“ There are no scrolls in this world, but there are crystals of various sizes, colors and qualities. Every spell has a requirement on the amount and characteristics of crystals that must be held in order for the spell to be cast, crystals which would shatter should the cast be successful. Now picture a land where crystals are scarce except for high concentrations of them in specific spots throughout the land. A number of scenarios could occur, such as benign companies selling the mined valuable for cheap, a region in constant magic-intense war zone, an area of crystals in the quicksand, or an undiscovered patch next to a town...”
“ MoonInk: This alchemical product has 101 uses. The Ink/Paint dries to be totally clear and almost unnoticable. Under moonlight, it comes forth as a silver ink. It was originally used by the Elventi to enhance certain pieces of art. It is used by espionage types to produce secret messages, nobles for hiddle plots, and diabolical cultists to write their spell books (usually in books of holy texts, to throw off people reading it).”
“ Anything not bolted down has a chance of moving about when unobserved. The items are smart enough to open simple latches, or break weak bindings. The rate of this oddness seems to follow certain astrological patterns.”