Luria Nova/Dwilight University Field Research

Alabaster, Dean of Field Research of University of Dwilight, 18th May 1018

Here is the first chapter on another project I have been working on, the cataloging of notable (non-noble) personages, being sages, wizards, witches and other learned beings capable of either writing or copying scrolls and the repair of unique magical items and artifacts. In very (very) rare circumstances and given the correct phase of astrological and metaphysical properties it is also possible to create new and minor items which grow in power over time.

Elmard, the silly

Seen in Orz

Elmard is a longhaired and middle-aged sage who never grew up. Overindulging in herbs and his own potions have given him permanent euphoria. In his lucid moments he can be convinced to manufacture and repair magical items; despite his giggle he is a skilled artisan and I have often thought, if only he could be sobered up! But he is too far gone into his vices and like as not will be gone the next morning.

Aldent, the clubfooted

Seen in Irvington

Aldent was born a cripple and therefore outcast, where he fell in with hedge wizards. Perpetually pained and dirty, he makes a living by peddling minor trinkets. Always wary not to draw too much more attention of local constabulary, I have found Aldent pleasant (if pungent) to be around and appreciates gifts of soap and tea.

Ormem, the wibbly

Seen in Shinnen

Ormem, which as I understand it is only one of the names he goes by, was the product, or perhaps the symptom of a portal incident some years ago. Either he suffers from severe multiple-personality disorder or else he truly houses more than one being inside his brain. In any case he is scatty, erratic and a little handsy. He can be put to work if coerced for the right price - his teeth are far too white, and he thinks too highly of himself (himselves?) but has done good work in the past.

Mogomu, the lame

Seen in Thar Gortauth

Mogomu is a native tribal, poor in the common tongue but well known as a traveler despite his infirmary. I understand a wasting disease near took much of the muscle mass of one leg and he travels with a cane and permanent limp. What he lacks in verbage he more than makes up for in mechanical and whimsical study of magical items. His fingers have a knack of working out even the most intricate devices - and putting them back together. Do not turn your back to him! His fingers are equally tricksy with beltpouches and backpacks as if he does not understand the concept of ownership. Still, he prefers sweets and pastries on the few occasions I have called on his aid.

19th May 1018

Dear colleagues, students and sponsors,

I am pleased to have been awarded the Deanship of Field Research for the University. In that regard I shall be holding short seminars on my findings regards unique persons, reagents and portents that you may encounter. These seminars are by no means exhaustive but are field tested and aught to be valuable to anyone engaging in arcane studies and the collection of ingredients both mystical and mundane.

Treatise on Reagents I

Ancient Keys

These are prized reagents representing portals, travel and secrets. They may be made of wood, metal, stone, bone and horn. The "ancient" moniker seems to stem as much from their age as the number of times they were handled in their lifetime, and by whom.

Bar of Soap

Made from tallow, fats, ashes and lye, these bars represent a combination of commerce and pioneering as well as hygiene. A sage or wizard may ask for them not only as a chemical reagent but also to add to their inventory for personal use.

Battered Armour

A sage may use these items of crushed metal and torn leathers, selecting from the choice remains. The may distill the essence of conflict and despair but also courage and fortitude. Contrary to popular belief, the wearer need not have died while so girded, but the armor itself must have taken part in a conflict of some magnitude.

As stated in the University charter, I am bound to treat all students under my supervision with equality and no regard to their religion, state or status. That said, anyone who treads mud or ichor into my office shall be severely reprimanded.