Conversation and cancellation

When you arrive at the forge for the second day of the competition, you’re once again greeted by Andrew and his girls. You’re not surprised to see some friendships starting to form between your group and his. Marin and Nina in particular are becoming fast friends, flexing and laughing at each other. Though the holstaur is taller, Marin is definitely in better shape, but the two of them tower over everyone else in both groups.

Unsurprisingly, Helja and Hayley spend some time chatting with their fellow dwarf, and Amie greets them warmly. You find yourself wondering what they’re chatting about, since they keep glancing in you and Andrew’s direction. The wink Hayley throws you makes you worried, and the three of them giggling makes you and Andrew share an amused glance.

The real surprise is Sanni getting into a deep conversation with Rina. The golem girl seems more animated today, and is listening intently to what Sanni is telling her. You’re curious what the two have in common, but make a point not to eavesdrop on their private conversation.

You and Andrew converse as well, and you find that, as you were told, all your worries about him were unfounded. You certainly can’t fault his devotion to his girls, as he speaks fondly of the homebody earth spirit you haven’t met yet. You learn that the dao’s name is Rumi, and apparently she is a wonderful cook. Similarly, you tell him about Lylah, Aisha, and Naia.

Finally, Forgefather Unir arrives, and not alone this time. Clarissa, the Daughter of the Forge is with him, as is a cat boy and a harpy, neither of which you recognize. The various conversations cease, and everyone groups back up.

There’s something less jovial about Unir today, as he addresses everyone. “It’s nice to see that the competition hasn’t made anyone enemies. Unfortunately, the competition is going to be cut short, as something important has come up. The good news is that I now have two projects that require your assistance.”

He turns towards Andrew. “If you would lead Clarissa to your shop, she can fill you in on what we need from you.”

Andrew nods, and their group says their goodbyes to yours. The two of you shake hands. “We definitely need to get together some time! I’ve never seen Rina take to someone outside the group like that before.”

You smile. “We’ll definitely keep in touch. Good luck!”

After they file out, Unir turns to your group. “Helja, your group will be working with these two.”

He gestures towards the pair you don’t recognize. They step forward, the cat boy in the lead. He appears quite young, and there’s a look of anxiety on his face, as if something important is wrong. Shorter and lithe, he nods to your group.

Unir continues. “This is Misha and Sally. They have come to me for aid, and what they really need are weapons. Normally our weapon smiths would handle this, but they are on a very important project now. I’ve seen that you can create a serviceable weapon quickly, and with Sanni and Greg, you can also enchant them, which is important.”

He turns to Misha. “The details I leave to you, and I wish you luck. Unfortunately, this is all a can do to aid you in this.”

Misha nods, and Unir turns back to Helja. “Treat these two as you would any important person. I would prefer this goes smoothly.”

Helja nods. “Of course, Forgefather.”

He gives her a smile and a pat on the shoulder. With a final nod to Misha, he turns and walks out. Helja looks at the pair, curiously.