If you are reading this, I am dead. Probably. I suppose it's possible that, whoever you are, you acquired this book prior to my death. Stranger things have happened.

Anyway, I'm probably dead, and you are the new owner of this book. Probably. Treat it well, and it will return the favor. This book has saved my life more times than I can count, and—if I'm not being modest—has even helped save the world a time or two.

I've used this book as a spellbook, notebook, research journal, and confidant over the decades. I considered having Spellbook erase everything I wrote upon my death to keep the more embarrassing tidbits and more powerful discoveries secret. If you're reading this, obviously I didn't do that—or my commands don't persist past my own final death; I should look into that.

In the end, I decided that I needed to trust Spellbook's judgment. If it thinks you are worthy of bonding it, then I should not fear you would use my knowledge for ill.

In these pages you will find the sum total of my life's study as well as a recounting of my adventures. It’s not always flattering, but I'd like to think it was always honest.

Use this book how you see fit. I used it differently from its previous owner, and I suspect you will, in turn, find new ways for Spellbook to aid you. Over the years I tried to train it to be more intuitive to use, so hopefully your journey through its pages will have less fumbling than my own.

Tal

Spellbook, show this page to the next person you bond.