The forge was quieter that night, but not empty. The fire had been lowered to a steady glow, just enough to keep the place warm as the group settled in after a long day. The weight of a new decision hung in the air. It was no longer just about iron ingots or snacks. Tomorrow, they would be leaving the village.
Liam returned just as the sun fully dipped below the horizon, pushing the door open with a tired sigh. Dust clung to his clothes, and his legs looked like they might give out at any moment. He had spent the entire afternoon running between the five shops, delivering Dory's message and bringing the girls along.
Dory nodded seeing the girls from where he stood near the worktable. "Good. We leave early."
Liam groaned. "We just finished one crazy week, and now we're starting another?"
Maya, who had already returned and was tying her hair back, smirked. "You can stay behind if you want."
"…No, I'm coming."
