Dead Hands and Long Nights.

If there is one thing I am equally pleased with as I am disgusted by, it is the lack of feeling in my hands. Having dealt with this...condition...for so long, I've learned some tricks to make it work to my advantage. While I still get burned, cut, harmed in some manner, I have the unique ability to accomplish something and not suffer for it.

Of course, nothing that extreme has occurred in a long time. No, not that extreme. I was helping Victoria with a window she wanted for Henry in the study. She mentioned how he always ranted about needing the extra light, but as the years carried them into the later times of life it was never accomplished. I made mention of my youthful experiences in Caern, and the use of those skills since then, and I could tell there was something on her mind. She waited until Henry had left the room before springing her task upon me.

A window to the heavens. It wasn't unheard of and really not that difficult to do; however I offered a more special device, one that wouldn't need repairing or replacing of glass. Intrigued, she asked what exactly I meant and so I took a few marcs and drew out a design for her. It was a bit more complex than she anticipated, but I assured her it would work. (I've recorded the designs in the appendix with the other crafts and armors) It took a few turns to complete, but the study now has a steady source of light throughout the day, and the option to burn a fire in a single place that will light the room nearly as effectively as the 'rifter.

Truthfully, creating the lantern that was ignited by a cord on a wall inside the house was the hardest part. It had to have enough give to cause a spark when pulled, but not so much that it wouldn't reset after each strike. The oil is set with a reverse pump, so they can fill a reservoir in the study, pump a lever a few times and it would fill the basin. Oil would then drip into a smaller chamber that had a large wick to absorb the oils and burn safely. The striker, a simple set of flint and steel won't need replacing for some time.

I'm not sure how we managed to complete this renovation without Henry finding out, but Victoria assured me that she had her ways of keeping him distracted. She mentioned something about a gardening and promises made...

Anyway, to resume the original topic, I have several busted knuckles from the fitting of the window into their roof and sealing the area from the elements; nothing that won't heal in a few turns, I'm sure.



I haven't seen Henley in awhile, hopefully he doesn't turn up dead. I'm sure Elenoire will suspect that I had a hand in his demise.

Seems it is time to go to the Study and see if Henry notices the changes...