We didn't even get five minutes of peace after clearing the mines.
Back at the City Lord's estate, Lord Cazash practically beamed when we handed in the quest confirmation. Coins, reputation, city gratitude, the whole ceremonial deal.
He clapped Kael on the shoulder, praised Zeref's firepower, thanked Keiji and Luna like a dignified ruler should… then turned to me and bowed.
Still not used to that. Never will be.
"The greatest blacksmith in Dwargen," he said grandly, "is Smithy."
I blinked. "Smithy."
"Yes."
"…That's it?"
He nodded proudly, like he'd just revealed the secret name of a dragon. Dwargen, land of subtlety.
Smithy turned out to be exactly what you'd expect. Broad shoulders, soot everywhere, arms thicker than my thighs, and a voice that sounded like gravel arguing with steel.
We laid out our requests one by one. Measurements. Preferences. Armor weight. Weapon balance. Fire resistance from the spring crystals. Mithril integration.
