Chapter 60: The Ways Of Shaping Steel
Tan had to admit, the cub was surprisingly well versed in the ways of shaping steel. It would seem his claim to be a smith’s son held some truth, but the cub was far too insecure of the quality of his own work. He had real potential and talent in a forge, and the orc was pleasantly surprised by the young fox’s request.
He had been grinding on the edge of a simple hatchet when the cub first appeared before him. Tan had heard they had some beasts in their company, but didn’t much care to see for himself either way.
He was well set in his ways at his age, and gossip was something a smithy had no need for. The orc could only assume the fox was here as a customer and gave him a gruff "Afternoon," as acknowledgment, continuing his grinding on the steel while the cub began looking around.
By the time Tan had finished his task, the fox was waiting patiently at his counter, seemingly to inquire about his wares.
The orc was happy, he didn’t receive many request in this age of peace, less so considering how their tribe had mostly stayed to themselves in recent years, so he always welcomed a potential commission that wasn’t repairing a broken tool.
The orc leaned on his counter, curious as to what brought a young cub to a forge of all things. He was not prepared for the answer to that question.
"My name is Rosten Aschefell, and I am the son of one of Alora’s greatest blacksmiths. Your work quality is really incredible! I’ve never seen such precise etching on steel! The designs you’ve made far exceed what I have ever even imagined!"
The fox was beaming up at the orc with a happiness that seemed out of place in a forge. The orc welcomed a bit of cheer in his space, though, and graciously thanked the cub.
"Such praise from one so young. You honor me, Rosten Aschefell. What can I help you with?" Rust had apparently thought hard on how he would word it.