Ikasa knew there was a severe lack of metal weapons in the third tier cities. Even the City Guards used wooden poles and staves, let alone other militias. The situation was the same in Birch City as well as Sal City.
He did not give it much thought and assumed it to be a common phenomenon in this world since no power was an exception. However, hearing Gu Dan's agitated question, he changed his mind. He sensed a deeper reason behind the use of wooden poles in the militia.
"Blacksmith Gu, why is getting weapon-grade ores a problem?"
Gu Dan stopped his staring match with Feng Yan and answered his employer.
"Because one cannot purchase them with gold!"
When Ikasa looked confused by his reason, he started to explain the background.
"As you know, an ore needs a certain grade of purity before a weapon can be made from it."
Ikasa nodded in agreement. He had a vague recollection of having read about it.
