Author: Shuja, Posted: Wed Apr 10, 2019 12:15 PM, Post Subject: The Heat of the Forge [L:3]

The offer that Polecat made was… intriguing. Taking a bar in hand, Shuja looked over the metal. A part of her was disappointed to not see it in its pure ore form, but instead its already processed ingot form, but the metal on offer was certainly interesting. It shined like no other metal she had seen, and if her words were right, it would certainly make a fine tool with a long life to it. Not only that, but she not only placed the offer on what was on the table, but any more she needed she could call for her. She had a keen eye with this kind of negotiation.

Still, words on quality were only so much She would need to test it out… A dagger at first to see what kind of heat it would take to mend and shape it before knowing what kind of whet to give it a proper edge. If that held, a step further, like an axe, to test its true strength and durability… Her face was clear that she was processing these thoughts out before she finally stated, "It is amusing on how such a simple item can be common to one side, yet exotic within another. Polecat, I shall accept this as your payment for your weapon. The project will be long, but you are free to come by and ask for practice with the finer parts of my creation, or to simply learn a bit more of our land and culture over tea, as I would care to hear what is considered common for your land. Either way, I am sure Father Indalo will bless whatever can be made from these foreign materials."

As for Hiro, Shuja listened on before shaking her head. "Not only I am sure I am in no need of the tools your father has given as I have many of my own, I would dare not separate his tools from your hands. After all, the bond they hold to you may be closer than you think." Still, her mind paused for a bit. "Though should the materials you have to offer be enough, I will craft your weapon with his tools, as my way to honor his legacy to you. Now then, show to me what else you have to offer."

Author: Shiloh Kyrie, Posted: Sun Apr 7, 2019 3:17 PM, Post Subject: The Heat of the Forge [L:3]

And at last, it was time for the payment. Currency was the easy option when it came down to it, but when Shuja said she preferred being paid in materials Shiloh had to think for a bit. Bartering was something she was used to; you needed alternate forms of payment depending on your customer. She wasn't sure what sort of things were common or rare in Onnen, or how quickly traders from the Sister Continents had settled into the local economy. Sure she could offer larger shipments of raw ore at a bargain, but that didn't seem suitable in exchange for a weapon. Shiloh was no blacksmith–she knew the process and the procedures but she wasn't a master like Shuja. Designing tools, machinery, or complex contraptions was her sort of thing. For a land that had been self-sufficient for ages, what could they possibly want? "Hm…" Shiloh frowned, glaring hard enough to bore a hole into the floor. 

Ah–that was it! What did Canelux and Parvpora have that couldn't be found in Onnen? Reaching into her bag she rummaged around until she found what she wanted–pulling out ingots of a silvery-blue metal. Right away she stacked them on the counter until there was a small pyramid. "This will be my payment–ingots of pure lacriamium. It's a very special metal, one you can't find anywhere else except in the continents across the ocean. Unlike other metals, it only exists in very limited quantities and its properties are above and beyond steel and platinum. Maybe you could try using this for your next order?" She was smiling now, proud of her choice. "If you ever want more, you're always welcome to buy from me. And if you ever want to come see how smiths from the Sister Continents work, I know a few people who won't say no." It was a business transaction after all. Every good businessperson knew when to present an offer to open doors for the future. 

Author: Hiro Kouen, Posted: Sun Apr 7, 2019 2:51 PM, Post Subject: The Heat of the Forge [L:3]

Polecat warned Hiro not to ask the wrong questions to the wrong people, to prevent him from getting shived in the back. "I understand, thank you, Polecat."  Hiro practiced with his replica sword, while Polecat summoned a doppleganger with magic to practice against.  Wouldn't they both know how the other would react to each other?  When Hiro was done practicing with the sword, he turned it to Shuja, and she brought up the topic of money.  "I meant to ask how much this would cost me.  Silver should be little problem for me . . ."

She said she understood how much silver was used by people from other realms, but she would much rather deal with the barter system.  Bring her materials such as ores, scales and hides, and so forth that she could use in her craft, in exchange for these weapons she was providing for them.  Hiro put some deep thought into it.  Work was begun on the weapons by her summoned elemental.

"Bartering, huh?  I have materials and tools I can provide you.  My father, bless his soul, was a blacksmith, as well as a warrior.  He died in battle.  He left behind his tools of his trade, he was a master blacksmith from the realm we originated from.  He had begun rebuilding his trade before he was cut down in this world.  I can provide you with some of his old tools and materials: metals, leathers, hammers, tongs, and so on.  All things he worked with using his own two hands.  I know enough about blacksmithing to know that such tools may be sacred to the smith, but I have little use for them.  I have other mementos of him that I'm keeping.  He created the armor I'm wearing, some of the weapons I wield.  He forged a fire sword I wield, the Blade of Wildfire.  I imagine some of the tools and materials he worked with would be enough of a price to pay for your work?  If you wish to know more about my father, Sabishii Kouen, I would gladly tell you some time."

Author: Shuja, Posted: Thu Mar 28, 2019 10:37 PM, Post Subject: The Heat of the Forge [L:3]

The two had, once again, had different takes on understanding the feel of their weapons. Hiro aimed for how the weapon flowed through the air, leaving Shuja to assume he would practice how well he would practice edge alignment later, while Polecat rather take on an enemy: a moving target aiming to do her harm. If there would be any fault, it would be the fact that she already knew what kind of tactic the dopple would use and could adjust a counter for it, but given the fact that she was still the novice to heavier blades, baby steps would need to be made.

Still, it seemed the two were happy to test out the astral forms and willing to see them take shape. "Very well, then. Now, come. This is where we speak of trade, yes?" With the illusionary weapons in hand, Shuja headed back into the shop, resting the magical gear next to the furnace instead of simply dismissing them before she headed up to the counter. "Now then, from what I understand, you often deal in what you call, "Silver," yes?" before setting a small pile on the counter. "We still try to understand value of them here, so payment can be rough. However, I live by what the land offers. Ore from mountains. Scales and hide from beasts. All materials I can use for future tasks. Now then, what can you offer me in return?"

IN the back, however, it seemed the furnace was heating up as the flames inside glowed brighter and brighter until a jet of flame shot out from the opening. Shuja flinched none to this as the jet not just stayed out, but started to form limbs. A female-esque body. What came out of the furnace was a flame elemental, staring down at the two projections before her. Her legs still linked to the furnace, the entity snaked about before grabbing two sheets of thick metal, setting one next to each of the tools before her finger glowed white-hot and using that to melt and etch the shape of each item before her. Afterwards, she began to write down a series of strange characters as notes about the size, weight, structure, and other details it had noted initially. It was only when she had finished did she rest her hand on the magically-crafted weapons, causing them to dismiss into the aether.

Author: Shiloh Kyrie, Posted: Thu Mar 28, 2019 11:35 AM, Post Subject: The Heat of the Forge [L:3]

It appeared her analysis was correct–Shuja thought her answer was acceptable, and she could feel she'd regained some ground. This time it was the boy's turn to get the smith's glare for inadvertently making the same mistake Shiloh had made earlier. From their interactions so far, if you wanted to Shuja to make you a weapon you needed to not only have a clear idea in mind, but the knowledge and savvy to know how to work things out. It took some bargaining and a slight background in weapon mastery to figure how to make the deal go through. After getting a solid wallop from the beast-woman, the knight had ashamed regret written all over him. He wasn't hard to read; he looked a lot like a kid being scolded for breaking something out of carelessness. And there was the fact that he missed the point of her advice completely. Looks like she would have to spell it out for him, seeing how bluntly straightforward he was. "I'm not mad. I'd just hate to see you end up with a shiv in your gut because you asked the wrong questions to the wrong people." 

Shuja made some slight alterations to the shape of her weapon simulacrum, making it much easier to handle. It still held the same structure, but right away she could feel her swings would be faster when she picked it up. The corner of her mouth twitched up into a grin. "That's the ticket…It's a tad lighter, but still hits harder than most of my gear. Like I promised, I'll give it a test run until we're both satisfied." With the dual-weapon in hand, it was time to practice on a moving target. The practice dummies were solid, but in real combat things weren't going to sit still. And she had just the thing to cover that. Standing in the training ground a distance away from the smith and knight, Shiloh's shadow crept forward on the ground before rising, creating a body double. To her created doppelganger she tossed one of her swords. Once it was armed, they began to fight.

Her double rushed at her in the same way as she had done in her first practice with the wooden replicas, forcing her to block and dodge several quick blows. This was to simulate combat against a highly mobile enemy with a shorter reach but greater maneuverability. Shiloh shoved the double back with a block, then swung down the axe head nearly catching the double's leg. The reduction in mass for the weapon was helping, but she had to get a better grasp the timing. Adjusting her hands on the handle, she prepared to go on the offensive. It was her turn to charge, this time with a feint that her double dodged only to take a sudden hit from her weapon's sword mode. She let out a low whistle when she managed to pull it off. So this was the advantage switching forms had. Having a heavier weapon meant you could stagger your opponent and then take advantage of the opening to disarm or incapacitate. She put this into practice by smashing the sword-form of her weapon into her double's arm, forcing the doppelganger to drop its weapon. 

The drain from keeping the double active was starting to strain her, so she cut the spell short and it dissipated. Retrieving her broadsword, she came back to the smith with a satisfied look. "I've started to get the hang of it. It's not as easy to feint with, but once I have the momentum I can force an enemy onto the defensive. Utilizing stunning blows buys me a few more seconds of time to make up for my slower speed. I can work with this. Oh, but you probably already knew that." She said the last sentence with a wry grin. Sarcasm and humor were things she had to work on. "I'm ready to see you make the real thing, with 'dragonite'."

Author: Hiro Kouen, Posted: Tue Mar 26, 2019 6:44 PM, Post Subject: The Heat of the Forge [L:3]

Hiro probably shouldn't have opened his mouth.  He was drawing the ire of both Shuja and Polecat, and he should have noticed this before he said anything.  A smack in the back of the head caught him off-guard.  She hit pretty damn hard.  He nearly fell off his feet as she struck him.  She commented that he should lift the weapon before making demands.  He rubbed the back of his head in pain.  How would Hiro react to just getting walloped by this shop keeper?

"Ooof . . . I-I'm sorry, I've been . . . disrespectful to both of you.  I must apologize."  Hiro said, bowing deeply   "I . . . I can pick that projection up?  I thought it was just something my hand would go through . . . I didn't realize the extent of your magic, or how it worked."  He bowed deeply again, directly to Shuja.  "I had no idea.  I'm sorry for my ignorance.  I'm not from this land, and I have disrespected you greatly, and misunderstood things.  I have pried too deeply to Miss Polecat too., I'm sorry, I'll mind my own business."  It was like he was rightfully chastised by one of his parents, though neither of them hit him like Shuja had.  Regardless, he took a moment to compose himself, he didn't seem angry, just disappointed in himself.  He went over to the spectral sword that Shuja had formed for him, and was surprised he was able to pick it up.  It actually had form and weight to it.  He stepped off to the side held the blade in his right hand, and was able to swing it around, feeling it cut through the wind.  He then held it in both hands (owing to the increased handle and blade length), and swung the blade about in sweeping arcs.  "Yes.  Yes.  I like this.  Feels natural in either one hand or both hands.  I like this.  Indeed."  Hiro tested it a bit more, finding it feeling good, balancing well, despite the last minute change he had asked for.

"I'm still uncertain where I'll find a proper enchanter, I know a blacksmith that can enchant, but I don't know how she feels about enchanting someone else's creation.  But I guess I'll have to find that out for myself."  He looked at Shuja with a smile..  "It will do nicely.  I don't see any other changes I'd like.  It's balanced well.  I like it.  I can't wait to have my hands on the finished creation."

Author: Shuja, Posted: Mon Mar 25, 2019 9:04 PM, Post Subject: The Heat of the Forge [L:3]

An irritable sigh escaped Shuja as Hiro was making immediate demands on alterations to the weapon even without testing it out. He took no feel for the actual weight, grip, and comfort of swing of the weapon and was already demanding for the length of the blade and handle to be altered. "I can do that, but are you sure this would not affect the balance the sword? If you are also not adapt to the blade's curve, then your alignment may be tricky at start." The addition of the veins making it slice through the air would also throw off the weapon as well, as two-handed weapons often lacked the agileness that matched the flow he seemed to have been after, as well.

As Polecat seemed to have taken the display she had shown her, questioning her motives and determination, it seemed that Hiro went on another rant, first pointing out what he believed to be flaws within her weapon before chastising the other about her interest in it. Her fingers flexed a bit before catching the man on his final word before her hand crashed into the back of his skull, not afraid to use the innate muscles from her build and forging experience placed behind it. "You keep this up, and you, too, will be barred from my shop," she stated bluntly, giving the same determined glare as she gave Shiloh when asking to prove herself. "All tools have strengths and weaknesses. As great is a sword is for cutting flesh, it does little to nothing against plated armor. For that, hammers are used to deal damage to the one inside, is that not true? Sentient-kind have rarely threatened me on my travels, so I rarely worry about them."

During the conflict, it seemed that Polecat tested something out before finally addressing Shuja once more, admitting to her usual style, reasonings behind them, and admitting out loud as a weakness of hers. The air was still as the blacksmith looked upon her before giving Polecat an assured smile. "Acknowledging faults is the first step to change, is it not?" she assured before resting her hand upon the other's shoulder. "Not only that, but weapon masters never ask their pupils to take their teachers as sure-proof. We take what we learn and adapt it to that which we feel as comfort. The process is not easy, but I am sure your battle-worn hands have already told you this." With a wave of her hand, both weapons gave off a faint glow before altering. To Hiro, the blade and handle extended some, and to Polecat, hers seemed to have dropped in mass.

"Hiro, your adjustments, as requested, though I wish for you to be absolutely sure you can handle it before I take my hammer to it. Polecat, I simulated the same metal you saw the weapons in my shop while dropping down the figure a touch. While it may lack in its punch like mine does, I am sure your style can adjust easier. If you want, you can even use it to train in the heavier weapons you do not feel comfortable with. Now, take them up and get a good feel. Do not be shy with questions or remarks of other alterations."

Author: Shiloh Kyrie, Posted: Sun Mar 24, 2019 5:52 PM, Post Subject: The Heat of the Forge [L:3]

Out of all the possible outcomes, this wasn't the one she expected to happen. But the more she thought about it, there were subtle hints looking back on Shuja's attitude and actions. This was probably the first time she'd legitimately angered a blacksmith, for any reason. The threat of being banned as a customer–well there was a first time for everything she supposed. Maybe she should've picked up on this back when she noted the holistic approach the beast-woman had towards her occupation. The religious viewpoint was something Shiloh would have to find a way to work around. She'd have to remind herself to curb her enthusiasm more. While the smith sternly lectured and gave a much-desired demonstration on how the weapon was used, Shiloh was observing the moving pieces and the smith's posture. Having two functions combined into one looked good at first, but there were issues when it came to the transition. With more practice she could get the timing down better to reduce the delay on that front, though the same questions she had in her first glance weren't going away. In short, you needed the strength to lift it for it to be effective.

Shuja's build made multiple strikes doable, however you had to constantly be moving and keeping tabs on your surroundings. Most of the damage dealt came from utilizing the weapon's weight, meaning the rhythm could be interrupted if you were thrown off balance. The sword form of it had more responsiveness, but it was a death-charge to rack up hits while changing position. Maybe if you were desperate you could use it to block if you were in a pinch, at best absorbing some of the blows. However the biggest problem she had wasn't actually the transforming aspect; it was the crystal. A single-use of a charged blast that required a lengthy build-up, all while locked in on focusing your blows. It was like a stun-flare coupled with a damaging explosion, something she'd have to be deaf and blind to in order to avoid being affected. When Shuja questioned if she was ready to 'prove her worth' in order to convince her to make the weapon, Shiloh clicked her tongue. 

At this point she determined saying anything that went against the smith's pride would result in being barred from any purchases whatsoever, including the dual-form weapon she had been eyeing all this time. Despite the drawbacks of the design, she could imagine herself using it in certain situations and could tailor it to suit her needs. Also, she wanted a sample of local weaponry to study their methods of metallurgy. Sometimes you had to stand your ground to get a good offer, other times you had to yield to keep the door open for negotiation. This time, she chose to bend. As long as she received her order at the end, it didn't matter what rings she had to jump through. Then the knight started talking. Right off the bat she was thrown a half a dozen of questions, some of them probably rhetorical but still asking for responses. In the mix was his personal opinion on the flaws of the 'switch-axe', which neither of them had asked for, and then he started prying about why she even wanted this thing. 

Her natural reaction would be to systematically answer every question with the least words possible, while bluntly telling him to mind his own business. However her room for bargaining with Shuja was already shrinking, so she bit her tongue and let out a sigh. Might as well try to sound polite using socially acceptable responses. "…You talk too much." Normally when you go to buy a weapon from a shop, you don't go chatting up the other customers in the place. It'd be like trying to hold a conversation with someone using a bathroom next to you. It makes the situation incredibly awkward, especially when it's an absolute stranger. "A word of advice, don't go asking strangers personal questions–especially while telling them your moral views and life philosophy. It's a great way to draw unnecessary attention to yourself." And a quick way to get yourself pinned as target. This was really not the time to be shooting the breeze when the chance of her getting a very unique piece of weaponry was gradually slipping out of her grasp. 

Her first obstacle was going to be meeting Shuja's standards, so it'd be an uphill battle thanks to her fooling around earlier. Taking another look at the weapon simulacrum the smith conjured, she reached into her knapsack and rummaged around until she pulled out a huntsman's axe. Holding it in her hand, she hefted it and contemplated the balance and weight before putting it away. Good, now she had a point of reference. She faced the smith. "You know, you're right. I don't have the same level of trust towards heavier weapons as you do. And that's because I don't like the possibility of not being able to defend myself while my hands are full. Time is everything to me when it comes down to it; a second can be the difference between life and death. I want this weapon because I want to lower my odds of dying if I can help it, and the last thing I want is to die an avoidable death. If you think I'm not cut out for your pride and joy, then so be it. Maybe it wasn't meant for me. But if you think I have a shot at handling it the way it's supposed to, then I'll keep trying until you kick me out." Shuja was the one with the deciding power here, and Shiloh wanted to gauge how the smith thought about her personally.

Author: Hiro Kouen, Posted: Sun Mar 24, 2019 3:41 PM, Post Subject: The Heat of the Forge [L:3]

Hiro heard the loud crack of the axe replica broke, into pieces as the weapon came crashing down upon the dummy's head.  "Damn, she's stronger than she looks."  Hiro thought to himself.  She repaired the weapon the best she could, before picking up another weapon, a great sword.  On the other hand, she showed less aptitude with that weapon.  Was it because she was afraid of breaking it like the great axe?  Or did she not know how to wield a great sword well.  Hiro himself trained in all manner of swords besides the katana.  His preferred weapon was a bastard sword, a sword that was big enough for two hands, while remaining capable of being wielded one handed.  He liked the flexibility, considering he was a knight that could use magic.  He could swing the blade with both hands, or switch to one hand so he could cast with the other.

He turned his attention to Shuja, who had summoned a ball of light that took the form of a sword similar to the one he had been wielding.  Hiro examined the the image, nodding.  "The blade could be slightly longer, as could the handle, I do like flexibility in how I wield a sword, whether it's one handed, or a hand-and-a-half blade.  Otherwise, it looks great.  I'm gonna have to come up with a name though . . . I like my weapons to have names, because I feel it brings out power in the weapon, it's more than a tool to me, if you understand, unless you have any ideas."  Hiro watched as the smith turned her attention to Polecat, and showed her three shapes of weapons, before merging them into one, showing an image of the weapon she wanted, this "Switch-Axe."  Shuja the warrior demonstrated the weapon impressively, showing how it was intended to be used.  He liked how she had mastered this weapon, it was an impressive device.  However, Hiro had thought about it, and that kind of weapon would not be one he would use.  As a magic user and a knight, he preferred weapons that allowed more freedom in movement, a completely different fighting style than he was used to.  This Switch Axe seemed like it required certain movements to be used to full effectiveness.  It looked like something less suited for fighting people, rather tackling giant beasts (though Hiro fought both people and monsters).  A humanoid opponent might be able to take advantage of the moving parts, and target the weapon directly, possibly damaging it, or breaking it completely.  He watched the demonstration of the weapon and it did seem like a great responsibility and honor to wield such a thing, even more so than a regular weapon.

"If i may interject, is this weapon, this switch-axe was it?  Is it meant merely for tackling beasts and monsters?  I imagine a wielder of this weapon might have trouble with a humanoid opponent.  A lot of moving parts in there, and you need a supply of those crystals too?  It looks not just a feat of smithing, but engineering too.  I bet an opponent, like a human opponent, could take advantage of the mode switching, repetitive movements, to out maneuver, or to target any of the parts on the weapon.  If I took my sword, I could wedge it in there somewhere, and potentially break it.  While a simple beast wouldn't be able to do that.  Polecat, why do you want such a weapon?  A wall hanger?  You want to hunt monsters?  To impress people with it?  I feel a weapon should be used to protect, I wield my weapon to protect those I care about, to protect the common people, to sharpen myself. and get stronger.  Who do you fight for?  Will you make Shuja proud with your skill with that weapon?  Clearly broke the training axe and had troubles with using the greatsword.  I don't doubt your combat prowess.  What do you typically use as a weapon?"  He was keen on seeing some of the same things Shuja saw in her while she used the weapons, and understood the responsibility in being trusted with a weapon such as this.

Author: Shuja, Posted: Thu Mar 21, 2019 7:50 PM, Post Subject: The Heat of the Forge [L:3]

Shuja smiled as she watched the pair head off into two separate directions. The male was one who certainly liked thinking out loud, as if some kind of bard telling a tale rather than a knight, thought it did also let her get in some extra bits of information. He wished for a weapon that could not just channel the air, but cut through it. He had eyes on a method, but not a real idea of form outside of a single-handed sword. Every warrior had their preference in a weapon style after all, and his seemed locked in a direction for this.

The woman, however, was far more concerning. She used much brute with the axe, enough to break it, which led her to take on a "safer" approach. Shuja's eyes narrowed as she saw the sword be used more like a bat. She was too afraid to actually use the blade, it seemed, possibly because of the flop from the axe. She distracted herself with much nimbler gear, showcasing an inept aptitude towards faster slashes. Did she think her weapon was slow as well?

It did not take long for the two to approach, the male offering his weapon as the female seemingly crossing her fingers that visuals were enough. "I think I have gathered enough for the first step. Now, we head over to the tweaking and fine-tuning of your project. First: to Hiro." Holding out her left hand, she muttered a prayer to him, eyes half-closed as her attention seemed to have faded away, removing all forms of distractions. A ball of light soon gathered before him before warping and shaping to the edge he held previously, though with a minute tweak. "These veins should help you slice though the air easier. Do not be shy to ask for other changes until you are fully satisfied with what you wish." She was quick to dismiss him before turning her attention over to Polecat, her eyes laced with a more serious glare.

"You, however, seem to underestimate what you have asked for. Take this time to really consider if this is the path you wish to take, for if I see you waver one more time, I will douse the forge and not kindle its flame for you. You would not be the first, nor be the last I have given this out." She then started her prayer once more, this time forging three separate items: A great sword, a great axe, and the main body that matched her own weapon. However, this time her right arm lifted and pulled away the blades from the two other weapons, moving the sword edge upon the axe, molding their forms before her until the two seemed to have shared a unique blade before finally attaching it to the base, forcing it to change forms before her before resting it before Shiloh in its standby state.

"This weapon will never be as flimsy as these wooden tests I offer," she assured before picking up her own weapon. "It is also tricky to use as well." She was sure Polecat watched as she extended the axe once more by pulling out the hidden handle before beginning her swipes upon one of the dummies. Sure, it was a bit slow, but it carried a hefty range, able to strike surrounding targets in the process.  Even an upwards slash was able to prove its vertical reach before causing an infinite-shaped flurry of swings. "If you are afraid of it, it will not respond as you wish!" One last spiral swing, turning her entire body, and the axe now took on its sword shape. "You must prove to it that you are worth it!" Her combos continued in sword, much more concentrated, but swifter as well, easily handling many different types of slashes and angles. However, with each one, the crystal that rested upon its hilt began to slow brighter and brighter; a brightness that began to take over the entirety of the blade as more of her power was getting channeled into it. It was not long until it was not visually engulfed in light, but it also echoed sound of stress and cracking glass. The medium was growing unstable. "Do not simply look at its limit as an end, but only a beginning, and push through it!"

She let one hand go of the weapon, but at that point, there was so much energy holding it together that she didn't need to hold its switch. Instead, she lunged the blade into the practice dummy, stabbing it through as she listed it into the air as more and more pushed into it, causing the parts to rumble together and the sword vibrating loudly before it was too much and exploded with energy. The dummy flew into two directions as showers of shards rained down upon Shuja as the blade fell back into rest and the axe head raised back up, though crystal shards falling from the hilt.

"It will not be taken hold of overnight, but that is with anything you take up," she said, hitting the axe on the ground to break off any remaining bits in the handle before pulling out a new gem and placing it into its missing socket. "It also asks for much care when not in use as well due to its many parts." The axe dropped back down as it rested on standby before the Indlovu turned back to Polecat, staring fiercely into her eyes. "Will you prove to me that you are worthy of my ultimate work?!"

Author: Shiloh Kyrie, Posted: Thu Mar 21, 2019 10:38 AM, Post Subject: The Heat of the Forge [L:3]

A test ground for clients to figure what best fit them, not a bad idea when it came to making custom weapons. Shuja was definitely thorough and Shiloh liked that. For things like these it was important not to cut corners. "Alright…let's get started." Stretching in preparation, she eyed a few wooden replicas that she recognized in shape. Unlike the knight, Shiloh had no issues with using just about anything as long as she could pick it up. Even everyday objects could become deadly weapons if used in the right ways. Since she was already here, why not try everything once? Naturally she went to find whatever was closest to the unique weapon she was asking for. The closest matches were great axe and greatsword, both pretty hefty towards one side. The fact they were made of wood gave a slight difference than the real ones, but they weren't going for complete similarity here. Finding a suitable targ-er, training dummy to practice on, she stood back from it a few paces and focused. Her hands gripped the wooden axe handle comfortably, then tightened as bloodlust flashed in her eyes. Charging forward she smashed the axe replica down on the dummy's head with a loud crack! 

For a split second she'd forgotten she was holding a piece of wood instead of a weapon, and the thought crossed her mind as she watched the replica's shaft splinter in two–sending the axe head spinning up in the air. The broken piece fell down with a faint plop, kicking up a puff of dust. "…Oh uh, that wasn't supposed to happen. I can fix it, hold on–" Well this was awkward. Running to retrieve the other half she carefully put them back together and restored the wood weapon back to it's former state. "Totally fixed, like it was never broken at all. Yes." She quietly returned it to the pile and went to test out the greatsword. Her 'practice' with the other wood weapon was slightly less destructive, looking more like she was slapping the dummy around with a massive paddle with a small handle. Instead of cleaving, it was more like she was bludgeoning it to death. When she had smacked it around enough, she exchanged it for the wood katana and short sword. With one in each hand, she rushed at the dummy to beat it with a barrage of slashes and hits from all sorts of angles. She was dashing around the stationary target, clearly having way too much fun. 

"And I think that's about it." Shiloh said, putting the two away. After her little accident with the axe, she decided not to waste any more of Shuja's time. Also so she wouldn't end up breaking even more objects… "Will that be enough info for you? I'm pretty much fine with just about anything, but heavier weapons and polearms slow me down. Reaction time and responsiveness is pretty important for me, but a weapon needs to work as it should for my hits to be effective."

Author: Hiro Kouen, Posted: Wed Mar 20, 2019 9:24 PM, Post Subject: The Heat of the Forge [L:3]

Hiro thought about what Shuja said about not being able to enchant the blade, but making one that could be used to create a blade that can channel the magic through, so someone else can enchant it. "That'll work, I knew someone who was able to remake my father's sword complete with similar enchantments. I might have to rely on her. If only I knew someone who could channel the Storm, since that's what I'm looking for," Hiro thought outloud. He happened to glance toward the woman calling herself Polecat, seeing how stormy she seemed to be. The eerie look in her eyes, she was practically drooling over that unique blade of Shuja's. That looked like she was practically a tempest waiting to be unleashed. How curious. He wondered who she really was.

Shoving those thoughts away, Shuja invited her two customers to the back of her shop, to a training area of sorts. It wasn't as well kept as the rest of the store, because there were all kinds of battle damage here. It probably wasn't worth repairing the damage of a place that's used for heavy training and combat. She invited the two of them to find the best kind of weapon that he would suit him, from a variety of options. Hiro walked over to a weapon rack that had a number of wooden swords on it, of varying blade lengths and styles. The first one he picked up was a wooden katana.

"The katana. Originally made by eastern cultures with impure metal qualities, though incredibly sharp, wasn't meant to cut through heavy armor. Though with the power of the wind, it could be more effective. However, the style of a katana doesn't suit me. I'm a knight, with the varieties of katana styles, orkenjutsu that exist out there, I'm not trained in any of them. It'd be pointless to try and wield a sword of that type, it'd just be a wall-hanger." Hiro placed the katana down without even trying to wield it. "Something more western or traditional, but maybe with some eastern flare. I've trained in one handed, and two handed styles of combat, I can use polearms and axes, but much prefer swords. I've dual wielded before, but it's not my specialty." Hiro picked up a straight sword, a one handed blade. He took a one handed stance, and practiced a bit, he tried to imagine how he would cast magic while wielding the sword. "This one . . . no, the shape isn't conductive to the wind, I think. Something more curved, something that can move fast, katana do tend to be able to be enchanted with wind, because of their lightness and speed. But . . ." Hiro found something that caught his eye. He had picked up a light, fast-moving, curved blade. He held it in one hand, swinging it around a bit, noticing the wind generated by the wooden blade as he swung it faster and faster. "This generates some wind as it is. I like it, I could use something based around this. It's a scimitar-like blade."

Hiro walked over to a training dummy. He held the blade in one hand,spinning it around in his hand, testing the balance, then took a fighting stance. He moved in toward the dummy and sliced at it with smooth, rapid slices. One could see him moving his wrist to change the angle in which he was swinging from. When he was finished, he stepped away from the dummy, examined his handiwork, then handed it to Shuja.

"What do you think?

Author: Shuja, Posted: Mon Mar 18, 2019 10:11 PM, Post Subject: The Heat of the Forge [L:3]

As Polecat went over the foreign weapon before her (an eerie gleam in her eye and look that seemed to have held back any kind of drooling), Shuja listened to the request of Hiro (though the background details did not seem too necessary for her. After all, everyone had their own styles). Still, it was a request that was met with a bit of a frown, saying, "I am sorry, but that would not be an order I could complete on my own. After all, my art lies within the hammer, not enchantments. However, I could forge blade that is easy to channel magic through. That would be the half I could perform." Her trunk had once again raised to the shelving above the counter to bring down a new ore. "Fusium act as conductor, so that would be base metal."

When Polecat snapped back with an eager gleam to have one for herself, she smiled. "A weapon like this is tricky to maintain, so always forged fresh," she assured before opening the counter door open and stepping aside, motioning to the two. "If we wish to deal more, I should need a sense of what you prefer. Come." If either of them agreed to follow her into the back, Shuja would lead them over to the "backyard" of the shop… which hardly looked like it had any real conditioning kept to it. The ground was littered with cracks ans impact dents. Walls and dummies littered with scars and wounds. Shrapnel  rested between what could have been two pieces of what was one large log. However, what lined one of the walls, kept in pristine order, were a set of a variety of wooden weapons of many types. In fact, some of them of them were of the same type, but of different style. "First, before we figure out how we make your weapon, I most find out what fits you the most. Feel free to test and find most comfortable to handle. We can make adjustments along the way." Should Hiro have joined, he would have been asked to simply find the weapon he felt the most comfortable with, but with Polecat, she had to find both a large axe and a great sword.

To Shuja, this was possibly her favorite part of the craft: finding what best fits the user. Seeing what kind of styles can be forged from their talents, customs, and training. This was where the Flames of Creation were always ignited.

Author: Shiloh Kyrie, Posted: Mon Mar 18, 2019 9:18 PM, Post Subject: The Heat of the Forge [L:3]

She was surprised that Shuja agreed to let her handle it, whatever the weapon was. "I don't mind the sermon. It's a lot more interesting than what you usually get from the local parish any day. It's an interesting frame of mind." She wouldn't mind coming back to listen for a few more sessions about what Shuja spoke about. When the smith picked up her pride and joy to show how it worked, that light in Shiloh's eyes shone brighter. "Clever, clever…I like it." As soon as the beast-woman's expression changed, instead of fear the deity was getting chills. Right then and there she made her decision. She was getting one of those. The shift in the smith's stance, tensing of the muscles, the look in her eyes–that was martial training right there. That intensity left once she set the weapon down, allowing her to have her chance. Shuja then gave her a reminder not to get carried away. "Of course not, this one's yours after all. People who don't take care of their tools shouldn't be allowed to use them." With a slight nod, she then rubbed her hands together and started warming up. 

Greatswords and axes weren't her forte, especially with her sort of build. Even so, she was itching to see what it felt like. Gripping the handle with both hands, Shiloh tested the heft and then began to slowly run her hand along the edges of the weapon. Along the blade, the sides, the tips. Behind the smith Shiloh had gone quiet with a slightly disconcerting expression growing on her face. It was supposed to be an enthusiastic smile…but with the way it was going it sure looked like something else. Yes, this was good. She wanted one just like this, but smaller. When Shuja had a moment to spare the rogue turned around with a maniacal gleam in her eyes having successfully raised the weapon off the counter. "You know what, I take that back. I think I will be bringing something back home this time. How much for one of these in my size?" She motioned to the monstrosity that she was wielding. "It'll take some practice getting used to it, but I doubt I'll be disappointed. And there's no rush if these aren't in stock. I can wait." Oh yes, she certainly would. Even if it meant staying here for a couple of months.

Author: Hiro Kouen, Posted: Mon Mar 18, 2019 8:31 PM, Post Subject: The Heat of the Forge [L:3]

Hiro looked at the first of the two women, the somewhat ordinary, though somehow mysterious woman introduced herself as "Polecat."  Considering her appearance, she was from potentially one of the Sister Continents like he was, the name was unusual, probably an alias.  But he shrugged mentally, he didn't recognize her, if she didn't want to give her real name, it was probably for a good reason.  He wouldn't pry.  The second woman, the smith who introduced herself as Shuja, was some kind of elephant-looking humanoid.  Taller than Hiro himself, who was over 6 feet tall.  She started to talk about how she decided what to make her weapons out of what material.  She ended up stopping herself, though, when she figured she was dragging on.  That was a habit Hiro picked up from his father, father and son had both a tendency to prattle on.  It seemed she had a similar habit.  He also noticed how she was not just a smith, but warrior too.  He turned his head toward the unusual weapon that Polecat was focused on.  It seemed like a combination of axe and great sword through some elaborate mechanism, with a magical gem that allowed mana to flow through the weapon.  Interesting indeed.

She allowed Polecat to examine the weapon and test it out, though not to harm others with it.  His interest was perked with it, and he was curious what the woman could do with it.

"It's quite all right.  I'm curious about that weapon too, now that I've seen it.  It's impressive, though I'm not sure how something like that would work, it's an axe and a greatsword?  Though that's not why I came here, of course.  I'm a bit of a collector of weapons and artifacts too.  First, some backstory.  I am a magical knight.  I can fight with weapons, and I can fight with magic.  But my true strength comes from weapons that can allow me to channel magic from myself into the weapon, and cast magic from the weapon.  So I'm seeking weapons imbued with each element, I and what I'm thinking of requesting from you, was some kind of sword that could flow and carve through the wind.  An air elemental sword, if you will.  Is that something you could do?  Master Shuja?"  Polecat seemed somewhat leery of him, but Shuja was less so, oddly enough, though maybe it's because she's not just a craftswoman, but a business-woman too.  Her job was to make weapons and sell them.

Author: Shuja, Posted: Mon Mar 18, 2019 6:27 PM, Post Subject: The Heat of the Forge [L:3]

"You are alright with your questions," Shuja replied, with what could only be called a smile resting upon her face. "After all, it has been a gift that Father Indalo has shared with us all, and it would be rude not to share back, even if all I get in return are confused eyes." Resting the scythe metal on the table, she headed back over to the counter, seeing as the gust wanted more information than performance, it seemed. "I have worked with many material, gifted by the guests that come in. Hide. Bone. Scale. Ore. All things people have come with either seeking goal or idea. Sometimes, I make what guest want. Others, they call for other form. It get complaint at first, but soon they find more comfort than their intent." The beads rattled once more as she spoke, eyes quickly glancing at the guest in metal stepping in before immediately looking towards the weaponry. A warrior at heart and spirit, it would seem.

"The tool and weapon you see before you let guest get feel before trade. Allow them to see if their image matches what they want, or if they simply lie to themselves, like–" However, it seemed that Shuja dropped to a hard stop, being sure to clear her throat and get back at attention. "Forgive me. Sometimes I forget you come for tool, not sermon. Either way, it is pastors that taught me many of what you see before you." The male was ready to do business, but the gleam in the woman's eyes was fixated towards the back. Taking her hand, Shuja bowed to her and said, "It is a precious item to me. It allowed me the honor to progress from the temple from whence I came from. I take it you would treat her kindly."

Releasing her grip, the Indlovu stepped away and to the back, her right hand taking hold of the handle of the weapon before separating it from the wall before stepping forth a few steps, keeping in front of the forge while behind the counter. While the weapon itself did not seem very useful with the odd placement of blades, its figure would soon change. Her pinky digit of her left wrapped around the pommel of the hilt before pulling downwards, revealing a hidden segment of handle while the axe head seemed to have shot forward, locking itself at the top of the weapon's length.

It was not just the weapon that changed, though. The look in her eyes changed from a gentle entity to one fulled with ferocity, as if she was ready to send the axe head right into her guests. She was no longer a smith, but a warrior. As her temper changed, the crystal that rested in the handle began to spark, as if being flooded with mana before the axe head slid back down to rest, but the sword edge that rested on its back flipped over, locking on top and melding with the axe to forge one long edge of a great sword. She only let this handle for a moment before her left hand let go once more, handle receding and the blade folding back to its neutral stance, a breath of air leaving Shuja's lips as retained herself.

"I trust you not to harm others with it here," she assured as she rested the switch axe on the counter in front of Polecat before turning over to Hiro. "Forgive us for taking so long. Now then, how may Shuja aid you?"

Author: Shiloh Kyrie, Posted: Mon Mar 18, 2019 5:28 PM, Post Subject: The Heat of the Forge [L:3]

Contrary to her expectations, the smith recited a litany over the 'offender' then put it aside. Maybe she had been thinking too deeply into it. It was a lot more ordinary than Shiloh was anticipating. Looking over she saw the beast-woman was finishing up another work, a scythe that still needed finishing touches. After looking at the display she was sure it'd be quality stuff. The smith introduced herself as Shuja, and when she stated the breadth of her skill the rogue jumped at the offer. "I'm not thinking of making any purchases today, but I am interested in what you've worked with. Don't get me wrong–I'm not thinking of stepping into the smithy business or anything. It's more of a personal interest of mine. Do you choose what weapon to make out of the material or do you choose the material for the weapon? Like this 'dragonite' ore here. I'm no expert, but different materials are better for different things and that's what I'd like to know." Having met traders and craftsmen in her line of work, Shiloh knew that some people would get touchy if they thought you were competition. Individual-run businesses worrying about being supplanted by outsiders weren't totally wrong, as that did happen. She wanted to clear away any possible misunderstandings before things even started.

Someone else came in, and she saw them out of the corner of her eye. A human male, approximately in mid to late adolescence. The accent gave him away as somebody from the Sister Continents, though not matching with any particular area. And if that wasn't enough, his get-up was a dead giveaway. Plate armor and a tabard pretty much rang bells for Adeluna, though it could just be the style. She was more leery towards him than the beast-woman smith that stood more than a head taller than her, and old habit she never managed to get rid of. She should've worn a mask today… "Oh I almost forgot–you can just call me Polecat. Nice meeting you, Shuja." She held out her puny human hand to the other for a handshake. It was then that she saw it. What was 'it'? The impressive, unusual looking weapon at the very back that was slightly glowing. It was incredible, whatever it was–a real work of art when it came to pragmatism and power. After all no matter how pretty they were, weapons were and always would be tools of combat. She couldn't resist the idea of trying it herself. "Oh… Um. If it's ok with you, could I see that over there? I just want to hold it, you know…see what it's like?"

With a distracted look, there was an unnerving gleam in her eye as she saw the weapon. It wasn't one of greed, but something closer to intense curiosity. "I'm kind of a collector when it comes to weapons."

Author: Hiro Kouen, Posted: Sun Mar 17, 2019 9:09 PM, Post Subject: The Heat of the Forge [L:3]

A young knight walked through this foreign town.  He clearly was a knight, for not only did he wear ornate armor, he had a tabard worn over his chest plate: a coat of arms, with the symbol of a golden phoenix on it.  Everything around him was new, this whole continent was new to him.  New people, new places, and new equipment and magic to acquire.  This was an exciting time to be alive.  Whole civilizations were new to him.  Maybe he was just an adventurer at heart.  As he walked, he turned his head, sensing a powerful heat radiating from a nearby building.  A smithy shop.  Time to make a visit and see what he could find there.

The knight walked into the shop, seeing all sorts of weapons adorning the walls.  All kinds of familiar, yet different weapons were out on display.  There were swords, axes, polearms, though they were fashioned differently from what he was used to, considering the cultural differences in this foreign land.

"Pardon the intrusion, sorry to interrupt.  I could feel the heat of a powerful forge from outside.  You've got a fine collection here.  I'm impressed."  The young knight turned his head to the two people who were in the store.  One was a human-looking woman, she appeared to be a little older than he was, dressed in what appeared to be fairly ordinary clothes, maybe with armor underneath.  The other person had to be the owner of the shop.  He had heard a deep voice  speaking, it had belonged to this elephant-like, woman.  "At least, I'm hoping I'm not interrupting something."  Hiro looked over one of the blades on display.  It was a dagger, of foreign design, with a curved blade.  Hiro picked the blade up, for there was nothing to prevent him from doing so.  They were not locked in cases.  However, the blade was dull on closer inspection.  A warm smile came across his face.

"You must be a wise smithy.  All these weapons on display.  Goodness knows how much they're collectively worth.  A small fortune.  Yet, they're all dull.  Something my Father, bless his soul, taught me about.  These weapons aren't under lock and key, but because you can't use them against anyone.  When a deal is struck, then they're sharpened.  I must have wandered into the right shop, considering the workmanship I'm finding at work here."  Hiro placed the dagger back down where it came from.  "Let me introduce myself, my name is Hiro Kouen.  I am an . . . Elemental Knight, though some might know me by my original title of Phoenix Knight.  I would love to do business, I have something in mind, I'd like to purchase or commission.  But if you're in the middle of a deal, I'll wait my turn," Hiro said, politely, and kindly, with a bow of his head.  The young knight wore crimson armor.  His hair was raven waves, highlighted with a similar tone to his armor: red.  His eyes were a striking shade of sapphire blue.  He wore a kind, gentle smile on his face.  Despite his armored, muscular appearance, he did not give off a malicious or imposing aura.

Author: Shuja, Posted: Sun Mar 17, 2019 7:15 PM, Post Subject: The Heat of the Forge [L:3]

Shuja's eyes followed the fingers of the woman until she pointed out the one that caught her eye. Her arm reached out to take hold of the weapon, showing a dainty care to it despite how much her own hand oversized its grip, before bringing it up in front of her, looking it over carefully. "I can see what you mean. It is not as sharp as it would be when I have someone walk with it, but enough to be of concern. Now then, deary, let us make sure you are an issue no more." as she headed back, she started to mutters words of a foreign tongue once more, though the pattern and rhythm of it seemed to have shared similar traits of a prayer.

However, instead of tending to it right away, she merely set it on the counter in the back before returning back to the scythe edge, pulling it out of the oil and giving it a wash. "Now then, my dear who smells of foreign land, Is there anything else that I can strike your fancy with? I, Shuja, will be willing to help with whatever need you have. I have learned to make many tool from many material." Whether it be powerful tools of bone that struggled to hold their edge to the sturdier metals, and plenitudes of in-between, the air of confidence around her and her craft was quite apparent. There was also hardly any shame when it came to the guest simply being an observer as she cleansed the blade before she got ready to smooth it over.

And still, the only tool in the shop whose edge glowed within the heat of the forge and furnace rested in the back. There were no others like it in the front, as most of what was on display, aside from cultural styles and aesthetics, they all could feel quite familiar, even to foreigners. The real prize to the shop, outmatching the size and oddity of everything else, rested in back, yet in full display.

Author: Shiloh Kyrie, Posted: Sun Mar 17, 2019 6:27 PM, Post Subject: The Heat of the Forge [L:3]

"You must be an expert smith if your work sharpens itself as it's made." She wasn't sure if the joke went through, but well it was worth a try. Once the craftswoman stood up, it was no wonder. With all that muscle and strength, shaping metal wasn't a surprise. The beast-like person brought out a sample of what they had used to make the item in question, an interesting sort of rock that appeared to have two types of things mixed together. A natural vein of 'alloy'. Whatever it was, Shiloh guess that the combination of the two gave the product a different set of qualities, like how bronze and brass weren't the same. "From the mountains huh? I guess I'll have to track down some dragons to see for myself." It was possible that the shifting of the earth caused this vein of material to be forced upward, gradually rising until it was at a high elevation. As much as she wanted to buy the lump as a sample, she decided not to. If she came across it again she'd know from the look and feel it had. 

Apparently for the smith, having the edge already built-in was a problem. It made sense to have them dulled until their sale was finalized, the chances of theft would decrease if they couldn't be used. Sharpening metal was an art in of itself if you didn't want to damage the item. With the items on display before her, it felt like she was being questioned by a water spirit asking which of the three items in hand belonged to her. Eyes moving over each and every piece, she stopped and pointed at the one she had seen earlier. It was a straight sword, fairly simple in design. It's body was straight from the hilt until you reached the tapering towards the tip. At first it looked like it would only be effective at piercing, however with a closer inspection both edges were sharp enough to cut. "This one. It's possible that pressure put on the edges of the body unintentionally met at the right angles, creating an edge. So what are you going to do with it?" 

Granting forgiveness to an object sounded odd, but everyone had their own beliefs. She was curious about what would happen next. Would the smith dull the edges, or rework the blade? In the battles against the insects, metal weapons made up a small portion of what they had salvaged. Apparently not all cultures had direct access to ores, and trading only went so far. Other materials like bone and chitin were much more common to use and enchant to the same effectiveness. Perhaps metal weaponry was a status symbol, only given to those with considerable achievement and rank.

Author: Shuja, Posted: Sun Mar 17, 2019 5:29 PM, Post Subject: The Heat of the Forge [L:3]

The clanging of the beads were about to tell the Indlovu to the arrival of the new entity of the shop, but certainly not enough to ruin her focus. After all, the guest that stepped in had been courteous to not interrupt her until she was about finished with her prayer. The words she used to describe her words were all proudening… all but one. "Sharp?" She repeated, her tone of voice deep as she pushed herself up to her feet and trotted across the workshop area to the counter, towering over the woman visitor at above seven feet in height. "I am afraid that is an impossibility. Only one weapon in this shop rests with a sharpened edge at all time, and that weapon is outside of your reach." After all, who would wish to be robbed in a store by their own equipment. "They are given the whet only after trade have been made."

Still, the gleam and interest in the woman's eye did shine a spark that held more than just fantasy of the equipment. Her hands were probably honed with edge in hand. With Shuja's trunk lifting upwards, above her counter, before pulling down a clump of unrefined ore, blended together as if a vein of mithril and iron had crossed paths and grown together. "We call it Dragonite Ore, for it rests in the high mountains where the winged beasts rest. Dangerous to traverse to, yet beautiful sights. Peaceful folk in area willing to trade with.

"Now tell me, which of these blades have betrayed me and hid their edge," Shuja stated, opening the counter that split the two halves apart before standing behind Shiloh. "If they open up to me, then I shall grant them forgiveness."

Author: Shiloh Kyrie, Posted: Sun Mar 17, 2019 4:34 PM, Post Subject: The Heat of the Forge [L:3]

She was finally here at last. Onnen was finally open and everybody could travel freely between the three continents. With the war over, trade was picking up as merchants and traders were the first to jump at the chance of the expanded market. Normally the changes wouldn't be this great, but the new lands had things the Sister Continents didn't or had rarities in abundance. But that wasn't why she was here today. Even though the place she had held down with Lokir during the invasion was the closest to the Sotho Coast, she had to wait until the Clephsydra was upgraded to handle flying through Onnen airspace. All the airships were being adjusted for the same thing to avoid the reported malfunctions that happened if an unmodified aircraft attempted to fly through. Mamjaku was more like a port city than an outpost now, and she was sure once the people of Mamlak started spreading their influence it would mirror the kingdom across the sea.

With new land, maps had to be updated–which was her current goal. In addition to building international relations, Shiloh wanted to map out every corner of the 'new world'. Her latest success in creating the wayfinder's widget was just the base for something more sophisticated and simple to use than an enchanted map. She was aiming for the first ever light-projected atlas, useful for navigating on land, sky, and sea. Using such a device you could chart a course from anywhere and watch your progress as you moved. The positions of the constellations and celestial bodies during the year would coincide with charts of the ocean currents, all at the tap of a finger. There were a lot more functions the deity had been brainstorming aside from those, but these would be the basic features in the completed product. With one of these devices, you'd never get lost again.

Part of the reason why she was browsing the stalls was to hunt for material components. Even mechanical beings like automatons needed repairs, and she was always looking for ways to improve her previous designs. Maybe it was out of a subconscious desire combining curiosity and caution. After all, before Onnen was opened to the world anything from here could completely nullify the immortality granted by the Voice. Remembering what she had read about the infamous Godslayer War, she had wondered if Onnen had anything to do with it.

Wandering by a smithy, the heat was practically radiating out of it. It wasn't the same as the forges in Baltil or Antikythera, but it had everything it needed and good ventilation. That was the one upside to having an open layout. Pushing the beads aside, Shiloh slipped in to take a look. The rhythmic pounding of a hammer against metal brought back memories of her trips to the dwarven city, and the smell of fire and ash came a little too close to home. How could she forget that smell? When the volcano on Apoy finally burst, it lingered in the air for months. The shop looked empty at the moment, which was exactly what she wanted. Standing off to the side, she watched the smith work away at a tool or weapon. One of the completed pieces caught her eye, and she walked closer. The style was definitely different, the luster too. When she heard the smith taking a brief pause from shaping metal, she called out: "It's sharp…lightweight, with a fine cutting edge. What's it made of?" She pointed at the item in question. It was then that she noticed the smith wasn't like any other she'd seen before.

Author: Shuja, Posted: Sun Mar 17, 2019 1:19 PM, Post Subject: The Heat of the Forge [L:3]

The rabble through the open market filled the once more, filling the cityscape with commuters from the homeland and curious persons from the sky vessels. However, there was not much to actually stop the heat of the forge from leaking out of one of the adobe brick shops that rested near the commute as a door of beads, decorated and formed to display an emblem of some kind, did not much to entrap the blaze of the forge. In fact, stepping in would clearly show that the owner of the place did not shy away from the craft  itself, but more would rather allow guests to come by and watch. Sure, there was still distance of shop between the two, a counter being the major separation, but there was nothing to stop onlookers from seeing the techniques the smith performed. On the customer's side of the counter, it certainly shared that the smith had no real trouble with whatever tool was asked, seeing as one side held many different farming tools and wood axes while the other displayed a number of weapons.

The backside of the counter seemed to have been quite large, as well. Most of the light either came from the furnace which melted the ore before being molded into an ingot or the forge where the large, elephant-like smith created the items before them. If there was a drying rack for skins and leathers, it would have been a complete shop in one area. However, that was not the worry of the smith before them, as her right hand held a tool to steady the metal as her left hammered it down upon the anvil. Every strike was like a beat to a bard, creating her own form of music with the art of creation. Changing the material that the land gave into one that the people used to survive.

With the finishing touches to the scythe blade finished, the metal was moved over into an oil bath, where it rested to cool off and harden before being given her handle. As it bathed, the Indlovu muttered something under her breath, as if praying to the weapon as the process began to finish off.

Though if there was anything in the shop that the smith treasured the most, it was the only weapon that rested complete behind the counter, resting upon the wall. It was a strange design, for sure: a large, two handed weapon that had an axe head (emblemed with the same mark as the beads that made the door) that rested near the handle and a sword blade that rested upside down along its back. Near the handle was a crystal that seemed like strange decoration, yet it had an odd magical radiance to it as well. It was Shuja's prized work: one she would never step away from.