The coals of the forge burned red hot emitting a glow over the face of Travis Ironhide. Sweat poured from his face and limbs as he struck at a blistering piece with a hammer, thinning and folding the hot metal. He continued this for a moment, before replacing his hammer into his inventory. After viewing it and ensuring that no cracks were present, Travis used the tongs to maintain a firm grip on the glowing armor. Quickly he turned and plunged it into a large trough a water. Steam hissed around him as the heat was transferred off of the nearly finished armor. Truth be told this armor wasn’t even for him, though he had his own set that was similar.

Upon finding that they were unable to log out, he had taken to building armor for other players. It made a little coin that everyone so desperately needed, and he requested that they supply the materials. Travis pulled the armor out of the water to add the finishing touches before turning it over to its rightful owner for payment. At first there had been a panic, but after a few days most things conceded. Most seemed to accept the life now, and some type of normalcy had resumed. 

With a grin, he whispered the player who requested the armor. Shortly after his HUD flashed indicating that he received a trade request. Eagerly Travis accepted it and handed over the armor from his inventory in exchange for enough gold to get by another day. As if on cue his stomach gave a loud grumble. It was so surreal, all the urges of daily life had been implemented into this reality. He had been lucky so far thanks to his choice to build his character into a tank. As long as he didn’t get careless, he had hopes of surviving a long while. Another low grumble from his stomach jarred him from his thoughts.

Travis hastily selected the outfit feature, changing into his low grade bronze armor. The familiar weight of his shield and sword appeared. Once his equipment fully loaded, he started off across the plaza towards the inn. He was in desperate need for warm food and cold drink to replenish some energy. He neared the entry and pushed through the door to the tavern. After surveying the available seats, he found an open table close to the door.

A few moments later a waitress appeared at his side. “Hello sir, can I interest you in any food and drink?” she began politely, handing over a menu. Travis took a moment, his eyes briefly scanning the menu. 

“Yes,” He responded in his deep voice. “I’ll have a pint of your mead, and a bowl of your beef stew.” The waitress smiled, nodding before reaching for his menu. He allowed it to go, his stomach growling again. “I’ll put your order in, your food should be out shortly.” She replied as she made her way back to the kitchens. As he waited for his food, another player burst through the door. If he had any type of healing he would have rushed to his side immediately. As it was however, he decided he would just get in the way. Travis looked around the bar for the familiar robes of a mage, a bit of an uneasy feeling in his stomach.

Though the wound wasn't fatal, it seemed to be causing the player a great deal of pain.