“Too many warriors bring me Black Iron and think the forge begins and ends there.”

“Every ore has its purpose. Copper, Silver, Gold, Platinum, Ruby, Nephrite, Amethyst… each whispers differently to the flames. A wise refiner learns their language. A fool sells them to merchants.”

“The strength of a weapon is not found in its highest strike, but in its weakest. Any blade may land a mighty blow once. A master-crafted weapon strikes true every time.”

“When I refine a weapon, I do not raise its ceiling. I strengthen its foundation. The forge improves what is certain, not what is possible.”

“Bring enough ore to support the steel you place before me. Strong weapons demand stronger offerings. Neglect the forge and it will remember your greed.”

“Some warriors come seeking power. Others come seeking endurance. The forge understands both. Not every refinement is about striking harder; sometimes the wisest craftsmen strengthen the metal itself.”

“When no warrior’s strength is offered to the flames, the forge turns its attention to the item’s spirit. Treat it well and it may endure longer than its maker ever imagined.”

“A weapon’s endurance is as important as its power. Even the finest blade will fail if its bones are weak. Feed the forge well and it may return stronger than before.”

“Purity matters. The mountain gives many stones, but only a few are worthy of a master’s hammer. Learn the difference and your fortunes will change.”

“Remember this above all else…”

“Refining is not gambling.”

“The forge rewards knowledge.”