Hard negotiations

Borin, son of Thorin, grandson of Jordin, was the embodiment of everything Liandra had ever heard of the dwarven folks. Stout, he barely stood taller than a meter and a half, and more than a meter wide. He had a rich grey beard, unkept hair, he wore a thick chain mail and a horned helmet. He was also greedy and stubborn.

"I cant grant you land, Borin son of Thorin, but I do promise a fair reward in Gold. I understand the need to quarry the stone, but there are people already occupying that area, and prospecting for new deposits could take years." again he grumbled about raising costs, even if Liandra promised a fair reward.

The discussion went on for a while, but eventually Liandra believed they agreed upon an appropriate agreement. But instead he said "This can be a very Grand Project indeed, something that would mark someone Dwarvenfriend for generations to come."

Liandra felt Ophelia touching her hand, asking permission to speak. She just tilts her head a bit, and her white summoner says "And so it can be justly sang about the dragonslayer princess, the one that ended the threat of Darkyosthiphorenaux, the black dragon, ravager of lands, blight of a thousand realms. No small part of his treasure comes from fallen dwarven kingdoms, if the stout folk were known for accepting charity we could just hand it back, we are glad we have an acceptable alternative to return their inheritance back to them."

Borin was moved by such a speech, and agreed "A brave leader with wise counselors. We can respect that." Liandra noticed how he measured her as if for the first time, and saw admiration there.

Weeks later the works started. The influx of dwarf workers and engineers brought new coin to Luxius, but in small amounts, for the stout folk were famously frugal. They committed to such speed that some said it would take less than a year for their waterworks to be completed.

Borin paid another visit, but this time he was the bearer of a gift. It was a beautiful crown, delicate and feminine, etched with roses and dragons, silver and precious stones. "Dwarven friend we name you, for the **** you visited on our enemies." For Ophelia spoke true, and she made sure the first payment was done with a selection of dwarven mint.

Liandra admired the beauty of the object. Faerie tales cautioned against accepting dwarven generosity, everything should be paid for. Also this crown was far more formidable than the ones her parents wore, how could she shame then in public?