Chapter 97: New knives.

Chapter 97: New knives.

STANDING BEFORE THE metal artisans' area, Nigel tamed his discomfort. Behind him, he could feel the eyes of two Dagerstanteen guards judging him. The strangers watched him, and though they weren’t whispering, he knew they were assessing him. He sensed it, a prickle on his skin. His sense tentacle was working overtime.

“You want me to rebuild the handles? Only the handles?” Metal Smith Brotula tipped his head at Pete, his tentacles twitching in interest. “I could make you brand new knives. Eight new blades would be no hardship, Royal Peltratria.” The alien grinned at Pete with an eager smile. “For you, I would do anything.”

Brotula’s words pulled Nigel out of his speculation about the lurking aliens and back to their project. Of course, Pete had someone who would do anything for him. The royal was clearly well-loved in the palace.