Heavy Metal is trivial now that it requires T3 mats for reforged armor, only thing it takes is a couple weeks granted you have the gil to buy from people. Maybe requires you to make your own VW shouts when there are no shouts going on which everyone is capable of doing with little to no common sense.

Riftcinders/Dross are the real problem. I'd rather do 1500 plates twice than plates+cinders because no one sees value in doing these anymore.

SIMPLE FIX! Make Empy Armor reforge require Sealord Skin (Bismarck drop) or Belladona Sap (Morta drop).