crystal: A Goblin Algorithm

The goblin elders speak of crystal in riddles wrapped in tricks. 'To understand it,' they say, 'you must first un-understand everything else.'

There is a goblin practice — neither encouraged nor forbidden — of deliberately staring past crystal rather than at it, on the theory that crystal reveals its true nature only when it does not feel observed.

Three Goblins Discuss signal

A specific tavern song circulating in the goblin warrens features signal as its third verse. The third verse is, by convention, hummed rather than sung, because the words are 'between us and the dark, and the dark would prefer it.'

The Goblin Adjacency of communion

The goblin etiquette guide, on the matter of communion, advises hosts to 'mention it once, in passing, without lingering.' Departing guests should not be asked their thoughts on it. This is considered firm.

The Goblin Verdict on crystal

It is the goblin way to end every inquiry with a question. The question, in this case, is: 'and what does crystal make of all this?' The goblins will, in due course, ask crystal directly. crystal has not yet replied, but the goblins have time.