#baronyofthesilverwolf

Grimwald's expression turns sour. "Dangerous is right, but the schmuck in real danger is Dario himself. He’s messing with a ticking time bomb, and if it goes haywire, he’ll be caught in the blast. Sure, he might think he’s got it under control, but one wrong move and he’s risking everything. Worse, if this contraption punches a real hole between worlds, instead of just the little gaps he's been making, it could drag something nasty out of the Dreaming and spit it into the mortal world. Anyone nearby could get caught in the crossfire—Dario, and any poor schlemazel unlucky enough to be around. He’s sitting on a powder keg with a lit match."

He jabs a finger down towards the notepad. "Now, I don't think this putz is malicious, mind you... but based on what I see here, he's got tunnel vision. Happens to a lot of Nockers—hell, any geniuses. Just so happens that there are more amongst us than other kith. Brilliant wilders chasing a breakthrough, all they see is the goal, not the farkakte wreckage they might leave behind. He’s probably so wrapped up in the potential of his invention that he hasn’t stopped to think about the bigger picture—the risks, the consequences."

The Grump leans back, arms crossed. "Or maybe he does know, but he thinks he’s smart enough to control it. Pride’s a dangerous thing, especially when you’re dealing with forces this volatile. He might believe he can manage the risks, but that’s a gamble none of us can afford him to lose."

"Please tell me this is against the escheat somehow or other law so I can sic authorities on him?" Hopeful

Grimwald snorts, shaking his head. "Nice try, kid, but I’m afraid you’re outta luck there. What he’s doing isn’t exactly illegal—not by the letter of the Escheat, anyway. It’s no different than any other cantrip, really. The real crime would be if he got caught doing it where mortals can see, and so far, he hasn’t been seen... yet."

"S'far as I know, we're not exactly in the business of prosecuting 'pre-crimes just yet', Minority Report style." A bit of a judging look there. "What Dario's up to might be reckless, but it's not technically against any laws unless it gets out of hand and mortals start noticing. Right now, he’s just a mad scientist tinkering with dangerous toys. The real issue is stopping him before he makes a mess of things."

"Then again, he IS a thief, THAT part is certainly a crime."

A guilty look at the pre crime bit, then he nods "Yeah, the irony is strong in this situation. You think you could talk him out of it? I know you're a recluse but .. it could save lives"

Grimwald shakes his head with a gruff sigh. "Look, pal, I’m a recluse for a reason. I don’t do the whole ‘talk someone down from the brink’ routine. I’m here to fix things, not play therapist. You want to save lives, you’re gonna have to handle it yourself.

I can give you the lowdown on what’s wrong, but the rest is up to you. If you can’t talk sense into him, well, that’s on you, not me. I’ve got my own mess to deal with, and I’m not about to get tangled up in someone else’s screw-up. RE-TI-RED."

Despite that, Grimwald does look intrigued, tapping a finger on the notebook thoughtfully.

He decides not to make a Boomer comment, but instead says "Okay, what you said at the start...'to generate a stable tachyon field to sync with the quantum entanglement arrays. The goal is to establish a coherent phase shift that would effectively bypass the Veil’s natural attenuation fields, allowing for a cross-dimensional energy transfer. It’s like he’s trying to create a seamless quantum-chronal bridge with zero interference. If the parameters aren’t perfectly aligned, he could destabilize the flux coupling and trigger a dimensional resonance cascade'... can you put that in not genius speak? I heard a lot of Time travel terms in there... my friend Arthur is better at Sci Fi, and Thistle is a nocker but neither is avilable right now and I want to be sure I can explain this to OTHER folks like me"

Grimwald raises an eyebrow, clearly impressed. “You picked up a lot from that mumbo jumbo, huh? Alright, let me break it down for you.”

He leans back, folding his arms. “So, what Dario’s trying to do is pretty wild. He’s using his device to slide between different layers of reality—think of it like shifting between different channels on a TV, but for dimensions. His goal is to make a bridge that’s so smooth and precise that it bypasses the usual barriers that keep our world separate from the Dreaming.”

He gestures with his hands to emphasize. “If he gets it right, he can reach through from one world to another without any hiccups. But if he messes up the setup, the whole thing could blow up—KABLOOIE!” He slams a fist on the table for emphasis, making a few small electrical components bounce.

"It’s like trying to build a perfect, invisible tunnel between worlds. If the tunnel collapses or shifts out of sync, it could cause a big mess, pulling in dangerous stuff from the Dreaming or even disrupting reality around him.”

Grimwald rubs his chin thoughtfully. “I can set up a device to block Dario’s phase-shifting in a specific area, like a room. When he tries to shift in, he’ll get yanked back into the normal world. You just need to bait the trap with something he can’t resist."

"I'm no Rover, but isn't there a reason the Dreaming provides safe guards like the mists and the silver? I was on a rupture once, a snapped trod, and I got thrown across a kingdom and That was the BEST Case scenerio" Then at the suggestion of a trap he says "Go on?"

Grimwald’s expression darkens as he considers Madern’s question. “You’ve got a point. Those barriers keep the Dreaming from just spilling over into the mortal world. If Dario’s messing with the balance, though, he could push those safeguards to their limits—or even bypass them entirely. He’s risking a lot more than just a minor mishap.”

As Madern asks about the trap, Grimwald’s eyes gleam with a mix of excitement and caution. “Alright, here’s the plan. You set up a space with one of my devices that’ll block Dario’s phase-shifting in that area. He’ll be trying to slip in and out, but when he hits the trap zone, the device will yank him square into your zone.”

“To lure him in, probably need bait—something he’s been after. You say he's been sniffin' around BrightSpark? See if they've got, and keep this straight—a Quantum Resonance Modulator. If I read his notes right, he’d love to get his hands on one. Place that in the trap zone, and when Dario tries to phase in to grab it, the device will catch him mid-shift and make him materialize in our world. That’s when you can nab him, reason with him, or whatever you’ve got in mind.”

Madern takes out a note pad and writes down 'quantum resonance modulator' and says "Okay I think I got it. Bit worried Artemis will get involved if I go there. "

"Eh? Who's that? Femme fatale is it? I had a few runins with the type, back in my Wilder years..." A satyr-worthy grin.

"She's kind of a computer AI, and I don't mean the artwork plagurising kind."

Grimwald leans back with a confident smirk. “Don’t sweat it. Here’s the thing: if she's set up like I suspect, her system relies on a network connection to function. The trap zone will be set up with a localized field that’ll interfere with network protocols. Basically, it’ll create a dead zone where her signal can’t reach or function properly. So, when you set up the trap, this robo maidel won’t be able to access or interact with the area. You’re safe from her snooping around.”

"Thanks" he says "Look, I'm more unseelie than folks know" He admits "But I never knew a nocker that didn't want to be paid fairly, and who can blame em? That schematics I gave you, I think that was a good start, but... how about i DO bring you some cookies, girl scout style but home made? "

Grimwald scratches his chin, considering the arrangement. “Here’s the deal: I’ll help you set up the trap and deal with Dario’s phase-shifting mess. But in return, I want Dario’s tech when you catch him. All that fancy gear he’s been stealing? I want it. I’ll dismantle it myself, do some research, and figure out what makes it tick. Plus, I’ll make sure it doesn’t cause any more veil rifting mumbo jumbo in the future.”

He leans in, his eyes gleaming with a mix of curiosity and determination. “And I want goldene nut clusters—or something damn close to it. Give me a homemade version that’s 90% there, and we’ve got a deal.”

Grimwald’s smirk widens. “So, what do you say?"

Has Maddern even heard of those?

"Discontinued back in 1970-aught something or other." Grumbling.

"Umm may not be in my power for you to keep the stolen good" he answers honestly "There's a cop who is watching over my shoulder now and then." He writes down the cookie name, sure Marigold can help him out "Golden Nut Clusters? I'll make that happen"

"Deal or no deal. If you have to return some drek to BrightSpark, I get that. But SHS? THey're mortal, through and through, and their Insurance will cover the losses."

"Plus, this ensures that no one else tries to IMPROVE on this Phase-shifter. From what I know about the Dame in charge of B.S.? She might not be able to resist THAT mystery."

A blink, "Yeah she might. Of course now I'm trusting YOU not to do the same"

Then he admits "but I guess I do trust you, or need to. "

With a sigh, Grimwald leans back and adds, “I appreciate the trust. I guess we’re in this together now, huh? Let’s get this sorted before things get any messier. When do you need my tech by?"

"Sooner the better, someone is sure to notice his journal is missing eventually" The Piskey states, "And that's gonna make it harder to trick or trap him the longer he has to figure out it was stolen."

"Heard." He grunts.

Grimwald dives into his work with a determined scowl, muttering under his breath as he manipulates the various components spread out before him. His workspace is a chaotic blend of cutting-edge technology and ancient relics, each piece clanking and whirring as he assembles them into a cohesive whole.

He curses softly in Yiddish, occasionally punctuating his frustration with a sharp rap of his wrench on a stubborn piece of equipment. The mix of high-tech circuits and outdated parts seems almost like alchemy in his hands, and the smell of ozone and old metal fills the air. Has Madern watched another Nocker at work before? It's quite a sight to see!

Despite the grumbling and the apparent chaos, there’s a method to his madness. Grimwald's movements are precise, each adjustment and tweak carefully calculated despite his outward appearance of frustration. He occasionally glances over at Madern with a look that says he’s not in the mood for small talk, but he’s also not annoyed by the presence. It’s simply part of the process—getting the job done, no matter how rough around the edges it might look.

As the device begins to take shape, a low hum emanates from it, signaling that Grimwald’s efforts are paying off.

He stays quiet during this, and is a bit in awe. Normally nockers shoo him out, and who can blame him, but this is a craftsman of may years working his own magic.

Grimwald wipes his hands on a rag, inspecting the device with a critical eye. After a final check, he nods in satisfaction and turns to Madern.

“Alright, here it is,” Grimwald says, handing over the device. “I’ve named it the ‘Phase-Halt Excluder.’ It’s designed to block Dario’s phase-shifting within the trap zone by creating a localized field that interferes with his technology. Just make sure it’s set up properly and within range.”

He gives Madern a stern look, adding, “But don’t push it too hard. If you overwork this contraption or stress it beyond its limits—well, let's just say you might end up in a place where no one wants to find themselves. Capiche?”

Grimwald raises an eyebrow, a smirk playing on his lips. “By the way, before you run off with my shiny new gadget, you didn’t ‘accidentally’ walk away with any of my old bits and bobs, did ya?"

Good natured about it.

"Hopefully I'll only use it once then bring it back to you" he answers honestly, then he grins "Actually, I normally be tempted but watching you at work was ...something. But since you're nice enough to ask... no, but also I understand if you want to pat me down."

"I do have a tool from Thistle's Kiln room. She made it from Ceramics, can you believe that? Looks glorious" He pulls out a brilliantly hued hard clay tool made entirely out of the stuff.

He flaps a hand at Madern. "EH? No, no. If I'm missin' anything, it's just as likely my brains'r going and I'll find the sprocket wrench in a silverware drawer later."

Grimwald’s eyes widen as he takes in the tool Madern presents. He reaches out, his fingers tracing the intricate designs and smooth surface. “Whoa, that’s a piece of work right there. This... Thistle, is it? They've got quite the knack for making ceramics look like they’re worth their weight in gold. This thing’s beautiful. "

He stands with a wince as his back cracks, a nostalgic smile tugging at his lips. “Reminds me a bit of a Nocker lady I knew back in the day. Before your time, I reckon.”

“Alright, get going. Time to see if Dario’s gonna take the bait. Be careful.”

"Well, if you ever want to meet Thistle let me know. SHe's sharp tongued, opinionated and can make you feel like an uncultured moron in one sentence or less, but other than that" A smile "She's all right" he takes the tool back, "And I'm gone" he takes the trap "THank you."

"Wait, do I need instructions on setting it up properly?"

Grimwald chuckles, shaking his head. “Nah, you should be fine. Just remember: the Phase-Halt Excluder needs to be set up in the center of the trap zone. Make sure it’s stable and oriented properly, and don’t forget to power it up—should be a simple on/off switch. It’ll create an interference field that’ll block Dario’s phase-shifting tech when he enters the area.”

Indeed, there is an on/off toggle right on the top of the device, between a couple of coils and a random-looking blob of solder.

He pats the device. “If you run into any issues or if it doesn’t seem to be working right, just give me a shout. But it should be straightforward. Good luck, and try not to let any more of those fancy gadgets fall into the wrong hands.”

He writes that down too Then ssays "Whoever that might be. Thanks again, Master Grimwald. I sure hope you aren't an evil mad scientist with an affable nature using me as a catspaw. That would be depressing. " He assure the fellow.

"Mad? Certainly. Scientist? Definitely? But Evil? That's too much effort I could be assigning towards REAL work." He grumbles.

He gives Madern a thoughtful look. “But if you ever need to see if I’m truly ‘affable’ or if I’m just good at putting on a show, you can always come by for a chat. Just don’t expect me to be any less grumpy. Make sure you bring those cookies, though."

"Right, no cookies, no chat" A fair rule if ever he heard one. He LIKES Grimwald he decides Like the surly older Uncle ready to cuss me out but in a fun way I never had.

And out he goes with the gear the journal and a lot of hope.

And off he goes!

HEading.... ?

That... he realizes, is a good question. He sussess over his plan.

With a sigh, he heads over to Brightspark... and puts his battery back in his phone.

Soon he has been welcomed back to the BrightSpark Innovations lab! It's now quite late, so the only employees left are Lydia, burning that midnight oil, and of course, ARTEMIS.

"Hi again. Can I use your place as an ambush to capture Dario?" It's a bit blunt.

"Dario?" Lydia has a blank look.

((Care to skip past exposition of Madern filling them in? Or we can play it out if desired!))

"Right, well.. here goes" He explains what Dario has been up to and his plans.

(Sure, hit fast forwaard if you want)

Lydia listens intently, her expression shifting from confusion to concern as Madern explains the situation with Dario.

“I see,” she says, nodding slowly. “So this thief has been using advanced technology to bypass our security measures. And you’ve managed to come up with a plan to catch him using Grimwald’s device?” She knows of Grimwald! "Surprised you managed to pry that antiquated fellow out of his workshop. Well done!"

“Yes, we can certainly use the lab for your trap. The secure room is designed to handle high-tech equipment and should be suitable for this."

A hint of concern as she addresses her ChimerAI: "ARTEMIS, this trap will funciton like a chimeric Faraday cage. You are to power down and stay away." Clearly worried for her friends continued functioning.

ARTEMIS responds with her usual calm tone. “Understood. I will ensure that my functions are disabled within the designated zone to avoid any interference with the Phase-Halt Excluder.”

Lydia stands up and begins preparing the secure room for the setup, clearing out any unnecessary equipment and ensuring that everything is in order for the ambush - once it's cleared, she leaves things to Madern to set up as needed.

With that, Lydia retreats to her office to oversee the surveillance and provide any additional support if needed. ARTEMIS, true to her programming, powers down and steps back from the secure room, leaving Madern with the space he needs to set up the trap.

Madern is now alone in the room with the Phase-Halt Excluder, free to arrange it and finalize the setup for the ambush. Is there anything else he wishes to set up, aside from the bait and the device?