Chapter 1: Introduction
"The way of the blacksmith is the way of the elements. I shape and bend them to my will, creating works of art and function."
- Nathan Blacksmith, 29
Fate draws men to the places they're meant to be. The thought flitted through Nathan Blacksmith's mind as the reins from his horse, Cherry, slipped from his grip just before entering the blink-and-you'll-miss-it town he'd heard whispers of: Havenwood.
Nathan was a blacksmith by trade and a wanderer at heart.
The endless call of the open road had led him here, and for the first time in many moons, he felt a lick of excitement at what secrets could lay hidden away in this provincial village. Cherry's hooves clomped along the packed dirt road, drawing the attention of the townsfolk. The rusted sign above the tavern door proclaimed it "The Gilded Goat," but Nathan saw the coat of arms in need of some tender loving care from a blacksmith.
As Nathan hitched his horse near the hitching post, three individuals crossed his path.
First came Armin, the chiseled innkeeper with salt-and-pepper hair and a mischievous glint in his eye.
"Ah, I see we've got ourselves a new stranger in town," said Armin with a welcoming smile as he leaned against the tavern door. "Now, if you're a blacksmith, this old place can sure use one."
Before Nathan could respond, the second figure stepped forward, a vision of beauty that threatened to knock the wind out of him.
A woman - Valeria, she introduced herself - with long, wavy black hair that gleamed like a raven's wing, eyes as red as a fresh blooming rose, and an aura of mystery and seduction. Valeria claimed to be the one responsible for the upkeep of The Gilded Goat, but Nathan could not tear his gaze away from her.
"A strong-looking man like yourself needs a place to stay," she cooed.
Nathan couldn't believe her hypnotic charm. "Besides, as an innkeeper myself, I could use the help of a skilled blacksmith."
Nathan had traveled to numerous towns, but none quite like Havenwood, and perhaps none as alluring as the woman before him.
"You're right, Armin. I am in need of work," Nathan finally declared, tearing his gaze away from Valeria. "And a room wouldn't go amiss."
The duo exchanged a cryptic, knowing smile as though they shared a secret.
Nathan wasn't sure what lay ahead, but something inside him told him he was meant to stick around.
"Well then, by all means, make yourself at home!" Armin chortled, barbecue sauce staining his lips from earlier lunch. Nathan suppressed the urge to wrinkle his nose.
"Valeria will show you to your quarters," Armin announced, guiding Nathan towards the inn. Nathan's footfalls echoed in the dimly lit labyrinth of wooden beams, worn tapestries, and ancient bric-a-brac.