“Thanks.”  Phoenix nodded and stepped closer.  He could've dried himself naturally with his rather unnatural heat but, without causing alarm from the gentle smithy and his customers, it would've taken longer than the furnace.  So he appreciated the help.

     The furnace was constructed of simple smooth stone and was shaped like a perfectly round mound with a large opening on either side.  From his side he could see Podge place a longsword over the coals in the furnace till it became fluorescent red at which time he lifted it with a pair of tongs and placed it on the anvil.

     “Just like I was taught.”  Phoenix thought to himself as the ringing of the hammer began pounding and Podge worked the blade.

     Phoenix guessed that the sword belonged to the mustached one as he had about him the look of a town guard.  He could hear the two men speaking as they raised their voices to overcome the sound of the hammer.

     “So they must have been chased as some were found as far as the ruddy road.”  Said the mustached one.

     “Thieves and murderers then, bunch of cut-throats they are.”  Commented the bearded one.  “I would have no ounce of pity for them.”

     Phoenix recognized the name of ruddy road.  It was near Pladue and he was curious to hear any news from the area.

     “Well neither would I for this but I hear they have a leader that is quite conniving.”

     “You know the name of this leader?”

     “No, I am afraid not.”  Mustache answered politely.  “I believe I have seen the leader before, wears a black cloak and a very haughty demeanor for one his age.  But from what I have seen some of his crew should not be in with him.”
9
Order Of The White Flame