Serendipity

@barswanian
Friend Ganzorig, I wish to learn from a great smith how a sword worthy of a name is created. Do not fear I seek this knowledge to become a smith. Rather, I wish to have a deeper understanding of the strengths and weaknesses of swords such that may improve my ability to use them.

Patience. Skill. Patience. Good metal. Proper timing. Willingness to start again if metal is not good. Patience.

Is there a special ingredient you must add to the smelting ore? Is there an unusual quenching or tempering process for the blade? How did you learn to make such marvels of steel?

Precise timing is everything. Knowing how much you can get out of the metal you have. Beyond that, it is study and practice. Years of it, to get where I am now. I may need years more to correct the mistake I made, that allowed the blade to be broken under inhuman strength.

"I place little trust in swords," sez Brother Ivan; "an honest man needs nothing more than his fists and his faith.

"...not to undermine your impressive artistry and craftwork, of course," he hastily adds.

"Trust me. You wouldn't survive if the monster put you through an anvil, let alone the snapping in half after the sword did not break from that feat. Good steel...it is something you should be able to rely upon."