the hiss of hot steel in water , the pounding of hammers on metal , the billowing of the fires all combined in one chorus of craftsmanship . like many of the other schools in noiknaer , students came from all around tessír and the southern countries to learn , but unlike many schools , the forge had competition . the other blacksmith school in noiknaer was funded by the three brothers syndicate , and offered its products and services to the public at a half the cost of the
forge

nicholas silently cursed himself for not telling the driver to continue around the block a few more times , until he was good and ready to relinquish this moment in sai 's arms . there was no time to prepare her as they were greeted at the door by the nurse . nicholas managed a weak smile when two-year-old duncan came tumbling toward him . `` how was your night , my lord ? '' the nurse inquired as duncan continued to make his way to
nicholas

never would he be able to betray her . the bell rang . he appeared within moments , `` yes mistress ? '' she smiled at his entrance , obedient yes , but never subservient , `` we 're going out . '' she announced with a glint in her eye . franco smiled slightly and nodded , `` as you wish

mistress