[ Less that sort of thing, though he's experienced that as well. More what the impact of collective worship, that aggregation of emotion, could have on an environment — on the resulting cursed spirit. The short time he's been here hasn't allowed for a firm conclusion, but initial impressions suggest this world isn't plagued by cursed energy, or not as he knew it, not as he still possesses.

That doesn't mean, however, that the intensity of the belief here on display is without effect.

Besides, unless this was a world of extreme inequality in technology, the fact he's even standing here suggests something of great power. The impossibility of it is only partly due to the unexplained, science fiction/fantasy-esque transport.

Regardless, her frustration is palpable, well before she suggests antagonizing the revelers. Their situation is enough to rile anyone up, and if there's more to it — importance or crisis left behind — it's none of his business.

It's only marginally more his business whether she starts trouble, as it would be in some part a result of this conversation. Raising his eyebrows, ]

Sometimes. Other times, when you would have received the same information whether you asked politely or aggressively, you'll have put yourself in a difficult position without anything to show for it.

[ When a buoyant local now tries to push a drink at him, there might be a flicker of reluctance, of hesitation, when he declines.

His sigh relates less to wanting a damn drink, but knowing better, and more to this: ]

Frankly, given our position, I find this frivolity extremely irritating. I could be underestimating them by believing them largely ignorant. For my part, today, adding stress would just be tiring.

But, neither you nor their peace of mind is my responsibility. I won't stop you if you want to start off on an abrasive foot.