Free Web NovelChapter 72: Long Game (2)
As the setting sun painted the sky in vibrant hues of orange and purple, the last customer bid farewell and left Shinon’s workshop. The sound of the closing door reverberated through the room, leaving behind a calm silence. Shinon let out a contented sigh, his gaze sweeping across the now-empty space.
Selena and Kira stood by his side. They had been his unwavering support, assisting him with every customer and ensuring the smooth operation of the workshop. Shinon turned to them, gratitude evident in his eyes. freewebnovёl.ƈom
"Thank you both," he said, his voice filled with genuine appreciation. "I couldn’t have done this without your help, and because of your help and hard work, this venture seems to be going in the right direction."
"I think I speak for both of us when I say this," Selena smiled, her eyes shining with warmth. "Working with you was our pleasure, Shinon. And on behalf of everyone else, the settlement will always be grateful for your help, skills and vision."
Kira nodded in agreement, her eyes glancing at the array of creations adorned the workshop. "And speaking of your vision, Shinon, have you considered creating more day-to-day wares? Your Self-purifying water jar should be a hit here, not to mention what other useful items you could create and sell here."
Shinon pondered Kira’s words, his mind envisioning the possibilities. He had always been focused on crafting weapons and armour, but the idea of creating practical items for everyday use intrigued him.
Moreover, with the proper enchantments, he just might be able to manipulate the crowd a bit easier.
"You’re right, Kira," he replied, a smile tugging at the corners of his lips. "I’ve been so consumed with creating weapons that I overlooked the potential of everyday wares. Practical items that can improve their quality of life and hence have an overall positive impact. I think it’s a brilliant idea."
"I can already imagine how much they’ll appreciate it." Selena beamed, her eyes sparkling with excitement. "We have struggled to maintain proper hygiene as our numbers have grown significantly over the past few months. Maybe your wares can help us tackle that issue as well."
"Hm... I’ll think about it." frёewebnoѵēl.com
As the conversation continued, the workshop bathed in the soft glow of the setting sun. The air was filled with a sense of accomplishment and anticipation. Little did they know their gathering would be interrupted by a familiar figure stepping into the workshop.
Tom, the settlement’s only blacksmith before Shinon’s arrival, stood at the entrance, his weathered face lined with years of hard work.
Shinon glanced at Tom, recognising the weariness in his eyes, the telltale signs of a seasoned craftsman. He had heard whispers about the settlement’s previous blacksmith, a skilled individual who had faithfully served their community.
Yet, Shinon didn’t need someone else’s opinions to sway his as he had seen Tom’s work firsthand when he wielded the first sword that had been handed to him upon his arrival in the settlement the first time around.
"Ah, you’re finally here, old man," Selena spoke up, her voice cheerful as she rushed up to Tom. "Shinon, I’d like you to meet Tom. Well, it’s not like you have met him for the first time. He’s a skilled worker, and I believe he would be a valuable addition to your forge."
"I’m an old man, who lost his passion for forging years ago," Tom interjected. "But when I saw the fire, you had to prove the worth of your creations; I got reminded of my youth and why I chose to work in a smithy for the first time. Please, allow me to learn for you!"
Shinon’s gaze flickered between Selena and Tom, his mind grappling with the offer. The prospect of working alongside another skilled blacksmith was undeniably tempting.
But there were some other issues as well. After all, Shinon was unsure if he wanted to bring someone else into his plans.
Tom was a skilled blacksmith, like an uncut diamond, and Shinon had seen his work firsthand. Plus, having someone to help him with the workload could be beneficial... or so Shinon would have said.
Shinon couldn’t shake off the lingering doubt about Tom’s intentions. After all, Tom tried recreating the combat knives that Shinon presented to the Phoenixes, only to fail epically.
That alone was reason enough for Shinon not to trust the old man. Not to mention the weird reason he gave for wanting to work with him.
However, he decided to approach the situation with caution. He would slowly gather information about Tom’s intentions and keep an eye on his work. In the meantime, he would teach the old man a lesson not to copy someone’s work.
Finally, Shinon nodded, his guarded expression softening. "Very well, Tom," he agreed. "I will teach you, but know this—I expect your absolute loyalty. Our work must remain confidential, understood?"
Tom’s eyes gleamed with gratitude as he nodded in understanding. "I am honoured by your trust, Shinon. You have my word that I will keep our work and its secrets guarded."
’Of course, you will,’ Shinon smiled while thinking what would be the best way to test Tom. ’It’s not like I’ll leave you another choice.’
With the agreement, a sense of ’fellowship’ began to take root within the workshop. Shinon extended a hand to Tom, a gesture of welcome and acceptance. Tom hesitated momentarily, his gaze meeting Shinon’s, and then he firmly grasped his hand in a firm handshake.
The old man might have a frail-looking appearance, but he was pretty strong... as expected from a blacksmith. But Shinon was stronger and wanted to make an example out of Tom, but now wasn’t the time for it.
"Let’s forge a path together, Tom," Shinon said. "Our creations will strengthen this settlement and protect its people. But remember, we must be cautious in our endeavours. Our work holds immense power, and we must ensure it is used for the greater good."
"Of course!"
Selena and Kira exchanged excited glances, their confidence in the duo evident. Once a solitary domain of Shinon’s craftsmanship, the workshop now echoed with the promise of collaboration and shared knowledge. The possibilities seemed endless.
Little did they know what was going on inside Shinon’s head. Though he had agreed to teach Tom, he vowed to keep a close watch on him and gather information about Marcus’s involvement with Tom’s sudden eagerness to work.
