After the discoveries about the creature and its vulnerability to silver, Edmund summoned the best blacksmiths of the settlement to begin the production of specialized weapons. The metallurgy workshop, recently expanded, was filled with glowing embers and the rhythmic sound of the hammer against metal. The heat was intense, and the smell of molten iron mixed with the sweat of the workers, who took turns to maintain the continuous production.
Gregor provided detailed instructions on the composition of the blades, emphasizing that the purity of the silver was essential to maximize its effectiveness against the creatures. The master blacksmith, a sturdy man named Helgar, assessed the available resources and began melting the silver ingots with steel to give the blades more durability. The process required precision, as pure silver was too soft for direct combat. It was decided that the blade's edge would be entirely made of silver, while the rest of the weapon would be reinforced with strong steel.
Meanwhile, Edmund and Voss oversaw the work, ensuring that each sword, spear, and arrowhead was carefully shaped and tested. Every warrior in the settlement received a set of newly forged blades to train with, while archers tested silver-tipped arrows against sturdy targets.
The first finished blade gleamed under the light of the torches, its edge sharp as a razor. Helgar, satisfied with the result, raised the sword for inspection.
"Will this be enough to pierce the skin of these beasts?" Voss asked, holding one of the swords and feeling its balanced weight in his hands.
"With the right alloy and a precise strike, yes. But pure silver tends to be brittle, so it's better if the weapons are reinforced with steel," Helgar replied, dipping another blade in oil to temper it. "Also, we'll need special scabbards to prevent the silver from wearing down over time."
To ensure that the weapons were prepared for actual combat, Edmund organized a series of duels and tests. Soldiers used the swords against reinforced leather targets, simulating the thick hides of the creatures they had encountered. The arrows were tested against wooden plates and even animal bones, ensuring their lethality.
Kieza, observing from a distance, approached Edmund and murmured:
"We don't know how many enemies might be creating these creatures... but at least now, we have a chance to fight them."
Edmund nodded, holding a newly forged blade. His determined gaze reflected the flames of the forge.
"Then we will make that chance count."
As the production continued, new strategies were discussed to maximize the efficiency of the weapons. Some warriors began carrying vials of enchanted oil to apply to the blades before combat, enhancing their power against the creatures.
The rhythm in the forge did not slow. The constant hammering echoed across the island, signaling that the war against the unknown horrors had taken its first concrete step.