Dimension System - Chapter 105

 

I woke up to a very pleasant feeling of softness in my arms. Amidst the comfortable blankets and pillows, Jessa had fallen asleep on my chest. When she felt my slight stirring, she got up stretching and gave a big yawn. Our eyes met and we both broke out in laughter, as our hair had become extremely messy after our bedroom activities, giving us each a very comical look.

 

Due to all the whiskey that was consumed last night, I did have a slight headache but it wasn’t too bad. Briefly rubbing my temple caught her attention, so she leaned in and kissed my forehead, doing her best to comfort me. I almost let out an involuntary sigh, as there was something amazing about having a beautiful woman care for you. The affection was something I hadn’t realized I needed, until I received it.

 

“Are you thirsty?”

 

She answered my question promptly and honestly. I liked that about her.

 

“Uh-huh, I feel thirsty, sweaty, and hungry, yet.. somehow I’m still in a good mood.”

 

Pulling her closer, I gave her a quick kiss, then responded with a faux deep voice.

 

“I should have just the thing to take care of your needs, honey.”

 

Pushing me playfully back onto the bed, she responded in an equally playful manner.

 

“You already took care of plenty! Seriously though, the whole camp is probably waiting for us, so we shouldn’t take too long.”

 

Using my ghost dragon hand, I removed some of the bedding, pillows, and blankets to create some room. With the entire wagon no longer occupied, I now had room to summon a small table for two, complete with a beautiful glass vase filled with spatial water. Two large glass cups were next to it, which I proceeded to fill once we sat down. Unceremoniously, we gulped the refreshing and cool water down, sating our thirst.

 

After the first glass, we had another, then proceeded to simultaneously let out a large ‘Ahhhh!’. It wasn’t something that we’d planned, just that that the spatial water was unique and potent, quenching every part of us. Our reaction caused each other to chuckle, with each of us pleased to have found someone that was just as quirky.

 

Now seated at the small table, I was able to use my ghost dragon hand again, removing the rest of the bed occupying the remaining side of the wagon. This time I replaced the bedding with a bathing tub, which was constructed out of fired stoneware that could conduct heat. Non-stick patterns were intricately carved into the bottom, while a few Flamma Flos were placed underneath to heat the water gently.

 

Her eyes lit up at the sight of a bathing tub. I let her get in first, taking one of the chairs and dragging it over to the tub. Using the pitcher, I ran warm water over her head and washed her hair. Of course, being a young man, my hands did the occasional wandering beyond her hair. She didn’t complain when I copped a generous feel of her chest, only leaning her head back onto me and sighing.

 

I briefly considered going another round, however, I decided that could wait until later. The mind was willing but the flesh was spongy and bruised! After moving my hands up to briefly massage her shoulders and neck, we switched places. Immersing myself in the tub, I reveled in the feeling of having my scalp massaged. Ah, a guy could really get used to this!

 

Once we were both sufficiently washed up, both of us got dressed. Upon exiting the wagon, we noticed that it was already afternoon. Our late night activities had caused us to sleep through the entire morning. The camp was abuzz with activity and everyone had already packed up most of their tents. Jessa left to go back to her own wagon, where several of the female ranch hands were waiting for her.

 

With most of the gear packed up, everyone had been waiting on us, which did make me feel a little guilty. Terry, Mr. West, and everyone else were gathered by the fire that had long since gone out. As I approached, Mr. West was the first to greet me, giving me a firm pat on the shoulder.

 

“How nice of you to finally join us, Mr. Coffey! Everyone is just about ready to depart for the mountain pass.”

 

Scratching the back of my head nervously, I apologized for making everyone wait.

 

“Sorry about that, guess I lost track of time. If everyone’s ready, let’s head on out.”

 

This caused the nearby men to laugh at my predicament. They all knew what had happened, yet no one brought it up directly. Mr. West returned to his wagon, while playfully lamenting.

 

“Ah, to be young again!”

 

Once I absorbed the extra armored wagon, we were ready to head back out on the open road. With everyone loaded up, our convoys headed out, side by side at a casual pace. I had taken up the driver’s seat on one of the remaining armored wagons, while Terry drove the other one. Mr. West’s wagon drove alongside mine, at the forefront of the group.

 

He complimented me on the quality of the cattle which pulled my armored wagon.

 

“Those are the largest and strongest Big Horns that I’ve ever seen, by far! Does your company have a ranch or something?”

 

I answered his question, letting him know that we did raise a few animals.

 

“Yes sir, the animals are raised in a top quality environment, where they get plenty to eat and enjoy beautiful weather. They’re able to lead long and prosperous lives, where they’re only harvested upon expiration.”

 

After that, we casually chatted about the different types of animals that I had access to. While we were talking, Jessa emerged from her wagon, having changed into a simple white dress made of some cotton-like material. Since we were going at a casual pace, it was easy for her to catch up to my armored wagon. Hopping up into the seat next to me, she made herself comfortable and snuggled up next to me.

 

Letting one hand off of the reins, I curled my free arm around the beauty and returned her embrace. She joined into our conversation effortlessly.

 

“It sounds like you got quite the farm, have you ever raised any horses?”

 

Benton’s ears perked up at the question, as he focused on my response.

 

“No, I’ve not come across any yet. Once I’m able to get a breeding pair, we should be able to raise some fine specimens.”

 

Giving a hearty laugh, Mr. West let me know that he was very interested in trading some livestock.

 

“You met the right people, if you’re in the market for some horses or other animals. I don’t mean to toot my own horn but we’ve got some of the finest in Arkana. You should come on down to our ranch someday, we’ve got plenty of things that might interest you. I’d love to acquire some of the fine animals that you raise, if they’re anything like those Big Horns.”

 

Sensing a great business opportunity, I readily agreed.

 

“Sure, I’m always looking to acquire new animals and things for trading. We’re always interested in new crops and fruits as well.”

 

Jessa spoke up, letting me know that they grew fruit and produce as well.

 

“We’ve got an orchard by the ranch, where we grow a lot of things unique to Arkana. We have Apples, Peaches, Rhubarb, Rutabagas, Turnips, Lettuce, and Mustard Greens as well. Quite the variety, if I do say so.”

 

Making a mental note, I assured them that I was interested in doing plenty of trading.

 

“Those are things that I currently lack, so I’d definitely want to get some of each and would be happy to pay or trade other goods.”

 

Like that, we continued chatting, as our convoy made it’s way forward. A few hours later, we’d reached the aforementioned Dead Man’s pass, which cut through the Axiom mountains. It was blocked off by a large amount of rubble and boulders. Several groups of wagons were stationed nearby, while people were working with picks and shovels to remove the debris. There were even guards from Blackthorne nearby, keeping the different groups from fighting during the tense situation.

 

One of the guards approached us, letting our group know that the pass was blocked off.

 

“Ah, Mr. West! The pass is still blocked off for now. Have you restocked at Blackthorne and returned to help us clear the way?”

 

He answered the guard, apparently familiar with him, as if they’d met many times.

 

“We’ve brought someone who can clear the pass. A spatial mage who can deal with this unfortunate disaster, so that we can all get back home.”

 

Turning over to look at me, the guard addressed me with great respect.

 

“Esteemed mage, your help would be greatly appreciated in clearing out the pass. We’ve got several groups who are trapped on this side and possibly a few more stuck on the other side as well.”

 

Giving Jessa a quick kiss, I reluctantly left her warm embrace, hopping down from the armored wagon. The guard directed me to the site of the avalanche, while calling for the workers to move aside.

 

“Attention everyone! Please set back from the pass, we’ve got a mage who’s offered to clear the way through.”

 

Returning to their respective groups, the workers were glad to have a break from their labor. Murmurs went up throughout the area, as people gossiped about the arrival of mage. Ignoring their idle chatter, I reached the area that was blocked off by large boulders and rubble. Using my ghost dragon hand, I started absorbing all of the various debris. Audible exclamations could be heard from the crowd, upon witnessing such an unusual sight.

 

‘Look at that! It’s amazing.’

 

‘I’ve never seen anything like it, is that an Earth mage?’

 

‘No, my uncle is an Earth mage. That has to be a spatial mage, which is even rarer!’

 

Chomping down on the stone and rocks, my ghost dragon hand eventually cleared a path through the pass. On the other side, several distraught groups thanked me profusely for saving them. Apparently, they had been getting close to running out of food and the situation was getting tense. However, they were now able to continue their journey out of the mountains and onto their destinations.

 

The guards also thanked me as well, since they’d been stuck there keeping the traders and merchants from tearing each other apart. Now they were free to head back to their families, taking the merchant groups headed that way with them. With everything now cleared out, the groups heading into the pass let out a collective cheer, packing away their picks and shovels.

 

Everyone had insisted that we be given the lead position at the front, since we had cleared out the pass. In an orderly fashion, each of the groups set off, one after another. Due to the narrowness of the path, we formed an even larger convoy, with many different groups traveling together. Thankfully, Mr. West had navigated the area many times, so we didn’t have any trouble leading the way.

 

Normally, it could be quite a treacherous journey, however, our great numbers afforded some manner of protection. The noise from so many wagons and people proceeding together prevented any attacks from wild animals. I did notice a few small green dragons occasionally hovering overhead, which gave me cause for concern. Asking about them revealed additional information.

 

“Mr. West, should we be at all concerned about those dragons flying overhead?”

 

He looked up and glanced at them with a scowl.

 

“Thankfully, those aren’t Dragons. However, the Axiom mountains are home to many Wyvern nests. As long as we all stick together, we should be fine. They’re opportunistic hunters who go after smaller caravans that pass through. Don’t worry too much, they’re not nearly as strong or powerful as actual Dragons.”

 

Relieved by his answer, we kept going forward, while I kept a weary eye on them. True to his word, the Wyverns eventually departed, leaving us safe for the moment. Navigating our way through the twists and turns, we eventually came upon an area where the path widened out and split into different directions. The area was well worn, having been used by many groups as a temporary rest spot and campsite.

 

Here, our massive convoy split, as some of the groups kept going down the pass, while others took up positions to rest and recover. Our group chose to stop for a moment and prepare a late lunch. Pulling our various wagons off to the side, we made a temporary camp near the others who’d stayed. Everyone was eager to see what I would prepare for lunch, gazing over in anticipation as I setup a large cooking station.

 

Today, I felt like having something a little spicy. Using some Jalapenos, I prepared some sweet and spicy poppers. Hollowing out the insides, they were stuffed with a combination of regular cheese and cream cheese. After that, they were wrapped in bacon and deep fried to perfection. The heat from the peppers would contrast nicely with the mixture of cheese, while the bacon would add additional crunch and flavor.

 

Creamy Jalapeno corn was another quick and easy side dish that had a spicy kick. Thick hamburgers, mashed potatoes, a fresh salad, and some coleslaw rounded out the meal. I couldn’t help throwing in some Jalapeno corn bread as well. All that heat was sure to make everyone thirsty, so I made sure to provide some cold beer and water to wash it down with. The spices were growing nicely, so I made sure to season each dish appropriately with what I had access to.

 

Bringing out a few simple wooden dining tables, the feast was set out, spreading delectable scents out across the clearing. Everyone ate with gusto, complimenting me on the food and saying that the beer paired well with the spicy dishes. Even Jessa couldn’t help scarfing down a few plates, letting out a large belch when she finished. We all laughed playfully at that, which caused her to become slightly embarrassed. She leaned into my chest, attempting to hide away but that only caused more laughter.

 

The other groups in the clearing were amazed by the smell of our food, gazing over with longing looks and salivating mouths. Normally, people ate quite plain things during a long journey. Jerky, preserved foods, and trail rations were the cornerstone of their meals on the road. Hot meals were few and far between, largely dependent on their ability to hunt in the nearby area. In a dangerous mountain pass, no one would take the risk to set off alone for a mere morsel.

 

When it came time to absorb the leftovers, some of the other groups timidly approached us.

 

“Excuse us, esteemed mage. We were wondering if you might be interested in selling the rest of that food? It smells heavenly!”

 

The thought hadn’t occurred to me but it seemed I could make a quick buck. They were pretty much drooling at this point.

 

“Sure, let’s do some trading before the food gets cold. I’m willing to barter for gold or goods.”

 

Hearing that, several more of the groups approached as well. Before long, I was able to negotiate the sale of all the leftovers and even some additional food. Things like hard biscuits, jerky, and sausage links would keep well on their journey ahead. Not only did I get a few small bags of gold coins, I even acquired a few random goods. Various rugs, some art pieces, a few sets of furniture, clothing, and even a few books and maps were all added to the spatial world.

 

With business concluded, it was time to head on our way. I asked Benton about the various paths that split from the area.

 

“Where do these paths go and which one leads to the Dwarves?”

 

He pointed them out, while giving a brief explanation.

 

“The main branch leads further into the Axiom mountains and out into Arkana. That path leads to the Dwarven stronghold of Dheghruhm. All of the others lead to dead ends or worse and are best avoided.”

 

Thanking him, we packed up our tents and got ready to continue our journey.

 

“Appreciate the information, Mr. West. Are you in any hurry to get home to your ranch?”

 

He thought for a moment, before responding.

 

“Well.. we were originally planning on heading straight back, however, I don’t think my daughter would forgive me if we parted ways right now.”

 

Jessa had stuck by my side the entire journey, obviously having grown a little attached to me. She was concerned that we’d be going our separate ways and had been uncharacteristically quiet. Grabbing onto my arm quite tightly, she finally spoke up, albeit quite softly.

 

“Let’s head with Zanir to the Dwarven stronghold, pa. It’s been a long time since we’ve been up that way.”

 

Chuckling, Mr. West acquiesced.

 

“Alright, I suppose we could show him the way. After you take care of your business there, can we head back to the ranch together?”

 

Considering his offer, it wouldn’t be much of an issue. I’d be able to establish an portal anchor somewhere nearby with the permission of the Dwarves, enabling me to teleport back for the return journey.

 

“Sure, I wouldn’t want anything to happen to Jessa on the way back.”

 

My response caused both Jessa and her father to break out in their trademark grins.

 

With our destination decided, the group left the small campsite clearing together, heading down the pass that went to Dheghruhm. Several hours later, we arrived without incident. A massive portcullis had been artfully carved out the mountain itself, barring entrance further into the stronghold. Several bored looking Dwarves were guarding the area, coming to attention when we approached. One of them called down from the elevated ramparts on the gate.

 

“Who dares to approach the sacred stronghold of Dheghruhm? The sons of man? State your business!”

 

Another one of the guards seemed to recognize Mr. West.

 

“By my beard! Is that mister Benton West? It’s been a few years since I last saw ye.”

 

A discussion broke out among the gate guards, before they finally opened the gate. A short and gruff looking guard approached us. Mr. West greeted him with a hearty handshake.

 

“Makdroid Smeltaxe, son of Melvar, you haven’t aged a day since we met. How have you been?”

 

Laughing with a rumble, the boisterous dwarf replied.

 

“I’ve aged a few years, the same as you! It’s just that we mountain folk live much longer, so it doesn’t show. Things have been well as ever, how’s your family?”

 

Matching his laugh, he replied like an old friend.

 

“Good to hear and all is well. That’s my daughter over there, you remember her right?”

 

Makdroid did a double take when he saw Jessa.

 

“Of course I remember her! Except the last time I saw her, she was just a wee lass. My how time passes, especially for you humans. I suppose you’d age quickly, if you only had a hundred or so years.”

 

Hopping up onto Benton’s wagon, he motioned our group forward. The gate was closed behind us, as the two old friends caught up on recent events. I couldn’t help but notice that a bottle of whiskey was brought out from under the wagon seat and passed back and forth. As we made our way in, we witnessed the grandeur of the Dwarven architecture.

 

The passage opened up into a massive cavern, where an entire city had been delicately carved from the mountain itself. Even the simplest of their housing had been made with intricate patterns and designs. The roads had been expertly constructed from joined flagstones, which made for a very smooth passage. Large lamps were installed at regular intervals, adorned with some kind of shining crystals which lit the way.

 

Sounds of hammers pounding and ringing could be heard from almost every area, as the Dwarves busied themselves with various crafts. Following Makdroid’s guidance, we passed several bustling taverns on the way to a nearby inn. The sounds of drinking and arguing gave a vibrant atmosphere to the underground stronghold. Eventually, we reached a large and well-lit inn, with a hanging sign that read ‘The Sleeping Moon Inn’.

 

“Here we are! One of my cousins runs this inn. If you mention my name, you shouldn’t have any trouble getting a room.”

 

I asked why the inn would be occupied, as the Dwarves rarely admitted visitors in great numbers.

 

“Shouldn’t there be plenty of rooms available?”

 

Looking over at me, he answered my question.

 

“Well laddie, you’ve come during our annual beer festival! Most of the inns are booked solid.”

 

Oh, this was going to be good! Hopefully, I’d be allowed to enter the competition and acquire some authentic Dwarven ales, all in one fell swoop.