I loved when I had to do this, it seemed pretty cool and you had to think about it. . After doing this I would like to see it more because it doesnt point you to the items and to actually get the right materials you need to be creative.

I still get the feeling that charcoal was meant to be an ingredient in smithing. :s

I think it's too bad they skipped over some of the little details like that.

(I assume this because nearly every local smithy sells charcoal.)

Think of it this way... Alot of people who played through that part probably couldn't figure it out and had to consult strategy guides, wiki, google, etc. I would personally like to see more stuff like this too but in reality they would lose alot of sales if they made things like that... Too many people would get frustrated with the game and give up...

i was lucky enough to have them in my inventory already

Do remember, right next to that specific stone is a room full of charcoal and paper. I see what you mean though, agree completely.