Chapter 160: The next plan
Irwin stepped out of the main smithy building and into the courtyard. It was getting dark outside, showing just how long they had been talking. Even then, Balarn had remained. He was still discussing and planning with Ichela, and from what Irwin could tell, it might last the entire evening.
Cracking his neck, Irwin sighed.
Sorry Balarn, but I can't promise to remain here, no matter what you say, Irwin thought as he headed to the large side building. A pair of smiths stood at the door, both with hammers ready and looking tired.
"Irwin, good that you are back," one of them said, before yawning.
"Good to be back," Irwin said mechanically.
"Your room is on the first floor, at the back. It's easy to find," the smith said before smiling ruefully. "I'm afraid you will have to share it with your friends. With everyone back here, we are a bit tight on space."
"That's alright," Irwin said with a smile. "I've slept worse."
"Me too," the second smith grunted. "But that doesn't mean it's fun. Bloody fools that are after us. If I ever get my hands on them, I will show them exactly how fun it is sleeping with three snoring bastards."
The second guard grinned, shaking his head. "You wouldn't mean me as one of those bastards would you?"
"Hah! What do you think?" the first one said with a snort.
Irwin quickly walked into the smithy, leaving them to their ensuing argument.
The entry room was a spacious common area filled with dozens of smiths who were chatting, drinking, and eating. There was no sign of Greldo and Daubutim, but Irwin did see Monique with a few other female smiths. They saw him as soon as he saw them, and Monique waved with a wide smile, beckoning him over.