Bellows creaked and groaned as mana lines flickered to life. mages moved swiftly, activating the core runes that would regulate airflow through the reinforced ducts. A deep hum vibrated through the ground as the internal mechanisms of the blast furnace stirred for the first time.
Dozens of workers took their positions—some on the scaffolding, others around the fire channel. The atmosphere buzzed with anticipation.
Arthur stood at the observation platform beside Loran, arms crossed, his eyes trained on the bellows.
"This is the first high-pressure trial," Loran explained. "If the seals hold and the airflow stabilizes, we'll ignite the smelting basin immediately."
Arthur gave a slight nod, gaze unwavering.
The bellow pumps began to move.
At first, it was smooth—slow, rhythmic pulses of compressed air surging into the lower chamber. Then the tempo increased. The flame within the chamber roared louder, stretching higher through the vertical stack.
Then, a jolt.
