[The spot] Will work for...

[Lessomm]

Summer, 74th, Year 513 Lessomm stared at the face that was looking up at him from the water. He wondered for the umptienth time where the scar had come from on the side of his face. Carefully he ran the digit of his finger over the broken skin. He blinked at himself before he stood up straight and released his breath. With all ten fingers running through his hair, he turned away from the water surface and looked towards the building in front of him. His fingers settled on the back of his head where he grabbed all the hair with one hand while removing the band that kept his hair together with the other hand. With quick, experienced motions, Lessomm tied the band around his hair again, resettling his ponytail. With his heart beating in his throat, Lessomm opened the door of the building and stepped into a somewhat busy tavern. The spot was a decent establishment when it came to food and drink and the prices were just as decent as what they gave in return for them. But Lessomm was not here for food nor drink. You needed Mizas for that, something he was rather low on at the moment. He could feel the emptiness in his money pouch. As he closed the door behind him, Lessomm rolled his shoulders rather uncomfortably. The two arms that he was using were no problem, it was the four others that were hidden under his clothes and desired to move that were making him uncomfortable. With the arms wrapped tightly around his body, Lessomm was already feeling hot even before entering the establishment. He sighed softly to himself as he placed his left hand on his right shoulder and squeezed lightly, massaging it. Spinning around on his heels, Lessomm turned to the people sitting in the room, eating their food or drinking their drinks. Straightening his simple beigebrown shirt and pants, Lessomm let his eyes move across the room, trying to spot the lookers. Usually, when someone showed signs of being non-human, like his olive skin or the somewhat misshapen form of his upper body, Ravokians tended to get aggressive and chace him out. Everyone was sticking to their own business. Lessomm focused on the bar and headed over to it, his mind constantly working for every step he took. He often glanced down to his feet to see them move and take steps, moving his body. Even now he was impressed by the way his body moved. With only two of the six arms to provide him with balance, it surprised Lessomm how easy it was to move around. "Excuse me, bartender. Is it possible to hang job requests on the board as well?" He fidled with the piece of parchment in his hand, his request for an employer in need of personal assistant or butler, sliding it over the counter back and forth, nervous about handing the request over to the bartender in case it was allowed and nervous about the bartender saying no on the other hand.

[Miro]

Miro had long since been after Forus, but never could quite find any leads. The winds blew whispers that called up suspicions, but they were always so subtle, and always dead ends. Of course, though it was harrowing, the wizard could not lose heart so easily. Onward he would push, maybe tomorrow coming a step closer. At the very least he was learning what wasn't a lead to Forus. Eventually he may have to consider the fact that the man never went to Ravok, or maybe he never existed at all. Perhaps Rayage had run out his usefulness and was sold out to Ravok. If that was the case, he would be so grateful to someone saving him from a fate unwelcome. the Chained One Smirked at the though of forcing the Nuit to repay the debt of having his corpse hide saved.

Though one would have to admit, sitting at the bar with Bohir was not pleasant. Just listening to job requests, trying to act as if you are not, feigning a poor outlook on life. It was all so drab. At least it wasn't hard to feign despair with his current situation. "I hadn't thought the day could get any slower Ender. Really, I did not. A live man could drink away his boredom, yet the closest I can get is Hypnotism. Shame I hadn't prepared us any scrolls. If only one reliable informant would appear, or one more suited to tracking individuals down. A charter of all undead in the city, how grand it would be. Even a glimpse at those who possess magic. I would definitely kill to lay hands on such a prize. Kill, kill, and then I would kill some more. All for the sake of getting the only kill that matters. Err, I mean capture, not kill. Right, of course, to capture Forus."

Ender was the type however to not become bored so quickly. A peaceful day was something he had longed for in the past, but was a fleeting desire in his current state. Certainly the psychosis of a wizard was growing within him, and only complimented by his nature. Paranoia and supreme vigilance were a fine mixture indeed. Though the Familiar was easily able to occupy himself. And in this case, it served great purpose, always watchful of a hint at their quarry. "Quiet, for the Spot, sure it is. Hardly a still location though. A pointless occupancy it is though. No suspicious jobs have come through, nor any characters, just chaff. I may be able to view all around us, but I am blind to our next step. Are we in agreement now to seek more to assist us? I know you are more than eager to have Rayage arrive, but let's not wait. You do not need him. I will find you a new Rayage, a better one. We can finish his task before he even arrives."

Wearing the Mask of Many did alleviate much of the need to hold an expression. One thing it did not hide however was the smile, and in Miro's case, a grimace it was. None remained unsettled by it. Behind the gnarly mask, wicked fangs behind shriveled curled back lips. Not to mention the grey eyes, always so filled with dark desires. The attire of a wizard, the appearance of one overgiven, his appearance did not give him credit. He was much more crazy than that. His cravings however did not come from overgiving, but from something much deeper than that. Uldr's hand in his body's creation for one. It left him with a craving of domination and power. This lead him into his next inkling of crazy, his left arm held in a sling. It remained out of sight, hidden beneath his cloak, but always present in his mind. Simply because it was part of his mind.

No longer was the Reimancer's left arm his own. It had become host to a parasite of sorts, a curse that he had brought upon himself. In appearance the arm had become entirely black, limp, and seemingly dead. But the arrival of a voice in his head, it hinted at something else entirely. The arm was more alive than ever, conscious on its own, and able to share in all of its host's thoughts. Perhaps the voice was in his head, a consequence of being pushed too far. The wizard certainly did not think so. With all of its ability to tap into the host's mind, it was masterful at manipulating him. Manipulating him into following its dark nature. The thing would present itself as an adviser to him, always giving guidance. Reminding him that its dark mode of operation was not its own, but Miro's own true nature. That it knows him better than he does, that it cares about him above all else. Especially above Ender, or the Ice, as it would call him.

"Miro let us leave. You do not want to be here. Listen to your thoughts, listen as I have. It is becoming apparent to me, as I am sure it is to you, we need to be about. Think logically dear Miro. Most undead do not come here, only yourself. Their kind seem unappreciated by the masses, and these men are all drunk, and gathered up. They are ready to gang up on those who do not belong. Think of those who know how to blend in, to remain hidden, to exist as a Nuit. Snatching bodies, practicing magic, keeping sheltered without drawing attention. Think as Forus would, and walk the streets he would walk. Visit the places he would visit. Most of all, take note of all those showing undead qualities. Seek out those who brandish his disciplines of magic. There is so much to be done, and the Ice has you doing it in the wrong place. Think now, for soon we shall depart to a more likely locale. But remember, when we find him, he is dangerous. Cripple him, Leech him, then lock him away."

The undead nodded to himself and thought for a moment. Immediately a few locations came to mind, as well as a few things to try. However these plans were still raw, needing much more preparation before being served. It as about the time he turned around that an odd fellow had walked up to Bohir. Strangely nervous, he was seeking to use the wall to get have a job request posted. Though it was not quite used that way, though nothing said it couldn't. However most of the people here were in search of work, and if one was unable to find a fitting service to provide there, it was unlikely the demand existed. One could never be too sure though, for he had no idea what it was to be presented. Perhaps it was even some job as an informant or about selling a hot tip. Though truly it was unlikely the man could be of any help at all. Just witnessing how awkward he acted was hint enough. One could never be too sure though.

"You know, most people here use the wall for posting jobs they are requested to be done. If you have a service to provide though, I can understand the will to advertise it." Miro stood and walked over to the man. He now stood aside him, and though he glanced at the paper, paid no heed what the words said. So much simpler it was to just ask. "Tell me now, what is it you do? Or to put it more simply, what can you do for me? I am a man of deep enough pockets, sure, but I am also one who requires a great service to be done. And done fully, might I add. I will make this simple for you, because I am soon to depart from here. Sell yourself to me with your words, and I will buy your service, if the hook is good enough." He now presented a slight cocky smirk to the man. "I promise you, if you can provide me what I need, you will find yourself exceedingly lucky. This is the best opportunity you will EVER get."

[Lessomm]

Before the bartender had even time to answer his question, Lessomm found himself approached by one of the patrons of the Spot. The moment the man in front of him asked what it is Lessomm did, he hopd off the barstool he was sitting on and stood in front of Miro. Never let a chance slip by. Lessomm moved his right hand across his chest, his fingertips touching his left shoulder ever so slightly as he bowed lightly towards the stranger, his eyes cast down towards the man's feet for a moment. "My name is Lessomm, young Ser. I am a butler, a personal servant. I live to serve and take care of my master, whoever they may be, young or old, man or woman." Lessomm rose from his bow at the last words, looking at the man in front of him. Although he didn't want to do it, afraid he might anger or irritate a potential employer, Lessomm couldn't help but swallow at the combination he saw in front of him. Most of the man's face was covered with a skull of some sort. The small part of skin that he could see, around the man's mouth, seemed wrong, somehow. And the cocky smile that accompanied it all did not make Lessomm feel any more at ease. Combining it all together, it didn't seem like the best of employment chances, but then again Lessomm was lacking any sort of alternative at the moment. "I studied with under a visitor, who was a butler himself and learned all he could teach me in the short time he was here. I'm able to do every housekeeping task required, from cleaning the rooms to cooking your food to taking care your clothes, and as your personal assistant I will do my very best to make your life easier in every way that I can." He had practiced it quite often in the mirror and now that he found himself in front of someone interested in what he had to offer he had already forgotten half of what he had wanted to say. He felt a little stupid for having to make up his salespitch last minute but as far as he could gather, he had mentioned all that needed mentioning. Of course, there was much more to his services then just doing the laundry and cleaning the rooms, but he wasn't sure if the man in front of him was one of those guys who would stare at him as if he was grunting jamouran if he started talking about arranging trips for his master, escorting him to whatever events he wanted to go to, arranging dinnerparties whenever needed. The list went on. Lessomm found that it was easier to get hired for the basics and then pitch in the rest as a bonus and then hope that his employer was bright enough to understand Lessomm was not just a pair of hands used for doing the dirty dishes or placing the food on the table. Lessomm's eyes shifted down, away from the mask, and back up, realizing that eye contact was important. Lessomm had seen the hate stares of the Ravokians when he was in his own form and he had felt uneasy and skittish then. Now he stared into eyes that showed little more than boredom at what was happening around him, boredom and perhaps a touch of hunger for something. Lessomm swallowed again as he remembered to let his right hand drop down again. He straightened his back and suppressed the urge to massage his shoulders again as his arms made it well known how much they disliked the current state they were in. Mustering all the courage he had he stared right into the eyes hidden behind the mask, waiting to see what the man thought of him.

[Miro]

Miro's smirk grew into a grin as the man before him started to speak. It was a combination of appealing and amusing in one. He rather liked the bow, the sound of a personal servant, but being called young Ser was worth a chuckle. However it would remained suppressed until the man was done selling himself. It seemed that a personal servant was one dedicated to taking care of the trivialities of life for their master. The things mentioned however were of no concern to the wizard. He needed absolutely none of it. And now that the man was finished, he decided it time to follow up with the jest held in. "Oh? Young Ser, huh? Tell me, was that an attempt at flattery, or perhaps this mask hides so well my maturity. Quite the odd fellow you are."

The undead's bulging grey eyes quivered with anticipation as he thought. A blank yet ever so wild stare given to the man, obviously somewhere else in his mind. The thought of one dedicated to making his life easier sounded like an excellent luxury, but that was not what was appealing. Having a person bought to serve him, that was the appeal. Not some slave who's job it was to be broken, only living to serve. Something fancier, with class. One who took pride in being an assistant, was actually paid. Not bought, but paid. They would work hard not for fear of abuse, but of not being wanted, gotten rid of. He liked that. "I have no need for eating, cleaning, nor having clothes set out. I wear this, eat not, nor do I make much of a mess. But I do like the sound of a personal assistant."

Miro leaned in a little closer to this mystery servant and spoke in whispers. The crisp tone of his voice was muffled, yet each words shone with clarity. Even when hushed, his words held apparent confidence. Though still a whisper, it was only a change in tone, one more discrete. They were after all still in a tavern, one with plenty of noise. His voice still carried volume enough to be heard by those around who would care enough to listen. Especially Bohir, a man who already knew the wizard for what he was. "I assume you are capable of much more than simply taking care of children and the elderly." Once again he looked over the man before him. "I am an undead, and a wizard. A man who needs not to eat, change, or be taken care of, but assisted. One who has many tasks that require someone dedicated and loyal."

Now, this was not quite an offer most would take up, but the Hypnotist's own pitch was hardly finished. This butler had sold himself on the service, showing traits needed, and now it was time for the wizard to do the same. Djed was gathered in his throat and woven into the calm rasp of his soft words. A subconscious hypnotic suggestion that would be delivered with his next sentence, "I will not get another offer as good as this." The undead holding a serious look as he spoke. "You would be well compensated, and treated with great respect." The magical phrase followed by a sincere nod, the delay needed to prepare another spell. Another suggestion, this time, "This man seems sincere, trust him." And the words to deliver it. "I am Miro, proud wizard, newcomer to Ravok. I am in need of some assistance, and you are a godsend."

Those pushes at a good impression were a start, but the hypnotic art was delicate. It required more finesse than force, and overuse would often only drain the caster. As with all magic, efficient usage was key. His voice was drifting away from a whisper as he spoke more. "I can show you my place, even offer it to you to live in. Show you my things, as one of the services I may require is delivery. Or even to hold some things or open doors. As you can see, I have but one arm. There is one thing I will promise you though. Look into my eyes and see the sincerity." The wizard flowed Djed into eyes, through his gaze. An emotional response this time, that of sincerity, as advertised. His voice no longer a whisper, but a firm declaration. "I will treat you with respect, and will be truly grateful for the help you offer me." But trailed off at the end of his sentence and looked towards the ground. In this time another suggestion was prepared, this one to finish the sale.

Miro spoke in a humble tone, once again hushed, though now seemingly despondent. His vocal cords ripe with Djed however were starting to grow sore from abuse. "If you would consider assisting somebody like me, that is. Most do not treat the undead nor wizards well. I would certainly understand if you would not wish to take employment under me for these reasons." The final suggestion already pushed, "He needs my assistance." Despite his hopeless words he shone as a kind a smile as he could feign up at the man. A sign that he had hope for this personal servant yet. "You do seem an honorable man though, one who knows how to care for others. I expect that you understand that my kind, like all others, desire assistance and companionship. It is something I am ever-so-lacking in my life. More than the need for assistance, truly I desire a friend."

And the once false sincerity of the smile turned sour, a more devilish grin than anything. Though one viewing it would likely take it as an awkward show of affection from a creature long foreign to the world of man. Despite appearing a man well into his thirties, the Chained One was more a boy than anything. Not even yet into his twenties, his maturity would hint at even younger. However his skills in his chosen discipline of magic would hint at something much older, perhaps even hundreds of years older. Odd creatures the undead were. "My my, Ser Miro, that was quite the performance. I think I may be melting tears over here. am I? Oh no, but it was good. You really showed how hard your heart beats for a friend, now didn't you? It is a shame though, I rather like this one. No doubt your nefarious mind has a horrid descent into madness planned for him. Or perhaps he is going to be some sacrifice. Do not tell me though, I do not wish to spoil the show. After all, it is only the first act."

[Lessomm]

It was not a good start. Although the man in front of him seemed amused for some reason, Lessomm felt like he had made a mistake in adressing the man as 'young'. "I apologize, ser. The mask... hides your maturity well. I'm sorry." If he could, he would kick himself then and there. How stupid of him to not have realized the man before him was older than he looked. The mask and the outfit had thrown him off and he had made a mistake. He hoped it was the last he would make towards this man. He could feel the beads of sweat run down his spine as he met the grey stare of the stranger in front of him. Lessomm remained quiet as he let the man do whatever it was he was doing, thinking, perhaps, making a decision, possibly, deciding that Lessomm would be a good addition to his team, hopefully. When the man spoke again, Lessomm could feel his heart sink down to his stomach. But it rose up and settled back in place as the man mentioned liking the sound of a personal assistant. Perhaps he still had a chance. Lessomm straigthened himself as the man leaned closer and politely leaned in as well, making sure he kept a professional distance. The little tinge of red that had been on his cheeks disappeared and turned a pale white as the man introduced himself as an undead wizard. Of course, just his luck. Of all the people he could have been approached by it had to be an undead, human eating, fireball flinging, demon summoning crazy wizard. Why couldn't it have been a Nitrozian sadist with a whip or something? At least he would have been able to get used to that. Although the man scared him to no end, Lessomm did not step back and continued listening. How bad could things get? If he didn't like it, he could always leave the job and find a different one. If needed he could work at one of the many taverns or inns for a while to pay his dues. It wasn't like one of those rich Nitrozians was going to pop in the Spot and claim him as his personal servant, right? This was probably the best offer he would get in a long while. And him being a wizard wouldn't be so bad either. Lessomm didn't do much of the fireball blinging, demon summoning magic but he was technically a wizard as well, right? He continued to listen to the undead wizard in front of him and when he asked him to look into his eyes, Lessomm raised his gaze up from the bony mask and focused on the grey eyes hidden behind the mask. He could feel how the man was almost pouring his heart out to him, something he would never have expected of an undead. All the stories he had heart and now he was face to face with one and he didn't seem all that bad at all. Lessomm wondered why he had been so nervous and afraid just a moment ago. "I'm content to know that you think so highly of me, Ser. I am but a humble servant but I am willing to assist you with whatever you might need. I might even be able to help with some of your more magical research." He hushed his own voice as well, leaning in a little closer, his gaze still locked with that of the man in front of him. "I have dabbled a little in magic as well." As he spoke, Lessomm couldn't help but draw some of his Djed towards his eyes, covering them in a thin membrane that blocked out the light going in the shield. From Miro's perspective, the eyes would change color, from the outside in as his Djed spread towards the middle of his eyes. At first nothing much would change, just a lighter color. But the change would continue until Lessomm's eyes were the same as the ones he was staring into, grey, dead eyes. He left the change for only a moment, for his potential new master to see before allowing his Djed to settle back the way it had been before, his eyes returning to their original color. He could feel how the man's words were plucking at his heart. He seemed so alone, this frail, broken undead creature. So alone. So much in need of someone like Lessomm to help him and assist him with all his needs. Lessomm wanted to hug the man and tell him it would all be alright. "Ser, if you would be willing to have me I would be glad to be of assistance to you. I will put my everything into serving you with whatever tasks you might require of me. I realize that I can not tell you that I'll be loyal and dedicated but if you'll give me a chance I will prove it to you. If you give me the time, I will spend it so that you can see that I am dedicated and loyal." As he spoke, more of his heart seemed to pour out. Lessomm couldn't help but get excited by the idea of working for this man. It was truly a good idea to help a man like this. Someone who would really appreciate what he did, someone who would come to trust Lessomm enough to rely on him and entrust him with the daily parts of his life. Lessomm stood up and straightened up once more, standing in front of his potential employer. "Ser Miro, if you permit it, it would be my honorable duty to serve you and to help you in any way that I can." Lessomm crossed his right hand over his chest, touching his left shoulder once more as he bowed towards the man for the second time that day, this time much deeper, a small attempt at conveying his desire to serve and take care of a man like this. The mask, the sharp toothed smile and the dead eyes lay forgotten in the back of Lessomm's mindn together with that little warning voice that told him that something was wrong with this man.

[Miro]

This man was quite the curious fellow. Just the right amount of awkward nerves to let you know how hard he was trying. Polite, well mannered, open to suggestions. Very open to suggestions it seemed, for it was not often that Hypnotism had such an apparent effect on a person. Seemed that he was indeed eager to please, pulling from within his subconscious in his actions. Partially the wizard knew though that his manipulations on this man must have agreed well with the servant. This became further evident when his eyes had shifted, a technique he had witnessed before, that of Morphing. How easily he did it, it was obvious the man was more talented than Miro in the discipline. There was no manual manipulation of the eye, as amusing as that would have been.

And then it came, the words that proved the personal servant was ready to commit to his new master. When it was said that he would show dedication and loyalty, rather than only speaking an oath of it, Miro gave a firm nod. "I have no doubt you will prove to me time after time you commitment to your work, and of course, to me." He offered his right hand, grisly black nails protruding, and awaited a handshake. With some of his features seemingly less than human, more than Symenestran, he wondered if Lessomm would come to question these things. Exactly how much did he know about the undead, and how much he needed to know were floating about the Chained One's mind. "I would be honored to have you Lessomm. Come now, let us leave this place. I have much to show you. And we have much to discuss."

The wizard made for the door and waved his new personal servant along with him. As a show of kindness, he himself held the door open for Lessomm. "We shall discuss what exactly your duties will entail and agree on payment before you start. So for now, please, just let me take care of things for a while longer." After that he walked out and waved over a Ravosalaman. He had a suspicion of who it might be, a pattern he was recognizing. And as suspected, it was Renzy, the friendly man who had greeted the wizard on his first day. And since then he had rarely missed a chance to offer a ride. He also rarely missed a chance to ask for a hefty tip, not being above begging. Today the man seemed in quite the pleasant mood.

"Miro, 'ello buddy. A ride for two is it? Where are you going, city center, right?" The Chained One had to fight his nature to remain friendly. "No sir, not today. Say, you always seem to ask if I am going to the other side of the city. Why is that?" The man laughed and gave a simple reply. "No I don't. I take a guess at where you are looking to go." Though it was obvious to both why this was. Renzy had a policy, long trip means big tip. "Oh, of course, but no, not today. Take me home, okay? Maybe next time when you guess correctly you can earn a bigger tip." That once pleasant look on the Ravosalaman's face faded. His usual scowl was back where it belonged. Luckily the trip was only a short one.

"Let us hold off on talk of work for now. I am curious to know you a bit better. First let me start with myself. I am from Alvadas, a place I was named hero before leaving. I am on leave from Sahova for now. Not much more you need to know right now. I will speak more later. For now, please, I am eager to hear about you." And t'was no lie, the undead was quite eager. He kept an open ear to listen until their ride came to its end. From there they made the short walk to his housing unit. It was a tidy room, though quite small. The furniture was all unused and perhaps a bit dusty. Apart from the dusting however, it was quite a clean place. There were a few chairs at a table, a wardrobe, and of course a made bed. Some things were scattered across the table, and the wardrobe was partially open. Inside a wooden staff could be seen resting against a silver cloak.

Miro walked over and closed the wardrobe. "Make yourself at home. Somebody should. I just use this place to store things and keep from peeping eyes. But anyways, it is about time you learn more about me. Let's start with magic, okay? I have mastered Reimancy, an elemental magic. Also quite talented in the Flux and Glyphing. Oh yes, there is something that I need to show you." He grabbed at his wrist, at Ender, as if to pull him off. He could not quite do this, but it was the sign for the Irylid to return to his natural form. The icy bracelet on his wrist turned into a silvery orb and floated from its master's palm. "Introduce yourself to Lessomm. He will be with us for a while. Our personal servant." It was quite annoying for the Familiar to be told things he already knew, but he also knew it was not for his sake. Most would have trouble comprehending what they were seeing.

However Ender would earn himself a favor before speaking. "I will be sure to sell your story, but you owe me for this." Ender generally hated speaking to people. It was not often he strayed from his telepathic bond with Miro. "Nice to meet you Lessomm. I am Ender. I am Miro's Familiar, an Irylid from Fyrden. We are bound for life, and partners. He saved me from my planet, a horrid place. I have spent years with him and I have grown to respect him greatly. He has taken care of me well, and though you are here to serve, I expect he will become invaluable to you as well. I do hope you will stick around for a while now. It would be a shame to lose somebody that my master believes in enough to bring here." Though it was not quite what the wizard had in mind, he wasn't upset with the performance. However he still had details to work out.

"Yes, he is my Familiar, as he said. And as for pay, how does two gold rimmed Miza a day sound? Of course, that is starting pay. As you prove yourself more valuable, as I grow more accustomed to your service, your pay will increase. However I am a wizard, and I am oft in need of assistance in this. You are a Morpher, as evident by your eye changing technique. That is quite valuable. I know a bit of the discipline myself. However I will more likely require assisting in the discipline of Glyphing. As a wizard yourself, I assume you know of it. And if not, your first task for me will be training. And even if you are experienced, I will still need to test your capabilities. That being said, I would be pleased for you to start working immediately. Right now in fact. Take us to a shop, one where scrolls and inscribing paint can be purchased. I require twenty scrolls of parchment and two jars of inscribing paint. I will pay, but nothing more. Let us make haste."

[Lessomm]

Things seemed to be going quite well. How could anyone deny a man who had his heart out there, speaking from his feelings, rising right up and pouring out of his mouth. If this was not enough to work for a man like the one he was looking at then Lessomm had no idea what else to do. He hoped that shifting his eyes, which he had done in the spur of the moment, wouldn't upset the man in front of him. He couldn't afford another mistake like he had done at the start of their conversation. Lessomm could feel the beads of sweat start to form along his spine and arms. The constant close proximity of his arms to his body already made his body quite hot but the nervousness and the man's presence pushing down on Lessomm only made things worse. Lessomm's lips turned up in a smile he couldn't help but show as the man extended his right hand towards him, accepting Lessomm's offer. And right with the offer came his first command as well. They would leave the Spot right away. Lessomm extended his hand and grasped onto the hand, the fingernails being the least of his problems. As his hand shook Miro's, Lessomm felt a huge weight drop from his shoulders, which got immediately replaced by a much smaller one but one that would grow over time to be much larger the more trust Miro placed in Lessomm. "Please, lead the way, yo-.. master. I'm eager to see what I need to see and hear what I need to hear." Not even five chimes into their relationship, Lessomm already noticed how his master cared about him. It was the role of the servant to hold open doors but Miro held the door open for him. At the same time as he felt grateful, Lessomm felt ashamed to have missed the first opportunity to be of service. With a little spring in his step, Lessomm followed his master and stepped out the Spot. As he did, he spun on his heels and stepped aside, placing himself next to the door, resting his hand on the door and holding it in turn open for his master. His free hand waved out towards the outside area as Lessomm waited for his master to pass. He closed the door and walked after his master, trying to rush past him to get a Ravosala for his master and himself but Miro had already contacted one. Lessomm took in a deep breath and tried his best to calm himself down. Yes, first impressions were important but running around trying to race against a master who was obviously not above doing things on his own was only foolish. Lessomm calmed himself and watched as the Ravosalaman stopped near them and spoke, rudely in Lessomm's opinion, to Miro. Standing a little to the side from his master, Lessomm followed the exchange between the two of them, keeping himself out of the conversation. Lessomm waited for his master to step into the Ravosala and followed after him, continuing to remain quiet as he hadn't been informed of a location and was unable to pass it onto the Ravosalaman. Lessomm lisened eagerly to his master as he made a very short and non-descript introduction of himself. So Miro had been in Alvadas and Sahova, two places which he had heard in rumors and in other people's conversations but neither of which stirred any memories or interests. He had no idea what it meant to be named a hero in Alvadas but it sounded quite impressive. He followed queue and started to introduce himself. "I'm originally from Ahnathep, I think. But the past five years I've spent in Ravok, I think." As he spoke, Lessomm raised his left hand and brought it up to his temple, where the scar cut down from his scalp to his ear. "I think I was attacked when I came to Ravok. I lost my memory due to a headwound and now I have no recollection of the things that happened before Ravok. Maybe I've been here all my life, I don't know." Lessomm ran his fingers up the scar and let them rub over the white streak of hair that rushed up through his scalp. "As for the rest, I've spent a lot of my time trying to survive in this city. I worked as a waiter and as a masseur and once as a bodyguard, I worked as a personal assistant before as well and I spent time, as I mentioned before, as a student to a professional butler, although only for a short time." Since his master hadn't mentioned anything about his skills or abilities, Lessomm left his more unnatural abilities out of the conversation. As the ride was short, soon after his summary, Lessomm found the Ravosala slowing down and finally stopping. Lessomm stepped out of the Ravosala and made sure that Miro had no problem getting out either. Once again unsure, he kept himself a little in the background, unsure if Miro expected him to pay or not. "I think perhaps it is best to mention that I'm not human. Not in the Ravokian sense of the word. If that is enough reason for me to get back in the Ravosala and leave, then please let me know." He waited here for a moment, holding his breath, hoping there would be no command to leave. As nothing came, Lessomm followed his master inside. The building was familiar, yet different. NHC housing looked the same everywhere, wether you owned a place in it or not. The master's room looked better than Lessomm's although not as tidy. Lessomm kept his urge to clean up the place under control as he looked around for a moment, noticing the mostly empty wardrobe. A quick glance over the table showed Lessomm that there was nothing extremely magical or dangerous on it, at least not as far as he could tell with his own limited experience. "It reminds me of home." Literally as it was the same design except a little more flair and care. As they moved on to more magic related things, Lessomm found himself perplexed once more. The creature in front of him was much more advanced than he had imagined. Or at least he thought he was as he had no idea what it meant to be a master mage in any discipline or what flux was. He had heard of glyphing but that was all. And just when he thought things couldn't get any stranger, Miro pulled on something on his wrist, detaching it and letting it float. The little ball floated. And he spoke to it. And then it even started speaking to Lessomm. At first he couldn't quite believe his own ears. He listened with his mouth half open. So on top of being a fireball flinging, crazy and human eating mage, the master also had a magical pet that came from a different planet, whatever a planet was. Lessomm snapped his mouth shut and smiled. "Nice to meet you, Ender." Lessomm crossed his right arm over his chest touching his left shoulder with his right fingers and bowed lightly towards the floating orb. "It would be my honor to "stick around" for a while." From there the conversation tumbled into boring details, especially now, after having heard all about different magics and familiars and serving the master. Two gold rimmed Mizas was not Lessomm's best wage ever but then not his worst either. "I have to apologize, master. I am in no stretch of the imagination a morpher. I'm only able to change my eyes and hair color to a certain extent. My real magical skills lie in the creation of shields. I apologize for the misunderstanding I created." He bowed again, this time a little deeper than he had done towards Ender. "As for the items you requested, I'm sure that the Odds and Ends in the Docks has the items you require. They have a little bit of everything although I'm not sure if the paint will be inscribing paint exactly. Is this to your satisfaction?" Lessomm hoped that the paint would be fine, if not he would have to get some information from someone with a less sifty brain as he had no idea where one could buy scrolls or inscribing paint. The docks usually had plenty of traders and little shops were they could find what was needed. "Would you like me to call a Ravosala for you, master?" Lessomm questioned before opening the door of his master's room into the common hallways of the NHC building. He waited for his master before closing the door behind himself, waiting for his master to lock it. Hopefully, over time, Lessomm would have a copy of the keys for himself and then Miro wouldn't have to bother with trivialities like that anymore. As they got to the Ravok streets and waterways again, Lessomm looked around for a Ravosala and got it's attention.

[Miro]

It seemed some things were not quite as they appeared. Not quite a Morpher, but a Shielder, it seemed. At least, that is what Miro would call somebody who practiced the discipline. There was a time where it was introduced to him, at least in concept. An interesting type of wizard they seemed to make. Or maybe his strange nature came from his race, or perhaps it was due to his memory issues. Certainly this man was unusual, but not in such a way to be a burden. It did seem that there would be work to be done before the arrangement was ideal, but that was to be expected. Working with a Hypnotist could be such a magical time in one's life. Lessomm's view of the world would soon start to shift if left in contact with Miro. However their arrangement hadn't seemed to start well.

"No, forgo the Ravosala, please. We needn't waste our time, though I will be needing those supplies. I will ensure that the supplies can be obtained before long, but not today. We have all we need to continue. Sadly I was hoping you would not fail to produce results on something seemingly so trivial. In honesty, any paint would work for Glyphing. However I have a very specific preference for inscribing paint. Care and pride have an important role in magic. It is time for you to learn that and much more. Sit on the bed, it is time for you to learn. I will make it easy for you to understand. The tools, concepts, techniques. What you can accomplish with Glyphing is very specific and important. In the most simple explanation, it modifies magic."

Miro waved a hand to dismiss Lessomm for a moment while he walked to the wardrobe. He opened it and reached down for a leather bag, then walked over to his desk. "This is my, well, I'll call it my Glyphing bag. Inside it has all we need. Paint, scrolls, brushes, even some cases for scrolls." The wizard pulled out each tool as it was mentioned, the last being a waterproof case. Inside of this scroll casing was what he called a Rose Sigil. Very simple in its composition, merely several focuses arranged around a single switch and armed with a trigger. And no sigil could be complete without barriers. The focuses to hold magic, the barrier to contain the magic, and the switch to combine the magic. All of it set off by the trigger, some condition to activate the switch and release the combined spell. In the case of the Rose Sigil, a phrase to be spoken.

The cased Rose Sigil was now held in the air. "This is a creation of my own, one of the infinite possibilities. It stores several spells, though each quite small, but then combined in their effects. Even to combine magics across disciplines. I will show you later, for now we shall discuss mechanics. So listen closely. Very closely. Your job as my servant begins with this. Glyphing, the most basic and versatile world magic." Listening to lectures on magic was not quite what most would think of as a duty of a personal servant. However, a wizards assistant, that seemed about right. Maybe the choice in title was not so important, but the job to be done would become clear in time. Miro had some scheme developing in his mind, but Lessomm would have no idea. The job was encroaching upon the domain of the apprentice, a role that had very specific rules.

Such a title carried great risk, but not like this. An apprentice was one who agreed to put their life in his hands, knowing the deal made. In most cases, it was dedication to the master in exchange for granted insight. This was something else, and where the extent of the master's reach ended was questionable. Arguably little could stop the Reimancer from having his way. Well, in most cases this would be true. If his goal were different perhaps. Miro was to retain an image of perfection in his servants eyes. It was the only way he could truly have his way. There would be no punishment, no threats, nor any blatant abuse. Only subtle manipulations and the ultimate decision. When it came to a point of ending the relationship there were only two choices.

Lessomm would be like a fire set to keep one's self warm. One that required time, dedication, resources, and the most delicate care to pamper to a full and bright flame. Either he would have to douse it with cold harsh water, or let the inferno rage. Let his creation sizzle out on its own or burn everything around it. "Glyphing is very simple in concept. Shapes, designs, patterns, symbols, whatever your style, they are all runes drawn to modify magic. This is done by four simple types of runes. Arguably there is a fifth, but never mind that now. Each are quite simple too, accomplishing a specific task, and when combined the limits are almost nonexistent. It is quite hard to understand just by lecture, so I will prepare a demonstration. The first thing you will learn is the close relationship between personal magic and Glyphing. To demonstrate this, I shall use Reimancy."

Miro guided his hand out before him and cast out an aqua liquid from his palm. The strange liquid seamlessly flowed from his flesh and floated out before him, defying gravity entirely. For a chime the act continued while the pool grew and took the shape of an orb in the air. Finally he ceased the emission and pulled out the two chairs from his desk and placed them together. "This substance, it is the essence of Reimancy, Res. It has the potential to become all elements, but that is all you need to know for now." The substance splashed upon the surface of the chairs and formed a new shape. It was a long bar of sorts, at least it started this way. The shape quickly became more defined. A strange object was forming with morphed ends that moved in symmetry.

At each end a round bowl was formed that lead inward to a channel. These bowls were titled, as if to dump their contents down the path. The channels led to the center, a square made to catch the channels contents. The excess carved from the design floated upwards and in an instant the main body of Res solidified into the dull tone of rock. The floating excess was replaced to fill the rock structure. One last touch was added, a block at each of the round bowls. A vertical sheet of Res was formed to block the contents of each from running towards the center, and this was transmuted to ice. "There, it is set. I am sure this makes little sense at the moment, but it will soon become clear. I shall now explain each rune and its representation."

Miro started with the rounded bowls. A finger was pointed at each, his mouth in a slight pride-smirk. "These here, they represent focuses, which are runes that store magic. Any magic that flows into it is stored, trapped in an instant. When it is released, it is cast back exactly as it was cast in. In this example each will hold a different element, these represent different disciplines of magic." Then the blocks and channels. "These here are what we call barriers, they restrict magic, and when formed into channels like this, they become a path. They can guide magic." And then finally to the center bowl. "This here, it one of the most complicated of runes, the switch. It holds one of two opposite effects. Either it combines or splits magic, either in effect or function."

With his once smirk now grown into a full grin, the wizard now walked to his servant. "Hold your hand out, the last rune will be placed on you." And when his servant produced his palm, the Reimancer would drag his finger in an 'X' shape across it. As their flesh would collide a faint trickle of Res would be left behind, simply to mark his hand. "That there, it is a trigger, the last rune. A trigger is activated by a set condition, and in turn activates another rune it is connected to. In this example, our ice barriers. The condition of activation is to clench your fist." He then raised a cautionary finger into the air. "And once a scroll or sigil is released, it disappears. Often enough taking parchment drawn on with it." The finger was dropped. "When you're ready, clench your fist and activate the sigil."

Watching for the man to close his fist, Miro readied himself for the task he was to accomplish. First the Res on Lessomm's palm would turn to air, seemingly disappearing. Then he would activate his Ice Reaving mark to melt the barriers. Finally the rounded bowls of Res would be transmuted, one to water, one to fire. At first just the top layer, pulled down the channel by the attraction of Res until they met in the center. Once the two colliding elements would meet, they would combine within the square representation of the switch. The Res within the channels would mix with that of the square bowl and become transmuted. The water, fire and Res would burst with a sizzle into a cloud of rising steam. At which he hoped the physical representation had an effect in understanding. Of course an explanation would still need to be given for full effect.

"Okay, hopefully things are becoming a bit more clear now. This demonstration can be recreated with just my paint exactly as shown, but it can mean so much more. The fire was to represent one discipline, and water another, and the steam they formed, it was something new entirely. Each of them were held in place by the barrier, only able to move once you activated the trigger. Once the barrier was gone, it only had one direction it could move, down the channel, the paths. Each of the paths lead to another side of the center, which was a switch. As you remember, this rune has two effects. In this example it combined the two magics, fire and water, and it made steam. However, by adding a third channel one could reverse this. If steam was sent down a channel to the switch, it could be used to separate out fire and water. Which again is a representation for magics themselves."

The Chained One was satisfied with the progress he had made so far. More than that he was curious of his servant's understanding. To have been explained Glyphing at once could definitely be overwhelming. Not that he would be able to apply it without risking their lives. "Something like that though, it is only a way to help you understand. It is unlikely you will have need for all of these types of runes. As a complete novice nothing you create is even close to reliable. The best you might do is to augment your own body with runes. In my experience a focus drawn on my palm will ease the flow of magic. My casting of Res for example. Now, all that being explained, present any questions you may have. Explain to me how much of this you understand and we can continue."

Ender was quite satisfied with what Miro had started. He had his own plan for things. Less interested in Lessomm however. The man would only serve as some form of leverage. The Familiar was after Miro. There was more his master could do to enable him and nurture his power. The Irylid was sick of being looked down on as lesser. Luckily that was what this servant was hired for. Though it was to be in a way that built him up. "I understand you are trying to turn this man into something. It almost seems to me as if he will take my place as your Familiar. He is made so naive by you that he expects no danger from either of us. Wouldn't he be so touched if we bonded? Lessomm is but a Shielding wizard, and with my Reimancy would be well protected." Or as planned, to be under threat of death. A hostage that would give him a position of power and relevance.

[color=aqua]"There is nothing you can do to stop me from sealing myself on his wrist. And if I decide he is to die, you can not stop me from that either. I am a Leecher myself, yet he doe not know this. At any time I could decide to even initiate him. He would make a fine Reimancer and Leecher. Or we can stop this. Teach me Hypnotism and how to use your magics fully. If not I will have to keep close to our new friend." The undead would not be swayed so easily though. "There is nothing to teach Ender." He pushed his hand out to nudge Ender along before turning to Lessomm. "Ender has decided that he would like to keep close to you. In his sealed form he is unable to speak, but still possible to cast magic. He is an Ice Reimancer, and wishes to keep you from harm. It is strange of him though, so he must approve of you."

The Irylid drifted over to the servant. Again he spoke in the tone of a creature from another world. "Truly I feel we should work together in serving our master. Miro is quite capable on his own, but with our help there will be little he is required to do. Together we are capable of handling any task he may require of us. While you are near the master I can remain sealed on your wrist to provide assistance." But he would not take the form unless a wrist was presented. And Miro had but one more interruption before resigning to allow Lessomm to speak. "I wish to pay you in advance for the rest of the season." He took his coin pouch and placed it on the table. "Take your pay for the rest of this season. I believe thirty coins or so should be appropriate." It was best to ensure a firm grip on new assets.

[Lessomm]

Lessomm was confused to say the least. First the master asked for supplies and then a moment later the supplies were not needed anymore, yet they were still needed but only later. He stood near the door, listening to his master, thrown off his balance by what he heard. Lessomm moved over to the bed, making sure to move anything lying on it to the side, stacking things up nicely. Some things are difficult to unlearn. When he was satisfied with his little job he sat himself down on the bed and watched the master move through the room to the wardrobe. Lessomm sat down in wonder, watching the tools being pulled out and looked amazed at the scroll case as the master explained what was in it. Although he had expected more servant tasks to start off with, Lessomm couldn't really say that he was unhappy to be taught by the master himself. He sat on the edge of the bed and listened closely as Miro started explaining. So glyphing was some sort of writing or drawing that allowed one to modify magic. As he tried to wrap his head around the amount of runes there were, the master started to magic something in front of him, using the chair as a base. As Lessomm watched in amazement at the substance being created, apparently called Res, he unconsciously started to draw on his own Djed. Invisible to the naked eye, his Djed started to seep out of his pores and skin, quickly covering his body, resting there, waiting to be used. Unaware of his own reaction to the drawn Res, Lessomm watched as the Res shaped itself into a long bar with two round objects at each end. The Res started to form itself and solidified into a stone like object. All in all, it was a very impressive show of magic and something that Lessomm had never seen before. His eyes were glued to the scene as the master finished off with his designs and building. Focusing entirely on the object on the chairs, Lessomm followed Miro's fingers as it pointed to the bowls. Rune 1: focuses. And they're used to store magic. So a focus was like a shelf. Rune 2: barriers. They were like the wood from which the shelf was made, keeping whatever was in the shelf in the shelf. Rune 3: switch. He couldn't quite place the switch rune so he just kept the name for now. As Miro moved closer, Lessomm looked up and immediately followed orders. He extended his hand, a little worried, and held his palm upwards for his master. The touch of his master was strange and sent a shiver up Lessomm's spine as the Res settled on his hand. This was the fourth Rune, the trigger. The trigger basically made things happen when triggered. Lessomm looked intently at his master's cautionary finger. So the trigger activated the entire construct. He waited for a bit after Miro told him to clench his fist; constantly looking at his master. As he closed his fist slowely, he looked at the construct on the chairs. Lessomm watched the two ends of the construct turn to fire and water and move to the middle. The entire show of magical force excited Lessomm for unknown reasons. It was amazing to someone create out of nothing all these things: fire, ice, rock, water and that substance that seemed to come out of nowhere: Res. As the fire and water connected, Lessomm felt a little disatisfied as the natural reaction happened and not some unextected change in the elements. The fire and water sizzled and turned to steam, clouding his vision for a moment and, Lessomm wondered why he knew that, possible make the master sick at some point. Too much humidity did that for you. He smirked at nobody in particular as he wondered where that thought had come from. The demonstration was in deed very impressive and it had explained a few things but more question than answers had risen for Lessomm. "It was impressive to see." As he spoke, Lessomm noticed how his Djed was coating his body, drawn out unconsciously in the presence of possible offensive magic, causing him to stare at his two hands and arms for a moment before shrugging it off, releasing his hold on the Djed, allowing it to resettle. "Very impressive, master, but I'm not quite sure how this translates onto a piece of parchment. I'm also curious, you mentioned a fifth rune but you only explained four so far. The focus to hold the magic, the barrier to keep it in place, the switch, which I must admit I'm still not quite sure what it does exactly, and the trigger which made the construct, or the glyph, work. So what is the fifth one?" Lessomm continued to speak, piling up a few questions at the same time. Although he knew that it wasn't professional of him to overwhelm his master with questions right from the bat he couldn't help but ask. "I don't understand the switch. You say it combines fire and water to make steam but fire and water make steam anyway. If I put the chair on fire and douse it with water, it'll create steam, even without the chair being in the..." Lessomm put this hands together to form a cup as he tried to find a word for it. "Well, in the switch." He pointed at the bowl in the middle of the chairs, where the fire and water had met and had turned to steam, which was now all but dissipated. As he finished his question, Lessomm noticed that his master wasn't paying full attention to him. He seemed elsewhere in thought. As was his place, Lessomm remained quiet and watched his master, waiting. He hadn't waited long as his master addressed him again. "I'm honored that S-... Ender thinks of me that way. I will be happy to have him around. With your permission, of course, master." As the created floated away from Miro and towards Lessomm, Lessomm raised his hand, palm up, slightly cupped, ready to hold the ball shaped creature. It didn't occur to him what the alien creature meant until it actually turned solid around his wrist, sealed shut. Lessomm flexed his fingers and suppressed the urge to try and take the living bracelet off his wrist. "What if you need your familiar, master, and I'm out with him on an errand? Is he also..." Lessomm trailed off here for a moment. "Are his orders your orders?" Lessomm had never received money in advance before. Too late happened quite often but too soon, no that hadn't happened before. As the coin pouch was placed on the table, much more than Lessomm had ever seen in his life together at any point he felt the empty pouch that he owned weigh heavily at his belt. The emptiness compared tot he pouch on the table seemed extra present at the moment. Lessomm moved over to the table. "Thank you, master." Lessomm made sure to count the coins out loud and to only take out one at a time, so Miro could see that he wasn't trying to steal anything or tried to mess with his master. Lessomm picked out exactly thirty gold coins worth of coin from the pouch and closed it again, taking the coins and putting them in his own money pouch. First, Lessomm would pay the outstanding rent for his house with these coins. Then a well deserved meal with bread, meat and vegetables at the same time. The rest would be saved for future expenses. And a notebook, something where he could keep all sorts of information in partaining to his master's habits and desires. And teachings. Lessomm felt excited to learn but it was also unheard of for a master to teach anything right off the bat. Lessomm wasn't sure if this job was going to be like the rest of them. He turned to his master as he formed another question. "You mentioned inscribing paint earlier. May I ask what the difference is between that and normal paint?" It was always good to start learning things early on, the sooner he knew about them, the sooner he could serve his master to his fullest.

[Miro]

Miro would have loved to be more attentive to Lessomm, but it was not just the Irylid who could draw his focus. He at least had heard the concern of the fifth rune, and of course there was his questioning of Ender's authority. Immediately thought was that the Familiar's orders were second only to his, but a darker part of his mind had to disagree. The unnatural part, the one that had a personality of its own. With all of the time spent listening to his black arm it had become another Familiar of sorts. This one oddly holding some more profound existence in his life. Ender could always be kept on the outside of things, but not his arm. It knew everything about him, and only spoke words with a sagely overtone.

In fact, the Reimancer had come to wonder a great many things about the sentient arm. Of course, all of these speculations would be immediately available to the arm itself, but never did it mention them. Nor did the undead ever directly ask however. As they had grown closer and closer though, the odd references and ambiguity had come to grow annoying. Referring to it as an infection, curse, his arm, it didn't seem right. He had come to like and respect the thing with acknowledged sentient intelligence. And though being able to refer to it by a specific term to describe its species of life was impossible, so a name would be just fine. When this was decided, the choice become immediately obvious. A name that fit the mysterious entity perfectly.

The name he had decided on was Ink. Not only for its black color, but for much more. The way it had spilled upon him as a stain, how it colored his arm, and mostly how it spoke. Each line from the creature was almost poetic. It was apparent that the entity was as separate from Miro's mind as it was connected. Nowhere in his soul could such words come as to be so fittingly marked on parchment. It was almost as if his arm had been dipped into Ionu's ink and left him with an essence of both creativity and trickery. For as resourceful as the being was, it was thrice as devious. Truly it was a representation of his pledge to cravings. A wish for nothing more than what he craved most. That it now pushed him to gain more power and domination was a fated consequence.

As his life was owed, he would follow this guide to redemption. Ink had become a more trusted companion than even his own Familiar. Something that was encouraged quite heavily. "No, the Ice is not to be given control over him. He has threatened him, and you would seem much more a generous master if you gave your servant the option to obey. Have the Ice remain sealed upon his wrist if he must. It will threaten, but it would not dare cross you. If things persist I highly recommend you further impose Hypnotism." It was true, Ender was acting out. But that was all it was, an act. The creature was hard to change its nature, but had definitely embraced his master's way.

Though his disobedience did need to be corrected. Perhaps later by Hypnotism, but now to set an example. Lessomm would be treated with respect no matter what threats were made. "Lessomm, requests from Ender are to be taken at your leisure. He is only there to assist you in serving me. Guide each other, and do not expect him to interact often. He will watch over you while sealed and lack the ability to communicate. If you ever need his help though, ask for him to change his form. He is quite the capable wizard. And of course he will not always be with you. Anyways, this had distracted me. We have very lessons to continue on. I will help you understand Glyphing with an application now."

Miro took a blank scroll, paint and brush and set them at the table. He pushed the rock spell onto the ground and caused it to shatter apart. Then he proceeded to arranged the chairs side by side and called over Lessomm. "Here, come watch the magic being performed. The fifth type of rune is a path, a working of barriers that causes Djed to flow along a constricted space. It guides magic safely from one rune to another. Barriers are very important to ensure the safety of a sigil. Sit by me. Next you learn the importance of my precious inscribing paint." Miro took the lid from the jar and dipped his brush. He placed it carefully near the center of the parchment focused for a moment. "Pay attention to what I say and what I do. Remember what I just showed you with my Reimancy example."

Miro drew a circle with a series of lines all circling around a center point. A switch to combine magic. "The reason inscribing paint is so important is that a Glyph will fade as it is used. Barriers will weaken and collapse if the magic is too powerful. When this paint is used, it will have a luster about it that leaves a bold impression. When a quality sigil has been made on any surface, it will be pronounced and strike the eyes. However as it is used it begins to fade, and it is easy to tell when the sigil is weakening. A warning to know when you just might want to retreat from magic being set loose." The undead continued to draw the sigil. The next runes would be pathways to allow magic to flow toward the center switch.

The undead dipped his brush and carefully began drawling to across the length of the scroll in both direction with thin lines. These lines twisted and flowed down the parchment in a woven serpentine fashion before reaching a common end point. From here the focuses were to be made. The wizard started by drawing a large circle and within it created a square. Each corner of the square joined with a point on the circle, and then inside of the square a diamond was drawn likewise touching at four points. Finally within that diamond a cross was drawn. Then the process was repeated on the opposite path drawn to create the second focus.

All that was left were the barriers to lock the paths and the trigger to release the magic and it would be complete. Miro drew a small barrier at the end of each path in the form of two opposing triangles. Finally below the switch he drew the trigger. Completely separate from the rest of the sigil he drew a large square with a thick 'X' inside of it. While drawing it, he attuned it to his barriers and programmed it to be released upon touching the trigger. "The center is the switch I had shown you, connected by barriers arranged into paths leading to the focuses. The focuses hold magic stored, and the switch combines it. The square is a trigger, attuned to the barriers at the end of the paths. It will release if it is touched."

The Reimancer once again began producing Res, the amount splitting above the two focuses. After a several ticks an amount that rivaled the runes hovered above them. A ball was formed and floated above Miro's hand. "Res can become any element I have discovered. Snow," He caused a light stream of snowy flakes to fall from the mass onto his hand, "or even sand," the substance switched, "water, air, mud, lightning, lava, steam, smoke, ash, so much more. And with Glyphing one might discover new elements in a similar way through the combination of different disciplines of magic." The Chained One laughed. "For now we just witness something you are familiar with. You are only just starting."

Miro transmuted the Res above the focuses to fire and water and forced them downward into the sigil. The moment that the spells hit the focuses they were absorbed in a flash of light. A faint humming noise could be heard as the sigil settled. "That easily the spell is absorbed within the Glyphing. When you are ready, release the trigger and witness the effect happen. Just as I showed you fire and water combining with Reimancy, the glyph will show you it created as well. Only in this example it is forged in an actual switch. A rune that is able to combine all forms of magic stored within a focus. Do it now, touch the square rune." The display could impress many people, but how the servant felt was unknown. At least he seemed to be understanding well enough.

When the trigger was pressed the barriers would fade and the focuses would flare once more. The Djed would brighten the paint and quickly travel along the pathway towards the center switch. Once the streams of Djed charged light met, they would burst with a powerful flare of light before releasing a sizzle into the air. A thick loud of steam would burst upwards and into the air, and the sigil would completely fade from the parchment. Not only did the paint fade entirely, but the scroll was left ruined. The parchment looked as if it had spent a year under the water, yet also showed signs of burn marks. The scroll was wrinkled beyond reason and would crumble like ashes if touched.

When finished the wizard would take the slight amount of Res held above his hand and cast it down as a gust of wind to blow away the dying parchment. It created yet another mess by spreading across the table. "I sincerely hope you understand now. That is all that needs to be learned on Glyphing at the moment. Meditate on that lesson and we will later attempt an application together. As for now, I am curious of your abilities. I want to witness your capacity to use the Shielding magic you mentioned. Teach me what you are capable of with this discipline. I am very eager to learn of what you have been practicing." Miro stood from the desk and leaned against the wardrobe.

"How about you show me what you are capable of. It may be worth a pay increase if I am impressed." And to follow it Ender had finally decided to communicate with Miro once again. "You are quite the teacher, though you are giving him quite a long leash. You can keep him fooled, but do not think us equals. I am far superior to this mortal. A race I have never witnessed, and weak as well. His life could be mine in an instant." But the Familiar was not worth a lengthy response. "If you can not guide this mortal, then what use are you to me? Lead him down the path I am to send him on or else displease your master with disloyalty. I may be forced to reconsider who is to be looked down on."