New Gears

Clyde and Asqa stood before the obsidian stands, gazing at the results of Hammer's masterwork.

Clyde's expression remained calm, as always, but his eyes reflected quiet satisfaction.

Beside him, Asqa also couldn't hide her joy. Her smile stretched wide across her face and her usually sharp composed eyes shimmered with delight.

It was the kind of expression rarely seen from her since the days of battles happened. Like a moment of unguarded happiness.

Hammer caught sight of that expression and felt something shift in his chest. He grinned, the soot clinging to his cheeks cracking slightly with the motion.

"It's nice seeing someone fresh coming here," Hammer muttered with a chuckle, rubbing the back of his neck as he looked toward Asqa. "Hehehe. Thank you, my lady, for gracing this humble place with your presence."

Clyde raised an eyebrow. "You never talk to me like that, Hammer."