[Royal Guard] Gobbletygook in the Guardhouse

[Hatshepsut]

28.VII.477

In response to Armswoman Kypree's memorandum concerning language
comprehension: I have taken the liberty of doing something about the
problem myself.

At around the First Night Bell, a young elven woman, Amara Broodwind,
came to the door of the Guardhouse where I was on desk duty.  She
spoke no Common, and bore a note from a researcher at the University,
one Liina Nyralae, explaining her situation and suggestion magical
assistance.  I took the girl to an unused office upstairs, number 7,
and set up a spell circle to make all language comprehensible to those
standing within it.

The circle, drawn in chalk and fused emerald, persists there, and
should have a lifetime measured in years, barring major leyline
disruption in the Drache area.  If it is a problem to have it located
in its current position, it can be removed by a strong lye solution
and I can reconstruct it elsewhere.

The primary effect of the circle, making all language comprehensible
to those within it, is persistent; in other words, one need only step
into the circle to use it.  The effect is perfectly safe, but I do not
recommend staying inside it over an hour, as it may be taxing to the
mental faculties.

The circle also has a secondary function: it is able to bestow its
effect upon an individual for a limited period of time.  Upon speaking
the word "anethratua" in the vicinity of the circle, all those within
the spell's perimeter will gain the ability to comprehend all
language, even when outside the circle.  This effect will last from
twelve to thirty-six hours, depending on the atmospheric pressure and
thaumic conditions.

Be aware that this effect is much more taxing than the persistent one.
 I highly recommend that the invoker (the one who speaks the
activation word) be able to sit down for approximately an hour
afterward, as the effect drains quite a bit of energy.  Regardless,
the drain should be temporary, and will not cause any lasting
impairment.  Be also advised that the more people inside the circle
when the secondary effect is activated, the more energy is needed.  I
would not advise activating the secondary effect with three or more
people inside the circle; it could lead to unconsciousness on the part
of the invoker.

Anyone with questions about the functioning of this spell may contact
me in person or leave a note on the posting board in the coffee room.

-Spellcaster Peony Heatherdown of the Upper Darian

((-Hatshepsut))