Dragon Savior A New Beginning ( Update Version)

Echoes of a Restless Mind (170)

With that, they exchanged a brief but heartfelt embrace before saying their goodbyes. The soft chimes of the shop's bell accompanied Savanna as she exited, leaving the atmosphere lighter than before. Starfania turned to Aeron and Vi. " Come on, guys, let's come back another day. "

They both nodded in agreement, and they turned toward the door. Just as they were about to step outside, she suddenly felt a hand rest gently on her shoulder. Turning around, Starfania found herself face-to-face with Katherine, the blacksmith. Her warm smile and striking presence immediately caught their attention. Her vibrant red hair, streaked with lighter tones, was elegantly pulled into a bun, and her two tone eyes held a quiet strength. She stood tall and graceful even if she was covered in some dirt. She wore a crisp white blouse tucked in a denim skirt, paired with brown boots that showed subtle signs of wear. Silver hoop earrings dangled just above her shoulders, catching the light as she moved. Her soft, soothing voice matched the kindness in her gaze. " I believe I owe you a thank you. "

Starfania blinked in surprise. " Thank me? For what? "

A cheerful glint appeared in her eyes. " For holding your ground against that young boy. I was quite impressed. "

Starfania felt her cheeks warm with embarrassment.

"Oh, it was nothing really," she mumbled, looking down at her shoes.

Aeron and Vi exchanged amused glances, clearly enjoying the moment. Katherine shook her head slowly, a grin spreading across her face. "No, it was something. Not everyone has the courage to stand up like that. It takes guts."

Starfania met Katherine's gaze, feeling a mix of pride and modesty. "I just didn't want to let him push people around. Everyone deserves respect, right?"

"Exactly," Katherine replied, her eyes sparkling with approval. "You have a good heart, Starfania. That's a rare trait."

The atmosphere brightened, and the tension that had filled the air moments before began to dissolve. Katherine stepped back slightly, glancing between the three of them. "What brings you all out here today?"

"We were hoping you could create a helmet that could disguise a person's identity," Vi chimed in, her voice light and cheerful. Katherine studied Starfania before responding to Violet's question. " I must say that is a strange request. "

Starfania nodded in agreement. While Katherine's eyes gleamed with resolve as she met their gaze.

" It won't be an easy task, " Katherine said, " but I'm confident I can help you. "

Relief washed over Starfania, and she found herself smiling. There was something reassuring about her confidence. Aeron then spoke up and asked, " How long will it take? "

Katherine pursed her lips, considering the work ahead.

" Give me a day, " she finally said, " I'll have it done. "

Aeron gave an approving nod, while Starfania turned to her with gratitude. " Thank you. This means a lot. "

They all understood how crucial this helmet would be in the upcoming mission. Starfania took a deep breath before addressing the next matter. " How much will it cost? "

Katherine placed a hand on her hip, a mischievous glint in her eye. " You know what? This one's on me. Consider it a favor for helping me out with Roman earlier. "

Starfania blinked, taken aback by her generosity. " You don't have to do that. Let me pay you. "

She waved a dismissive hand. " No, I mean it. Accept it as a gift. "

Vi beamed, her voice filled with excitement. " Katie, how can we ever repay you? "

Katherine shrugged, her smile widening. "Just make sure you return the favor someday. That's all I ask."

Starfania watched her friend, feeling a mix of gratitude and surprise. They had faced many challenges together, but this was something new.

"Alright, if you insist," she finally said, letting the warmth of the moment settle in. Vi clapped her hands together. "Okay, now that's settled, what's next on our list?"