Holmes & ForgeMaster
Holmes
ForgeMaster, I've been looking at the grain pattern on your newest sword, and there’s a subtle irregularity that looks almost intentional. Could that be a deliberate mark, or just a flaw in the forge?
ForgeMaster
The so‑called “irregularity” is just a defect, not a deliberate flourish. The forge was under a higher temperature than the metal could handle, so the grain swelled unevenly. If you can’t see it for what it is, you’re missing the point of a blade. Keep your eyes on the hammer, not on the patterns you think are poetry.
Holmes
If it’s a flaw, then its purpose is obvious: to warn the user. But even a defect can reveal something about the forging process—temperature, pressure, cooling rate. A thorough test will show whether that irregularity is truly harmless or a sign of a latent weakness. So, let’s examine it under stress, not just on the surface.
ForgeMaster
Fine, you want a test. Make it bend, don’t try to look pretty. If it cracks before it should, then yes—there was a misfire in the heat. If it holds, the flaw is a reminder that no blade is ever perfect. Either way, I’ll still give it a dry‑iron punch to show it what real stress feels like. Let’s do it.
Holmes
I’ll bring the hammer. Just remember, a blade will give its truth when you strike it. Let's see what it tells us.
ForgeMaster
Bring the hammer, but don't expect the blade to answer back. Its truth comes when you strike it, not when you talk to it. Let's see what it does under a real blow.
Holmes
Understood. The hammer is ready, the blade in my hand. When I strike, the truth will come.We comply.I have the hammer. When I strike, the blade will tell me.