Axe - Airgrid Sky Spear Bases

Matvey would find that despite the early morning, a good number of dwarfs had already set to work on the routine maintenance of the base. Sea Guard deck cadets were cleaning every square inch of both ships docked at the base. The admiral in change of them was inspecting their work when Matvey Krupp's drunken self stumbled into the base. The admiral gave a courteous nod. He was dressed in armor, with various emblems signifying his rank.

"Lord Matvey Krupp. Your ship is nearly ready for departure. It's undergoing final inspection as we speak." The admiral placed his hands behind his back and graceful turned towards the ship and his men. Now the cadets were checking the vessel for any structural weaknesses. He nodded towards them, pleased.

Seeing as it was going to be another few minutes, the admiral decided to have a short chat with Krupp. "So, this war is over... it's a strange feeling isn't it? How do you feel about trading with foreigners again?" The admiral spoke with an even, contemplative tone. He seemed to regard Matvey only slightly above himself. The merchants were of a lower caste than the sea guard, but Matvey was also an officer and was well known among dwarfs. There were rumors that before the war Krupp had sought to elevate the prestige of the merchants.

"Hmm, yes, a lot of work must be done before Alban is restored to its former glory. Not just the kingdom, but our individual lives. Well, don't fret. You'll be back or your gilded throne soon enough." The admiral spoke that last bit with a joking sort of contempt.

As he looked upon the ship, he smiled. "Years of war have made our passion for creation run cold. We've lost sight of who we once were. We were more than just warriors, and we will be more than just warriors again. I'm no economist. If I was I wouldn't have joined the sea guard. But I do know pride. And us dwarfs can do plenty more than mine metal. Think of the bounties the earth is capable of producing. Marble, clay, gemstones. Even plain old stones can be used to make works of art. And we can make more than just weapons and armor with metal. Tools, compasses, heck even toys." The admiral got excited. He looked around at the younger cadets. "You know, I used to think the warlord was foolish for reminding us of what the world was like before the civil war. But now that it's over, really over, now that An Dli has been restored, I can see the wisdom in his lectures. To think someone like me would see more promise in the economy than someone like you. You better get some of your optimism and dwarven pride back if you want to honor your stature, Lord Krupp!"

It wasn't long before Matvey's ship was deemed fit for flight. "Aye, a beautiful vessel. If only all our naval vessels were as fine as this." The cadets saluted the admiral, who saluted back and turned back to Krupp. "Try to be joyful. The road ahead won't be easy, but this is still a time for celebration."