Two weeks later, one night...
At that moment, the Dwarves were holding a bonfire party, eating all kinds of roasted meat and vegetables brought from Li Wei's Territory, raising a tremendous racket.
Having such a lively little spot in this desolate valley was quite a rare thing. It added a touch of worldly warmth to Rivendell.
Meanwhile, in the guest room arranged by the Elves, Li Wei had just been about to lie down for some sleep when old Gandalf dragged him out for a stroll.
Li Wei was not yet asleep either, so they walked together through the courtyard.
Naturally, the wizard had not come without a purpose.
Before long, Elrond joined them and strolled with the two of them.
As they walked, Elrond brought up the matter of the dragon, reproaching Gandalf for keeping things from him.
"Actually, I called you out today to talk about this. You have to trust me—I know exactly what I'm doing."
Gandalf explained rapidly.
But clearly, Elrond saw things differently from him on this matter.
Though both of them could vaguely sense certain possibilities in the future, whether they were seeing the same possibility was another question entirely. The future always held both good and bad outcomes.
"You know exactly what you're doing? That dragon has been asleep for sixty years. What if your plan fails? What if the dragon is awakened?"
"What if it succeeds? If the Dwarves can reclaim the Lonely Mountain..."
Gandalf once again voiced his strategic concerns regarding the Lonely Mountain, explaining the benefits of helping the Dwarves reclaim it.
"This move is very dangerous, Gandalf."
"Waiting for death is just as dangerous," Gandalf retorted.
"Besides, we have a safeguard. When things become most critical, Li Wei and I will find a way."
Gandalf suddenly stopped walking and