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(1) Gabrius: Welcome back to the land of the living, Lord Aercrest! Did you enjoy your sleep?

What…? → (2)

Who…? → (2)

Where…? → (2)

(2) Gabrius: Feeling a little lost, are we? Understandable. After all, you have been slumbering in that grave for, well… it must be over a century now.

→ (3)

(3) Gabrius: Oh that's right, Lord Aercrest. Take a moment to let that sink in. It may have eluded you in the afterlife, but you've been dead for quite some time. I'm merely here to wake you from your illusions.

No, no, no… this can't be right, I was in the middle of a banquet, I need to get back… → (15)

What is this, some kind of an illusion?! → (16)

Why… who are you and why would you do this?! → (4)

(15) Gabrius: A banquet, was it? Ah how lovely that sounds, Lord Aercrest, but the reality is whatever banquets you held only exist in history books now - something you were merely reliving within the Dream.

I don't believe you, this has to be some kind of an illusion! → (16)

You're some sick necromancer?! I'll kill you for this!! → (22)

Why… who are you and why would you do this?! → (4)

(16) Gabrius: I assure you, it is not. Your disbelief at your current situation is to be expected, but I am not a patient man, so let me state this in no uncertain terms - you're dead, Lord Aercrest. You have been dead for a long time and now you've risen to serve me.

You're some sick necromancer?! I'll kill you for this!! → (22)

Why… who are you and why would you do this?! → (4)

(4) Gabrius: You may call me Gabrius - a mage of extraordinary talents, in case that wasn't obvious. I am in need of a servant - a blackguard, if you will - and that's where you come in. You will find you're placed under a curse of enslavement, to obey my every command.

What will it take for you to let me go? → (6)

Why me?! What did I ever do to you? → (23)

I have no intention of obeying you! → (12)

You cursed me with undeath?! You sicken me! → (13)

(22) Gabrius: Hahaha, that's cute! But no, I don't think you will. You will find you're unable to lift a finger against me. Allow me to introduce myself.

→ (4)

(6) Gabrius: We shall see. Promise to serve me well and perhaps in due time, once you've expended your usefulness to me, I may show you mercy. To begin with, I need you to dig up a little secret buried in these woods.

What 'secret'? → (7)

I'll find a way to break your curse before I have to count on your 'mercy'. → (8)

(23) Gabrius: Oh it's nothing personal, Lord Rothar. History remembers you as a rather capable man; something that comes in short supply in this backwater excuse of a land.

→ (24)

(12) Gabrius: Not willingly, perhaps, but then my magic gives you no choice in the matter. The sooner you learn to accept that you're entirely powerless to resist me, the easier it will be.

You cursed me with undeath?! You sicken me! → (13)

Why me?! What did I ever do to you? → (23)

What will it take for you to let me go? → (6)

(13) Gabrius: Honestly, calling it a curse is a little unfair. I've gifted you with immortality, Lord Aercrest! I even did what I could for your body - it was badly decomposed - though I'd advice you not to look too keenly in the mirror.

You call this a gift?! I already had immortality in the afterlife! What you've done is a nightmare! → (14)

You know I have no intention of obeying you! → (12)

Why me?! What did I ever do to you? → (23)

What will it take for you to let me go? → (6)

(7) Gabrius: We'll discuss that, but not here. Take these supplies I brought for you - death has not been kind to your possessions, but I knew to expect that.

→ (10)

(8) Gabrius: And how exactly do you plan to achieve that? You cannot kill me, you cannot even attack me. No, your curse ends when I will it so - not a moment sooner.

And what kind of a 'secret' are you expecting me to find? → (7)

(24) Gabrius: Finding you wasn't easy, you know. Someone had taken the pains to remove your body from your family crypt and hide it here in this forsaken cemetery. But I expect you will prove your worth.

Wait, this isn't the Aercrest Manor! Where are we? → (25)

You know I have no intention of helping you! → (12)

And you cursed me with undeath?! You sicken me! → (13)

What will it take for you to let me go? → (6)

(14) Gabrius: Oh, the afterlife - the Dream - offers nothing but a meaningless existence. You have a renewed purpose now, I suggest you embrace it.

You know I have no intention of obeying you! → (12)

Why me?! What did I ever do to you? → (23)

What will it take for you to let me go? → (6)

(10) Gabrius: Next, make your way out of the cemetery. There's an abandoned shack just outside Spruce Shade village. We should be out of sight from any curious eyes there.

Whatever you say… → (0)

Wait, I have questions…! → (9)

What curious eyes…? → (9)

(25) Gabrius: A truly forgotten corner of the land the locals call Spruce Shade's Rest. You must have been moved here for some reason after your family was thrown from power, but that's an irrelevant bit of history now. You have returned to serve me.

You know I have no intention of obeying you! → (12)

And you cursed me with undeath?! You sicken me! → (13)

What will it take for you to let me go? → (6)

(9) Gabrius: *Gabrius ignores you, as he begins casting a spell of teleportation*

→ (0)

(200) Gabrius: You're here? Surely you did not already acquire the spellwood?¹⁾

Where exactly should I be looking for this 'Forest's Heart'? → (201)

So this is it, the Temple of Etherlight? → (204)

I'm still searching. → (0)

(201) Gabrius: If I knew that, I'd already have told you. Forests hide their secrets, but someone familiar with the land might be able to guide your way. Either way, scour the woods 'till you find it and bring its bark to me here.

I'd rather not roam the woods aimlessly… → (202)

So this is it, the Temple of Etherlight? → (204)

As you say… → (0)

(204) Gabrius: If you insist on observing the obvious, then yes - this is the temple. For now, the way in is shielded by a barrier maintained by the temple's guardian, deep inside. It won't stop us though, once I have the wood from the Forest's Heart.

What's the relic you're looking for here? Do I even want to know? → (205)

About that… where exactly should I be looking? → (201)

As you say… → (0)

(202) Gabrius: Hmph… The Ebongreen Druids undoubtedly know these forests the best, but they're intolerable to interact with and aren't likely to just blurt out the location to the Forest's Heart when asked.

→ (203)

(205) Gabrius: Nothing world ending, I assure you. For now, concentrate your mind on bringing me the adequate spellwood.

About that… where exactly should I be looking? → (201)

As you say… → (0)

(203) Gabrius: Your second best bet therefore is to ask local hunters, trackers, those sort of people. Half of them may spin fancy tales and myths at you, but with luck some of them might actually know something.

So this is it, the Temple of Etherlight? → (204)

As you say… → (0)

(100) Gabrius: A peasant might look upon it and see nothing but a worthless pile of rubble. Men and women who once became gods dwelled here. You're standing upon their graves, thrall.²⁾

The task is done - I bring you your spellwood. → (106)

What have you got against peasants? → (101)

Is that what you'd like to be, then? A god like them? → (102)

So this is it, the Temple of Etherlight? → (103)

Leave. → (0)

(106) Gabrius: Finally done running errands, then? Well good… that means we can actually progress.

→ (0)

(101) Gabrius: I dislike anyone who pretends to understand the world while remaining blind to it. Yes, that includes peasants. But I've met plenty enough lords and ladies, rich merchants, Archmagi even… all of them fools.

It's just you against the world, isn't it? → (107)

So what, you'd like to be a 'god' like the Old Folk? → (102)

So this is it, the Temple of Etherlight? → (103)

The task is done - I bring you your spellwood. → (106)

Whatever. → (0)

(102) Gabrius: Oh, I merely want what they already understood is the only way to navigate this world without falling victim to random fate - control.

What do you seem to have against peasants, anyway? → (101)

So this is it, the Temple of Etherlight? → (103)

The task is done - I bring you your spellwood. → (106)

Whatever. → (0)

(103) Gabrius: If you insist on observing the obvious, then yes - this is the temple. For now, the way in is shielded by a barrier maintained by the temple's guardian, deep inside. It won't stop us though, once I have the wood from the Forest's Heart.

What's the relic you're looking for here? Do I even want to know? → (104)

What do you seem to have against peasants, anyway? → (101)

So what, you'd like to be a 'god' like the Old Folk? → (102)

Well then, I have your spellwood. → (106)

Whatever. → (0)

(107) Gabrius: Don't act like you're any better. You used to defacto rule these lands, how often did you have to play kindergarten with your vassals? You know exactly what I'm talking about.

So what, you'd like to be a 'god' like the Old Folk? → (102)

So this is it, the Temple of Etherlight? → (103)

The task is done - I bring you your spellwood. → (106)

Whatever. → (0)

(104) Gabrius: Nothing world ending, I assure you. The Forest's Heart, Lord Aercrest?

What do you seem to have against peasants, anyway? → (101)

So what, you'd like to be a 'god' like the Old Folk? → (102)

The task is done - I have your spellwood. → (106)

I don't have it yet. → (0)

(110) Gabrius: It was foolish of Eloria to think she could hide from me. Considering all the years we shared, she should've known me better.³⁾

Who… are you talking about? → (111)

(111) Gabrius: Oh, I believe I mentioned before, Lord Aercrest - there is vengeance to be done. In fact, it is the only thing we've been working towards. I will watch Eloria suffer.

And you think she's hiding in these ruins? → (112)

Who is this woman you hate with such passion? → (114)

(112) Gabrius: What? No, fool, she's hiding behind the Grimoire of Concealment. A Qaeshtari artifact of magic, its power has turned her practically invisible to me. Even my most advanced spells could only track her into these remote lands, but no further.

→ (113)

(114) Gabrius: I wouldn't expect you to understand, Lord Aercrest. Eloria and I have a long history; for the longest time we were friends and allies…

→ (115)

(113) Gabrius: But it matters not; the power of a Grimoire can be defeated by that of a stronger one, and one of the most potent ever made lies here - the Grimoire of Truesight. That is what we're here to retrieve, Lord Aercrest.

Grimoires…? Like, some sort of spellbooks? → (120)

What did this woman possibly do for you to hate her so? → (114)

Let's get going then. → (123)

(115) Gabrius: Later, partners even… after I'd lost everything in the war we fought together against the so called Mage King, Desrim Arthraime… *The orb in Gabrius' staff flashes violently at the mention of the name.*

→ (116)

(120) Gabrius: A spellbook is what you'd buy from a vagrant pretending to be a wizard, Lord Aercrest - Grimoires are much more profound. The ancient Qaeshtari created them as objects of pure magic given physical form.

→ (121)

(123) Gabrius: You will be the one to enter the ruins. I shall remain here and regain my strength. Breaking through the Qaeshtari barrier took much out of me, and I will need to recover before channelling the Grimoire's magic.

→ (124)

(116) Gabrius: Which is why her betrayal in the end was that much more antagonizing, not only for the dagger she sank into me.

Can't blame her to be honest, considering what you've done to me. → (117)

A war against a 'Mage King'? What did I miss while I was dead? → (118)

What are we doing in these ruins, though? → (119)

Let's get going then. → (123)

(121) Gabrius: Eloria and I studied them to uncover the secrets to creating one. But the closer we got to the answers, the more we began to have… let's call them fundamental philosophical disagreements.

→ (122)

(124) Gabrius: The temple's guardian is still very much active - I could feel it pushing back against me, trying to maintain the barrier. Take the channeling focus I used. Much of its power was burned up but it should still prove useful.

So you're leaving the dangerous work for me to deal with? → (125)

As you say… Completes Skinning the Forest's Heart quest. → (0)

(117) Gabrius: How very droll, Lord Aercrest. You can raise your complaints to whatever monsters are left lurking within these ruins.

A war against a 'Mage King'? What did I miss while I was dead? → (118)

What are we doing here, though? → (119)

Let's get going then. → (123)

(118) Gabrius: Nothing that would have concerned you - it happened far from here in the Vhosphoran Kingdom. Although, as an unexpected consequence, the Hydrobor Circle ended up migrating and settling their academy here. But if you care to know more, I suggest you read a book.

What are we doing in these ruins, though? → (119)

Let's get going then. → (123)

(119) Gabrius: Eloria's hiding behind the Grimoire of Concealment. A Qaeshtari artifact of magic, its power has turned her practically invisible to me. Even my most advanced spells could only track her into these remote lands, but no further.

→ (113)

(122) Gabrius: She turned our entire Circle against me, you know. All those I had once called brothers and sisters, I made sure they each came to regret it. Only Eloria remains left alive now.

Why hunt her? You could just let the past be. → (109)

Let's get going then. → (123)

(125) Gabrius: Yes, the grunt work. Why do you care? You're immortal now, need I remind you? Facing whatever is left in these ruins should prove no more than an inconvenience by now.

As you say… Completes Skinning the Forest's Heart quest. → (0)

(109) Gabrius: No, I think I cannot.

→ (114)

(1250) Gabrius: What is it now, Lord Aercrest?⁴⁾

What are Grimoires, exactly? → (126)

What is it between you and this Eloria? → (129)

How do even know all this stuff about the Old Folk? The Qaeshtari? → (133)

The temple's guardian is felled, the Grimoire is yours… → (135)

Nevermind. → (0)

(126) Gabrius: Profound artifacts, the ancient Qaeshtari created them as objects of pure magic given physical form. One of the most potent ever made lies here - the Grimoire of Truesight. That is what you are to retrieve, Lord Aercrest.

→ (127)

(129) Gabrius: Oh, Eloria and I have a long history; for the longest time we were friends and allies…

→ (130)

(133) Gabrius: You didn't think these are the first Qaeshtari ruins that I've explored? Eloria and I spent decades studying their works. I've seen entire halls sealed in, you know - filled with their dead still huddled in beds. Killed by something, for all their knowledge, they couldn't even understand.

What are Grimoires, anyway? → (126)

So what's between you and this Eloria? → (129)

The temple's guardian is felled, the Grimoire is yours… → (135)

Leave. → (0)

(135) Gabrius: Perfect, only one thing now remains in order to reveal the traitorous woman to me.

→ (0)

(127) Gabrius: You know, Eloria and I studied Qaeshtari Grimoires to uncover the secrets to creating one. But the closer we got to the answers, the more we began to have… fundamental philosophical disagreements.

What is it between you and this Eloria? → (129)

How do even know all this stuff about the Old Folk? The Qaeshtari? → (133)

The temple's guardian is felled, the Grimoire is yours… → (135)

Leave. → (0)

(130) Gabrius: Later, partners even… after I'd lost everything in the war we fought together against the so called Mage King, Desrim Arthraime… *The orb in Gabrius' staff flashes violently at the mention of the name.*

→ (131)

(131) Gabrius: Which is why her betrayal in the end was that much more agitating, beyond just the dagger she sank into me.

A war against a 'Mage King'? What did I miss while I was dead? → (132)

So, what are Grimoires, exactly? → (126)

So, how do even know all the stuff about the Old Folk? The Qaeshtari? → (133)

The temple's guardian is felled, the Grimoire is yours… → (135)

Tragic. → (0)

(132) Gabrius: Nothing that would have concerned you - it happened far from here in the Vhosphoran Kingdom. Although, as one unexpected consequence, the Hydrobor Circle ended up migrating here. But if you care to know more, I suggest you read a book.

What are Grimoires, anyway? → (126)

So, how do even know all the stuff about the Old Folk? The Qaeshtari? → (133)

The temple's guardian is felled, the Grimoire is yours… → (135)

Leave. → (0)

(134) Gabrius: I grow impatient, Lord Aercrest. Are you done rummaging around the ruins?⁵⁾

The temple's guardian is felled, the Grimoire is yours… → (135)

There's still something I wanted to know. → (1250)

Not yet. → (0)

(140) Gabrius: You're here, good. I will require your assistance while I use the Grimoire of Truesight to scry beyond Eloria's defenses.⁶⁾

What must I do? → (142)

This stone ring is more of the Qaeshtari remnants? → (141)

I need a moment to prepare myself. → (0)

(142) Gabrius: Channelling the Grimoire's magic is going to require my full attention. While I do so, I will be vulnerable and in need of your protection.

Protection, from what? → (143)

(141) Gabrius: Indeed, this was one of their Circles of Divination. Specifically created for demanding ritual spells, such that the Grimoires often demand.

What must I do? → (142)

I need a moment to prepare myself. → (0)

(143) Gabrius: Of that I am… not entirely clear. The Grimoire breaks beyond what the Qaeshtari called the Curtain of Etherlight - the world between all worlds. Their writings also mention an… entity, within the domain of Etherlight…

So, what are you expecting to happen? → (144)

An entity…? → (146)

(144) Gabrius: That will remain to be seen, but be prepared for anything. Whatever you do, my focus must not be interrupted. So I don't care if Demon Overlords themselves begin pouring in, you will do what it takes to keep them away from me.

→ (145)

(146) Gabrius: Like I said, it is not clear. It may be the ancient Qaeshtari did not fully understand the Curtain either, only that something within it resisted whenever their magics pierced through it.

→ (147)

(145) Gabrius: I have lain my staff on the carpet here, alongside disruptive Qaeshtari spell bombs I looted from the ruins. You won't be facing this Etherlight Entity defenseless.

You'll let me use your staff? → (148)

An 'Entity' from within the 'Curtain'? Seems a little vague. → (149)

I'm ready to begin. → (0)

(147) Gabrius: Be prepared for anything. Whatever you do, my focus must not be interrupted. So I don't care if Demon Overlords themselves begin pouring in, you will do what it takes to keep them away from me.

→ (145)

(148) Gabrius: The staff is not a gift, Lord Aercrest. I shall grant you temporary authority over it, but the staff is familiar serving its one true master. You may find it has something of a will of its own, should you try to employ it without my blessing.

So an 'Entity' from within the 'Curtain'? Seems a little vague. → (149)

I'm ready to begin. → (0)

(149) Gabrius: It's as much as I ever came across in ancient writings. When the Qaeshtari discovered varying dimensions of existence, they learned that those were separated by a world that was not quite a world, a world between worlds - the 'Curtain of Etherlight'.

→ (150)

(150) Gabrius: It may be they never fully understood it either. From what I gather, it is a place that can neither be seen nor entered, but one must pass through it in order to pass between the different worlds.

→ (151)

(151) Gabrius: But every time you pierce through it, something within it resists. Something that is hard to define… Perhaps not quite a creature, but certainly more than a mere force of nature.

You'd let me use your staff to defend against it? → (148)

I'm ready to begin. → (0)

(155) Gabrius: Useless! Lord Aercrest, I would deal with these apparitions myself if the scrying spell didn't require my full attention. It is the only reason why I continue to entertain you - do not fail me again!⁷⁾

What were those things? → (156)

I'll be ready for them this time. Updates Peering Beyond the Curtain to phase 2. → (0)

I need a moment… to catch my breath… figuratively… → (0)

(156) Gabrius: Precisely what I warned you about - the Entity of Etherlight. What it is exactly is of no consequence. All that matters is that once they appear, you blow those apparitions into oblivion.

I'll be ready for them this time. Updates Peering Beyond the Curtain to phase 2. → (0)

I'll need a moment… to catch my breath… figuratively… → (0)

(157) Gabrius: Are you done resting, slave? Eloria continues to evade me while you sit idly.⁸⁾

What were those things? → (156)

I'll be ready for them this time. Updates Peering Beyond the Curtain to phase 2. → (0)

Still need a moment… → (0)

(160) Gabrius: *Gabrius stands still in brooding silence. The apparitions have dispersed. You hear only the wind.*⁹⁾

Is that it…? Is it done? → (161)

(161) Gabrius: Yes, I see her now. I see it all.

→ (162)

(162) Gabrius: *Gabrius channels magic through your eyes. Visions begin to fill your skull.*

→ (0)

(165) Gabrius: Eloria thought that she could turn on me, and when she failed, she thought she could run and hide from me. It is time she understood how wrong she was.¹⁰⁾

→ (166)

(166) Gabrius: You have been a decent servant to me thus far, Lord Aercrest. Once we are through with this, I promise, you will have to hear my voice no longer. For now, I wish you to act as my hand in carrying out vengeance against Eloria.

→ (167)

(167) Gabrius: Travel to the city of Thornhill and look for this man of hers - Arren Oakenthorn. In the wake of a recent plague, the young druid took on the role of a noble healer and a herbalist within the city. How quaint indeed.

→ (168)

(168) Gabrius: Pay him a surprise visit. I expect he and Eloria maintain contact somehow through magic. Use this connection, Lord Aercrest, and slay Arren before her very eyes.

What?! That is the most vile request! → (169)

Those visions you showed me, what were they? → (173)

Wait, Who is this lad Arren, and why kill him? → (175)

How do I get to Thornhill from here? → (171)

I must obey… → (172)

(169) Gabrius: Oh I'm sorry, does this not sit well with your sense of honor? Were you perhaps expecting Eloria and I to sort our differences out in a noble duel, hm?

→ (170)

(173) Gabrius: They were of the Silvermirror Fen. A notoriously swampy terrain east of Thornhill City, long served as the home to various degenerates and the Silvermirror Witches. Now, it seems, the Witch has become none other than the very woman I seek.

The Silvermirror Witches? → (174)

Who is this lad Arren, and why kill him? → (175)

I may have no choice in obeying you, but your task is most vile! → (169)

How do I get to Thornhill from here? → (171)

I must obey… → (172)

(175) Gabrius: A young druid Eloria came to rescue, as she vanquished the Witch of the Swamp and assumed her role. According to my visions, the two developed an intimate bond. Who the druid is doesn't really matter, only that Eloria cares for him.

You would kill this man only to hurt Eloria?! → (176)

Those visions you showed me, what were they? → (173)

I may have no choice in obeying you, but your task is most vile! → (169)

How do I get to Thornhill from here? → (171)

I must obey… → (172)

(171) Gabrius: *You stop yourself short of asking. As the past ruler of Imberthale, you recall the major roads leading northwest of Haywind will eventually take you to Thornhill.*

I may have no choice in obeying you, but your task is most vile! → (169)

Those visions you showed me, what were they? → (173)

Wait, Who is this lad Arren, and why kill him? → (175)

I must obey… → (172)

(172) Gabrius: Oh, and Lord Aercrest? Do try to make him suffer.

→ (0)

(170) Gabrius: Perhaps you'd like for us to sit down, talk about the good old days we shared? That we'd shake hands and embrace? Once there was a time I acted with honor like you, Lord Aercrest. It brought me naught but misery.

Those visions you showed me, what were they? → (173)

Wait, Who is this lad Arren, and why kill him? → (175)

How do I get to Thornhill from here? → (171)

I must obey… → (172)

(174) Gabrius: A long line of witches native to the swamp, always feared and hated by the people of Thornhill. But there is not much more I know of them. Their ambitions never were grand; they preferred to revel in their own depravity in the quiet seclusion of the swamp, such as I understand.

Who is this lad Arren, and why kill him? → (175)

I may have no choice in obeying you, but your task is most vile! → (169)

How do I get to Thornhill from here? → (171)

I must obey… → (172)

(176) Gabrius: Oh no, you will do the killing, remember? In any case, I would do far worse. You can rest assured of that.

Those visions you showed me, what were they? → (173)

I may have no choice in obeying you, but your task is most vile! → (169)

How do I get to Thornhill from here? → (171)

I must obey… → (172)

(60) Gabrius: You took your time.¹¹⁾

→ (61)

(61) Gabrius: Well…? Hand them over.

Yes, well… acquiring your supplies proved more troublesome than expected. → (62)

Wait, where did I put the items…? → (0)

(62) Gabrius: *Upon handing him the whiskey, Gabrius pulls out the cork with his teeth and takes a sizable gulp.*

So… you have what you need? → (64)

You're not the first wizard to demand whiskey that I've met. It's true it boosts magical affinities? → (63)

(64) Gabrius: Not quite. After all, this is a Qaeshtari temple we're breaking into, not some peasant's silverware cabinet. I'll need to bind a powerful spellwood to the focus.

Let me guess - you're making it my task to get it? → (65)

The Qaeshtari…? They were the Old Folk? Like the ones who built those monoliths? → (71)

(63) Gabrius: Hahaha! Not at all, I just haven't had a drink in ages. Truly, I have no idea where that particular myth originated from. I suspect many a magi find it amusing, thus continue perpetuating it. You didn't actually believe it, did you?

Unbelievable… just tell me you have what you need. → (64)

So you've had me running around for whiskey just because you wanted a drink?! Exactly what are we doing here?! → (69)

(65) Gabrius: How very astute, Lord Aercrest. In the meantime, I will be heading to the Temple of Etherlight to prepare the spell. According to the monolith spirit, its ruins should lie on a hill at the center of the Mistywood, east of here.

→ (66)

(71) Gabrius: The Old Folk…? How very peasant of you, Lord Aercrest. Most civilized world calls them Ancients for lack of better knowledge, but Qaeshtar is the name they gave themselves. Weren't you listening at the monolith?

Why do you pretend to know so much about them? → (72)

Enlighten me, who were they really? → (73)

Nevermind that, what about the spellwood you need? → (79)

(69) Gabrius: What are you getting so upset about? I can't imagine acquiring a simple bottle of whiskey could have required tremendous effort on your part.

Oh, you have no idea… → (70)

(66) Gabrius: You will also be entering the Mistywood, but for a different purpose. Search for the 'Forest's Heart', a sheltered clearing hiding a powerful old tree spirit. Once you find it, cut down the creature and bring me its bark.

You're telling me there's a sacred place within the woods, where a sacred tree spirit resides… and you want me to kill it? → (67)

Where exactly should I look for this 'Forest's Heart'? → (68)

Remind me again, how will I find the Temple afterwards? → (82)

It shall be done… → (80)

(72) Gabrius: Perhaps it is because I dedicated a significant amount of my life into studying what they left behind. I've walked into death traps for the tiniest nuggets on their history, their language, their power… There is not a person alive who knows them like I do; the person you're so inadvertently speaking to.

Then enlighten me, who were they really? → (73)

Whatever you say, but what about the spellwood you need? → (79)

(73) Gabrius: An advanced civilization of spellcasters, who emerged from the Qaesir River Valley in lands far southwest from here. Their entire culture revolved around the study of magic, to understand magic more intimately than anyone else dared possible.

→ (74)

(79) Gabrius: That is a task I leave to you. In the meantime, I will be heading to the Temple of Etherlight to prepare the spell. According to the monolith spirit, its ruins should lie on a hill at the center of the Mistywood east of here.

→ (66)

(70) Gabrius: Regardless, we're breaking into a Qaeshtari temple. The crystal is certainly required, but it alone is not enough. I shall need to bind it to a powerful spellwood to create an adequate focus.

Let me guess - you want me to get it? → (65)

The Qaeshtari…? They were the Old Folk? Like the ones who built those monoliths? → (71)

(67) Gabrius: Precisely, Lord Aercrest. Try not to shed any tears, I'm sure the forest will grow another in a few hundred years or so.

Where exactly should I look for this 'Forest's Heart'? → (68)

Remind me again, how will I find the Temple afterwards? → (82)

It shall be done… → (80)

(68) Gabrius: Forests hide their secrets, but someone familiar with the land might be able to guide your way. Either way, scour the woods 'till you find it and bring its bark to me at the Temple of Etherlight.

So, you're telling me a sacred tree spirit resides within the forest… and you want me to kill it? → (67)

Remind me again, how will I find the Temple afterwards? → (82)

It shall be done… → (80)

(82) Gabrius: Its ruins rest on a hill central to the Mistywood, according to the ancient monolith. I believe there's a dreary peasant village called Fog's Dwindling nearby. Once you reach it, you shan't be far from the temple.

So, you're telling me a sacred tree spirit resides within the forest… and you want me to kill it? → (67)

Where exactly should I look for this 'Forest's Heart'? → (68)

It shall be done… → (80)

(80) Gabrius: One more thing before you go. Take this crystal I fashioned in your absence. After all, you're of no use to me weak and powerless.

Thanks… What does it do? → (81)

Thanks, I guess… Completes Gathering Power quest. → (0)

(74) Gabrius: Once they conquered its secrets, they went on to conquer all the known lands on this continent, and in some way beyond. There was nothing that could oppose them.

→ (75)

(81) Gabrius: You'll figure it out.

Completes Gathering Power quest. → (0)

(75) Gabrius: And in the lands they conquered, they erected grand temples, monuments to their magic. Monuments that lasted for ages even after their downfall. Monuments such as the temple we're going to breach.

If they truly were so powerful, what could possibly cause their downfall? → (76)

How is it you pretend to know so much about them, again? → (72)

As you say, but what about the spellwood you need? → (79)

(76) Gabrius: They were wiped out by something the writings only mention as the 'Spellplague', though much of the details are murky. Should I hazard a guess, I imagine they flew too close to the sun and were burned by it - metaphorically speaking.

Magic has its limits, eh? → (77)

Magic has its limits, eh? → (78)

How is it you pretend to know so much about them, again? → (72)

As you say, but what about the spellwood you need? → (79)

(77) Gabrius: Not magic, but people, Lord Aercrest.*Your conversations with Gabrius have deepened your understanding of magic, increasing your experience in Sorcery by 200.*

How is it you pretend to know so much about them, again? → (72)

As you say, but what about the spellwood you need? → (79)

(78) Gabrius: Not magic, but people, Lord Aercrest.

How is it you pretend to know so much about them, again? → (72)

As you say, but what about the spellwood you need? → (79)

(85) Gabrius: The Mistywood lies firmly to the east, Lord Aercrest. I will be making my way to the temple shortly. Meet me there once you have the spellwood.¹²⁾

About my task… → (86)

I wanted to ask about the Old Folk… the Qaeshtari? → (87)

Nevermind. → (0)

(86) Gabrius: Yes?

Our next moves - let's go over them one more time. → (88)

Where exactly should I look for this 'Forest's Heart'? → (91)

I wanted to ask about the Old Folk… the Qaeshtari? → (87)

Nevermind. → (0)

(87) Gabrius: Then ask.

How do you know so much about them? → (93)

Who were they really? → (94)

If they were so powerful, what could have caused their downfall? → (97)

About my task… → (86)

Nevermind. → (0)

(88) Gabrius: I will be heading to the ruined Temple of Etherlight, surrounded by the Mistywood to the east, to prepare the spell to breach its gates. However, a powerful spellwood will still be required.

→ (89)

(91) Gabrius: If I knew that, I'd already have told you. Forests hide their secrets, but someone familiar with the land might be able to guide your way. Either way, scour the woods 'till you find it and bring its bark to me at the Temple of Etherlight.

Remind me again, how will I find the Temple afterwards? → (92)

I wanted to ask about the Old Folk… the Qaeshtari? → (87)

Our next moves - let's go over them one more time. → (88)

I should go. → (0)

(93) Gabrius: Because I dedicated a significant amount of my life into studying what they left behind, Lord Aercrest. I've walked into death traps for the tiniest nuggets on their history, their language, their power… There may not be a person alive who knows them like I do.

Who were they really? → (94)

If they were so powerful, what could have caused their downfall? → (97)

About my task… → (86)

I should go. → (0)

(94) Gabrius: An advanced civilization of spellcasters, who emerged from the Qaesir River Valley in lands far southwest from here. Their entire culture revolved around the study of magic, to understand magic more intimately than anyone else dared possible.

→ (95)

(97) Gabrius: They were wiped out by something the writings only mention as the 'Spellplague', though much of the details are murky. Should I hazard a guess, I imagine they flew too close to the sun and were burned by it - metaphorically speaking.

Magic has its limits, eh? → (98)

How do you know so much about them? → (93)

But who were they really? → (94)

About my task… → (86)

I should go. → (0)

(89) Gabrius: Thus you will also be entering the forest. Search for the 'Forest's Heart', a sheltered clearing hiding a powerful old tree spirit. Once you find it, cut down the creature and bring me its bark.

You're telling me a sacred tree spirit resides within the forest… and you want me to kill it? → (90)

Where exactly should I look for this 'Forest's Heart'? → (91)

Remind me again, how will I find the Temple afterwards? → (92)

I wanted to ask about the Old Folk… the Qaeshtari? → (87)

I should go. → (0)

(92) Gabrius: Its ruins rest on a hill central to the Mistywood, according to the ancient monolith. I believe there's a dreary peasant village called Fog's Dwindling nearby. Once you reach it, you shan't be far from the temple.

Where exactly should I look for this 'Forest's Heart'? → (91)

I wanted to ask about the Old Folk… the Qaeshtari? → (87)

Our next moves - let's go over them one more time. → (88)

I should go. → (0)

(95) Gabrius: Once they conquered its secrets, they went on to conquer all known lands on this continent, and in some way beyond. There was nothing that could oppose them.

→ (96)

(98) Gabrius: Not magic, but people, Lord Aercrest.

How do you know so much about them? → (93)

But who were they really? → (94)

About my task… → (86)

I should go. → (0)

(90) Gabrius: Precisely, Lord Aercrest. Try not to shed any tears, I'm sure the forest will grow another in a few hundred years or so.

Where exactly should I look for this 'Forest's Heart'? → (91)

Remind me again, how will I find the Temple afterwards? → (92)

I wanted to ask about the Old Folk… the Qaeshtari? → (87)

I should go. → (0)

(96) Gabrius: And in the lands they conquered, they erected grand temples, monuments to their magic. Monuments that lasted for ages even since their downfall. Monuments such as the temple we're going to breach.

If they were so powerful, what could have caused their downfall? → (97)

How do you know so much about them? → (93)

About my task… → (86)

I should go. → (0)

(375) Gabrius: Your methods are rather crude, Lord Aercrest, but I'm sure the message came across.¹³⁾

Where should I find you? → (378)

Leave. → (0)

(378) Gabrius: Look for me east of the city, my servant, at the edge of the notorious Silvermirror Fen. Travel past Fenwater Village and you shall soon find my encampment. It is time we paid Eloria a visit.

Leave. → (0)

(376) Gabrius: A far too peaceful death for my liking, but I'm sure the impact was felt intensely nonetheless.¹⁴⁾

Where should I find you? → (378)

Leave. → (0)

(377) Gabrius: Masterfully done, Lord Aercrest! I could almost taste Eloria's anguish through you.¹⁵⁾

Where should I find you? → (378)

Leave. → (0)

(185) Gabrius: You have served me well thus far, Lord Aercrest. Do this more. Act as my hand, delivering vengeance to Eloria, and I promise you shall soon be free of me.¹⁶⁾

About your task… → (186)

This portal you opened… tell me about it. → (195)

Which way do I reach Thornhill? → (194)

Leave. → (0)

(186) Gabrius: Speak, Lord Aercrest.

I may have no choice in obeying you, but your task is most vile! → (188)

Those visions you showed me, what were they? → (190)

Who is this lad Arren, and why kill him? → (192)

Another question… → (187)

Nevermind. → (0)

(195) Gabrius: It should come as no surprise that the ancient Qaeshtari built vast networks of portals across their empire. Roadbuilders as it were. Such portals can be found even in these backwater lands.

→ (196)

(194) Gabrius: *You stop yourself short of asking. As the past ruler of Imberthale, you recall the major roads leading northwest of Haywind will eventually take you to Thornhill.*

This portal you opened… tell me about it. → (195)

About your task… → (186)

Leave. → (0)

(188) Gabrius: Oh I'm sorry, does this not sit well with your sense of honor? Were you perhaps expecting Eloria and I to sort our differences out in a noble duel, hm?

→ (189)

(190) Gabrius: They were of the Silvermirror Fen. A notoriously swampy terrain east of Thornhill City, long served as the home to various degenerates and the Silvermirror Witches. Now, it seems, the Witch has become none other than the very woman I seek.

The Silvermirror Witches? → (191)

Who is this lad Arren, and why kill him? → (192)

I may have no choice in obeying you, but your task is most vile! → (188)

Another question… → (187)

Leave. → (0)

(192) Gabrius: A young druid Eloria came to rescue, as she vanquished the Witch of the Swamp and assumed her role. According to my visions, the two developed an intimate bond. Who the druid is doesn't really matter, only that Eloria cares for him.

You would kill this man only to hurt Eloria?! → (193)

I may have no choice in obeying you, but your task is most vile! → (188)

Those visions you showed me, what were they? → (190)

Another question… → (187)

Leave. → (0)

(187) Gabrius: Yes…?

This portal you opened… tell me about it. → (195)

Which way do I reach Thornhill? → (194)

About your task… → (186)

Nevermind. → (0)

(196) Gabrius: As you can see, no portal was built here. Nonetheless, this scrying platform is a point of convergence for dormant Qaeshtari magic. It was no stretch for one such as I to tap into that magic, to connect with the portals.

→ (197)

(189) Gabrius: Perhaps you'd like for us to sit down, talk about the good old days we shared? That we'd shake hands and embrace? Once there was a time I acted with honor like you, Lord Aercrest. It brought me naught but misery.

Those visions you showed me, what were they? → (190)

Who is this lad Arren, and why kill him? → (192)

Another question… → (187)

Leave. → (0)

(191) Gabrius: A long line of witches native to the swamp, always feared and hated by the people of Thornhill. But there is not much more I know of them. Their ambitions never were grand; they preferred to revel in their own depravity in the quiet seclusion of the swamp, such as I understand.

Who is this lad Arren, and why kill him? → (192)

I may have no choice in obeying you, but your task is most vile! → (188)

Another question… → (187)

Leave. → (0)

(193) Gabrius: Oh no, you will do the killing, remember? In any case, I would do far worse. You can rest assured of that.

I may have no choice in obeying you, but your task is most vile! → (188)

Those visions you showed me, what were they? → (190)

Another question… → (187)

Leave. → (0)

(197) Gabrius: By extention, you now ought to be attuned with their magic as well. Should you find dormant portals across the land, they should activate from your touch. Consider it a perk of being my servant.

Which way do I reach Thornhill? → (194)

About your task… → (186)

I see. → (0)

(28) Gabrius: What happened, slave? Where are you?

The storm blocked the road out, I'm forced to make my way through an underground crypt. → (29)

You're in my… head? → (30)

(29) Gabrius: Then do so. One of the crypt's entrances surfaces on the other side, at the outskirts of Spruce Shade village. Find me once you reach it.

That storm… was it your doing? → (31)

Do you know anything about this place? → (33)

There are a lot of undead wandering about, you know… → (32)

Yes, yes… → (0)

(30) Gabrius: I hope you didn't think I'd need to be physically present to command you. Explain yourself, why do you dally?

The storm blocked the road out, I'm forced to make my way through an underground crypt. → (29)

(31) Gabrius: It is simply the world screaming in agony as my magic cut through its fabric. I pay its cries no heed, nor should you.

Do you know anything about this place? → (33)

There are a lot of undead wandering about, you know… → (32)

Right… → (0)

(33) Gabrius: Not much, beyond that it's an old resting place for the dead. In the old times, people used to build to a grander scale and crypts like these are notorious for stretching on forever. Don't think I would come to your rescue if you lose yourself in there.

That storm… was it your doing? → (31)

There are a lot of undead wandering about, you know… → (32)

Right… → (0)

(32) Gabrius: I imagine returning you to this world disturbed their rest, but what of it? If you're afraid of losing your life, don't be. It's already long gone.

That storm… was it your doing? → (31)

Do you know anything about this place? → (33)

Right… → (0)

(34) Gabrius: One of the crypt's entrances surfaces on the other side, at the outskirts of Spruce Shade village. Remaining here won't help you find it.

Am I hearing you in my head…? → (35)

That storm… was it your doing? → (31)

There are a lot of undead wandering about, you know… → (32)

Do you know anything about this place? → (33)

Right… → (0)

(35) Gabrius: You didn't think I'd need to be physically present to command you, did you?

Was that storm your doing? → (31)

There are a lot of undead wandering about, you know… → (32)

Do you know anything about this place? → (33)

Right… → (0)

(249) Gabrius: There's just one problem, a small matter of housecleaning…¹⁷⁾

→ (250)

(250) Gabrius: See here? While you were absent, taking your time, a few bottomfeeders appear to have settled into my shack. Why don't you go ahead and clear them out?

As you order… → (252)

What exactly do you propose I do about them? → (251)

(252) Gabrius: Once they're removed, we'll perhaps finally have the peace to talk.

Completes Rude Awakening quest. → (0)

(251) Gabrius: Oh, I don't care what you do. Erase them from existence if you have to. Just get rid of them.

→ (252)

(245) Gabrius: Very good, now make sure to check inside, see if there's anything worth salvaging.¹⁸⁾

Updates A Necromancer's Housecleaning to phase 3. → (0)

(355) Gabrius: Perhaps now, finally, we can move forward without disruptions. There's vengeance to be done.¹⁹⁾

Why the sneaking and an isolated shack in the woods, surely you're not hiding from something? → (357)

Back in the crypts I ran into the remains of a Barbarian King Tyroghar, know anything about him? → (359)

Vengeance? What are you talking about? → (356)

(357) Gabrius: Well… I do not wish to be seen, if I can avoid it. The pesky magi of Hydrobor settled in these lands some decades back. I do not want them meddling in my affairs.

Wait, so you're afraid of them? → (358)

Back in the crypts I ran into the remains of a Barbarian King Tyroghar, know anything about him? → (359)

You said you're after vengeance? → (356)

(359) Gabrius: Nothing more than another inbred woodland warrior of the past, no doubt. I'm not so well versed in the history of these lands, nor should it be a concern to us now.

Then where do you hail from? → (360)

Why the sneaking and an isolated shack in the woods, surely you're not hiding from something? → (357)

You said you're after vengeance? → (356)

(356) Gabrius: Everything in good time, Lord Aercrest. Stay in the viscinity, I will call upon you when I am ready to move forward.

Completes A Necromancer's Housecleaning quest. → (0)

(358) Gabrius: Afraid? Last time I dealt with them, I slaughtered their Archmage. I have a feeling they may still be a little upset about that and I'd rather not rehash our old arguments.

Back in the crypts I ran into the remains of a Barbarian King Tyroghar, know anything about him? → (359)

You said you're after vengeance? → (356)

(360) Gabrius: From civilization, compared to this dirt anyway. Are you done asking pointless questions?

Why the sneaking and an isolated shack in the woods, surely you're not hiding from something? → (357)

You said you're after vengeance? → (356)

(255) Gabrius: Perhaps now, finally, we can move forward without disruptions. There's vengeance to be done.²⁰⁾

Vengeance? What are you talking about? → (256)

Why the sneaking and an isolated shack in the woods, surely you're not hiding from something? → (257)

Back in the crypts I ran into the remains of a Barbarian King Tyroghar, know anything about him? → (259)

(256) Gabrius: Everything in good time. For now, I need you to focus on a bit of lost knowledge. You see, a number of ancient ruins lie forgotten in these lands and I'm looking for a specific one. Luckily I've found something nearby that can point the way.

→ (261)

(257) Gabrius: Well… I do not wish to be seen, if I can avoid it. The pesky magi of Hydrobor settled in these lands some decades back. I do not want them meddling in my affairs.

Wait, you're afraid of them? → (258)

Back in the crypts I ran into the remains of a Barbarian King Tyroghar, know anything about him? → (259)

What vengeance were you talking about? → (256)

(259) Gabrius: Nothing more than another inbred woodland warrior of the past, no doubt. I'm not so well versed in the history of these lands, nor should it be a concern to us now.

Then where do you hail from? → (260)

Why the sneaking and an isolated shack in the woods, surely you're not hiding from something? → (257)

What vengeance were you talking about? → (256)

(261) Gabrius: It's an ancient monolith. Within it resides a magical apparition of sorts, created by the very same people who left behind the temples. I need it to tell me where to find the Temple of Etherlight. However, it refuses to speak to me - most vexing.

→ (262)

(258) Gabrius: Afraid? Last time I dealt with them, I slaughtered their Archmage. I have a feeling they may still be a little upset about that and I'd rather not rehash our old arguments.

Back in the crypts I ran into the remains of a Barbarian King Tyroghar, know anything about him? → (259)

What vengeance were you talking about? → (256)

(260) Gabrius: From civilization, compared to this dirt anyway. Are you done asking pointless questions?

Why the sneaking and an isolated shack in the woods, surely you're not hiding from something? → (257)

What vengeance were you talking about? → (256)

(262) Gabrius: When I approached it earlier, it droned on about sensing an 'unauthorized power' and deemed me 'dangerous', before powering itself down. But while it won't talk to me, I'm thinking you may have better luck. Get to the monolith north of here and make it talk about the Temple of Etherlight.

I shall act as you command. → (266)

What's the Temple of Etherlight? → (263)

Everybody knows Ancient remains are best left to lie still, treasure hunters are lost to them all the time. → (264)

So I'm looking for a talking magical monolith? → (265)

(266) Gabrius: So you shall. You may also use this shelter as you best see fit. I trust whatever trinkets you found inside might prove useful. After all, you weren't exactly buried with a whole host of treasures.

Completes A Necromancer's Housecleaning quest. → (0)

Updates Old Stones of Magic to phase 1. → (0)

(263) Gabrius: Like I said, one among numerous temple ruins the Ancient Civilization left behind. This one served a unique purpose, though, and if indeed it has remained untouched all these centuries, I should think it contains an object I need.

Everybody knows Ancient remains are best left to lie still, treasure hunters are lost to them all the time. → (264)

So I'm looking for a talking magical monolith? → (265)

I shall act as you command. → (266)

(264) Gabrius: Indeed? And do I seem to you like an ordinary treasure hunter, Lord Aercrest? It is no secret, many a fool has lost their life in hopes of merely touching the power the Ancient people wielded - to touch what they cannot comprehend. But I am no such fool.

Then what's the Temple of Etherlight? → (263)

So I'm looking for a talking magical monolith? → (265)

I shall act as you command. → (266)

(265) Gabrius: If you wish to put it so crudely, yes. It's the kind of thing that's hard to miss, even surrounded by the woods here as it is.

Then what's the Temple of Etherlight? → (263)

Everybody knows Ancient remains are best left to lie still, treasure hunters are lost to them all the time. → (264)

I shall act as you command. → (266)

(270) Gabrius: Though my powers may stretch our lives infinitely, Lord Aercrest, I'm afraid they do not achieve the same for my patience. Was there ambiguity in my orders?²¹⁾

Any ideas how to activate the monolith again? → (278)

The ancient monolith, what is it exactly? → (271)

Why are we digging for old secrets anyway? → (273)

What is all this for? You spoke of vengeance before… → (276)

Why the sneaking and an isolated shack in the woods, surely you're not hiding from something? → (274)

There was not… → (0)

(278) Gabrius: It's merely a part of a larger ancient structure buried beneath dirt. I suggest you look for other remnants nearby. If you can activate them somehow, perhaps their power will feed back to our monolith here.

The ancient monolith, what is it exactly? → (271)

Why are we digging for old secrets anyway? → (273)

What is all this for? You spoke of vengeance before… → (276)

Why the sneaking and an isolated shack in the woods, surely you're not hiding from something? → (274)

Leave. → (0)

(271) Gabrius: One among several structures left behind by the Qaeshtari, the Ancient civilization. This one houses a magical apparition of sorts with knowledge of the Ancients. I need it to tell me where we find the temple ruins of Etherlight.

→ (272)

(273) Gabrius: Many ruined temples of the Ancients dot these lands, but I need to find a specific one - the Temple of Etherlight. According to legends, it served a unique purpose, and if indeed it has remained untouched all these centuries, I should think it contains an object I need.

Everybody knows Ancient remains are best left to lie still. Treasure hunters are lost to them all the time. → (277)

How's this monolith you have me looking for meant to help? → (271)

What is all this for? You spoke of vengeance before… → (276)

Why the sneaking and an isolated shack in the woods, surely you're not hiding from something? → (274)

Any ideas how to activate the monolith again? → (278)

Leave. → (0)

(276) Gabrius: Ah yes, I did indeed. But let's not get ahead of ourselves, Lord Aercrest. For now, we focus on the secrets of Etherlight. The rest will come in time.

The ancient monolith, what is it exactly? → (271)

Why are we digging for old secrets anyway? → (273)

Why the sneaking and an isolated shack in the woods, surely you're not hiding from something? → (274)

Any ideas how to activate the monolith again? → (278)

Leave. → (0)

(274) Gabrius: Well… I do not wish to be seen, if I can avoid it. The pesky magi of Hydrobor settled in these lands some decades back. I do not want them meddling in my affairs.

So, you're afraid of them? → (275)

The ancient monolith, what is it exactly? → (271)

Why are we digging for old secrets anyway? → (273)

What is all this for? You spoke of vengeance before… → (276)

Any ideas how to activate the monolith again? → (278)

Leave. → (0)

(272) Gabrius: When I approached it earlier, it droned on about sensing an 'unauthorized power' about me and deemed me 'dangerous', before powering itself down. But while it won't talk to me, I'm thinking you may have better luck. Get to the monolith north of here and find out for me.

Everybody knows Ancient remains are best left to lie still. Treasure hunters are lost to them all the time. → (277)

What do you care with these temple ruins? → (273)

What is all this for? You spoke of vengeance before… → (276)

Why the sneaking and an isolated shack in the woods, surely you're not hiding from something? → (274)

Any ideas how to activate the monolith again? → (278)

Leave. → (0)

(277) Gabrius: Indeed? And do I seem to you like an ordinary treasure hunter, Lord Aercrest? It is no secret, many a fool has lost their life in hopes of merely touching the power the Ancient people wielded - to touch what they cannot comprehend. But I am no such fool.

The ancient monolith, what is it exactly? → (271)

Why are we digging for old secrets anyway? → (273)

What is all this for? You spoke of vengeance before… → (276)

Why the sneaking and an isolated shack in the woods, surely you're not hiding from something? → (274)

Any ideas how to activate the monolith again? → (278)

Leave. → (0)

(275) Gabrius: Afraid? Last time I dealt with them, I slaughtered their Archmage. I have a feeling they may still be a little upset about that and I'd rather not rehash our old arguments.

The ancient monolith, what is it exactly? → (271)

Why are we digging for old secrets anyway? → (273)

What is all this for? You spoke of vengeance before… → (276)

Any ideas how to activate the monolith again? → (278)

Leave. → (0)

(280) Gabrius: We have what we came for. Assuming our ghostly friend wasn't speaking nonsense, the temple ruins must be deep within the forests north of here - what locals call the Mistywood. There is a spell to prepare.

I'm not sure how much I'm of help with those. → (281)

Indeed? You know, I like to say I'm something of a wizard myself. → (284)

That thing spoke a lot of strange words… → (286)

What do you make of that guardian the spirit mentioned? → (288)

(281) Gabrius: I will handle the spellcasting. All I need from you is… to go shopping. Some of the ingredients I need should be fairly easy to find in a large city, which is what you have when you enter Haywind further out west.

And what ingredients would those be? → (282)

Haywind? When I ruled these lands, it was barely worthy of mention on a map. → (289)

(284) Gabrius: I'm glad you haven't lost your sense of humor, Lord Aercrest. I'm sure your skills are enough to awe peasant simpletons, but let's leave real magic to me.

→ (285)

(286) Gabrius: Yes… The Ancients once conquered these lands, but never sought integration of its peoples. Our language derives from their subjects, as the Zatrin - the 'Servant' - recognized. But as for their words, only few remain who still know them.

→ (287)

(288) Gabrius: Whoever, or whatever it is, it won't be happy to let us enter the temple. Towards their end, the Ancients took care to seal their sacred places. But that won't matter to me, we only have a spell to prepare.

That thing spoke a lot of strange words… → (286)

I'm not sure how much I'm of help with those. → (281)

Indeed? You know, I like to say I'm something of a wizard myself. → (284)

(282) Gabrius: A focusing crystal, for one thing - an object used to focus magic, you know? Look for a specialized craftsman, an artisan within the city. And as for the other thing…

→ (283)

(289) Gabrius: Is it truly shocking? New places and people emerge as the ages press forward, while the old fall away to be forgotten. Time corrodes everything, Lord Aercrest. One day yet, no one will spare a thought to the dirt Haywind stood upon.

Always a joy conversing with a depressing necromancer. → (292)

Indeed… Only an immortal could truly understand. → (293)

Maybe, but I believe some things are eternal… → (294)

(285) Gabrius: Instead, I need you to… go shopping. Some of the ingredients I need should be fairly easy to find in a large city, which is what you have when you enter Haywind further out west.

And what ingredients would those be? → (282)

Haywind? When I ruled these lands, it was barely worthy of mention on a map. → (289)

(287) Gabrius: It is perhaps an irony of fate that that the civilizations they considered beneath them were ultimately the ones to survive through the ages, while they themselves perished. But enough of that, we have a spell to prepare.

What do you make of that guardian the spirit mentioned? → (288)

I'm not sure how much I'm of help with those. → (281)

Indeed? You know, I like to say I'm something of a wizard myself. → (284)

(283) Gabrius: Bring me a bottle of the infamous Mistywood Dew whiskey - I've heard rumors that it's quite potent. I will call upon you when I sense your task is complete.

It shall be done. → (0)

How do I find the right craftsman for the crystal? → (290)

Where do I find this whiskey? → (291)

(292) Gabrius: Despite everything, your soul is still young and naive, Lord Aercrest. Time will take care of that too.

What do you need from the city, anyway? → (282)

(293) Gabrius: Ultimately immortality is a state of mind, which only the strong may bear. The rest would be driven insane by it. I'm glad you understand.

What do you need from the city, anyway? → (282)

(294) Gabrius: Oh, please. Whatever you're thinking of, I'm sure I don't want to hear it.

What do you need from the city, anyway? → (282)

(290) Gabrius: Ask the locals in Haywind, perhaps. I'm sure those bumbling fools will trip over themselves in their eagerness to help.

What about the whiskey? → (291)

It shall be done. → (0)

(291) Gabrius: I understand it is made in the area, your best bet is to search around Haywind's farms.

What about the crystal? → (290)

It shall be done. → (0)

(50) Gabrius: Must you distract me now?²²⁾

About those spell ingredients you asked for… → (51)

Nice magic, I guess… what's it for? → (55)

You said something about vengeance before? → (56)

Leave. → (0)

(51) Gabrius: Yes?

Where should I look for the crystal you need? → (52)

The whiskey you need, won't just any bottle do? → (53)

Where should I find you, once I have the items? → (54)

Nevermind, I had another question. → (57)

Forget it. → (0)

(55) Gabrius: I'm crafting something… for you actually. You'll find out soon enough.

You said something about vengeance before? → (56)

About those spell ingredients you asked for… → (51)

Leave. → (0)

(56) Gabrius: Yes… Just focus on getting me those items. Vengeance is best delivered with patience.

Nice magic, I guess… what's it for? → (55)

About those spell ingredients you asked for… → (51)

Leave. → (0)

(52) Gabrius: They're often chiseled by master craftsmen. I suggest you head to Haywind City to the west and ask around.

What about the whiskey, won't just any bottle do? → (53)

Where should I find you, once I have the items? → (54)

I wanted to ask something else. → (57)

Leave. → (0)

(53) Gabrius: I wouldn't have asked for a specific bottle then, would I? I understand it is made in the area, your best bet is to search around Haywind's farms.

And the crystal? → (52)

Where should I find you, once I have the items? → (54)

I wanted to ask something else. → (57)

Leave. → (0)

(54) Gabrius: Oh, don't worry about that - I'll call you.

So where should I look for the crystal? → (52)

What about the whiskey, won't just any bottle do? → (53)

I wanted to ask something else. → (57)

Leave. → (0)

(57) Gabrius: …

Nice magic, I guess… what's it for? → (55)

You said something about vengeance before? → (56)

Nevermind. → (0)

(305) Gabrius: For several years, Eloria has evaded my wrath. Now the moment for her reckoning is finally at hand.²³⁾

→ (306)

(306) Gabrius: It was a pleasure watching her through your eyes, squirming helplessly as you slaughtered Arren. She may not realize this yet, but it was only to be the beginning of her suffering.

→ (307)

→ (308)

→ (310)

→ (310)

(307) Gabrius: Truth be told, I had no idea you had it in you, Lord Aercrest! The way you utterly destroyed the man… hahaha! You exceeded all my expectations!

Destroying my enemies is what I'm known for. → (311)

*Say nothing.* → (314)

(308) Gabrius: Though in your execution, I believe you skirted my wishes. I wanted him to suffer, did I not? Yet you granted him a peaceful death…

→ (309)

(310) Gabrius: Though perhaps your execution lacked the flair one might have hoped for, but it will have served its purpose, I'm sure.

It was a vile deed and you're vile man. → (313)

*Say nothing.* → (314)

(311) Gabrius: And for that you will be rewarded. But my vengeance is not quite complete. I have decided what is to be Eloria's fate and you still have your role to play in it.

Perhaps you've done enough already? Just let her go. → (315)

What do you plan to do with her? → (316)

Just tell me what you want from me, and be done with it. → (323)

(314) Gabrius: Brooding, are we Lord Aercrest? Lighten up. I have decided what is to be Eloria's fate and you still have your role to play in it. But once your part is done, I will have no further use for you - I will let you go.

Haven't you done enough already? Just let her go. → (315)

What do you plan to do with her? → (316)

Just tell me what you want from me, and be done with it. → (323)

(309) Gabrius: Perhaps still you harbor a rebellious spark? Clearly, I ought to have enforced my will more strictly. No matter, a mistake that shall not be repeated.

Heh, all your curses and you still can't control me. → (312)

*Say nothing.* → (314)

(313) Gabrius: Spare me your tiresome lectures, Lord Aercrest. I have decided what is to be Eloria's fate and you still have your role to play in it. But your usefulness to me is soon to be at an end.

Haven't you done enough already? Just let her go. → (315)

What do you plan to do with her? → (316)

Just tell me what you want from me, and be done with it. → (323)

(315) Gabrius: You must realize how empty your pleading sounds to my ears. Eloria will suffer immensely, not because I find it necessary to satisfy some burning passion inside me…

→ (317)

(316) Gabrius: I don't want to spoil the surprise just yet, Lord Aercrest. I must still finalize the preparations, but in the meantime I want you to venture into the swamp and fetch the guest of honor, my beloved Eloria.

Fetch Eloria - how do you see that happening, you want me to ask her nicely? → (318)

This swamp stretches as far as the eye can see, how will I find her? → (320)

You want me to abduct her and bring her where exactly? → (321)

(323) Gabrius: Eager to be done with it? Fine. I must still finalize preparations, but in the meantime I want you to venture into the swamp and fetch the guest of honor, my beloved Eloria.

Fetch Eloria - how do you see that happening, want me to ask her nicely? → (318)

This swamp stretches as far as the eye can see, how will I find her? → (320)

You want me to abduct her and bring her where exactly? → (321)

(312) Gabrius: Challenging me really isn't in your best interests, Lord Aercrest. I have decided what is to be Eloria's fate and you still have your role to play in it. Nothing you do or say can change that now.

Haven't you done enough already? Just let her go. → (315)

What do you plan to do with her? → (316)

Just tell me what you want from me, and be done with it. → (323)

(317) Gabrius: But simply because I have come to despise her, and her suffering will please me greatly. And so you see, Lord Aercrest; there is nothing you can possibly say to spare this woman from what is to come.

And what would that be exactly, what have you planned? → (316)

Just tell me what you want from me, and be done with it. → (323)

(318) Gabrius: Why yes, you can do that if you're feeling courteous. More than likely, however, I expect you'll have to brutally beat her into submission.

Wait, this woman - she is a powerful mage, is she not? → (319)

This swamp stretches as far as the eye can see, how will I find her? → (320)

You want me to abduct her and bring her where exactly? → (321)

(320) Gabrius: She sits upon the throne of the Silvermirror Witches, deep within the heart of the swamp. You will have to carve your own way through the monsters and the terrain. But the Silvermirror Throne itself will be impossible to miss, once you spot it.

Fetch Eloria - how do you see that happening, you want me to ask her nicely? → (318)

You want me to abduct her and bring her where exactly? → (321)

(321) Gabrius: There is a remote forest cavern, far southeast of the swamp. Deep within, a hallowed stone circle of the ancient druids sits lost and forgotten, only revealed to me by the Grimoire of Truesight you so kindly helped me acquire.

→ (322)

(319) Gabrius: Indeed she is and summoning fire was always her forte, do be aware of that. She will no doubt believe she can turn you to ashes. Trust me, she will discover that she cannot.

This swamp stretches as far as the eye can see, how will I find her? → (320)

You want me to abduct her and bring her where exactly? → (321)

(322) Gabrius: An exceptional place, it is there that Eloria shall meet her fate. And your service to me shall be ended.

As you command… → (324)

As you command… Updates Reckoning of the Silvermirror Witch to phase 2. → (0)

As you command… Updates Reckoning of the Silvermirror Witch to phase 2. → (0)

(324) Gabrius: As always, serving me diligently has its merits, Lord Aercrest. Take this weapon, for how you handled Arren. I trust it will suit your style.

Updates Reckoning of the Silvermirror Witch to phase 2. Gives 1 The Brutalizer. → (0)

(385) Gabrius: Once upon a time this was an entirely unassuming swamp, same as any other. Cue generations of witches practicing dark magic and it's crawling with strange monsters. Hm, amusing to think…²⁴⁾

What are you planning to do with Eloria? → (386)

Leave. → (0)

(386) Gabrius: Oh, I don't want to spoil the surprise just yet, Lord Aercrest. Rest assured, I have decided what is to be Eloria's fate and you still have your role to play in it.

→ (387)

(387) Gabrius: But I must still finalize the preparations. In the meantime I want you to venture into the swamp and fetch the guest of honor, my beloved Eloria.

Fetch Eloria - how do you see that happening, you want me to ask her nicely? → (388)

This swamp stretches as far as the eye can see, how will I find her? → (389)

You want me to abduct her and bring her where exactly? → (390)

As you say. → (0)

(388) Gabrius: Why yes, you can do that if you're feeling courteous. More than likely, however, I expect you'll have to brutally beat her into submission.

This swamp stretches as far as the eye can see, how will I find her? → (389)

You want me to abduct her and bring her where exactly? → (390)

As you say. → (0)

(389) Gabrius: She sits upon the throne of the Silvermirror Witches, deep within the heart of the swamp. You will have to carve your own way through the monsters and the terrain. But the Silvermirror Throne itself will be impossible to miss, once you spot it.

You want me to abduct her and bring her where exactly? → (390)

Fetch Eloria - how do you see that happening, you want me to ask her nicely? → (388)

As you say. → (0)

(390) Gabrius: There is a remote forest cavern, far southeast of the swamp. Deep within, a hallowed stone circle of the ancient druids sits lost and forgotten, only revealed to me by the Grimoire of Truesight you so kindly helped me acquire.

→ (391)

(391) Gabrius: An exceptional place, it is there that Eloria shall meet her fate. And your service to me shall be ended.

Fetch Eloria - how do you see that happening, you want me to ask her nicely? → (388)

This swamp stretches as far as the eye can see, how will I find her? → (389)

As you say. → (0)

(20) Gabrius: The thing is, Eloria, I wanted you here because I'm actually quite upset with you. After all we had been through together, I don't know… I was expecting something better than a dagger in my chest.²⁵⁾

→ (21)

(21) Eloria Mirvren: You were talking about creating a Grimoire to control life and death itself! Did I not plead with you to abandon the idea? To stick with what we set out to do in the first place - to create new life!

→ (22)

(22) Eloria Mirvren: But no, you wouldn't listen to reason, you…! You had become a madman! You had to be stopped, Gaberion!

A Grimoire to control death - is that how I'm here? → (23)

Why is he so obsessed with death? → (30)

What happened between you two exactly? → (35)

What's with the name, is it Gaberion or Gabrius? → (28)

Why don't you tell us why we're here, Gabrius - what is this place? → (38)

(23) Eloria Mirvren: He was never meant to finish that Grimoire, I thought I made sure of that. But now we're here and we have a true undead among us. What did you do, Gaberion?

→ (24)

(30) Eloria Mirvren: Why indeed, Gaberion? To defile the dead, end the peace they have in the Dream, to destroy your own humanity? Did you really believe this misery would bring back Raelin…?

→ (31)

(35) Gabrius: We are the only two who remain out of the once legendary magi of the Vhosphoran Circle of Nine. Towards the end, Eloria convinced the others to hold me at bay while she sank her dagger into me.

→ (36)

(28) Gabrius: Gaberion Theraliss reminds me of a sad, poor idealist who lost everything, who was eventually betrayed and murdered by those closest to him. A dead man best left forgotten.

→ (29)

(38) Gabrius: I thought you'd never ask! I couldn't help but feel that death would be an inadequate punishment for you Eloria. You see, death is actually a relief, but the worst part is the moment of dying. I wished to capture that moment for you, Eloria.

→ (0)

(24) Gabrius: I suppose in a way I should be thanking you, Eloria. You were the one who really completed it, the Black Grimoire.

→ (25)

(31) Gabrius: Don't speak her name to me! And do you really claim to care about the sanctity of the dead so much, Eloria? Or had it perhaps dawned on you that I never saw in you half the woman Raelin was. Perhaps that is why you found it so easy to turn on me, hm?

→ (32)

(36) Gabrius: I gave them quite the surprise once I returned - hunted them down one by one. I suppose Eloria realized what was happening and thought she'd find a way to evade my wrath. But now we are here, and my vengeance may be complete.

→ (37)

(29) Eloria Mirvren: That's funny, because I'm reminded of a once gracious and noble hero, whom a naive young woman would look up to and adore. But yes, I fear that man is indeed long dead.

So wait, a Grimoire to control death - is that how I'm here? → (23)

Why is this man so obsessed with death? → (30)

What happened between you two exactly? → (35)

Why don't you tell us why we're here, Gabrius - what is this place? → (38)

(25) Eloria Mirvren: What the hell are you talking about?

→ (26)

(32) Eloria Mirvren: You think it was easy?! I loved you, you know, I always loved you…! But you never cared. And Raelin…? She's lucky to be dead, so she's spared the shame she'd feel if she had to see you today.

So… Am I to understand this is happening, because he's sad about losing his woman? → (33)

So wait, a Grimoire to control death - is that how I'm here? → (23)

What happened between you two exactly? → (35)

What's with the name, is it Gaberion or Gabrius? → (28)

Why don't you tell us why we're here, Gabrius - what is this place? → (38)

(37) Eloria Mirvren: You speak as though we betrayed you?! You were the one who betrayed us! You were the one who led us to study Qaeshtari relics in the first place, under false pretenses! We were like family to you, and you used us!

So wait, a Grimoire to control death - is that how I'm here? → (23)

Why is he so obsessed with death? → (30)

So what's with the name, is it Gaberion or Gabrius? → (28)

Why don't you tell us why we're here, Gabrius - what is this place? → (38)

(26) Gabrius: It was always missing a final, elusive component. It was hungering for an event… a statement, of sorts… a death… my death, which you kindly provided.

→ (27)

(33) Eloria Mirvren: I assume that's a lot of it, isn't it Gaberion? Except I don't see her here - only the dead lord - so what happened? Did you actually try to bring her back? Maybe she spat in your face.

→ (34)

(27) Gabrius: When my blood soaked the pages of the Grimoire, it drank my life away… Only then could it finally be complete! So you see, Eloria, you did kill me that day. And now, I own death itself.

Why are you so obsessed with death? → (30)

What's with the name, is it Gaberion or Gabrius? → (28)

What happened between you two exactly? → (35)

Why don't you tell us why we're here, Gabrius - what is this place? → (38)

(34) Gabrius: I'll only say that words flow too easily from your mouth, woman. I will change that soon, and I'll take great pleasure in it.

So wait, a Grimoire to control death - is that how I'm here? → (23)

What happened between you two exactly? → (35)

What's with the name, is it Gaberion or Gabrius? → (28)

Why don't you tell us why we're here, Gabrius - what is this place? → (38)

(70) Gabrius' Remains: *Magical flames have reduced your former dark master into an unrecognizable heap. The surrounding cave has fallen silent.*²⁶⁾

Doesn't look like he's recovering from this. → (73)

*Inspect Gabrius' staff.* → (71)

*Search his remains.* → (74)

Leave. → (0)

(73) Eloria Mirvren: That was the idea… what else can you see?

*Inspect Gabrius' staff.* → (71)

*Search his remains.* → (74)

Leave. → (0)

(71) Gabrius' Remains: *It lies on the ground nearby, seemingly spared from Eloria's fires.*

Staff seems intact. → (72)

(74) Gabrius' Remains: *You uncover a book encased in plain black leather covers. After dusting it off, it appears to be in pristine condition, as if fire never touched it, though you know that can't be true.*

*Open the book.* → (75)

*Search the remains further.* → (78)

There's this book… → (79)

(72) Eloria Mirvren: He always kept that thing close… created it long before I ever knew him… Later down the line he took to calling it his 'old friend'. Could swear I caught him talking to it sometimes, gave me the chills…

*Search his remains.* → (74)

Leave. → (0)

(75) Gabrius' Remains: *Black ink swirls across the pages, dancing and forming shapes that almost seem to resemble writing, before quickly dissolving back into something unintelligible.*

→ (76)

(78) Gabrius' Remains: *Whatever else Gabrius may have been carrying, it's all thoroughly destroyed. The staff and the book are all that remains.*

*Look inside the book.* → (75)

(79) Eloria Mirvren: Thought as much, curses! Curse you Gaberion…! I'll need to see it, quickly…

→ (80)

(76) Eloria Mirvren: What is it?

*Peer into the pages more closely.* → (77)

There's this book… → (79)

(80) Gabrius' Remains: *Suddenly the book begins to tremble in you hands. Shadows begin to ebb and flow around it.*

→ (0)

(77) Gabrius' Remains: *It's almost like the ink has a very dark red hue to it. Is that ink at all? Is it… blood?*

→ (80)