They went deeper into the cave system, following promising ore signatures and intriguing rock formations. Greg enjoyed the simple, repetitive work of breaking rocks and collecting ore. The pickaxes never got damaged, and the lanterns never went out.
It was calm in a way that making magical things never was. No need to worry about making things that they can think of for themselves or making everyone in the village upset. It was just him, a pickaxe, and some stones.
"Boss," Bork said after a while. "May I ask you something?"
"Sure," Greg said, stopping to drink some water.
"I'm sorry to ask you this, but how are you? I mean, really, doing so far after everything that happened with the Sunken Citadel and Elias... all of that, you know..."
For a moment, Greg was quiet. "Things are getting better for me. Some days are harder than others, but it's wonderful to have everyone at the workshop, and now having Marina as my girlfriend helps."
