Wade walked with brisk steps through the busy streets of Hiving, the late-morning sun warming the cobblestones.
It was so hot, he was sure he could feel the heat seeping in through his boots.
His destination this morning was simple. Tom's shop.
His breastplate should be ready, and he was eager to get it back before the day carried him into more important matters.
He chuckled to himself, remembering that just a few days ago, how to afford a breastplate was his biggest worry.
And now, he was about to take a loan for more money than he'd ever seen in his entire life. Both this one, and back on earth.
As he turned onto the familiar lane, the sound of raised voices reached him.
Wade's brows furrowed. Outside Tom's shop, a broad-shouldered adventurer in dented armor was leaning over the counter, his voice loud and full of anger.
Tom stood behind it, face red, but his hands were steady, clenched tightly around a hammer as if he was prepared to use it if things went further.
