I didn't play much when those got released so I don't have much of that (and I don't really understand them either).
Gotcha. It's really not that complex. Uru Forged items are just a different type of item that goes on a new slot in the top right of the equip screen. They are either level 25 or 55 and can be equipped by any hero. They only have 1 base stat, which usually is +XXX damage or +XXX defense.
Similarly, runes are a new type of item, but it is a crafting material used in recipes found on a new NPC, called the Enchanter. He levels up like the other NPCs when you donate unwanted items to him. The higher the level, the more rune recipes that are available to you.
Each recipe will tell you exactly what it does and what recipes it needs. There are 2 kinds of recipes too,
runewords (which are achieved by combining a string of specific runes) that can be crafted into said uru items, and
enchantments which require less runes and can be crafted into some of your regular gear, provided it is at least purple quality.
There a couple of cheap recipes for both that grant +XP, and which use very common runes. I guess you should keep an eye out for them from now on.
And yes, you also get a permanent XP boost for any character you have at level 60, so you might as well level IM there, then go for Cyclops.
