Pontificating...
Pontificating...
387 quotes (387 spoken, 0 mentions)
“Shall we just say I accept your word? I wouldn’t dare question your authority on the subject, good Mistress, it’s just that—”
“Fine. I suppose there’s no use attempting to impress anyone who actually has the rudiments of an education. But my question remains: what’s a young g—woman like you doing out here alone?”
“Lost? It takes quite some skill to wander this far into the Floodplains. Or are you a local? I very much doubt you are, though.”
“I suppose the toxicity would be acceptable if it were just the fruit. Well then.”
“This area is known as the Floodplains of Liscor. It’s because of a lovely natural phenomenon of the geography and—but you aren’t from here, if you don’t know about this area. But I would have guessed as much since you are Human. As far as I can tell.”
“And you’re an expert on [Teleportation] spells? I see.”
“You truly didn’t? Well, well. A traveller who doesn’t know anything about where she is…teleportation spell? Amnesia magic?”
“Really? You just turned a corner and you were in a completely different place?”
“Indeed. That is quite often the case. However, you seem to have taken to it well. This area is inhospitable to most Humans.”
“My physical appearance has nothing to do with—”
“Me?”
“…Perhaps.”
“No, no. I have no clue what kind of magic would be capable of that, if any. That sounds like a spell which—well, suffice it to say I know of only a few living mages who might even attempt such a feat. But if you were the target, it still makes no sense. Why would anyone waste such a powerful spell on someone as mundane as…as…”
“Fascinating. That has to be a very high-level phenomenon or artifact. Seamless teleportation without any visual cues and even sensation at that range? Not even our Archmages could…fascinating indeed.”
“I, uh, hope this is sufficient, good Mistress. I am of course willing to pay any dues to—to make amends, but I’m slightly low on coin at the moment.”
“Ah, this is understandable. But may I remind you that traditionally those who practice magic are beings of great power that should not be crossed?”
“Would, ah, this do?”
“How astute. She’s quite intelligent for an [Innkeeper].”
“Oh really?”
“Behold my p—”
“Ah.”
“You struck me? Me? How dare you! I will have you know I am a mage of great power, and I will not be—”
“I-I see?”
“Am I? Terribly sorry. Let me just, ah…”
“In fact, good Mistress, that is in point of reality—”
“Ow!”
“Now look here, there’s no need for violence, Miss. I can see that you are no ordinary plebian fool but an extraordinary plebian. Believe me when I say that is a high compliment from a practitioner of the arcane such as I.”
“What the—”
“Yes, well. I see you’ve established yourself quite nicely. This is—is quite a lovely establishment you’ve founded. Very quaint.”
“One does what one must to survive.”
“I, ah, came here to expand my horizons. This part of the continent—well, the local collection of city-states are quite hospitable to those people trying to avoid undue attention. Besides, food is plentiful if one has certain skills.”
“The locals don’t like Humans that much. Which is a fact anyone in a hundred miles would know. This is the border to the Drake lands to the south. But you…didn’t know that, did you?”
“You would not be so quick to judge if you knew more about the people you’re defending. Especially this city.”
“Pisces, practitioner of magic, student of Wistram Academy, specialized in the Elementalist and Illusionary schools of magic with additional competencies in multiple spell schools.”
“Um. Thank you.”
“…Necromancy.”
“It’s common. Well, not common exactly, but it’s the only explanation I can think of. Back in the Academy…it was not an unheard of phenomenon. I suppose you could have also been carried off by one of the local avian species, but they tend to drop their prey and chew their bones.”
“I see I’ve overstayed my welcome. Well, your meal was quite adequate, good Mistress. Please accept my heartfelt gratitude.”
“Are you aware that, ah, this fruit is poisonous?”
“You—you could tell it was an invisibility spell?”
“What—who dares—?”
“My apologies, good [Innkeeper], for all these misunderstandings. Please accept this recompense for your wasted time.”
“Only on occasion. And I quite understand your irate feelings. However, since I believe all is settled, I shall just…”
“Ah, but money is so…mundane. Where would the enjoyment in life be without variety?”
“Ahem. Well, I shall be going. I am—terribly sorry for all that. It was just, ah—a spell which I—desperate times make fools of us all. And clearly, not you. Which is why I shall depart and not trouble you again.”
“Harshly put, good Mistress. But yes, I would like to make amends. Let us be quits with no further unpleasantness! Or violence. And I am sure this payment is quite acceptable, is it not?”
“Ah. Of course. Well, as a practitioner of the mystic arts, I feel it is always wise to be…generous.”
“Fair point. Let me just amend my fee.”
“I see.”
“Well, if you have no further need of me…I did pay for my misdeeds, after all. Rather handsomely, I might add, given that no harm was actually done except to my person. So I won’t intrude any fu—”
“Ah. Am I supposed to eat this?”
“And I suppose if I don’t, you hit me with that pot, correct?”
“Highly. The core of the Amentus Fruit causes painful death within hours if eaten. While the outer rind is safe for consumption, the inner seeds are toxic. You are aware of this, right?”
“My thanks.”
“So, if I might inquire, what is a delicate flower of effervescence doing in such a locale?”
“Do I have the option to refuse?”
“How rude. My advanced lexicon and diction is merely a result of my education, not a façade that—”
“The fee was extorted under duress.”
“You asked. I was merely fulfilling my role as a guest.”
“Aha. Accept my apologies. But if you are referring to one of my exalted brethren, mage is the best term to use.”
“My specialization lies in other areas.”
“Yes. And it’s not as if this is a particularly difficult task. I realize it may look so to the uninitiated, but a spell like this could easily be cast by a level 30 [Mage]. Less, I suppose, if the individual were specialized.”
“And me. A second plate and a refill of my drink, if you would.”
“I paid no attention. The plebian masses are a burden to be endured; I bear no ill will to the misinformed or ignorant for their rudeness.”
“If we’re done with the lovely chatting, my glass is empty. Isn’t attending to one’s customers part of my service?”
“How discourteous. I believe I shall bring my business elsewhere next time.”
“Do you want something? I don’t do magic upon request. If you seek a certain spell, I would be happy to discuss my remunerations…later.”
“About what?”
“Ah. I see the good [Innkeeper] holds a grudge. Well, I’m not sure what she told you two, but I assure you, I have compensated her more than adequately for my…mistake. It’s nothing two soldiers need concern themselves with.”
“Ah.”
“I have studied countless schools of magic. You see before you a practitioner of the elements, a weaver of illusions, a refined chanter, a master of alchemy, pyromancy, aeromancy, geomancy—”
“Is this place open? Do you provide sustenan—food? I pay, I eat?”
“Indeed you will. This is an affront!”
“I am completely innocent—utterly so. These baseless accusations are false and—”
“Actually, I would prefer—”
“Yes, we wouldn’t want to ruin the enjoyment of mindless thugs like yourself.”
“The term is mage, good Mistress.”
“A keen observer would discern his opponent’s weaknesses and strengths and make assumptions based on their actions and ability. These two, on the other hand, are just using a Skill.”
“Spoken like a truly ignorant fool. What would you know of magical mastery? My powers may not lie in mere confrontation, but I assure you, I have more power in my fingernails than you have in your entire brutish body.”
“If you can.”
“No—no need, good Mistress Solstice. I am quite satisfied at the moment.”
“I am a powerful [Mage] far beyond your capabilities. Even if your paltry Skills cannot detect my—capabilities—you would do well to be wary of my hidden…capabilities.”
“Regardless if you know my identity or not, I still believe you will find capturing me no easy task.”
“Fascinating. But it’s still the elevated status of a common enforcer when all is said and done, isn’t it?”
“Um. Very well. Are you open today?”
“Merely another branch of magic, good Mistress Erin. I note you don’t have the same aversion as a less-informed fool. Let me assure you—”
“I would like to peruse your menu if I m—”
“I did not say specialization is absent from the magical world. Rather, shall we say that those are titles for mages who meet certain requirements? A [Wizard] is an arcane researcher and true student of the arcane arts. Such individuals are similar to myself, but prefer to study the mainstream branches of magic. [Sorcerers], on the other hand, are quite simplistic and refer to those who use no spellbooks and have little formal education. [Warlocks] obtain their powers from other sources such as summoning, while [Witches] practice alchemy along with specialized schools of magic. Their…very peculiar magic, which is so rooted in folklore. Nevertheless, [Mage] remains the generally accepted title to refer to all those who practice magic as a catchall moniker…”
“Pardon me. I would not dare to interrupt such august personages such as yourself. Please, proceed.”
“As I said, not that impressive. Many mages could cast a spell like this.”
“Oh, really?”
“I would be only too happy to. But I fear I was quite parched, and if you would be so good…?”
“Another drink if you would. My cup has run dry.”
“And a plate?”
“You. This establishment.”
“If I might trouble you for a knife and fork—”
“It happens quite often. A natural weather phenomenon, you know.”
“Greetings, good Mistress. I was wondering if I could impose upon you—”
“Seldom. It is a seasonal weather pattern to rain like this in the spring. Fall downpours like these are an aberration. Normally, I would not hazard a guess at how long the rain would fall, but someone has been interfering with the weather. So we’ll have a brief storm, that’s all. Hardly anything as memorable as magical rain.”
“With magic, how else? Some shortsighted fool must have cast a localized weather control spell. Impressive, I suppose, but clumsy in execution. As for magical rain—have you never observed glowing rain in any color? Magical typhoons? Ah…raining toads?”
“Ahem. Of course, that is how the phenomenon actually occurs. But the impetus is largely magical…I see you know your way around some natural events. This particular storm will not be raining any creatures, however. It truly was someone simply sending unwanted rain our way. It may be a scandal, although given how the Drake cities squabble—I detected it from the south. Perhaps as far as Pallass.”
“What?”
“My magic—”
“Now, now. Let’s not be hasty, good Mistress. I was merely saying—”
“[Barrier of Air]!”
“I can be ransomed. Quite highly! My school will pay ten—thirty gold coins in whichever denomination you like for my return.”
“I was, in fact, upstairs the entire time. Under a bed. It was the simplest solution given the intelligence of those two brutish guardsmen.”
“I don’t know how I can thank you, good M—Miss Erin. Please, accept my humblest—”
“Antagonizing one of my power is unwise. If you have any sense, you will accede to my request. Or know the consequences.”
“If I am caught, they will take me to the city. And there I will be judged and killed. This is a certainty, Mistress Erin.”
“—Allow me to apologize. But if I might say a few words—”
“Of course I wouldn’t do that. I’m no barbarian—”
“Please, spare my life. If you have any pity in your soul—”
“Please, I beg of you. Just one night. Just give me sanctuary, and I swear I will be gone upon the morrow. It is my death without your aid. Would you kill me? I ask you as a fellow Human. Please.”
“They will have patrols out around the city. They will scour the grasslands for me. Please, if you were to hide me, I would be sure to survive.”
“I—I seek no quarrel with you. I am a graduate of Wistram Academy and a practicing mage. You detain me at your peril.”
“Surrender?”
“I assure you, my life is worth far more than you would ever get for me dead. This can all be solved amicably. I will fully cooperate—”
“I will cease all magic and go with you quietly if you assure my life. I meant no harm to you or your companion. But we are at an impasse until you do.”
“Don’t be hasty!”
“I—I—”
“I have only ever done what I loved. Slay me as well, you thoughtless fools. Just like all of my kind. One day—one of us will follow Az’kerash.”
“I know.”
“Gewil—”
“Ah, but what good innkeeper would deprive herself of such a magnificent guest?”
“So it would appear.”
“Please, please, good Mistress, let’s not be hasty!”
“Please, hear me out. Rest assured, I bear you no ill will for reporting my actions to the guard. I fully appreciate the severity of my crimes, however—”
“Except here.”
“I assure you, you will never see—”
“In point of fact, I was wondering if I might persuade you to shelter and provide me with my basic necessities while in this moment of dire need. I can provide you with adequate recompense, I assure you—”
“I assure you I would be a quite convivial guest. And I wouldn’t ask for much. In fact, you may be interested to know I am proficient in multiple schools of spellcasting. While necromancy is a—passion of mine, I have extensively studied the elementalist, illusory, and enchanting schools of magic. My level is over twenty in the general [Mage] class. Even amongst my fellow students, you would be hard-pressed to find a spellcaster as widely capable as I am. I can aid in a number of functions that would improve your inn. And I have money.”
“Would you turn away an innocent—”
“Please, please reconsider.”
“I am a man in desperate straits. You would do well not to underestimate what I am capable of.”
“He didn’t want to tell you the truth! But he and I both know what happens to [Necromancers]. We—any mage possessing even a single level in the class—are all killed on sight in this part of the world! There’s no mercy for my kind here. The legacy of the Necromancer of Terandria, Az’kerash, lingers. Especially here, where his armies once sieged Liscor.”
“I believe there is a lovely tradition known as a 'tab.' Rest assured, I will make sufficient payment to you in time, good mistress. Although, I must say you could stand to improve the variety of your dishes. Pasta and soup are all very well, but I trust you do know there are other types of food in the world?”
“Your soup was most adequate. However, I would advise you to add more seasonings to combat the bland taste.”
“I am right here, you know.”
“I am—I am a [Mage] of Wistram Academy. As a talented practitioner of the wind elementalist field of magic along with other spells in a generalist’s repertoire, of course such displays are second—second—”
“Thus far, I haven’t found any people worthy of my assistance. Why should I help those who judge me in ignorance and fear?”
“How fascinating.”
“These are only the males of the species, in any case. The females are—substantially—larger. In fact, the sole purpose of the male is to gather as much food as possible. He will dissolve and absorb as much nutrition into his lower abdomen before returning to a female in hopes of winning her favor. They all do it.”
“It’s your funeral if you want to attempt to cook them. May I advise removing the acid before you serve them to your guests?”
“I imagine…I imagine if all four containers were to rupture, the swarm of these insects could very well engulf us and melt our flesh within moments.”
“By having few predators insane enough to risk consuming them. That, and the fact that they are nearly limitless in number.”
“I was unaware you were so familiar with the biology of insects, that’s all.”
“Yes. Yes, I imagine it will fill my dreams tonight.”
“You have a talent for finding the most dangerous things, don’t you?”
“You can read?”
“I applaud your ingenuity. But may I ask why you decided to capture a swarm of deadly insects that prey on dead matter?”
“You can play chess?”
“I also had a far more lucrative occupation liberating unneeded items from those who were in no position to use them, but apparently, that is considered a grave violation of privacy as well.”
“Obviously. It is a taxing affair, especially given that menial affairs such as lodging and sustenance must be taken care of while one attempts to study.”
“I must admit, this is better fare than your unfortunate soup of yesterday.”
“For all my magical proficiency, I cannot cast more than a few magics beyond the fourth tier in any field, and I am relegated to first and second-tier magics in most fields outside of my specialization.”
“Perhaps if I—”
“I reburied them afterwards.”
“I cannot fathom it. I was—am one of the best players on the continent! I have outplayed [Tacticians] and other mages of similar caliber and skill. How could you defeat me?”
“Some would say magic is its own reward. I would.”
“And what would I do that is so useful?”
“I am sorry to betray your high expectations of me, but I fear even a mage of my caliber cannot study every school of the higher arts.”
“I cannot.”
“Ah. A [Preservation] spell, no doubt. Yes, that is certainly a service some [Mages] skilled in runecraft can provide for plebians.”
“It—that was a beginner’s spell. Not suitable for most combat and downplayed by my instructors. However, it was the best tool for the moment. All magic is worth using, after all.”
“Duck, Erin!”
“Several reasons.”
“If you dispose of it, please do so with utmost care. While the acid of these insects cannot eat through metal or many conventional materials, it is extremely quick to dissolve any organic material.”
“May I ask—what is it you plan to do now, Erin?”
“You were lucky I happened to be here. Very lucky.”
“If you insist on using such traps, might I suggest you anchor them in the stream?”
“What will you do with them?”
“Most kind. But the night is old, and I believe I shall retire.”
“Well.”
“You have been most kind.”
“And then?”
“An apt description.”
“You are very considerate, but no. No. I will be off. Thank you for your hospitality.”
“Really? As it happens, I was considered one of the better players in the northern cities. Would you care for a game? Perhaps with a wager or two on the side?”
“[Gust]!”
“Pretty much.”
“Ah. That. Clearly, I made a miscalculation. Would you care to waive my debts if I—”
“Until recently, I had a quite profitable side business liberating unneeded supplies from the locals in exchange for entertainment. But now, I abstain from such activities to stay within your good graces.”
“Firstly, the natural buoyancy of the water would prevent the breakage of glass if the jars were dropped, or at least mitigate the danger of the Acid Flies. Secondly, the effects of wind and other native life would also be mitigated. And thirdly, I would not be at risk of tripping over such traps.”
“Indeed. Seven or eight to be exact. There is a speculative ninth tier of magic, but no [Mage] has ever cast or discovered a spell of such magic that I have read of in any history book. Well, Tier 7 spells are a thing of myth in the modern era. In any case, to cast such spells, [Mages] such as I require concentration, time, and effort to unravel the workings of each new incantation.”
“[Frozen Wind].”
“I study the mystical realms of the transmundane. To unlock the secrets of the ether and command over supernatural forces, I—”
“It was—that was a display beyond anything I’ve seen. It was pure! I couldn’t see how it would end! I couldn’t predict the next move! How are you not a [General] or—or a [Strategist] of the highest level?”
“What I mean to say is that if Mistress Solstice does not consider any of the tactical applications of learning to play chess—how moving pawns is similar to organizing warriors, for instance—she would not level in the [Tactician] class. To begin with, the amount of experience gained from playing chess is far lower than actual work as a strategist, so if she cared not at all about games of war as opposed to games of pieces…”
“Allow me to rephrase my statement.”
“Classes are based on what we pursue. Yet—by that same notion, what we consider unimportant or trivial fails to trigger the same classes in other people. It is a known phenomenon I studied during my time in Wistram Academy. I wrote a paper that—well, suffice it to say, if you do not consider chess to be anything other than a game, you would not level.”
“I can.”
“That too, I suppose. Regardless, it behooves me to stay away from the Watch. Even this far from the city, I must occasionally evade their tiresome patrols.”
“You saw my effectiveness against the Acid Flies, did you not?”
“Perish the thought. I do have standards to adhere to, and besides which, you are aware that most [Mages] use the [Farsight] and [Scrying] spells to gaze with impunity on anyone they like, are you not?”
“Is it so surprising? Most upper-class dwellings and bath houses have spells to prevent such unwanted attention. But fear not—there are no Human [Mages] in the area besides myself, and I suspect any Drake [Mages], if any competent individuals in Liscor, would prefer their own species to gaze upon.”
“I am quite adept in a number of magical fields. But yes, [Invisibility] is a 4th Tier spell I have acquired after much practice and study. It is useful in almost every situation.”
“Magic is a sacred art, Miss Solstice. If a few use it to untoward ends, that is a small consequence that cannot be avoided. But to all others who pursue magic, the benefits are enormous. For instance, I do not have to worry about monster attacks even should the Watch give up patrols in this area entirely.”
“I doubt that.”
“Any decent [Mage] has a number of spells to avoid detection. [Invisibility] is one of my fortes, for instance.”
“I trust your expert opinion, of course. But may I recommend testing your drink out on the Goblins or perhaps the Antinium before serving it with your meals?”
“And customary for an inn.”
“Do you not have any ale? Or at least if you must serve drinks, would you do the courtesy of bringing out the Amentus beverage?”
“Underage of what, precisely?”
“Let me put it another way, Mistress Solstice. In words you may find easier to understand. Monsters, strong. You, weak. Regardless of your level, you have only the [Innkeeper] class, which has few Skills meant for fighting or survival.”
“Most, ah, impressive. However, I doubt your prowess with a wooden chair would deter anything but the average Goblin. Most creatures are a tad studier than that, I fear.”
“I was referring to thugs with weapons aptly known as ‘bouncers’ or the more mundane [Mercenary] classes, but you do raise a good point. I doubt many would be willing to travel this far to offer protection—and even if they did, their prices would be quite exorbitant.”
“I am, as always, reliant upon your good graces and tolerant nature, good Mistress Solstice. Rest assured, I will pay off my debts in due time as soon as I acquire the necessary funds.”
“What do you mean?”
“It sounds like quite a useless Skill, to be honest.”
“Then once again, magic has eliminated another tiresome chore. As to your point about employment, I remind you that I am banned from entering Liscor due to my magical inclinations.”
“I fail to see your point.”
“What is money but a concept? If you are referring to the notion of money, I am indeed wealthy in—”
“That would be…problematic.”
“The local fauna and flora of the area around Liscor are not the most deadly, considering the extreme variance of some death zones around the world, but there are several notable monster types that do pose a serious threat, even to me.”
“Hm.”
“Oh?”
“I never said that you were. But fighting is far different from self-defense.”
“Yes, well, regardless, some form of personal defense would be highly advisable.”
“Not as such, no.”
“They aren’t patrolling this region any longer?”
“Let us just say that several of the species around here deter adventurers from pursuing their trade. Not that Drakes and Gnolls tend towards adventuring as much in any case. But without the Watch to keep local populations down, it will become hazardous quite quickly. I would suggest you hire some form of protection before this occurs.”
“Do they emit any kind of unsavory smell?”
“Ah. I see having a Skill replaces the need for hops, barrels, the fermentation process, yeast, and of course the grain needed for such a beverage. Do show me how you make ‘alcohol,’ and let me know when you’ve decided on what type of ‘alcohol’ you would like to create. I would especially love to know if it’s a rum, beer, whiskey, mead, or if it is in fact a consumable alcohol at all.”
“Teach you. Magic? Good Mistress—”
“…Who?”
“Very well then. Let us begin with the Mage’s Test. Observe.”
“What was that? Get it off!”
“And you would forget my tab?”
“Why would—no. Wait. I must read this. I, ah, will be going now. Thank you for the meal.”
“It’s a messaging spell, but I haven’t seen one like that since—”
“I have not ever heard of such a Skill in any of the directories I have read during my time as a student. Nor have I heard of such a Skill at any point in my life. Have you found out what it does?”
“This is the basic test for determining aptitude. I am drawing—”
“Mistress Solstice, please keep your guest away from me. Elsewise, I may be forced to use magic to remedy the problem myself.”
“It is possible, although Skills that focus on one task are generally easier to understand from their name. It is more likely that this is some kind of ability you gained during the course of the game. But as to what that might be or how such a Skill could be used—”
“—Regardless of your feelings, you should still hire some sort of protection. The more aggressive types of monsters and wildlife will soon return to this area.”
“Erin, then. You do realize that magic is not as simple as waving a wand about and chanting words, don’t you? Becoming a [Mage] such as myself requires years—sometimes decades of intensive study.”
“Ceria.”
“I am simply asking.”
“—Fine.”
“Very well. And the injured party I’m to heal?”
“Nevertheless. You can eminently afford…fifty.”
“I suppose so.”
“Mend shattered bone? A simple task.”
“For what you want? When, as your dear teammate points out, no [Healer] can help your patient? Sixty, no less.”
“Of course.”
“Not at the moment. The owner is currently elsewhere, it seems.”
“There’s no need to move. Now that we’ve agreed, let’s begin.”
“And my fee? As requested?”
“The comfort of the patient is of no object to me. Regardless…I’m done. Where’s my payment?”
“I would appreciate no shouting during the process. You know how much concentration this takes even without interruption.”
“I have plans for this gold. Not least, it will help shut up a certain annoying [Innkeeper]—”
“Necromancy is a misnomer for the true nature of my magic. Reanimation is but one component of raising the dead. Another, crucial aspect is the manipulation and fundamental understanding of—”
“Thank you for the simplistic explanation. I suppose that does explain it, however. In any event, know that I am a [Necromancer] capable of your request. Kindly refrain from addressing me with pointless questions ever again. As for [Healers] being insufficient—it is not my fault that there’s so little talent to go around.”
“Quite. Spoken to Mons? Beatrice, perchance?”
“You may doubt all you wish, but I believe my fellow student can attest to my competence. Besides which, any spell would confirm the veracity of my statement. Tell them, Springwalker.”
“What?”
“Vinegar. Or soap. Hot soap and water.”
“I could inquire within, but the owner is out.”
“The Minotaur is correct, Springwalker. Clean the wound. Too bad you never took that alchemy class, eh?”
“Wash the wound. I know soap is not what you put on a wound—it doesn’t matter if you’ll heal it. Wash any grit straight out. Do hurry, though. The longer the wound is exposed, the sooner it will fester.”
“Ah, I believe you missed someone.”
“Give that back! It is my property!”
“I might be able to help in that regard. Miss Erin, seeing as how my funds have been confiscated…would you accept—alternate forms of payment?”
“If you would observe.”
“What did she look like?”
“This is unjust—not right—”
“As a matter of fact, I believe today is the day I will pay off my tab. I have come into quite a bit of money as of late.”
“Not at all. I merely performed a complex bit of magic and received remuneration. But I believe this is more than enough to pay off my tab many times over. Allow me to repay my debts in full and tip you for your time.”
“This is an abuse of authority! You have no right to steal my property—”
“I believe I have something in mind that may benefit us both.”
“Greetings, Mistress Solstice. Ah, are you well?”
“Hey!”
“Whatever you wish. It will obey any command you give it, but, ah, its capacity for thought is quite limited at the moment. That may improve with time. I have made several improvements over the traditional undead animation spells—”
“Of course. I attuned it to you already. This skeleton will obey all commands and faithfully guard you and your possessions. Give it a command and see.”
“Well, the price of an advanced reanimation spell such as this is traditionally worth—”
“Please, Erin. I am only acting in your best interests—and mine. Consider this undead warrior.”
“I made it so it would only obey you. Call it off or I’ll have to dismantle it.”
“Affordable, competent protection that needs neither sleep nor sustenance. I would say it is you who should be tendering your gratitude to me, Erin.”
“Not I. The culprit had already departed when I arrived.”
“It is a competent warrior that will fight for you. And I do believe that is what you need, unless I am completely in error.”
“Call it off.”
“I have heard your repeated complaints about inadequate protection. And when I noticed the, ah, state your inn was in this morning—”
“Is it not what you’ve been seeking?”
“To protect you, of course. And to pay off my considerable tab.”
“I assumed my explanation would quell any questions you had.”
“Swords are expensive, Miss Solstice. And I am—regrettably—short on funding at the moment. Surely you could afford to equip your new bodyguard yourself?”
“The spell will not wear out. The body might in the course of normal combat though, it is true. I would be happy to repair any damage done for a nominal fee—”
“I suppose a full repayment of my debts and some credit towards the future would not be too much to ask?”
“That was most unkind to a faithful patron, good Mistress.”
“It is a skeleton. An undead, animated skeleton to be precise.”
“Once again, your fascination with such a dangerous substance is alarming at best, Miss Solstice. I trust you at least have a few healing potions prepared for the day when you drop the acid on your person?”
“That is a warrior skeleton, designed for combat.”
“Are you—making it gather fruits? And you want to make it clean your outhouse? You do realize it is here for your protection, do you not?”
“Ah. Well, it is.”
“I could certainly create a stronger undead—but not a higher level one. Do you—do you not understand the significance of this skeleton?”
“My creation is a work of art, but it must grow to its full potential first. It is not meant to be used for menial labor.”
““You. Goblin child. Was your mother non-Goblin? Or…your father?””
““There’s no more magic left in the air. It’s all dissipated, Erin.””
““Goblins cannot learn magic in the traditional sense. It is impossible. Surely if they had the potential it would have been discovered, analyzed in centuries hence. The potential ramifications—or is it simple freak divergence? Ancestry?””
““I’m, ah, sorry, Miss Solstice.””
““You are—most kind. Thank you.””
““What, ah, do you mean—””
““Me? Teach?””
““I’ve—well I’ve never considered having an apprentice. You do know I specialize in necromancy, don’t you? But on the other hand—I am quite proficient in general areas of magic. And of course anyone with a basic grasp of the fundamentals could learn. But a Goblin for a student…?””
““A thousand people and only one caster? A ridiculous waste.””
““It isn’t proper magic, that’s all. True, these [Shamans] may copy many magic spells, but they are born out of a collective will and lack structure and form. True, they can do things that modern magic cannot easily replicate. I have heard some [Shamans] can heal or move vast groups of people over water, but magic—””
““I—am infusing the air around you with my mana. It will allow you to cast spells if you have the potential.””
““But I haven’t time to get into the variation in classes over centuries. Where was I? Oh, of course. Magic. Let us not forget what we are here to learn. Very well, I assume you understand a bit of what magic is. Now to test you.””
““Goblins, on the other hand, practice a different form of magic. They draw their mana not only from the environment, but from each other. Thus a single Goblin may use the mana of the entire tribe it is affiliated with to cast spells.””
““A neophyte in tribal magic and a tiny tribe can hardly do the greatest feats of magic, Erin. Miss Solstice. Nor can one heal in any kind of magic easily.””
““It is not a dangerous process. I simply wish to ascertain whether or not either of you can become mages. I will test you in the traditional style. Do not move, and I will saturate the area around you with raw mana and allow you to demonstrate your magical ability—or lack thereof.””
““Just think of something.””
““One supposes it is their tribal magic. I have never met a Gnoll at Wistram or a [Mage] of their people in general. They have [Shamans]—another kind of magic-user. But no [Mages] in Wistram. I heard a rumor once—nevermind. Minotaurs can be [Mages]. Anyone can be a [Mage]. But Gnolls. Even Goblins. Is this clear enough for you?””
““I assume you mean half-Elves. Yes, their affinity towards spellcasting is far greater than our own. However, a speciesist advantage does not translate into individual ability. Nor does that mean the greatest mages are always nonhuman. In fact, some of the most famous Archmages of this era are Human. Like, er, Verdan Blackwood. Or Archmage Viltach. Great…esteemed [Mages] I have personally met.””
““Muggles?””
““—Any species can learn magic. But not all members have the potential. From Minotaurs to Dullahans to Centaurs, [Mages] exist. Except Gnolls, of course, but they have their [Shamans].””
““Well, even those types of spell casters are unique. Chosen. They are still capable of casting spells, which is more than can be said for a majority of Humanity or most species.””
““[Mages] in general? Pah. Anyone can obtain the class or variations thereof, but they often stagnate and seldom reach Level 20. Indeed, the lack of centralized education between nations has given rise to lesser variations upon the basic [Mage] class. [Hedge Wizards], [Witch Doctors], the dubiously qualified [Spellswords], [Druids]…well I suppose [Druids] are an exception to the rule, and of course let us reserve most of our disdain for the so-called [Sorcerer]…””
““Tribal magic. Feh. Just as I said—Gnolls and Goblins have access to another, lesser…different kind of magic.””
““Never underestimate magic. Never take it lightly. Even in practice, even when you believe you have mastered a spell to its utmost. Unlike wielding a hammer or a sewing needle, magic is quite capable of slaying an incautious practitioner outright.””
““Magic is an art. It is something only the most gifted and dedicated may aspire to. Those who have true mastery of spellcraft create works of beauty and wonder with each incantation.””
““Ahem. Names aside, why is she here? You asked me to teach you magic.””
““That is the name you gave her, certainly. Her Goblin name may be unpronounceable to you and I, but I suspect she objects to your pet name as much as I do.””
““It is just—may I state my objections now? Magic is not a game or a ‘trick’. I took your request seriously in no small way because I believed you had a genuine desire to learn. Well, the Goblin might wish for the same, but this is no trivial matter. Will you promise to take this seriously?””
““If we are to do this, must we include the Goblin?””
““It would explain things. The offspring of Goblins are always Goblins regardless of the partner, male or female. But sometimes Goblins may inherit traits from their…parents. The, ah, victim might play a part in explaining unusual talents. But if this young Goblin—Rags has no immediate non-Goblin ancestors, it would mean—””
““I should really ban questions. Well, to summarize a complex issue, the magic your little friend used is not true magic. Or at least, not the magic practiced by [Mages]. It is an amalgamation of mana drawn from her tribe, such as it is.””
““I have never heard of any Goblin whose abilities matched that of a proper mage. Their innate capabilities are likely too low to support the strain of spellcasting. Their race as a whole can barely snuff out a candle, let alone magically.””
““Yes, well, it is a crude thing. But I suppose it is powerful enough in its own way as it allows even Goblin tribes one or two spellcasters of their own. These, ah, ‘shamans’ draw power from the collective. The larger their group is, the more power they wield. Thus, while the Goblins in the area most likely cannot collectively create more than a few sparks, a larger tribe of a thousand souls would create a decently powerful [Shaman]. But it is inefficient.””
““Ah, well. [Healers] are now simply general practitioners of restorative arts, some of whom are able to cast spells. Most use Skills. Many rely on potions or even simple bandages rather than magic. The definition of the class has changed, and accordingly, so have the skills and spells learnt. It was quite a fascinating phenomenon, actually. I studied it in a course back in Wistram—””
““Allow me to explain another way. Magic surrounds us. It is in everything, but an individual’s capacity for magic varies. And the same goes for our surroundings. Thus, in a highly magically charged environment, spells are naturally easy to cast. In a null zone, a [Mage] must rely solely on his or her own internal magical energy to cast spells.””
““Anything! Whatever you wish! Fire, water, a shiny new pot. Will the magic to obey your command!””
““…By all means. Keep on trying.””
““What are you muttering?””
““I’m almost drained. I’m sorry. I can’t keep going.””
““That was no tribal magic. That was the very beginning of the [Firefly] spell.””
“Ceria.”
“I must protest! My creation is not meant for menial tasks. Moreover, I am an accredited [Mage] and deserve to be treated—”
“I am entitled to walk wherever I please. If it bothers you so much, you may wait.”
“You!”
“You—you don’t have the authority to do that.”
“I am going to the city. With Erin…indisposed, I require sustenance there.”
“What are you—I, Pisces, order you to move aside and let me pass.”
“I am a favored customer at her inn. I have every right to be there.”
“You’ll do what? Hit me? I’m a mage.”
“Move aside. I require sustenance.”
“What are you doing?”
“I am your creator. Move aside.”
“Of course. It is a bodyguard for Erin and an able servant.”
“Move.”
“It was my creation. A skeleton. It was merely guarding its master, Erin Solstice.”
“If you’ll excuse me—”
“[Fire Orb]!”
“I prefer gold, myself.”
“Ah. Hello to you, receptionist. Don’t wait to thank me for saving your life.”
“I mean you no harm. And this wasn’t my fault! I was in the city all day, and I knew nothing of this—this event.”
“Believe me, ah, Captain. I would never jeopardize my good standing with your city. In fact, I am helping to prove my innocence. I—”
“This creature is highly intelligent, guardsmen. It won’t fight anything that can resist its fear effect and poses a credible threat. Perhaps it could win, but it won’t risk that.”
“Perhaps it seeks to wear us down first! Or maybe it goes after easier prey! I can’t tell!”
“Begone, pest.”
“Just so we’re clear: I didn’t raise them.”
“I assume I will be remunerated appropriately for this?”
“It’s neck snapping, and I have ample mana reserve. I suppose if it means exonerating myself…”
“Um, that is correct. But this is rather inconvenient, is it not?”
“Most of the more valuable undead specimens have some kind of survival function built into it. I surmise this being may be the same.”
“No.”
“Erin.”
“It just—”
“I don’t know! I don’t know!”
“I—”
“They’re just the undead. Quite easy to subdue. I have every confidence your Watch will safeguard innocent civilians like myself.”
“I understand. I will help. Stay here and, ah, try not to put an arrow in my back.”
“W-Wight?”
““Yes. Perhaps. But we will be overrun soon if there are many more of the undead.””
““Potions do not cure exhaustion. Even my efficient spells tax me. I must rest.””
““Waiting.””
““I’ve heard of undead doing that, but not even the ones I saw at Wistram could—it’s a spellcaster. But it cannot do that forever. Only a few times, I suspect. And it might not be able to control all the undead. The Crypt Lords are lesser leaders. The fact that greater undead than them haven’t been created is odd. So many dead gathered for so long together—””
““It is clear that these dead are protecting that skin creature in some way. It may have control over the dead or spellcasting ability—regardless, they act as convenient fodder while it takes the skin of creatures to sustain itself.””
““The danger. As I said, your Senior Guardsman posed an actual threat. It realized this and withdrew. It will let the undead keep fighting until we are exhausted and it returns. Remember—for each one of us that falls, it has another minion to use against us.””
““Well. A token deed. It will not amount to much. Not when…””
““But I’m better than that. I am…””
““Ah, but what a wonderful night to die!””
““Go. Avoid fighting until you reach the inn. Protect the girl. Kill any who would harm her. Go.””
““My, my. I suppose I’m a little too invested in that girl for my own good.””
““…She probably doesn’t matter at all. It’s simply how that creature works. He will eliminate every living being in the area and surround the city with his army. He senses her, no doubt, and wishes to eliminate any possible threat. Or perhaps it is fleeing east then north, towards Esthelm, to minimize the risk to itself.””
““It should be more beautiful than that. It must be. I have to prove to her why I am different. Why I am—better.””