xin willingly parted with a significant sum of currency, a considerable fee to secure his passage into the depths where the coveted rare stones were known to be found. A dwarf, likely accustomed to curious adventurers like Xin, raised an eyebrow at the audacious request. "Are you absolutely certain about this, lad? Mining in the lower levels demands more than just intent; it requires the prowess of a [Golden Tool] to extract those precious ores." Xin’s focus remained resolute despite the dwarf’s skeptical tone, although he wished the dwarf would keep his voice down to avoid attracting unnecessary attention from nearby players. "I’ll take my chances," Xin replied nonchalantly. The dwarf’s bushy brows knitted together in mild concern before he gave a resigned nod. "Very well, then. Follow me, and I’ll personally escort you to the depths." Within earshot, whispered conversations among nearby players followed, their remarks a mix of amusement and dismissive commentary. "What a novice move. Doesn’t he realize that mining the deepest levels requires a [Golden Tool]?" "In our four years in the game. No one even acquired one. Not even the top guilds have one." "Let him have his fun. He’s only level twenty-seven. He’ll soon learn the hard way." "Ah, the overconfidence of newcomers. They believe the world is theirs to conquer." 𝑓𝘳𝘦𝑒𝑤𝑒𝘣𝘯ℴ𝘷𝘦𝓁.𝑐𝑜𝑚 Laughter rippled through the gathered players as they shared their observations. "But seriously, he shelled out a fortune to go down there. What an idiot." Undisturbed by the chatter, Xin maintained his focus, unceremoniously boarding a mine cart that awaited him, ready to delve into the depths of the earth and pursue his goal. Who knows, if he had extra time, he would dominate the NPCs around here.