It's definitely better that they not query too deeply into the nature of long term existence in Caldera. Purportedly people can die and return to life, though Barcus knows no one who has experienced it firsthand. For all his suspicion, he does hold out a little hope that the job they've been assigned has a reasonable scope, and an endgame in sight in a time frame that won't extend his lifespan beyond what nature intended.

There's just no way to know that.

"I have very little magical energy of my own," Barcus admits, but his smile returns. All any craftsman wants is for their work to be appreciated, surely, magical or otherwise. "But ritual, study, and alchemical principles go a longer way than most people realize, and when combined with mechanical engineering and natural physics...I wouldn't dare claim to have made wonders yet, but I've seen them."

"I live in Grey Ward. After you've settled, you won't find it hard to find me, if you need something or want to compare notes."