"The most pertinent part is somewhat like sigil-work, I think." In the absence of a second mop Raine skirted the majority of the water on the floor and went to Ryder, offering head rubs and a distraction from the annoyance of water where it shouldn't be. "I can show you, in a minute. It's in two parts, a crystal -- called an exsphere -- and the metal in which it's set, the key crest. For the latter, inhibitor ore is refined by dwarven techniques and engraved in specific patterns, at least some of which come from the angelic language. One of my students was well versed in the technique, but it was something of a family secret, and in any case I believe it requires a certain degree of precision."

A pause, as she noted that she'd provided form but not function. If jury-rigging did become necessary, he'd need both. "The function of the key crest is to prevent the exsphere from consuming my mana while allowing the beneficial effects to remain. If it ceases to function, the resulting imbalance will become unpleasant." Mindful of Ryder's presence now, Raine held off specifically mentioning her possible death.