Tang Wulin scratched his head, a hint of embarrassment on his face, though his desire to break through in his craft was stronger. He looked at Zhen Hua, his voice tentative yet expectant. "It's like this, Teacher. Recently, while working on Thousand Refinement spirit metal, I've felt myself reaching the edge of a bottleneck. I also seem close to succeeding at Soul Forging. So... I wanted to ask you what fundamental difference there is between the legendary Heaven Forging, Soul Forging, and the other forging methods."
At his words, Zhen Hua straightened from his casual posture. The amusement in his eyes faded, replaced by an unprecedented gravity and solemnity. He gave Tang Wulin a long, searching look, as though trying to see through the boy's soul.
"Wulin, the fact that you're thinking about this means your talent and understanding have already surpassed your peers, and even many ordinary fourth- and fifth-rank blacksmiths."
Zhen Hua stood and walked to the window, his back to Tang Wulin and Gu Yue. His gaze seemed to pierce the walls and reach into the distant void.
"To understand Heaven Forging, we must first understand the essence of forging."
Zhen Hua spoke slowly, his voice low and powerful. "Forging is, in essence, the 'taming' of metal. We use strength, fire, and technique to remove its impurities, alter its structure, and give it new forms and properties."
He turned and raised one finger. "Ordinary forging, whether Thousand Refinement or Thousand Refinement that grants spirit, relies on external force. We strike with hammers and scorch with flames, forcing the metal to submit to our will."
"Soul Forging, on the other hand, adds spiritual power and soul power." Zhen Hua pointed at Tang Wulin. "You pour your own life force and spiritual power into the metal, allowing it to