Balash slowly turned around, the expression on his face becoming exceptionally grave.
He did not answer at once. Instead, he stared at Helson with his sharp eyes, as though judging whether a deeper motive lay behind the question.
Only after a moment did he slowly speak, his voice low and resolute:
"If the Stonemason Clan merely suffered a defeat on the battlefield—assuming you humans can truly accomplish that—then we will not interfere."
He paused, and his tone suddenly grew heavier.
"But if you dare to trespass into the dwarves' core territory, destroy our homes, and harm our people..." His gaze was as cold and sharp as a blade. "Then what you face will not merely be the Stonemason Clan, but the fury of all thirteen dwarf clans."
He spoke slowly and clearly, every word ringing like a hammer striking an anvil.
"That is war! A war you cannot afford to bear! Human, I hope your lord takes my warning seriously!"
After saying that, he seemed unwilling to say anything more. He turned and strode toward the depths of the hall.
Helson watched Balash leave and knew that those words had already left their mark on him.
He immediately caught up, sincerely adding:
"Mr. Balash, Marquis Greiman does not wish to go to war with the dwarves. We hope to resolve this matter through communication whenever possible—provided we can get in contact with the people in charge of the Stonemason Clan."
Balash stopped and glanced back at him. His expression was no longer as furious as it had been at first; instead, it held a trace of thoughtfulness and caution.
After a brief silence,
"I will... consider it," he finally said. "But not now."
With that, he gestured to the guards at the door. "Arrange lodgings for him and let him