Ramon slid the knife along the whetstone in repeated, well-practised motions. It was the last blade he had to sharpen today. His arms ached and his shoulders were cramped, but he kept working.
He sprinkled some water on the stone and continued. Perhaps because he was involved in its manufacture, Ramon was especially careful and attentive when he worked on this blade. Not that he wasn't always careful. This blade was just that much more special to him.
Ramon lightly flicked his thumb off the edge; the small red bead that appeared was proof his task was complete.
ns 15.158.61.8da2
