Aurora laid her list on the counter, giving the man something else to look at. He set down the awl and lifted the paper, keeping the unfinished repair secured in his lower hands. While he read, Kaelira picked up a lantern from a shelf.
"May I open this?"
"Go ahead."
The smith opened the casing. A little light shone inside a metal cage, brightening when her fingertip brushed the rune beside its latch.
Kaelira turned the lantern over, running her thumb along the rim beneath it. Her attention caught on the gap between the cage and its outer frame.
"That's nice. You could cave this corner in and still keep it clear of the inscription."
The outfitter put Aurora's list down.
"That's right. Dented ones come back for repairs. Usually still lit."
