>>1556245
> Seek Dean Varator to discuss advanced placement or private studies.

>>1556245
>Seek Dean Varator to discuss advanced placement or private studies.

Let's get this done early. Also fantastic that it's resuming.

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>>1556279
>>1556488

Varator’s office is on the highest level of the Archive, the great library building with a worn-down appearance that belies the great wealth of information and the sheer number of intelligent minds that dwell within. Gone to you is the time of idle prattle with those about the hall in the mornings; you’re quick to feed and dress yourself in another unassuming outfit, and you carry silver coins and a couple of pemmican wafers in your pocket in case you’re in need of a snack or spare change. You depart across the Arcanum green and head there in a hurry, looking out over your shoulder once you reach the top of the Archive steps – before you enter the building – as if to take in, once more, all that this place has to offer. The sun is warm, wind gently tousling your hair; it is a pleasant and temperate day.

The winding hallways of the Archive lead you to a set of stairs that takes you up and around the back, higher than the remainder of the administrative facilities. The handful of offices here face inward, and their rear walls are comprised of wide glass windows such that they look down over the whole of the Archive. His office is front and center, a gold plaque adjacent the door: “Dr. Rowan Varator – Dean of Students – Head of Arcanum Affairs”.

The door is partway open; on his desk, his notebook is open beside him and he’s scribbling figures in a file, with a number of like-looking files resting beside him.

“Dr. Varator?”

“Amelia.” He says, but doesn’t look up for more than an instant.

“Do you have a moment?”

“Of course.” He nods. “Do come in.”

You cross into the rather lavish office and sit down in a comfortable chair across the desk. There’s a pause that seems deliberate as he continues writing for a moment before looking up to meet your gaze.

“I take it you’ve finished course registration?” He asks.

> “I have. I was hoping you could notify my instructors to give me a bit of leeway.”
> “I wanted to talk to you about testing out of a course.”
> “Do you know of any professors that have independent studies available? I need to pick up some additional credits.”
> “I know you were once an academic advisor. Do you have any private study opportunities available?”
> Other (Write-in)

>>1556657
> “I know you were once an academic advisor. Do you have any private study opportunities available?”

That or
> “Do you know of any professors that have independent studies available? I need to pick up some additional credits.”

Either or, really.

Also do you have a Twitter? If not you should get one.

>>1556245
>It isn’t biting, but is a bit uncomfortable, as if a chill has propagated upward through the material from the floor beneath.
>>1547204
>There’s a black circular rug drawn up right under it that doesn’t seem to be decorating or covering anything in particular. It’s cold to the touch.

Is anyone else worried about this? I'm not sure who we could trust to investigate it, and I don't feel we've progressed enough to investigate ourselves, but something seems pretty wrong here. Especially since this is a change from previous sleeps in Ophelia's bed.

But let's set that aside for later in the day.
> Seek Dean Varator to discuss advanced placement or private studies.

>>1556715
Hm. At first I thought it was just a rolled up sigil mat- something to assist in major spellcrafting. But you bring up a sailent point. Maybe the Codex could tell us. For now though, we might just have to live with it.

Also you're one entry behind.

>>1556657
> “I know you were once an academic advisor. Do you have any private study opportunities available?”
I think I'm leaning most towards this one, though also somewhat towards:
> “I wanted to talk to you about testing out of a course.”
Asking some specifics couldn't hurt, especially things like when would testing take place, what's typically evaluated, or who performs the evaluations. But at the same time, leading off with "I know you were an academic advisor" may cover multiple topics, including the details on testing out of a course.

>>1556760
I should've updated the thread before I posted. I didn't. I was dumb.

>>1556774
S'cool. I had to learn doing that myself when auto update broke for me.

>>1556657
>> “I know you were once an academic advisor. Do you have any private study opportunities available?”
>> “I wanted to talk to you about testing out of a course.”

QM, is there a backstory as to why we're at the university? Did our parents send us here, did we choose it, was there a ulterior motive?

>>1556915
> that spoiler

The pastebin of our character sheet says:

"You are the youngest daughter of an esteemed noble household from the great city-state Roshar. When you expressed interest in magecraft three years ago, you received your family's blessing and were sent alone across the sea to the esteemed Arcanum Extranimus, where you proceeded to underachieve and utterly avoid anything that even vaguely resembled actual learning in favor of camaraderie and social exploration, convincing the members of your peer group that you shared their hardships without actually knowing what those hardships were."

"Now, most of your friends are gone; those from higher years and those that took extended course-loads or achieved other outstanding merits have graduated ahead of you. Your family is displeased with your lack of results, and has made this year your last chance to prove that you are committed to anything at all. But you were promised that you might somehow be able to graduate instead; all you need to do now is find a way to make that happen, but you've since learned that the curriculum here is far from what you expected..."

I guess that makes the answers to your questions, in order, yes, yes, at least somewhat, and not that we're aware of.

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>>1556672
>>1556915
>>1556774

“That I have.” You nod. “I was hoping you could tell me a few things about earning additional credits—since I understand you were once an academic advisor?”

“You’re correct. What sorts of opportunities are you looking for? I had a brief glance over your record.” Varator looks up from his work for a moment. “I don’t mean to offend when I say that to call you a bit behind would be an understatement—but I suppose different people take to their time at the Arcanum in different ways.”

“Right. What opportunities are available when it comes to testing out of courses?” You ask.

“We typically extend such things to those who demonstrate ability in excess of the levels of their current classes, or those that receive faculty endorsement. It’s not an opportunity that’s extended lightly outside of special cases, as it represents to some an opportunity to bypass the academic rigors of magecraft, rather than the reward of exceptional talent, inborn ability, or outside time investment.”

“I understand.” You nod. “Are there any professors currently looking for students for independent studies?”

“I’m currently in the process of according that.” Varator says, indicating his notebook. “There’s a lot of alchemical projects underway this year – bit of a renaissance, really. I could lend you some references – I think it’d be a good opportunity to pursue if you were truly interested – but it’d still be worthwhile to go and ask the instructors proper.”

You pause. “What about you?”

He looks up, eyebrow cocked, in a way that seems almost uncharacteristic. “Excuse me?”

“Do you have any private study opportunities open?” It’s a legitimate question. Varator has had a long career; you don’t know the details of his history, but he’s held basically every academic position you can think of. “I’m trying to play a little bit of catch-up, were it not obvious.”

Another momentary stall. Varator breathes a bit of a sigh, gaze meeting yours. He closes the notebook, spindly fingers drumming on the leatherbound surface. You hear the door shut behind you, but don’t startle.

“Where is this ambition coming from, Amelia?” He asks, looking at you with a more firm expression than you’re familiar with, glossing you over with his gaze as if scrutinizing every bit of your being. “What is driving you?”

> “Maybe I’m just done wasting time.”
> “I have family back home I don’t want to let down.”
> “Ophelia promised me I’d graduate. I can’t fail her.”
> “You know what.”
> Other (Write-in.)

>>1557148
>I've been asking myself that lately, too. Part of it's Ophelia, if I'm being honest, but part of it's...for myself, too.

There's a lot driving us, but nothing else that would be okay to say in current company. Or anyone else ever for that matter.

>>1557348
I feel like explaining myself, so I'm going to.

The first option I see as honest but at the same time a bit insincere. Or at the very least something that speaks a bit negatively to our character- the fact that the death of a friend was needed to galvanize us doesn't really speak well of our drive.

The second option is blatantly false. If we really cared about that, we would have started really trying a while ago.

The third reason is the most honest, but I feel like saying that would have us come across as not doing it for our own betterment. Which to a large extent it isn't. That wouldn't go over well with him I don't think.

And option four is just begging us to get involved in the game when we really don't want to right now. Not to mention the possibility he might actually try to dissuade us, and screw that.

>>1557148
I'll support >>1557348

>>1557148
>>1557348
>>I've been asking myself that lately, too. Part of it's Ophelia, if I'm being honest, but part of it's...for myself, too.

>> “You know what.”
Personally, I think it would be worth the gamble in letting him know about our commitment to finding Ophelia's killer.

>>1557548
I'm operating on the assumption that the walls have ears, and that even if he personally doesn't care, he may end up accidentally revealing something otherwise that we don't want found out. He's been here for this long, he probably knows the game all too well and if not approves of it, then abides by it.

Ooh, we're back.

>>1557348
>>1557418
“I’ve been asking myself that lately.” You sigh, momentarily despondent, looking down and away before turning to him once again. “Part of it’s Ophelia, if I’m being honest. But part of it… is for myself, too.”

“It’s interesting how quickly we can change, isn’t it?” Varator gives a firm nod of understanding, then smiles—wait, what? “You might be surprised to hear I’ve a degree of sympathy for your plight, Amelia. You’ve caught me in a—well, we’ll call it a—generous mood.”

“What exactly do you mean?” You sit up, hands folded in your lap.

“You’ve had a difficult time here, and your fair share of troubles. Just because our curriculum is known for being rather comprehensive, though, doesn’t mean we aim to see you denied of the devices you need to succeed. If it’s a testing opportunity you’re looking for, I think it’s been long enough since you’ve undertaken proper coursework that you could present an arguable case for reassessment. I find it hard to believe your skill hasn’t improved at all in three years here, after all – but you must understand that your examiners would be not happily welcome failure from someone in your position. Likewise, there are myriad academic advisors who would be happy to help you find your fit in an independent study program once the participating faculty are accounted for and the distribution of funds accorded. Our professors have a diverse variety of interests, as you know, and those interests link up with diverse degrees of skill.” He speaks calmly with his fingers laced atop his desk. They are bony and almost claw-like; the skin of his hands is dry and callused.

“I appreciate it, Dr. Varator.” You begin, doing what you can not to let a look of stress or unease wash over you. “What about my last question?”

The way he keeps looking at you is strange. It returns, incessantly, with the feeling that you’re being gambled with, which, though it might or might not be an understandable place to come from given your case, prevents you from committing fully to the vague notion that he sees something in you—that he knows something you don’t. What, though, could it possibly be?

>...

>>1557799

“I was regarded as a number of things in my time as an proper academic instructor, Amelia. Easy was not one of them. I believed that hard work and devotion were the path to achievement – that success and failure held greater meaning than words on a page.” Varator says, after a deliberate few moments of silence. “I no longer have an area of academic interest, but would gladly challenge you for the sake of it – and for the sake of your growth as a Sorceress – if you merely seek to earn supplemental credits. But I would make no promises of your success, and don’t believe you have further time to waste on failure.”

You can't imagine what he'd want from you - but he's taught on and off, even during his time as Dean. You've heard stories from those who've enrolled in his classes during those stints. The first thing through anyone's mind when receiving an assignment from him is typically 'that isn't possible'.

> “Fair. When could I try and test into a higher level of Channeling and Manipulation?”
> “Do you think I could hear from you when those other independent study opportunities are available, then?”
> “I’m interested.”
> Other (Write-in.)

>>1557595
The only thing that he could let out is our objective at finding Ophelia's killer. An objective that the killer would already suspect a possibility we're doing the second they found out of our survival. The dean, to this point, has been personally investigating the incident. If he were responsible for her death, this would have just been a minor case of some post grad who got careless with their experimentation. Certainly nothing that the head of the university would involve himself it.

Letting him know our objective has the chance to gain us a rather powerful ally. Especially if we're apart of his "independent studies". The risk, being the possibility that the killer knows we're looking for him.

>>1557819
> “Fair. When could I try and test into a higher level of Channeling and Manipulation?”
> “Do you think I could hear from you when those other independent study opportunities are available, then?”
> “I’m interested.”
We should inquire more information on the last one without a doubt.

>>1557819
> “I’m interested.”> “I’m interested.”> “I’m interested.”> “I’m interested.”> “I’m interested.”> “I’m interested.”> “I’m interested.”> “I’m interested.”> “I’m interested.”> “I’m interested.”> “I’m interested.”

>>1557819
>> “Do you think I could hear from you when those other independent study opportunities are available, then?”

>>1557849
I'm paranoid, admittedly- worried that he could be 'investigating' and cover it up himself. It's not an uncommon tactic.

As for being interested, I have to admit I'm intrigued but concerned we'll be too much into dealing with his work to worry about our own- mind, that might be a moot point if his work has the potential to outCLASS our own, but...hm.

>>1557819
> “I’m interested.”
I'll bite

>>1557902
That thought has crossed my mind, but I keep getting caught on his motive. Why would have to kill her to begin with? From what we know, he's worked with Ophelia before and after her graduation. Then when she came back to the university, he gave her a job working here. It might not have been a prestigious job, but when your Dean of the school, and one of your old friends show up, you might be inclined to give her a job. Even if it's a bullshit sounding thing like "mentor" to a single student who hasn't caused trouble for the three years they've been enrolled here.

>>1557819
> “I’m interested.”
I'm tempted to go for one of the less demanding options, but I feel like one-on-one won't let us fail out quite as easily as taking all the classes at once would have. More supervision, fewer distractions, and our short time with Ophelia shows we learn well in that kind of environment.

Also;
> "There's something weird about the rug under Ophelia's bed. Who should I talk to about that?"

>>1557868
>>1558016
>>1557859

“When do you think I could test into a higher level of Channeling and Manipulation?” You ask, with a nod of confirmation as you push past his statement.

“I think that would be a good idea for you.” He says, after another moment of eyeing you up and down. “I would lend my authorization whenever you felt ready – but I’d advise against it were you to wait too long. More than a week or two of missed course material would put you over your head in a course made to push the limits of your ability.”

“And the independent studies? Could I hear from you when those are available?”

“Of course – I’ll try to send notice at my earliest convenience once this gets done. It’s good to see you’re aspiring to new heights as an academic.” Varator says. “Is there anything else I can help you with?”

“If I were to tell you I was interested in the opportunity you mentioned?” You ask. “What exactly would it entail?”

“Many are of the mind that preparation is the essence of our work as Sorcerers. But there are situations that can’t be merely anticipated in advance, aren’t there—and other times, our best judgment tells us something that turns out to be untrue.” Varator says, seeming to take delight in his own thought process. “One’s mind should be honed for a diverse degree of situations as well as fore-armed on a case-by-case basis. I will not tell you what I’d have you do not just because I have yet to decide, but because it represents a lesson that cannot strictly be taught. You will accept or decline, and I will determine the nature of what I believe would best serve you.”

I
> “Is it dangerous?”
> “Sign me up.”
> “I appreciate it, but I think I’ll stick to something easier.”

II
> “I’d like to take an advanced placement test at my earliest convenience, if you really think it’s a good idea.”
> “I’ll get back to you on that placement test, then.”

>>1558190
> "Sign me up."
It might be a bit overwhelming, but given our time crunch, it's probably the better choice.

> "I'll get back to you on that placement test, then."
I think a little practice time before the test would do us good. "Earliest convenience" may turn out to mean "Report to office X in an hour and a half."

>>1558280
I'll support this.

>>1558280
>>1558296

“Alright.” You say, giving a somewhat dismissive look of approval. “I’ll do it. As for the placement test, let me get back to you a little later.”

He gives a very light laugh, opening his notebook and beginning to scribble something within. You hear the door behind you open again as he does—and look over your shoulder to confirm that there’s no one there. “Very well. I’ll decide within the next couple of days and ensure that you receive the course materials in a manner most timely. Will that be all, Ms. Moughbury?”

You’ve got a foreboding feeling—but it can’t be that bad, can it? Whatever the case, he doesn’t seem the type not to compensate you justly for whatever it is he’ll be assigning you to. Maybe, if you can just make it through this…

> “There's something weird about the rug under Ophelia's bed. Who should I talk to about that?"
> “That’ll be all. I appreciate all this once again, Dean Varator.”
> Other (Write-in.)

>>1558375
> “There's something weird about the rug under Ophelia's bed. Who should I talk to about that?"
Gotta vote for my own suggestions unless circumstances invalidate them. (Also, I'd rather not have that spot of cold keep growing until it gives us hypothermia.)

>>1558375
>You’ve got a foreboding feeling—but it can’t be that bad, can it?

Ugh. Superhard mode it is. Really wish I'd been here. I still am not sold on this.

> “That’ll be all. I appreciate all this once again, Dean Varator.”

Hate to tie it up, but I just can't be positive it's a good idea just yet. I think we can survive a couple more nights in it.

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So Half-Light Sigil's eye-sealing is more or less frowned upon but I'm thinking it's inevitable. Not that I endorse it (fully) but would removing the whole eye do the same thing?

And speaking of the ritual's social stigma, we could cover it with an eyepatch of sorts. I don't mean one of them piratey ones but a more decorative one (see image). Could even use it before going full ritual, if it helps to maintain second sight, leaving hands free.

Maybe start a fashion trend!

>>1558679
Someone said similar earlier. Eventually decided I'd be alright with that, after some debate. Neat art!

>>1558679
Also please break this tie.

On another note, I'm wondering what he'll expect from us- some sort of eclectic/lateral thinking, I'm certain, and we'll probably be put into mortal danger at some point.

>>1558375
>> “That’ll be all. I appreciate all this once again, Dean Varator.”

>>1558686
I mean we could choose NOT to chase justice / revenge and just graduate to make our House happy and be showered in praise

But who wants that

>>1558700
I don't. I just don't want needless distractions from that end, so I worry.

>>1558375
>theres soemthing weird under the bed

Eck, still tied.

So...I'm guessing we're going to be up late a lot? Dunno if that's the best thing.

>>1558375
> “That’ll be all. I appreciate all this once again, Dean Varator.”

Check it out on our own first. I just realised what >>1558686 meant by tie. I'm retarded

>>1558679
I'm pretty sure the Half-Light Sigil *IS* ritually sealing the eye with an eyepatch.
>>1558375
>"That'll be all. I appreciate it once again, Dean Varator"

Whether or not he was involved in the assasination, he's too influential to just casually trust.

>>1559214
>I'm pretty sure the Half-Light Sigil *IS* ritually sealing the eye with an eyepatch.

I imagined it would force the eye closed or even physically make it so it's not even possible to open it without surgery or removing the seal.

Probably should read on the details from the Pale book or something.

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>>1559214
>>1559100
>>1558688
>>1558645

“That’ll be all, thanks. I appreciate all of this once again, Dean Varator.”

“You’re quite welcome.” Varator responds, lips curling into a narrow grin. “I imagine you’ve plenty to do, then—so I won’t bother you any longer. If there’s anything else you’ll be needing at a later time? I’ll be available.”

The door closes behind you when you exit. It feels almost like you’ve spent a little longer here than you intended as you make your way out of the Archive and begin back across the green. Passing quietly through a crowd of conversing students that barely parts to allow you thoroughfare, you realize you’re not used to looking so frumpy—not unattractive, but merely unassuming—and mundane.

> Return to your room and experiment with Ophelia’s belongings.
> Return to your room and study or read from the Codex.
> Look for someone or something on campus.
> Other. (Write-in.)

>>1559744
>> Return to your room and experiment with Ophelia’s belongings.

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>>1558679
What >>1558682 said - art is always appreciated. In regards to this and >>1559326, the Sigil isn't an eyepatch. It's as much of a "filter" as it is a seal; not only does it prevent the eye from opening for the active duration, it also filters out the contents of all natural spatial dimensions and awakens your vision to something completely different.

Of note is the fact that you actually need two eyes for Second Sight to work in a way that's reasonably constructive. The manipulations are based on making ways for the Pale to overlap with the real, and you can't see both of them simultaneously with just one eye. Adherents to traditional Pale doctrines are often referred to negatively as "one-eyed", or said to have "given up an eye/their sight", even though this is a technically incorrect assessment.

>>1559744
>Practice manipulation.

>>1559770
Wait did we go to Sigilcraft yet?

>>1559796
It's around noon currently. You've got time to do something beforehand.

>>1559744

>>1559790
Seconding.

>>1559744
Well, in that case
>Return to your room and practice Channeling and Manipulation.

Gotta be ready for them if we're gonna test out of them.

>>1559802
How much time? We don't really have much we can do without taking the appropriate classes.
Like Ophelia's belongings are clearly connected to certain classes in the school like alchemy, dueling, and enchanting all of which are useless until we learn how to do them. On the other hand I don't know if we have enough time to do things like manipulation.

>>1559744
> Return to your room and study or read from the Codex.

I think what we can do here is try to look up some pertinent information.

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>>1559827
>>1559790
>>1559821

You return to your room and don’t waste another moment. Your time is important to you, and you make use of every spare second by immersing yourself in the Pale arts. Trance-like, your routine continues. Your skills have improved; in fact, you ration that there are few better ways to rapidly increase your manipulation ability than this. But what you need is more than a mere increase. This must become second nature to you. To achieve the Sorcery described in the work you’ve drawn your tutelage from, you must manipulate as you draw breath.

It's the mid-afternoon by the time you break for a meal—feeling in a similar state to the one you were in before you slept last night. Your mind tires long before your well of power begins to run dry.

> Attend your Sigilcrafting lecture.
> There’s nothing of value in the first week – skip it and do something more productive.

>>1559941
>> Attend your Sigilcrafting lecture.

>>1559941
> Attend your Sigilcrafting lecture.

And here we go!

>>1559941
>Attend your Sigilcrafting lecture.

I'm kinda hoping there's actual mechanics involved we can analyze.

Mostly I just want to see what we can think up, and with all this hinting about being clever/taking shortcuts and whatnot, it'd be cool if we could influence it.

>>1560051
Well the Pale supposively can manipulate time and space.

>>1560072
No, I mean mechanics that we the players can analyze and theorycraft with.

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>>1559952
>>1559973
>>1560038

The Conservatory, in contrast to the Archive, is a much newer building; standing next to the Halcyon, a marvel of magic architecture, the arts of Sigilcraft and matter sorcery are exemplified in its construction. Sets of ornate double-doors open automatically as groups of incoming students approach, here to attend your class and others beginning at the same time. It seems like no right angles comprise the building’s walls, but you aren’t paying enough attention to that in particular to make sure as you make your way up to your lecture hall. Rows of seats with plenty of table space in front of each stretch up ascending strata from the front of the room to the back. You’re here early, and take a seat middle-and-center; a number of students arrive on time, the hall starting to fill. For the most part, they look like first or second years: younger than you, with brightness still in their eyes.

You wait patiently, tuning in to quiet conversations around you. The professor hasn’t shown up yet, a couple minutes after class.

A familiar-looking girl makes her way inside in a hurry and crashes down in the open seat beside you with a bit of an oomph. She looks around as if to ascertain the degree of her lateness, before breathing a sigh of relief; you recognize her as the girl from the musical exhibit over in Spark.

“Oh—thank goodness.” She says, turning to you with a sly grin. “She’s not here yet, is she?”

You shake your head. “Seems that way.”

“I thought I was screwed.” She shakes her head. “Kept way late in the lab, didn't even realize the time. Hey—you’re the one I saw you over at the greenhouse, speaking of! Are you researching?”

> “Was just inquiring about opportunities in the department.”
> “Just paying a visit. You're one of Thorne's assistants?”
> Say nothing and wait for the lecturer to arrive.
> Other (Write-in)

>>1560232
>> “Just paying a visit. You're one of Thorne's assistants?”

>>1560232
If She means are we researching Sigilcraft?

>Yes. Say nothing else.

If not,

>No.

Keep it to limited word answers.

>>1560232
> “Was just inquiring about opportunities in the department.”
How about we also make some small talk with her. We'll need other people to help us with our studies in our free time.

>>1560232
> "I was just visiting. I had a few questions for Dr. Solana."
Both honest and misleading. Let's not tell a suspect's assistant we were asking about her boss. If she really presses on what we discussed with Solana, we can claim (almost truthfully) we wanted some advice on self-studying Sorceries of Vitality.

>>1560271
I think "research" (in a university setting, at least) means something a bit different than it means elsewhere. I believe it's less about studying what others have discovered about a topic, and more about discovering new things nobody else has bothered looking at yet. Assuming I've interpreted her question correctly (I may be off base with my assumption about "research"), answering "yes" will probably make us interesting at a time we would much rather appear boring.

>>1560333
You are making quite a few assumptions there. Most of what we know and are going to learn are stuff that will be stuff that other people already learned and our best skill currently is
• Socialite - Improved knowledge of cliques and Arcanum culture. Additionally, grants bonuses to social tests - including persuasion and intimidation - against those whose status in such a clique is concerned or threatened.
We need to make heavy use of it if we are to succeed.

>>1560333
>>1560353

Sounds like we may need a judgement call on this. You both make very salient points however.

>>1560271
>>1560232

Actually thinking about it, I think for this one particular moment, I'm going to change my vote to >>1560333.

If need be, we can make nice with her during or after class.

I do agree that it would be to our benefit to really work that socialite skill.

While waiting on the next post, this reminds me of something I wanted to ask. It seems like for a while we were kind of going to go these silent and solemn route when it comes to keeping ourselves beneath notice. But logically that may not be the best idea for learning? So. How do we keep ourselves from being suspect?

>>1560721
Play up the party girl part of Amelia. It's seriously that simple.

QM dead? Taking a long time even for him.

>>1561037
I didn't announce beforehand this morning because I knew I'd be distracted. Just finished up with some other things and will be here for a while after this next update - which I do want to think out a little bit.

>>1561074
Aahhhh. That's fine. Now that I know what's up, take your time.

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>>1560333
>>1560399

“I was just visiting.” You say. “I had a few questions for Dr. Solana.”

“Oh, alright, yeah! He’s the head of my department—I guess you know that, though.” She nods. “Signing up for classes, or?”

“Had some questions about Sorceries of Vitality.” You nod. “Was thinking about a little self-study.”

“Fun, fun! It’s a great field to get into.” She giggles. “So much to do, so many people to work with! The head of my group’s got stuff going on with people here at the Conservatory, and she’s really trying to get me involved—okay, well, even if I don’t always understand everything she’s doing, it’s still really cool.”

“I had him recommend me some resources.” You respond. “It seems like there’s a lot of interesting things going on with it. I’m pretty busy lately, so I might or might not check it out!”

The door to the classroom flings open, making way for a very young—looks like she can’t be more than a couple years past graduation—and disheveled looking woman with a disorganized stack of papers to enter. The whole folder – lesson plan and all – comes crashing down on the front desk, and she breathes a sigh of relief after another couple of moments.

“Okay—sorry! Trouble downstairs—I don’t, I mean, I’m not. Hello, and good afternoon, everyone!” She says, looking like she’s in a bit of a hurry as she hefts a stack of papers and makes her way up the rows. On each step, she divides off one page for each person seated at the long lecture-hall table – then passes them down such that the bottom-most page remaining in the stack drifts off to leave a page in front of each person in a way that can’t be anything other than Force manipulation. It’s not a display meant to impress or to garner eye-rolls; to an accomplished Sorcerer, manipulation is just the way the mind is to be used, meant to obviate the difficulties of mundane tasks. “Just so I know now that everyone who’s probably going to be in this class is here – how many of you are first-year?”

Hands go up. You’d wager somewhere between fifty and seventy percent.

>...

>>1561229

“Oh, good. We’ve got something in common – not actually – but this is my first year teaching. I’m Ms. Annette Denholm, and let me go ahead and apologize to everyone in advance since I haven’t really learned to put out a lot of the fires that crop up around here yet. Metaphorically or otherwise.” There’s some quiet snickering at the joke and a few breaths of quiet ‘sweet, free pass!’ relief among the class. “Anyway. I know a lot of you are apprehensive, but I hope that some of us are at least as happy to be here as I am. Sigilcraft and rune-script are nuanced arts and I think it helps if you take them a little bit at a time; what I’ve just given you is a vague sort-of calendar that should give you an idea of what’ll be expected of you when and what your assignments are going to be like. Some of us might know some of this stuff already – maybe you’re just catching up, taking this as a prerequisite, or you’ve got a little bit of knowledge either from outside or practical stuff from other classes. That’s good; we’ll have a bit of review, and hopefully we’ll all help each other out…”

She seems sweet. You hope she doesn’t get eaten alive.

Metaphorically or otherwise.

A lot of people are already sort of glossy-eyed as she begins her lesson. You might actually know some of it, somehow, but you try to focus, taking notes and recording figures in case there’s anything that can possibly be gleaned. Sigilcraft is a pure art of magecraft, broken down into logic and sequences; what Denholm tries to drive home in her own sort-of ditzy way is that this script is postulated to be the natural language of magic. If Sorcery is an idea communicated through magical power – it stands to reason based on some obtuse linguistic principle that this idea can be stored via the written word in a form that remains active for later use. It’s implied that any Sorcery can be stored in this form if the user is powerful enough—you pause from your train of thought to begin recording facts and figures when she starts a basic outline of the logical rules of translating runescript sigils, a base-line of knowledge required by Sigilcrafters—and remain dormant for a long time afterward. Together with Artifice, it forms the elements of automation that make magic more than a collection of weapons and petty parlor tricks; sigils can cool homes and heat bathwater, strengthen walls and open doors and rouse great machines to move.

Denholm seems to run out of prepared material by the time you start wondering if it gets any more complex than this. A few people are leaving and others are sticking around to ask questions; she seems to have a few helpful mnemonic devices you didn’t know about, which you hope to apply to accessing entries in the Codex.

“Wow. I mean—I’m sure she’ll figure it out, but.” The girl who sat next to you ooks over to you like she’s trying not to laugh. “A whole year of this, huh?”

>...

>>1561231

“All of the faculty were new at some point. I’m sure there’s a reason she’s here over someone else.” You ration, returning a shrug. You're kind of of the mind, now, that everyone around here is dangerous in their own unique way; you don't have any reason to believe otherwise.

“Well, since you look like you’re taking notes – maybe you’ll tell me if I miss whatever that reason is in case I’ve ever got something better to do during class.” She grins, rising from her seat. “Lillian, by the way. You’re…?”

> Shrug her off or say something random – in case she knows about the accident.
> “Amelia.” Express interest in chatting.
> “Amelia.” Unfortunately - you've got to go - to either talk to Denholm or return to your residence.
> Other. (Write-in.)

>>1561246
>Amelia. I'll see you around then.

We'll keep her at arm's length until we can decide whether she's trustworthy or not truly.

>>1561246
I think we need to read the codex soon to see if there are any ways to improve our manipulation. Ophelia does mention there are a few shortcuts we could take.
>You have an extreme amount of catching up to do. There are shortcuts in this art – but there are few, and require a firm knowledge of manipulation.

>>1561389
>>1561335
leading into
>>1561389

>>1561335
>>1561488

“Amelia. And – maybe.” You say, rolling your eyes at her; she smiles regardless. “I’ll see you around, though. I’ve got some stuff to do.”

“Look at you. Alright, then!” Lillian nods. “I’ll see you next week. Maybe.”

It’s been quite a day, but you think you could get used to this. You hope you can. If not for her sake, then for yours.

All is as it should be when you return, just before sunset. The Pale Tome rests quietly beside the Codex Excelsis on your desktop. You haven’t been assigned any homework beyond to continue familiarizing yourself with the basics of runescript – which you intend to do during your personal study anyway – and you already feel like you’ve a lot to do in terms of expanding your knowledge of Sorcery, your skill in manipulation, and your understanding of what Ophelia left behind has to offer. You wonder how you’re going to manage without this stuff, or how you’re going to hang onto it.

You’ve mid-morning classes tomorrow: both Interactions and Manipulation, if you plan on going to one or both of those. Ophelia’s vigil will be held at the archive after that day’s sunset; it’s a place to pay respects rather than a proper service, so you’ll be able to stop by any time before it closes.

> Continue practicing Sorcery or Manipulation.
> Search for something in the Codex.
> Experiment with Ophelia’s belongings.
> Other. (Write-in.)

>>1561592
>Search for something in the Codex.
Let's look for short cuts.

>>1561597
Also
>“You have an extreme amount of catching up to do. There are shortcuts in this art – but there are few, and require a firm knowledge of manipulation. I’ll… do my best to expedite the process by teaching you things that rely primarily on the application of raw power. Finesse will come at your own pace.”
>I’ll… do my best to expedite the process by teaching you things that rely primarily on the application of raw power.
I think we know what we need to focus on.

>>1561592
>> Search for something in the Codex.

Information on her theories about the Pale, and maybe look at 303 if possible.

Maybe come tomorrow we can fit some manipulation practice in.

>>1561629
That didn't make sense to me. Do we need to focus on stuff with raw power, or manipulation?

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>>1561597
>>1561646

The Codex Excelsis opens as you sit down as if to welcome you. You thumb past your bookmarks as if to ground yourself in the fact that it’s the same as it has been. It’s all a science, isn’t it? Perform the same procedure and the results will be the same—even if those results are just the same level of unpredictable every time.

You search for…

> New Sorceries.
> Literature sources on manipulation methods.
> Ophelia’s private entries.
> Other. (Write-in.)

>>1561681
Basically we focus on raw power and practice enough we'll eventually figure out how to control it and get "finesse".

>>1561790
> Literature sources on manipulation methods.
Most important.

>>1561790
>> Literature sources on manipulation methods.

>>1561830
>>1561807

There are longer works about myriad unique manipulation techniques, as well as methods that have been used to teach and learn manipulations throughout the history of magic as a baseline for learning the art of Sorcery; some of them are even common across all of the doctrines of magecraft. You bookmark a few of these, resolving to give them a more thorough look when you’ve got a little bit more time on your hands; for the moment, you skim and locate shorter works through footnotes and references, locating a number of essays detailing controversial models of acclimating the mind to difficult manipulation processes. This is the kind of thing you like: short, informative, and something that you can maybe even agree with.

The first, penned by a Sorcerer calling himself the Lord of House Bloodworth, discusses the theory that Shape is the most primordial of the doctrines of magecraft in the way that it pertains to manipulation, for all manipulations involve some sort of effect that changes the properties of space in an area—even if those properties are changed by the presence of an object, energy, or force that was not present there before. The results are observed in the way that the efficacy of manipulations changes as they propagate through space based on the way the manipulator visualizes, both in their mind and with their eyes, the space in which they are performing these manipulations; it’s postulated that with a new outlook on visualization based on familiarity and honing one’s kinesthetic senses, manipulations can even be carried out over very long distances.

The second, written by a famous duelist named Nikolas van Orley, suggests that stress and need are at the heart of all manipulations. When the mind is made aware of its supernatural capacity and begins to use this capacity in the way of second-nature (when basic manipulation becomes as simple to the mind as moving or breathing), it can be pushed beyond its limits when necessary just as the body can in times of desperation or mortal danger, and this breaking of limits catalyzes changes that lead to processes of learning and permanent growth of manipulation ability. Though it does not endorse endangering oneself in order to learn, it doesn’t dissuade from that route – but also utilizes a psychological approach, suggesting emotional or sympathetic means of rendering the mind into a state that welcomes this sort of growth.

>...

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>>1561954

The third, written by an old magical theorist called R. Delarosa, believes that the secrets of manipulation lie with those who call themselves Magi; you know that a Magus is one who is theoretically capable of learning any Sorcery, and so their minds are often seen as superior. All of this is because a learned Magus picks and chooses from among the doctrines as it suits them; because all of the doctrines of magecraft interact with one another in emergent ways, secrets of manipulation inaccessible to others are clear to them, and their power and finesse increases accordingly. Thus, Delarosa postulates, the key to becoming a skilled manipulator is to never risk growing tired of devoting oneself to a single doctrine, even if one’s affinity in others is below average; learning a diverse set of unrelated manipulations will unlock new connections deep in the mind.

You most agree with…

> …the Lord of House Bloodworth.
> …van Orley.
> …R. Delarosa.

>>1561957
Who we agree is mostly irrevelant since we'll use all of them but to be honest we'll agree with which ever one helps the most.

>>1561998
He's asking what do you want to primarily focus on. Incidentally, the fact that you say that you'll use all of them means you most agree with Delarosa.

Bloodworth seems the most basic, and most immediately applicable. Seems like doing this would have us learning teleportation, shaping mana into physical forms, and other various techniques. Simplistic, but potentially useful. Especially because I really want to portal cut and inside out bake people.

van Orley's methodolgy is basically to make yourself somewhat unstable and paranoid to keep yourself in that heightened sense of emergency and adrenalined up power- I suspect that going that route would have us twitchy, reckless, angry, and stupidly powerful, if at the cost of sanity.

Delarosa seems to espouse a laser focus on one particular style...or doing all of them, actually, you kinda say two different things in that description and I might need to ask for clarification.

Still thinking on which to choose...

>>1562056
Actually you're both incorrect and correct.
I actually don't think Delarosa will help us that since we're using it right now and we feel limited by it.
Nikolas van Orley However encourages us to be more bold and daring. Once we lay out the groundwork and get the basic skills to survive this is the most powerful of the three.
And Bloodworth is mostly variable. Depending entirely on our imagination which is a great thing for artists.

>>1562101
Wait, we're using it now? We just got exposed to it.

To clarify: Delarosa's means of not risking tiring of one doctrine involve studying myriad doctrines - not just manipulations that accomplish varied tasks, but also manipulations from completely different schools of magic. While I don't think the language was particularly unclear, I can see how this miscommunication could occur.

>>1561954
The first seems more like a rigorous, intellectual approach. Know the underlying commonalities, and elaborate.

The second is pretty much entirely intuitive. Stress yourself, and see what you are fored to do, and how you're forced to grow.

The last is process oriented, trusting that learning to be better overall will yield post-hoc, unforeseen connections.

Depends on how we want to learn. Do we want to be rigorous and goal-oriented? Dive immediately into conflict? Or explore a more moderate path?

I'm pro violence, so going with option 2.

>>1562106
>implying we haven't been applying laser focus to one subject.
Though we haven't really adopted it offically though to be honest all of the philosophies are just different favors of how to overcome your limitations being Devotion, Emotion, and Creativity.

>>1562126
>I'm pro violence, so going with option 2.

I respect that.

I respect that enough that I think I'll agree with you and vote for it as well.

>>1561957
>van Orley.

That said I do think Bloodworth should be at least casually perused. No seriously I wanna portal cut/ mana roast bitches.

>>1561957
>> …van Orley.
We've experienced this first hand. It's litterally how we learned Pale Bolt. I suspect it's also the way Ophelia planned to teach us. As pointed out earlier
>“You have an extreme amount of catching up to do. There are shortcuts in this art – but there are few, and require a firm knowledge of manipulation. I’ll… do my best to expedite the process by teaching you things that rely primarily on the application of raw power. Finesse will come at your own pace.”
>I’ll… do my best to expedite the process by teaching you things that rely primarily on the application of raw power.

>>1561957
>> …van Orley.
I guess I'll though I do wonder OP is making us choose. I mean what really stops us from switching methods.

>>1562238
Slight personality adjustment + different points of learning opportunity, most likely. By naming it as our focus we'll be able to 'spot' and apply those moments to learning his methods sooner. I suspect it's just a 'what to start with' thing. No worries.

>>1562263
Character development is a goddamn given but really what I'm wonder is if there will be a penalty to the other methods or something.

>>1562284
Possibly. Personally, I don't mind too much if that's the case.

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>>1562238
>>1562195
>>1562126

Something about van Orley’s methodology resonates with you, and so you busy your time reading and practicing. Your mind flares when you remember how you got into all of this.

> Inspiration Discovered - Nikolas van Orley: Study effectiveness and ease of use slightly improved for manipulations that deal or prevent damage to objects or entities; rate of learning associated Sorcery is also improved. Gain opportunities to utilize new Manipulations in dangerous or life-threatening situations. Inspiration will wear off after some time, after which new or further inspirations can be discovered.

Ophelia wanted out of this – that’s why she ended up the way she did – but she also wanted to protect you. You’re not sure from what. You will be bold and be privy to the dangers around you; you will not clear your head of your fear and your ambition—you will use them to make yourself more powerful.

The space around you grows a little blurry as you pass time reading and learning, nodding in understanding to yourself as you go over the passages once and again. You don’t notice. It’s well past sunset by the time you feel the need for a break.

> Search for new Sorceries in the Codex.
> Browse Ophelia’s private Codex entries.
> Experiment with Ophelia’s belongings.
> Other. (Write-in.)

>>1562335
Deal with the ice rug under the bed.

>>1562335

Do >>1562346
Or at least just get it FROM under the bed and move it somewhere else.

>>1562335
So just to clarify are we locked out of the others?
Also this is a temporary thing?
>We need to look up defensive and offensive manipulations and focus on them. We also need some combat experience maybe dueling?

>>1562372
> Inspiration will wear off after some time, after which new or further inspirations can be discovered.

Tells me it's a temp buff, likely going to last for a certain number of days.

>>1562346
>>1562356

You suppose it’s best to do something about your sleeping arrangement, and so you rise from your chair only to drop to your hands and knees beside the bed and pull the rather chilly rug out from beneath it.

It’s a fur rug, rather thick and all-black like a bear’s fur, utterly sapped of its warmth. It doesn’t seem particularly special in any way beyond its lavish make, though it’s been completely sapped of its heat, and when you swing it out from beneath the bed, you feel the air pressure in the room change noticeably. The rug covered a sigil hidden beneath the bed which now gives off a soft blue glow; even though you can’t see it clearly, you can tell it’s larger and somehow more recursive than any rune you’ve seen before. The air above it is chilly, though it seems somehow inviting.

> Attempt to activate or deactivate the Sigil.
> Replace the rug.
> Other. (Write-in.)

>>1562456
Figured it had a sigil on it!

>Inviting

Wish we could get closer or commune with it or something.

Thinking about it, if Ophelia knew about this, maybe she MEANT to sleep with it active? Couldn't be too bad for us until we figure out how to read it, right?

>>1562475
alternatively, we could see about her notes. As much as I dislike meta gaming this
> Browse Ophelia’s private Codex entries.
has been an option for quite a while, and might shed light on this.

>>1562491
I wouldn't think that's meta-gaming. And the only reason I'm not agreeing with it is because it's late in the day. The very next vote that has 'Browse the Codex' in it, I'll vote for it, because I'm starting to agree that we need to take a looksee.

Just not when we just had a chance, pass it up, and-

Okay, actually, no, yeah.

>>1562456
>Browse Ophelia’s private Codex entries for anything about this sigil, specifically.

>>1562491
>>1562502

The codes for Ophelia’s entries are particularly hard to translate—which makes them a little bit difficult to navigate since they’re only notated with numbers with no indication of their content. You’ve only got a couple of indications to go by, which are secreted away within Ophelia’s emergency notes, which you can’t even read completely. Even among this table of contents, there doesn’t seem to be a table of contents. It’s believable that she’d hide all of these secrets within her own mind, but seems equally believable that there must be a guide somewhere if she’s written at least anything down, even if it’s just an emergency protocol…

> Examine the contents of Entry 303 – a written means of revitalizing a damaged mind.
> Examine the contents of Entry 320 – the instructions said not to actually follow them, so it’d be useful to know what they are – and it seems pertinent enough.
> Just pick something translatable at random.
> Other. (Write-in.)

>>1562584
>> Just pick something translatable at random.

Just to experiment. Our mind isn't damanged, and I won't lie, 320 scares me a bit. Not that we'd follow it, but just what's IN there at all.

>>1562584
> Examine the contents of Entry 303 – a written means of revitalizing a damaged mind.

Looking back to thread 1, I noticed this:
>>1540210
> CANNOT ACCESS EIHEIM
> If you do not remember the precise location of your means of accessing Eiheim
I wonder if "the precise location of your means of accessing Eiheim" is related to the giant sigil under the bed.

>>1562690
It also warns that basically 'if you know nothing about this at all, don't mess with this section.' I can understand the logic in knowing what to avoid, but I'm still a bit worried.

>>1562584
> Just pick something translatable at random.

Might as well. The answer is likely in the Codex but without knowing how to read the runes it could take a long time to find the proper entry.

Maybe copy the rune on paper to show to Denholm, claiming we found it in some book in the library and were wondering what it was. It's risky but I doubt she's (that closely) tied to Ophelia's demise.

>>1562829
>>1562591

When the Codex changes and you turn back to the first pages, you’re almost happy to see familiar handwriting on the page before you. Some of these entries seem to be accounts of Ophelia’s personal ventures. As you learn more of the language of magic, you’ll decipher the secrets she hid within this Codex – and do your best to learn more about her. You’re not sure what’s driving you; whether it’s to help yourself, or just to stay connected to the departed.

”In my time away from the Arcanum, I have learned much and seen a great many things. Though I will admit my rare yearnings for a younger, more academic and less dangerous world, my return to the Capital and the lands beyond have afforded me myriad worldly opportunities without coming at the complete exclusion of my continued personal studies.

Being of a sound mind and healthy body, I believe it is time now for me to do what I sought out to do from the beginning—and become a Sage.

This document details the accounts of my work toward the barest requirement of doing so. My postulates made, I’ve elected to challenge myself to apply my knowledge of Sorcery of the mind to an a doctrine I’m less skilled in—based on the tenets of the sage Remiel, whom I have idolized since my early days at the Arcanum.

ARS MAGNA”

[ The next several pages are completely written in perfectly-shaped runescript, utterly clean of mistakes or stray pen marks barring barely-legible personal notes in margins. Though many of the more complex symbols are illegible to you and seem to depart from the logic of the linguistic system you’re familiar with, you notice that the work begins to repeat itself a few pages in, becoming barer and barer; irreverent margin notes indicate frustration with repeated failed attempts. The final entry in the document is dated almost a year later. ]

”Update

Recently, I paid my respects to the deceased Sage Remiel. He leaves behind a great legacy of adherents to a doctrine of Sorcery that he singlehandedly redefined—and I can say on good authority that justice has since been delivered for his death. I have elected to terminate my work on the Sorcery Ars Magna not because I intended to impress him or any other member of the Council with my art, but because I have found something so much more significant in my most recent venture. Expect great things. – O.”

> Attempt to interact with the Sigil under your bed.
> Replace the rug and do something else.
> Examine the contents of Entry 320 – the instructions said not to actually follow them, so it’d be useful to know what they are – and it seems pertinent enough.
> Search for something else in the Codex. (Write-in.)

>>1562881
Dropped trip. Will probably be off soon; will probably be here tomorrow for a more stick-around session. Will announce beforehand as ever.

>>1562881
>examine entry 320

>>1562881
>> Examine the contents of Entry 320 – the instructions said not to actually follow them, so it’d be useful to know what they are – and it seems pertinent enough.

>>1562502
It isn't that Amelia can't do that particular action. It's the reasoning we (the players) have for choosing it. That's why I saw that particular option as meta gaming from the context we were in.

>>1562904
>>1563222

You’re not sure what to expect when it takes you more than a few minutes to actually break into this entry, so you’re not sure what to think when what you see on the page is equally familiar and illegible. It’s at this point that you start to piece it together; some of Ophelia’s private notes are written in a unique code, not proper magic script but a sort-of cipher that seems to follow some of the same logical rules.

The first section of Entry 320 is entitled “I. Introduction: on Remiel and Secrets”. You project it would take you until at least after midnight to decipher.

> Decipher Section I of Entry 320.
> Attempt to activate or deactivate the Sigil.
> Replace the rug.
> Other. (Write-in.)

>>1563562
> Attempt to activate or deactivate the Sigil.

>>1563562
>> Replace the rug.

We'll handle it later. Now that we know what's going on.

>>1563562
>Replace rug
>Decipher Section I of Entry 320

Sorry about the tie, I just don't feel like we should really touch the Sigil until we know for sure what it says or does. If Ophelia could survive on it, I think we could.

>>1563636
Ditto.
Go to sleep for the night, 40 posts. Damn.

>>1563666
It's a damn good setting and story.

Could you link to the post and vote proper just to be official about it?

>>1563562

>Replace Rug.

Honor Ophelia, straighten the room back up. Then...

>Decipher Section I of Entry 320.

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>>1563729
>>1563635
>>1563578

> I. Introduction: on Remiel and secrets
”To call the Sage Remiel an unrivaled master of Shape manipulation and matter sorcery is, somehow, an understatement. In penning ‘Synthesis’, he created a work on the subject which no work can ever feasibly compete with—barring, of course, the occasion of some tremendous future discovery that disproves much of what we think we know about the organization of reality itself. It is safe to say, as a pioneer of many Sorceries and prophet of many of the methods through which the doctrine is currently taught and understood, that Remiel earned his title as Sage, but more importantly, that he truly understood the nature of the real. But at the height of his achievement, his work was far from complete. Biographical sources that lack a complete understanding of his life history suggest that he became cold, withdrawn, and reclusive in the years leading to his death, postulating that he was either slowly poisoned by those who conspired to kill him, or that his Sorcery had taken a toll on his mind, or perhaps that his unique outlook on the field was because of a degenerative brain condition that eventually took his life.

All of these theories are incorrect. Remiel discovered something that changed the way he saw reality, and likely threatened to destroy his mind entirely. In this time, he began an opus that would surpass ‘Synthesis’.

It was to be entitled ‘Planes’.

I had only recently begun my effort toward reaching the Council myself when Remiel—who I then idolized for his mastery despite my relative lack of knowledge of his field of Sorcery—was killed. Through circumstances that I will call unusual for the sake of avoiding a lengthy explanation, the only existing copy of his incomplete opus found itself in my possession.

I have gone to great lengths since to preserve its status as the only existing copy, destroying the original work once it was recorded into the Codex Excelsis. To justify myself, I look to the living Sage Ceridwen, who pioneered an art she herself deemed forbidden and crafted a wealth of hidden knowledge that is kept in the chambers of the Sanctum for the eyes of Sages alone. The Council, arguably an assemblage of the ruling powers of this world, would have us believe that there is knowledge that only they can be entrusted with. As an ardent practitioner of magecraft, I, then, believe that there exists knowledge that only I can be entrusted with. The arts detailed in ‘Planes’ have dire ramifications for reality itself and all those who are passenger to it.

It’s best they not be considered. Just use them to your advantage. You’ll thank me later. – O.”

>>1563802

It’s quiet both outside the window and in the hall. It’s been nearly an hour since midnight; you read by soft lantern-light, then replace the rug beneath the bed when you’re finished to cover the soft glow and chilly air. Again, you’ve mid-morning classes tomorrow (today, now): both Interactions and Manipulation, if you plan on going to one or both of those—if you still plan to test out of your current level of Manipulation, however, you could make a convincing argument for not going. Ophelia’s vigil will be held at the archive after that day’s sunset; it’s a place to pay respects rather than a proper service, so you’ll be able to stop by any time before it closes.

The next section of Entry 320 is entitled “on Eiheim, travel thereto, and sigils of the Planes”. It looks almost as long as the first.

> Attempt to decipher Section II of Entry 320.
> Get some sleep.
> Experiment with something else in the room or search for information in the Codex.

>>1563814

>Attempt to decipher Section II of Entry 320

If we're going full "burn the candle at both ends..."

>>1563837
Actually I think we'll need to focus on learning more manipulations.
>>1563814
> Experiment with something else in the room or search for information in the Codex.
Look up more modern Pale techniques.

>>1563837
> Get some sleep.

We should rest. Remember, a mind needs time to acclimate to what it's learned. Let it sink in and percolate and settle.

>>1563864
Well we'll need to learn about "Synthesis" to fully understand what this guy Remiel was working on.

Now that I think about it the Sigil on the bed might be for accelerated sleeping.

>>1563675
Sorry, went to eat catfish after posting.
>>1563876
Sounds good.
But we should
>>1563814
> Get some sleep.

>>1563814
> Get some sleep.
"Burn the candle at both ends" may work if you have only a day or two, and a goal you can accomplish within them. We need to pack three years' worth of study and practice into one year. We cannot afford to stress today so much tomorrow suffers.

>>1563864
>>1563959
>>1564051

It’s certainly been a day, and you’re eager to get some rest; you feel weary already, eyelids fluttering as you start your nightly routine a little later than normal, dragging yourself into bed almost immediately afterward.

You don’t dream of anything.

The sun is bright through the crack in your window shades when you awaken and rise, still feeling rather groggy. You don’t have time to do much of anything but feed and dress yourself before you’ve got to head to Interactions, if you plan on attending.

An envelope has been slipped under your door. Your name is written on one side in calligraphy; the envelope is held closed by a very official looking Arcanum Extranimus wax stamp.

> Read the contents on your way to Interactions.
> Skip Interactions and read the contents.
> Disregard the envelope and get on with your morning.
> Other. (Write-in.)

>>1564081
Are we trying to test out of interactions?

>>1564081
Fricking open that with a spell from a safe distance.
Don't want a repeat explosion.

>>1564110
We don't have any such spell and if there is anything dangerous in there we'll get a chance to learn a new spell.
So basically you should stop being a little bitch.

>>1564081
If we have enough control, this: >>1564110
If not, disregard envelope and get on with our morning.

I don't personally think there's any danger, but it's been what, three days? Four, at most? I don't think Amelia's ready to take surprises at face value yet.

>>1564145
WE DON'T KNOW ANY FORCE MAGIC AND DANGER IS ACTUALLY A GOOD THING FOR US.
For fucks sake the van Orley choice was a waste if you're acting this way.

>>1564081
Whatever we do open the envelop and read the contents.

>>1564081
>> Read the contents on your way to Interactions.

Only because I don't think we can do >>1564110
YET.

>>1564192
If they're so fucking worried about explosion these idiots should have realized second sight is a thing.

>>1564081
> Read the contents on your way to Interactions.

if people are seriously that paranoid, use Second Sight before hand.

>>1564171
>>1564192
>>1564592

You break the seal – your primal brain decidedly expecting the letter to explode when you do – on your way to class, and read as you walk.

“Independent Study
Instructor: Rowan Varator
Course Materials: No Book Required

In addition to healthy ambition and an adaptable mind – skill in improvisational problem solving notwithstanding – a truly skilled Sorcerer must demonstrate the resourcefulness to find solutions to problems that appear difficult to approach at a glance by any means necessary, and the drive to push themselves beyond their perceived limits. There will be no designated lecture times or research periods for this course. Credit will be awarded equivalent to a full-year post-graduate elective for successful completion.

Assignments:
(10%) – In the form of one or two short essays: I. Answer the following question: what does it mean to be a Wizard? II. Choose the member of the Council of Sages that you think best exemplifies their title, and justify your choice. Due one month from assignment date.

(45%) – Master a Sorcery created by the Sage you chose. Due at end of year.

(45%) – Achieve the title of Wizard, as determined by a panel of senior Arcanum faculty. Due at end of year.”

You afford yourself a piteous laugh. That’s not possible. You read the note again to make sure that’s actually what it says before tucking it away in your pocket, wondering in the back of your head if he's lost his mind - and why he had to choose such a shifty-looking method of contacting you.

You still feel like you're being gambled with. Maybe it's par for the course for someone like you in a place like this.

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>>1564648

Interactions is held at the Halcyon, the newest of the Arcanum’s facilities. The walls are white and pristine; triangles stand upside-down on one another as support columns, and displays or decorations boast impressive levitating components. The classroom is small, though, and boasts a mix of students from myriad years who seem interested in the material; there are no late arrivals, with the professor, an aged man by the name of Dr. Hooke, arriving before any of his students. You take a seat middle-and-center, again, and no one really bothers you as class begins.

Attendance to the lectures is mandatory; you suppose otherwise everyone would just read the book, which you imagine could easily supplant the need to show up. What catches your ear is the beginning of his description, which draws much of the class in with storied descriptions of the use of manipulations in the wars of old. Sorcerers became tools of the military, as the only way to defeat a manipulation is with a rival manipulation—and thus, the interactions between the known doctrines of Sorcery became a popular topic in the scholarly tradition. Force manipulation can ward off arts of Shape and rival Force manipulations, and Pale manipulation can ward off arts of Ether and of rival Pale manipulations…

But as he drones on, you think—it must be more complicated than that, right? Ophelia showed you that solid objects could even be drawn into the Pale with mere manipulations, and powerful evocations can surely destroy sturdy conjurations. The lecture is shorter than your Sigilcraft class, courtesy of meeting thrice instead of twice a week; you begin work on the first written assignment before class ends proper to save yourself some time.

You’ve got a little more than an hour to kill before Channeling and Manipulation. After that, you’ll have the day free until the evening vigil.

> Attend your next class, the yearly course in Channeling and Manipulation.
> Skip on the pretense of testing out later – and spend more time doing something else.

>>1564667
>> Attend your next class, the yearly course in Channeling and Manipulation.

>Ophelia showed you that solid objects could even be drawn into the Pale with mere manipulations, and powerful evocations can surely destroy sturdy conjurations.

I'm almost positive this is intentional- Pale manipulation is likely seen as dangerous or the higher ups know how busted it is and don't want anyone to challenge them and so tell bullshit about how it works so most students don't get it in their heads to unlock the full potential of the art.

>>1564667
> Attend your next class, the yearly course in Channeling and Manipulation.

Just read the archives. Breddy gud.
We should take a little time off after this. Just to get away from it. Have a little escape. All of this meta is unhealthy.

>>1564667
>> Attend your next class, the yearly course in Channeling and Manipulation.
Try and discern the specifics we should focus and prepare ourselves on before testing out of the class.


>>1564752
I don't think it's really that intentional. Pale practitioners are said to be secretive by nature, as well as generally shunned by everyone else. Due to this, It wouldn't surprise me that a lot of the deeper discoveries of the Pale are kept in-house. Individuals and small groups aren't prone to share their secrets to outsiders who tend to look down upon them. What you end up with are older and considerably outdated texts, such as the Pale Tome, that seem to have exaggerated expectations for practitioners. Especially when compared to the other disciplines. Or texts that are heavily biased in favor of those other disciplines.

>>1565333
Get away from it? What do you mean? And what do you mean by meta?

>>1565397
So basically you figure that they actually say that because that's what they believe, and we need to find a group of Pale practitioners to figure things out ourselves?


Also, for something entirely different- HOLY SHIT at those Independent Studies goals! I mean, the essay is whatever, but I dunno what it'll take to master a Sorcery or become a Wizard in a year.

Mostly because I dunno what becoming a Wizards entails/means, and mastering a Sorcery means...mastering a specific spell, right? Or a spell class?

>>1565612
>So basically you figure that they actually say that because that's what they believe, and we need to find a group of Pale practitioners to figure things out ourselves?

Yes. Meeting the exaggerated expectations would also help. Personally I'd like to do the Eye Seal as soon as possible.

>Also, for something entirely different- HOLY SHIT at those Independent Studies goals! I mean, the essay is whatever, but I dunno what it'll take to master a Sorcery or become a Wizard in a year.
>Mostly because I dunno what becoming a Wizards entails/means, and mastering a Sorcery means...mastering a specific spell, right? Or a spell class?

I'm not sure what this is either, let alone how to achieve it. The title sounds like we'll end up bullying one of the teachers for it. The Sage and his/her sorceries, we'll need some more info on.

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>>1564752
>>1565333
>>1565397

“A Sorcerer’s true ability is demonstrated by their talent for manipulation.” Dr. Vanadie eyes the members of the class - seated at stools, divided two to an island – as she wanders with a bit of a swagger up and down the aisles. Your table-mate, a redhead who looks and smells like he’s just come from the Spark greenhouse, gives you a look of concern, eyebrows raised, mouth slightly agape. You shrug, affording him a nod of affirmation.

Yeah, she’s like this.

“It forms the very foundation of Sorcery. Almost all of your work at the Arcanum constitutes the review material for this class—frequently, we will be glossing over the review material because you will be expected to understand the core of the arts you practice. For the duration of this course, you and your assigned partner will be learning alongside one another – working to discover new tenets of manipulation and better yourselves. Our levels of skill and affinity differ, and thereby we owe a duty to one another as fellow Sorcerers.” Vanadie says. “The more accomplished, to teach those less so – and those less so, to take value away from their lessons. Introduce yourselves—then, channel power, as if to let your aura shine. Familiarize yourself with the presence of the magically inclined, and determine who should lead and who should follow.”

“Amelia.” You nod, casting him an unperturbed look.

“Acelin.” He says, looking rather nervous in return. “So, uhm. You ready?”

> Lose on purpose.
> Go about halfway—make it a proper friendly exercise.
> Give it a real try. Acelin seems nice, but a bit helpless; you’d rather not be stuck at his pace.
> Fully exert yourself as if to snuff his aura out. You’ll earn Vanadie’s endorsement by proving yourself superior.

>>1565667
So basically what we want to do is exert ourselves enough to not be held back by him, but at the same time to not put in so much effort that we're singled out too hard. This is of course provided we're just that good and he's not going to be holding back his power level.

I think I'll vote
> Give it a real try. Acelin seems nice, but a bit helpless; you’d rather not be stuck at his pace.

>>1565612
Get away from the pressure of being the best and doing a full 180 in just a single moment of life. Old habits die hard and very few people can follow through 100% on a commitment.

Also meta meaning the most efficient way to go about something, the MC isnt a machine and has lost some of her humanity in a sense after gaining that pale affinity. I probably would take it slower and more deliberately if I was her.

>>1565667
> Give it a real try.
I do really think however that maintaining a cordial relationship however small will help. We should definitely give him some pointers if he falls behind, tutor him mid session even. It reinforces our basics and makes sure that we have a thorough comprehension of the lesson at large.

>>1565667
>> Fully exert yourself as if to snuff his aura out. You’ll earn Vanadie’s endorsement by proving yourself superior.

I feel like this is an opportunity. We need to ensure our role as his superior. Possibly a lead in determining guilty parties at the Greenhouse.

Qm, is Vanadie one of the authorities in determining who's awarded the Wizard title?

>>1565733

> has lost some of her humanity in a sense after gaining that pale affinity

That was actually kinda what I was going for- I've never played this for only meta's sake. I like the world too much to play it like that. The idea is a sort of 'one bad day' kinda thing where she just gets a deep seated burning purpose for revenge, y'know? Might not end like that, but that was my goal.

>>1565738
I guess. But the really important question that arises now is, how much is she willing to sacrifice for a cause that she can easily give up and/or run away from? What kind of person are we talking about here? Shes already established as having a longstanding history of irresponsibility. Looking from a realist perspective, she should be taking things a little differently. But thats just my opinion.

mabye I just wanted to gain allies to ensure a strong support base in any future plots

>>1565667
> Give it a real try. Acelin seems nice, but a bit helpless; you’d rather not be stuck at his pace.

Going maximum exertion seems needlessly showoffy. In addition, if we prove ourself to be so great, we might get stuck instructing as an aide instead of doing our own thing.

>>1565745
I think part of it is the revelation she told Ophelia not long before the incident.

Ophi was the only person to really, y'know. Believe in her. Actually make an effort. And Amelia really wanted to pay her back, finally. And right when she's about to finally dedicate herself to something and improving herself, right when she's finally about to prove to someone...boom.

She's gone. Before she can really even get started, that person is just...gone. The ONE PERSON who really was willing to stand with her, warts and all. Dead.

Killed. Not in an accident, not by her own hand, not even for justice, really. She was killed because she was a player in an mad game of death- same as when you take a piece in a chess game. That's all it was.

I have to imagine that not only witnessing that, but being PART of it- ACTUALLY TRYING TO FIGHT BACK ALONGSIDE HER TO PROVE TO HER AND YOURSELF- and STILL losing her? That's gotta light a fire, I imagine, but at the same time change someone deep down inside. It's certainly not unrealistic, in my opinion and experience. People can change- and drastically, given the right incentive. I figured this was good enough, and Amelia in just the right place for it.

>>1565752
Alright. You won me over

can we still be social?
I get intrigue boners

>>1565759
Oh yeah, nah, we can be both mysterious and subversive and social at the same time. Say a whole lot without saying anything at all, and let our enemies reveal themselves.

>>1565762
*readies lube*

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>>1565681
>>1565733
>>1565748

“Whenever you are,” You say, and you let your aura shine. You can feel power well up around you while Vanadie walks, assessing. Objects in the room begin to rattle a bit as some overexert themselves or as those with poor grasp of controlling the breadth of the power they channel summon up what they can muster. Some concede early, recognizing immediately who is to teach and who is to learn. Others see it as a competition. Some begin to sweat. You think you might have heard someone retch a few rows behind you.

You know Vanadie is a senior faculty member – she probably qualifies, in regards to the tasks outlined in your private study, but there’s certainly more than three people that meet that title, Varator included. You don’t know who’s going to be present at your coronation; you’re just wondering how you’re going to pull it off.

The title of Wizard belongs to those who have created a unique Sorcery worthy of being canonized; the most notable Wizards are the Sages themselves, as this is the minimum requirement for earning that position.

This is what you’re thinking about as you challenge Acelin. Already you can tell he’s weaker than you; he is not weak, but his channeling ability fails to measure up to whatever strange new power you’ve recently awakened within yourself. At first, he doesn’t seem terribly involved and sort of lazes into the ordeal, but you can tell that something starts to wear on him, be it the effects of the aura you bring to bear against his or his own inferiority faced against something so unassuming. His face reddens, but he doesn’t give in, demonstrating a surprising amount of endurance—until he begins to look lost, like he’s no longer sure who or where he is.

“Okay! Okay.” He says, breathing a sigh of exhaustion and slumping a little bit. “I’m done. You got me.”

You nod, the two of you exchanging glances. Vanadie stops adjacent to your island, eyeing the two of you expectantly.

“Shake hands.” She says.

There’s a deliberate and slightly awkward pause before you extend yours. He takes it, giving it a half-hearted little shake.

>...

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>>1565788

“You performed well—but still there is much to be done on behalf of each of us. To those of you who feel as though you’ve failed yourselves, or are worried that you face a challenge that you cannot solve? Perhaps you simply are not meant to yet. But you will be.” Vanadie looks up to the remainder of the class. Somehow, you feel you can almost see a soft, blue aura that dangles in the air behind her without even utilizing your Second Sight. “This goes for all of you. In this class, and in your future at the Arcanum, we will work alongside and challenge one another to become skilled manipulators and accomplished Sorcerers.”

Vanadie briefly and vaguely discusses the references you’ll be utilizing and the types of assignments you’ll be facing. She doesn’t say anything about attendance requirements, but you’ll be expected to turn things in and work with your partner to complete certain exercises; additionally, the course material seems like it’ll be important when exams come around. Acelin shuffles off in a bit of a hurry after your class comes to a close.

It’s almost noon. You have until evening to prepare to bid Ophelia goodbye.

> Return to your residence.
> See if you can catch up with Acelin.
> Ask something of Vanadie.
> Other. (Write-in.)

>>1565790
> See if you can catch up with Acelin.
Offer to help him nexr class or to come by for some lessons if he really needs them.
Then:
> Return to your residence.

Because I cant think of a good question to ask teach.

>>1565795
(As in he comes to us, like fuck if we are coming to him)

>>1565790

>>1565795
>>1565796
> See if you can catch up with Acelin.
Aye, might as well offer if he wants help. Though he might be more inclined to fine control to do with Vitality and/or alchemy instead of being powerful, judging by the earthy smell he carries.

>>1565790
> Ask something of Vanadie.
Ask for her to judge your current ability and provide feedback how you should proceed? Don't have to follow her advice, if she gives it, but good to hear it.

>>1565804
Good points all round, we should also ask that question to the teach, simple stuff goes over my head sometimes.

>>1565790
>>1565804
I guess I can back this.

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>>1565804
>>1565833
>>1565795

“Dr. Vanadie?” You ask, approaching her as she collects her things. “I had a couple of questions.”

“Ask away.” She looks sternly at you, giving a nod of acknowledgement.

“Well, I was wondering if you could reflect on my current ability – and maybe give me some advice on how I can proceed with improving?” You ask.

“Mm. The power you can gather is impressive for a student in this course—I feel something unique in you, though I can’t say what. Your control, though, is suspect. Even if it appears to us that we are doing well, we can lure ourselves into ways of thinking that form bad habits. I know, it’s hard to take an exercise like this seriously; and I know you might have other things on your mind in a curriculum so rigorous.” Vanadie says.

“I mean, I’ve had a lot to think about lately.” You say, with a sigh.

“I understand.” She continues. “Next week is devoted to discussing many of the common pitfalls and little skills you can use to improve on your own, so I’d suggest taking notice. In the meantime, I think you should try to find ways to become invested in your work – to force yourself, if necessary, to be careful, and to ensure that you’re capable of recognizing your own mistakes. Imagine a great aura like that of a Sage. To demonstrate finesse is to walk through a wooded grove without crushing the very trees underfoot—when to gather the power required to perform a Sage Sorcery is to grow from the size of a man to that of a mountain. You’ve been told many times, I’m sure, that there is more to magecraft than just gathered power. This applies to more of the challenges you’ll face than you might know now. Is that good?”

“I think so.” You respond. “I appreciate it.”

“You’re welcome.” She responds, with a bit of a smile. “Oh, did I get your name?”

“It’s Amelia?”

“Ah! Right. Well, miss Amelia—I hope to see you next week.” Vanadie says. “One little thing?”

“Yes, ma’am?”

“Between you and me,” Vanadie laughs to herself, holding the door open for you on the way out. “Power helps.”

You have to stop yourself from rolling your eyes. “I’ll bear that in mind.”

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>>1565804
>>1565795

“Acelin!” He’s halfway to Spark before you catch up to him.

“Amelia?” He spins around, hair tossing about his head. Acelin meets your gaze for a moment, then immediately begins nervously frisking himself. “Aw, damnit. Did I leave something?”

“No—no. I just wanted to say no hard feelings, if that’s cool?” You ask. “If you need some help, I can give you a hand next class? Or, if you’re really interested sometime—I live over in Ebonywood. I could teach you some tricks.”

He looks as if he’s not sure whether or not you’re talking to him. His eyes light up when he realizes you are.

“I, uhm.” He responds, blushing a bit. “Maybe? I mean, that’d be cool – we’ll. Talk about it? I kind of overreacted, I guess. I feel like I’m always getting pushed around. Getting drowned like that in class even when I was giving it my all just kind of sucks. It’s my bad—you didn’t mean anything by it.”

You don’t really know the feeling, but you smile and nod regardless. He seems convinced.

“Okay, yeah. I’ll see you in class next week, then?” He asks.

“Sure.” You nod. You give him a little wave as the two of you part company, and watch as he almost skips off.

You snag a meal on the way back to your residence. You’ve been doing a real good job of keeping your mind off of things, for what it’s worth. Everything here is as it should be, and you’ve got time for business before evening.

> Continue practicing Sorcery or Manipulation.
> Search for something in the Codex.
> Experiment with Ophelia’s belongings.
> Other. (Write-in.)

>>1565847
>Power helps.

I mean, she's not wrong. Not something I'd roll my eyes at.
>>1565849
> Continue practicing Sorcery or Manipulation.

Because whoo boy we need to get on that even FASTER.

>>1565849
Actually, a moment. What all else is in Ophelia's belongings? I'm wondering if maybe she doesn't have some sort of magical amplifier lying around.

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>>1565856

Searching Ophelia’s room yielded a number of items. Her chest contained gold bars, pemmican wafers, emergency notes, and an elegant rapier with unknown magical properties. Her wardrobe contained a number of outfits empowered with defensive sigils, and a black jeweled choker which demonstrates no observed effect but seemed to react when donned. Her desk contained myriad tools for armchair alchemy and crafting, as well as an asymmetrical iron knife. Beneath her bed lies a black fur rug which conceals a sigil whose properties have not been investigated.

Hm...I think I'll keep my vote as is, then.

Asking to other players, what do you figure we should try to work with today, if we do decide to practice?

>>1565849
>Search for something in the Codex.
I think it would ve beneficial to look at some other sources for pale manipulation and theoretical applications. That way we can expand the learning process and/or make it go faster via practicing in the pale tome.

>>1565849
Guess we should spend an evening or two practicing restraint and control. Thanks, teach!

And made a friend. Better not make him think this is gonna be any type of romantic involvement. He seems the lost puppy type of lad who'll latch on.

> Search for something in the Codex.
> Try to find entries about how to improve control fast (or efficiently)

Unless Manipulation practice does that already?

>>1565867
We cooouuld invite the whole gang over for a house party.

>>1565869
I kinda want to find a book of spells or something for Pale Manipulation and spells and whatnot. The path to Wizardry is basically innovating a new spell, right? Well, kinda need to know what's already been done to do that effectively, I feel.

>>1565875
I see what you're getting at, but this isn't the time- we should do that maybe a day or so AFTER the vigil. Call it a celebration of her life or something.

And then maybe figure out if anyone's celebrating for the wrong reasons. That or didn't show up after being asked.

>>1565882
Thats a really good idea. Gets my noggin joggin. Who knows.

For now, autistic focus senpai.

>>1565854
>>1565891
>>1565873

Focus, you shall. You’ve got a lot on your mind, since there’s a lot of places you can direct your efforts.

> Practice Manipulation, focusing on taking care and recognizing your mistakes.
> Work on Sorcery that manipulates the properties of space.
> Work on Sorcery that evokes chaotic energy.
> Look up information about the living Sages.

>>1565898
> Work on Sorcery that evokes chaotic energy.
This is offensive magic right.

>>1565896
...Okay, I'm the guy who voted for this and I have to note- you miscounted.
>>1565891
Linked to >>1565882, not my vote. It was for a different subject of discussion entirely.

> Search for something in the Codex.
Won 2-1.

>>1565898
>> Work on Sorcery that manipulates the properties of space.

That said, if you're still forging ahead, this is my vote.

>>1565907
We get bonuses for doing offensive magic and space manipulation would probably require more finesse.

>>1565906
Apologies. I’ve given a lot of information in a short time span so there's bound to be a lot of different discussions going on and a lot of courses of action to pursue. There’ll be enough time to do two different things here so – not only is there still sort of an opportunity to dig into the Codex with this, we’ll decidedly do so a little bit afterward unless there’s an overwhelming decision to do something else.

>>1565913
We need to study finesse, though. Control and finesse go hand in hand.

>>1565914
S'cool. I need to get to bed anywho.

Quest is easily still one of the best recent up and comers.

>>1565914
Its all good familia.
>>1565898
>Practice Manipulation, focusing on taking care and recognizing your mistakes.
Its fresh on our minds, we should get thinhs out of the way one after the other, this is no different.

>>1565898
>>1565907
> Work on Sorcery that manipulates the properties of space.

Spess magic, assuming this helps up with control and finesse.

>>1565916
>>1565923
Than practice manipulation is what you actually want.

>>1565928
We're using the control/finesse thing as a secondary plausible reason to start learning how to teleport/do cool shit. I do agree we need to focus on manipulation sooner than later, however.

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>>1565923
>>1565907

What you have seen of Space manipulation exists within the Pale Tome; thereby, this is the resource you turn to.

The ways of Sorcery described in the Pale Tome seem to be frequently at odds with some of your teachings and the other literature you’ve encountered. Within, it is said, so: at its core, the Pale exists as a force of balance; its design within the world seems to be to compensate for irregularities and allow natural law to easily resolve and maintain itself. One needs not worry, then, about creating chaos, or applying raw power indiscriminately in exerting mind over matter—except, of course, for the sake of efficiency. So long as the Pale abides, all will fall into its rightful place.

It's the mid-afternoon before you put the book away, moving from theory to practice. Your Second Sight active, you look down at the objects upon your desk. To chart a course through the Pale the length of an inch is a labor in itself. You allow your gathered power to occupy the space within—and exert force along this path as if to crush space itself within a vice. All appears normal. Without moving your hand, you lift a finger and set it down on your pen, which rests almost two feet away where the desk meets the wall.

Something doesn’t seem right.

> Manipulation Acquired: Attempt to alter the spatial properties of your environment, extending reach or expediting movement by crossing more distance than you appear to.
> Study Progress: Pale passive defense (Some progress; requires increased manipulation skill, practice), evoke chaotic Pale energy (Some progress), Space manipulation Sorcery (Little progress), Modern Pale Sorcery (No progress)

The display will be open after sunset. You will go before nightfall proper, and have three or four hours remaining to do with as you will. Hence, you turn to the Codex Excelsis.

> Search for resources about common fallacies and pitfalls in Manipulation practices.
> Search for resources about bridging the gap between learned Manipulations and their derivative Sorceries.
> Search for logical or theoretical resources about the Pale and associated Sorcery.
> Attempt to decipher Section II of Entry 320.
> Look up information about the living Sages.

>>1565956
>> Search for resources about common fallacies and pitfalls in Manipulation practices.

Okay, NOW I'm going to bed.

>>1565959
supporting this

>>1565956
qm did you come up with this setting yourself ? pretty amazing if yes, i have really been enjoying it

>>1565956
>>1565959
I agree with this as well

What a waste of a goddamn trait.

Should probably seal the eye soon for maximum power gains

>>1566031
No. That fuck us over in the long run because it penalizes the socialite trait and we shouldn't be wasting our time on utility manipulation except in combat. We should focus our time on manipulation with direct offensive and defensive uses.

>>1566023
How is it a waste of a trait?

>>1566053
See
>>1562335
> Inspiration Discovered - Nikolas van Orley: Study effectiveness and ease of use slightly improved for manipulations that deal or prevent damage to objects or entities; rate of learning associated Sorcery is also improved. Gain opportunities to utilize new Manipulations in dangerous or life-threatening situations. Inspiration will wear off after some time, after which new or further inspirations can be discovered.
We need to make use of this as much as possible before it wears off. Spacial manipulation get no bonuses from it unless it's in combat.
We seriously need to be more effecient.

>>1566058
>*unless it's in combat of some other dangerous situation
Another addendum we need to figure out what those sigils on the bed and doubt it's something that could kill us since its the bed Ophelia herself fucking slept in so it must be either a defensive ward of some sort or something to reduce the time we need to sleep both of which is good.

>>1566058
Oh shit, I didn't notice it was timed.

>>1565956
> Search for resources about bridging the gap between learned Manipulations and their derivative Sorceries.

Technically this is my second vote but since my work computer tags me differently...
>>1565990 is me so disregard it.

>>1566058
...I completely forgot about that. Thanks for the reminder.

> Search for resources about bridging the gap between learned Manipulations and their derivative Sorceries.

Similarly, I'm >>1565959. So disregard that one.

>>1565956
> Search for resources about common fallacies and pitfalls in Manipulation practices.

>>1566058
Eyyyyyyyy I knew we were missing something. Fuck this is going to be like banished bro, we gotta take some serious fucking notes.

>>1566060
>>1566063
Wait which option is the spatial manipulation option, im dunced.

>>1566065
>>1566066
>>1565956
Im switching to
>whichiver option takes advantage of our unique spatial manipulation buff.
Because im unoriginal and hypocritical.

>>1566067
Wow lad, that's cheating!

Or dare I say, it's similar to a shortcut

>>1566067
We don't have a spatial manipulation buff.
>>1566065
>>1566063
>>1566060
If you guys want to be more efficient we should get into dueling and Ether magic. We already have a sword for dueling and Ether magic is quick to learn and is good for dealing damage.

>>1566074
>duelling

I was thinking of that. Should help improve out defence even FURTHER BEYOND.

It's only been like 3-4 days since Ophelia was murdered. I don't want to say "we got time" but rather let's not destroy ourselves trying to do everything

>>1566076
>let's not destroy ourselves trying to do everything

Thats why I didn't bother dueling. I think we've got enough on our plate. Independent study alone might be a problem for us.

>>1566076
We should take up Kye and Devion offer.

>>1566085
Yeah probably

>>1566084
Being a terminator of vengance is hard...

>>1566076
>>1566084
Why not try activating the bed sigil for the reasons I said here >>1566059

>>1566094
yeah i support activating the sigil

>>1566094
Yep. Just gonna change
>>1566067
To
>>1565956
>seeing whats going on with ophalias bed/deciphering the sigils

Being QM is suffering I heard.

I'm not even sure what's winning now.

>>1566112
If its really that confusing the qm will just hold a restart vote.

>>1565959
>>1565963
>>1565990
>>1566065
Voted for fallacies and pitfalls.

>>1566060
>>1566063
Changed >>1565959 and >>1565990 to votes for bridging the gap.

>>1566094
Voted for experimenting with the Sigil.

>>1566097
>>1566110
Changed >>1565963 and >>1566065 to votes for experimenting with the Sigil.

Next update will proceed with experimenting with the Sigil by my count. (2:3 between bridging the gap and Sigil experimentation.)

>>1566414

…but decide that there are slightly more urgent matters to tend to, and so once more pull the rug from beneath your bed and lay it aside. The Sigil fills the space beneath with a soft, blue glow, and you feel a change in the room’s pressure when you expose it fully. The area above is cold, but the icon, which seems recursive and difficult to understand by merely looking at it, seems somehow beckoning – almost welcoming.

> Attempt to interact with or activate the sigil.
> Crawl closer so you can see it more clearly or try to copy it onto paper.
> Try and drag your bed out of the way.
> Other. (Write-in.)

>>1566442
> Crawl closer so you can see it more clearly or try to copy it onto paper.

>>1566442
>> Crawl closer so you can see it more clearly or try to copy it onto paper.

I think the idea here is to show it to someone else? And see what happens? Or maybe something else.

>>1567048
One of the teachers should be able to tell us.

Any theories on what it might be/do?

>>1566501
>>1566505

It takes you a while to get it down, the fact that you’re sort of in a very awkward sprawled-out position beneath your bed notwithstanding. You know that the internal dimensions – the size of each symbol in relation to one another and the total size of the sigil, as well as their distance apart – of the sigil are of importance to its proper operation. What you see, though, is beyond your limited understanding of the art and the logical system behind it; if you had to say, you’d say it gives the impression of being beyond sigilcraft itself. Your copy is vague, but the icons bound within each of the self-circumscribed circles are accurate, their positions placed well enough – you think, anyway – to convey the sense of what it actually looks like. You tuck it away in your notes, planning to show Denholm or someone else.

It’s a little chilly down here.

> Attempt to interact with or activate the sigil.
> Replace the rug and do something else with the hours remaining until the display.
> Other. (Write-in.)

>>1566442
>Crawl closer so you can see it more clearly or try to copy it onto paper.

>>1567470
>Other. (Write-in.)
Investigate the chill. Perhaps we can uncover more about the sigil that way. Use palesight or whatever to get shit done.

>>1567473
Sorry I was late. Busy bee whatnot.

>>1567470
> Replace the rug and do something else with the hours remaining until the display.
Read up about the fallacies and pitfalls in manipulation practice

>>1567519
This sounds good.

Think I'm done for today - have some stuff to do, anyway. Archived and will continue in a new thread soon.

>>1567867
Okee dokee boss. Officially the new banished for me imho. This quest is off its fucking rockers good.

Imma go upvote this right now my dude.

>>1567750
>>1567519
I just wanted to let you guys know I hate you dumb fucks for wanting to waste our time. Seriously it pointless to investigate further and we need to do some sort of improvement while we can.

>>1567548
This.
>>1568335
>banished
You must have been one of the stupider players considering how mindlessly you've been voting so far. Do you even think for yourself or should I actually fear you doing something like that?

I think we'll be fine at the moment. We're still just getting started and figuring things out- another in game week or so is when we'll need to really buckle down and see how we're going to budget our time.

>>1570371
Oh no woe is me it's been only a few days and one of them isn't hyper focusing on manipulation of the Pale.

>>1570371
>reeeee my playstyle and preference of questing is the only valid one
Physically remove yourself, kindly.

No but really I understand the interest of getting good but why not knock of two birds with one stone when you can? Oh well.

>>1571647
>>1572523
To be honest it takes a chunk out of our time actually checking it when bringing the drawing of sigil to someone else more experienced is much faster and more effecient which was the entire point of why people voted to copy onto a piece of paper. The inspiration we got also has a time limit on it so it would be nice to use it before we lose it.

New
>>1572773