Chapter 187: Angels

The blacksmith grunted once more, a sound that could be interpreted as either agreement or dismissal. He turned back towards the celestial fragment, his fiery eye gleaming with a newfound intensity. It was clear his curiosity, once piqued, wouldn't be easily quelled.

Alex, with a final nod of respect, backed away from the pulsating fragment. He knew better than to push his luck with this gruff master.

"I'll be back in a week to check on your progress," he said, his voice carrying through the clanging symphony of the forge.

The blacksmith didn't respond, but Alex took his silence as a begrudging acceptance. With a final wave goodbye, he slipped out of the forge, the wooden door creaking shut behind him.

As he emerged back into the crisp mountain air, a sense of cautious optimism settled over him. He had found the legendary blacksmith, and the prospect of wielding powerful, celestial-infused armor was exhilarating.

"End game.. here I come," he smiled.