The figure watched in silence as the clearing increased in activity, metal began striking metal, embers flew like a swarm of angered bees around the two metal-smiths toiling away in the mid-morning light.Â<br/><br/>The edges of his lips curved upwards slightly, revealing a perfect set of white teeth. He descended to the base of the hill, skillfully evading the magical wards but snagging on the latest addition, cheap crystal thread webbed the entirety of space between trees, forcing one to take alternative routes which were loaded with unseen traps.Â<br/><br/>He dissipated into obsidian mist as the threads twanged in a unorganized symphony. As he solidified safely in the clearing he realized that the sounds of forging had stopped. "Good morning, gentleman and lady," He emerged in a suave manner. "Seems that business is doing fine alri-"<br/><br/>"Get lost." The young metal smith, known as Vrael, snapped.Â<br/><br/>"Oh, snappy retort from Vrael first thing to a potential customer. No, do not interrupt," The Puppeteer waved a finger playfully as though as a warning. "I was just wondering if you were going to be running a stall in the market."<br/><br/>"I am, if that satisfies your curiosity. Now leave by the indicated exit."<br/><br/>The Puppeteer grinned one last time before leaving the clearing.Â<br/><br/>******<br/><br/>"So we're going to Northpeak? It is a few days journey from here." Elva prodded the stew with a wooden fork.Â<br/><br/>"Yes, and we are traveling on foot." Vrael continued speaking between mouthfuls.Â<br/><br/>"Huh? On foot? If we use the portal at the village we would've cut down our traveling time by days."Â<br/><br/>"I try not to spend money on useless luxuries if I can and what's more, the countryside is not something you see everyday." Vrael raised a finger, "We also have plenty of time on our side, so why not just take a longer route?"