Forging Halcyon

A humble smith lives in the shadow of violence as bandits prey upon his peaceful village, that is until a mysterious stranger offers him a way out. A design for a powerful weapon to defend his home is tempting, but only a madman offers such things for free. When times get dark, he wonders if a bargain with a madman might work after all. If the stranger truly asks for nothing in return, what does he have to lose?