Daniel arched a brow, a faint smirk tugging at his lips. “The Others causing trouble so close? That’s unlike them. Though I suppose even monsters have their bad days.”

The Others were a constant threat in the Wastes—cryptid-like beings of shadow and chaos that attacked indiscriminately. Lately, rumors had spread of their organization under a half-Other leader, a troubling development for anyone who depended on the Wastes’ fragile equilibrium.

“They’re not bold, just stupid,” Garran said gruffly, placing the blade aside. “If you’re here to talk business, you’ll have to wait. Axel’ll find you at the tavern when he’s back.”

Daniel chuckled softly. “Why, Garran, you make it sound like I have nowhere better to be.”

“Do you?” the blacksmith shot back dryly, earning a quiet laugh from the trader.