Late afternoon sunlight warmed the stone streets as Liam and Tomlin strode with jingling coins through the market. Liam put an arm around Tomlin's shoulders as they navigated the crowds. "We earned this," Liam said with a grin, nodding at the heavy pouch of silver at his side. "New armor's out of reach, but maybe at least a proper weapon."
Tomlin's eyes shone. "First real gear, Liam. After today, we deserve it," he said.
They paused in front of a weaponsmith's, its sign showing two crossed swords. Through the open door, Liam saw racks of swords and spears and a burly smith hammering at his anvil. Tomlin practically lunged inside, eyes fixed on every glint of steel. Liam followed more cautiously, clutching the coin pouch.
"Help you lads?" the smith asked, setting aside the glowing metal. Soot marked his arms and apron. "Take your pick—brand new or fine used."
Tomlin plopped the pouch on the counter. "Our finest spear, please," he said, voice full of excitement. "Something tall and true." The smith nodded. He pointed to a spear in the corner. It had a long ash shaft and a sharp steel head. "Go on, try it," he encouraged.
Tomlin lifted the spear and swung it experimentally. It felt surprisingly light and balanced. He could hold it out with one hand, the tip steady. "Amazing," Tomlin breathed. He spun the spear slowly. Then, grinning, he gave it a playful jab—nearly catching Liam in the chest. "Oops, incoming!" he laughed.
Liam jumped aside, heart racing, and began to laugh along with him. The smith chuckled too. "Careful, lad. That's enough!" he said.
"It's perfect," Tomlin declared. Liam, meanwhile, tapped the edge of a shield on a stand. "Not too bad," he murmured. The smith noticed and smiled. "That shields an excellent choice—light and sturdy." He strapped it to his arm; it fit snugly and reassuringly. "Feels good," Liam said quietly.
They hammered out the deal: Tomlin's spear and Liam's shield cost them only some of their fortune. Tomlin glanced down at the new spear in his hand. "I feel like a real warrior," he said softly. Liam nodded. They bought a few pieces of leather gear and even a small steel helmet that fit Liam's head.
As the sun dipped toward evening, the two friends sat on a bench outside the shop, surrounded by their loot. Liam's new wooden shield rested on the ground by his feet. Tomlin's spear leaned against the bench at his shoulder. Beside them were a pair of simple leather trousers and a worn leather satchel they'd picked up. They chewed on cold bread and cheese they'd bought as a celebration. The new gear felt heavy on their backs, their pockets nearly empty, but their hearts were full. Both of them smiled at how far they'd come.
"I'm glad I can feel my fingers again," Liam said, bending one and then the other foot. Every muscle in his body felt alive after an afternoon spent trying on weapons. Tomlin stretched lazily with the spear across his shoulders. "Best day ever," he said with a contented smile. "We came as two kids with makeshift gear and are leaving as actual adventurers." He winked.
Liam laughed. "Heroes, huh? We did okay for a couple of noobs." They bumped elbows in celebration. All around them the city hummed with a tired energy. Night was falling, and Redhaven's lamps were lighting. Above, stars pricked the sky. The two friends sat quietly, proud and excited, gazing at their new gear.
With a final bite of bread, they packed the rest away. Early tomorrow they would head out again—perhaps to try their new arms, or simply to see what lay beyond the next hill. For now, Liam and Tomlin leaned back on the bench, shoulders touching, ready to face whatever the future might bring.