Accessories can be Accessory types and Rune types. Once you place equipment and/or an accessory on a unit, it cannot be taken removed. The existing item will be destroyed when you equip a new item.
A Hero's element is determined by their weapon's element. A unit's element is determined by their native element. Water beats fire, fire beats grass, grass beats lightning, and lightning beats water. When a stronger element attacks a weaker element, their attack damage is increased by 30%.
Fusion randomly creates a higher level piece of equipment by combining the same type of equipment.
You can start Hard mode after completing all Normal mode stages. More powerful monsters will appear, and you can earn more gold and experience points.
The fastest way to get a new Hero, is to complete the Fortress of Chaos six times. This will reward you with enough medals to summon a Hero through the shop. Make sure your Hero is at least level 7 before doing so.