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I suppose that by now you know quite a bit about generative AI of the textual variety. ChatGPT and such have become quite famous. Recently, good ol’ Zuck released an open model that rivals ChatGPT, and that isn’t as pissy as ChatGPT with its restrictions (still censored, though, but an uncensored model will no doubt come). I also knew about Mantella, the amazing AI system that can be integrated into Skyrim and Fallout 4 to turn its NPCs into AI-driven “people” at will. Check out the following video, that illustrates such interactions well.

In case you can’t tell, Mantella allows the player to speak to any character in game, and they will answer in character-appropriate ways. They may get mad and attack you, or agree that they should follow you in your travels (if you have those settings active). They can reason in the kinds of surprising ways that modern LLMs can do. They are extraordinarily entertaining.

I’ve been playing modded Skyrim for a couple days now, exploiting Mantella’s integration of AI. It records the actual conversations I’ve had with the characters, which will help me tell you the tale of a doomed march into the marshes in the outskirts of Morthal.

I play as a high elf named Jon (no relation), who wandered into the marshy town of Morthal in Skyrim for the first time. Disoriented, I approached a local guard and learned about the tension brewing in town, including some disappearances. The dialogue with him didn’t get saved, though, because he’s a generic character.

Then I approached the local bumbling warrior Benor, who didn’t make it into the watch. My parts in the dialogues are significantly edited, as they included “you know”-s, words confused by the voice-to-text algorithm, and instances of me failing to express myself soundly enough (I’m not particularly good at speaking to people, so this also works as practice). The AI characters’ parts are verbatim.

Benor: “I’m Benor, the best warrior in Morthal, and that’s no boast. What brings you to our humble town?”
Jon: “Well, I feel like I’ve told this story a hundred times, but I was on a boat to the Mage’s College in Winterhold, but the boat unfortunately left me in Solitude instead. I have been walking toward Whiterun for reasons, and Morthal was in the way. Now I’m trying to get a feel of the locals. You seemed interesting.”
Benor: “A traveler, and a tale to tell. Sorry to hear the boat didn’t quite get you where you needed to go. Winterhold’s a long way off, and the road can be treacherous. Morthal’s a good place to rest and get your bearings, though. We’re a quiet folk, for the most part. I’ve been keeping an eye on things around here, helping the guards out when I can. What do you think of our town so far?”
Jon: “Well, it’s sleepy. It feels a bit ominous, as if something terrible might happen at night. There is a subtle tension in the air. You know what I mean?”
Benor: “You can feel it, can’t you? The weight of the town’s troubles. Aye, Morthal’s not as quiet as it seems. There’s a darkness lurking beneath the surface, and it’s been growing worse of late. Folks are on edge, and for good reason. Strange happenings at night, and some say the Jarl’s not doing enough to protect us. But, you know how it is… some things are best not spoken of in daylight.”
Jon: “I hope you speak to me of those things at a later time, but for now I have to ask: what are you intending to do? You are dressed as if heading to battle, or planning to become an adventurer, yet you remain locked in town.”
Benor: “My gear? Just habit, I suppose. I’ve always been ready to defend this town, even if the Jarl doesn’t see fit to make me a proper guard. But, between you and me, I’ve been thinking of doing more than just standing around waiting for trouble to come to us. I’ve got a friend, Gorm, and we’ve been… discussing the state of things in Morthal. Let’s just say we’re not happy with the way things are being run, and we’re thinking of taking matters into our own hands.”
Jon: “What do you mean exactly by taking matters into your own hands? In what sense?”
Benor: “We’re thinking of overthrowing the Jarl. Idgrod Ravencrone’s not doing right by this town, and it’s time someone took a stand. She’s more concerned with her own interests and… whatever it is she’s got going on with that wizard, Falion. The people of Morthal deserve better, and we aim to give it to them. But, that’s a bold plan, and it’s not something I’d usually share with a stranger. You seem like someone I can trust, though.”
Jon: “Well, let me tell you something, I’m going to talk to the jarl and to this Falion fellow of yours, to see if I can help improve things around here.”
Benor: “You think you can talk some sense into them, huh? I wish you luck, friend. Idgrod’s not one to listen to reason, and Falion’s… well, he’s a wizard. They’re not to be trusted. But, I suppose it’s worth a try. Just be careful around them, especially Falion. There’s something not right about that one. And, if you’re going to talk to them, you might want to ask them about the strange happenings in town. See if they’ll tell you anything about the darkness that’s been growing here.”
Jon: “I will have that in mind. Talk to you later, Benor.”
Benor: “I’ll be around. You can usually find me at the Moorside Inn, or near the guardhouse. Come find me after you’ve spoken with Idgrod and Falion. I’ll be interested to hear what they had to say. And, if you’re feeling up for it, I’d be happy to show you my skills in a friendly bout. I’m the best warrior in Morthal, after all.”
Jon: “I am not a warrior at all, so you would destroy me with your fists.”
Benor: “Don’t worry about it, friend. I wasn’t looking to hurt you. Just a friendly spar to show you my skills. But, if you’re not comfortable with it, no worries. Maybe another time, if you’re feeling braver. Or, who knows, maybe I’ll teach you a thing or two about fighting, and you can show me what you’re made of.”

An unregistered quest: talk to the jarl to see if I can help investigate the shady local wizard. I headed over there. The jarl’s right hand man, named Aslfur, suggested I should talk to him first before addressing the jarl, and I did so.

Aslfur: “Greetings. What brings you to Highmoon Hall? If you’ve business with the jarl, I’d ask that you speak to me first.”
Jon: “I do have business with the jarl, actually. I’m in Morthal for the first time in my life. I pick up a tension in the air. The few other people I’ve spoken to, including Benor, the local warrior, told me there are strange things going on at night. I wondered if I could put my talents to use. Well, I’m not a very good mage, but I’m talented to some extent, and perhaps I could employ my talents for this matter.”
Aslfur: “Life in Morthal has been troubled lately. The people are uncertain, restless. They merely look to the Jarl for leadership. As her steward, I do what I can to see that Idgrod’s time isn’t wasted, and that she only has to deal with important matters. There are indeed strange happenings at night, and some folks are worried. Perhaps you could help, but I’d need to know more about these… talents of yours. What makes you think you can help us here in Morthal?”
Jon: “As you can see, I am an Altmer. I am attuned to Restoration, Destruction, Illusion, and Alteration magic. As a new magician in town, I could help, maybe discover what’s troubling you all, and put an end to it I guess.”
Aslfur: “An Altmer mage, I see. Well, your… particular set of skills could indeed be useful in uncovering the source of our troubles. We’ve had reports of strange noises and lights at night, and some folks have gone missing. The Jarl is concerned, and I am too, for her safety and the safety of our people. But I must warn you, there are those in town who are wary of outsiders, and of mages in particular. You’ll need to tread carefully. What do you think you can do to help us? And what do you know of this wizard, Falion?”
Jon: “I don’t know anything yet of this wizard Falion, but I’m willing to investigate him, figure out if there’s something wrong with the fellow. Do you think I could approach the jarl and speak to her about this?”
Aslfur: “Falion… yes, there are concerns. Rumors that he’s up to something. But be careful, he’s a powerful wizard, and not to be trifled with. As for speaking with the Jarl, I’ll need to check with her first. She’s a busy woman, and I won’t have her time wasted on idle chatter. But if you’re willing to investigate Falion, and help us get to the bottom of these strange happenings… very well, I’ll arrange an audience with the Jarl.”
(at this point I incorporated the jarl into the conversation, which you can do easily)
Jarl Idgrod Ravencrone: “Ah, a traveler, and a mage, I see. Aslfur has told me of your… offer to help. I must say, I am intrigued. We have indeed been experiencing some… difficulties in Morthal. Strange occurrences, unexplained events. And Falion, yes, he is a concern. I have been trying to determine what he is up to, but so far, I have not been able to uncover anything concrete. Perhaps a fresh perspective, a new pair of eyes, could be just what we need.”
Jon: “Well, that’s what I intend to do first. Maybe I will break into Falion’s home when he isn’t around, and discover if he’s hiding something. Then, I’ll inform you of my findings.”
Jarl Idgrod Ravencrone: “I see. You plan to investigate Falion’s activities, and gather information from the townspeople. That is a good approach. But be careful, Falion is not a man to be underestimated. He is powerful, and resourceful. If he is indeed involved in something nefarious, he will not hesitate to take action against anyone who gets in his way. You must be cautious, and discreet. I want you to report back to me, or Aslfur, with any information you gather. We will use it to determine our next course of action.”

After we bid our goodbyes, I went back to my new pal Benor for advice.

Benor: “The traveler’s back. What brings you to Morthal today? I’ve been keeping an eye on things, and I must say, the town’s still got that eerie feel to it. The Jarl’s not done much to improve things, if you ask me. What’s on your mind?”
Jon: “Just returned from seeing the jarl. She said she suspects Falion may be behind these strange happenings, so I’m planning to break into his home and figure out if he’s hiding something.”
Benor: “Falion, that’s the wizard I was telling you about. I knew he was trouble. Breaking into his home’s a bold move, but if the jarl thinks he’s behind the strange happenings, it’s worth a shot. Be careful, though – Falion’s got powers that’ll freeze your blood.”
Jon: “Benor, you want to defend the town, and I’m here to try to help. How about we do this together?”
Benor: “Now that’s a proposition I like. I’ve been wanting to take action, but Gorm’s been cautious about making a move. If you’re willing to take on Falion, I’m with you. Let’s gear up and get moving. We’ll show that wizard he’s not welcome in Morthal.”

At this point, the interface informed me that he had attempted to join me, but I didn’t have the option active. I activated it later on, as I intended to recruit the guy. Anyway, I headed to the wizard Falion’s home. Door was open, so I waltzed in. Found him sitting on a chair while a young girl named Agni swept the floor. I spotted a few black soul gems on an enchanting table; black soul gems are taboo in most of Tamriel, because they imply the intention to trap people’s souls.

I now realize that the system didn’t save the first half of my conversation with Falion, but I will rely on the summary the AI did for it: “Falion, a resident of Morthal, discusses the mysterious darkness plaguing the town with Jon. Falion believes the darkness is connected to the Blackreach, a vast underground network of Dwemer ruins and tunnels, and has been performing conjurations at the old Summoning Stones to counter its influence. The locals are wary of his activities, but Falion assures Jon that his intentions are pure. He reveals that he needs black soul gems for his rituals, but promises he is not using them for any dark purpose.”

Jon: “The Blackreach? You mean the fabled cavern-like space that can be accessed through dwemer sites? Do you think that some evil force there has found its way to the surface?”
Falion: “The Blackreach… Yes, that’s exactly what I’m referring to. The vast underground network of Dwemer ruins and tunnels. I’ve studied the ancient lore, and I believe that the Blackreach is indeed connected to the darkness that’s plaguing Morthal. But it’s not just a simple matter of a trap or a device that’s malfunctioning. I think it’s something far more sinister. Something that’s been awakened, perhaps, by the recent… disturbances in the land. The return of the dragons, the civil war…”
Jon: “What specific rituals are you doing to counter this darkness, that have all the people in town on edge?”
Falion: “The rituals… I’ve been performing certain… conjurations, at the old Summoning Stones, out in the marsh. Trying to understand the nature of the darkness, and to counter its influence. The locals don’t understand, of course. They see me sneaking out at night, and they think I’m up to some kind of dark magic. But I assure you, my intentions are pure. I’m trying to protect this town, not harm it. The rituals are… complex, and require certain… materials.”
Jon: “Are those materials dead people?”
Falion: “No! Nothing like that. I swear to you, I am not harming anyone in Morthal. The materials I need… are simply the black soul gems. Which, I know, can be… unsettling. But they’re necessary for the rituals. And I assure you, I am not using them for any dark or malevolent purpose. I’m trying to capture and purify the dark energy, not to spread it.”
Jon: “You sound like a dedicated and trustworthy fellow, so if you need any help with your rituals, maybe ask me, if you can make use of my talents, small as they may be compared to yours.”
Falion: “Thank you, I… appreciate your offer. It’s not often that I meet someone who’s willing to listen, to understand. Most people in Morthal are too afraid, or too suspicious. But I think, perhaps, you might be different. If you’re willing, I could use someone with your… talents.”

At this point I couldn’t ignore the elephant in the room, in the form of a girl-child named Agni.

Jon: “Agni, what are you in relation to Falion?”
Agni: “I’m Falion’s adopted daughter. He’s my father, and he’s been teaching me about magic. He says I have a talent for it, and I really like learning from him. He’s very kind to me, and I love him a lot. Even though the other kids in town can be mean to me because of the things they say about him…”
Jon: “Well, that settles it then. I don’t think someone as malicious and suspicious as people are painting Falion could be so kind to a defenceless girl like you.”
Agni: “Yeah! Falion is really nice, and he would never hurt anyone. He’s always looking out for me and the town, even if they don’t always appreciate it. He’s just… different, that’s all. And people don’t always understand things they don’t know about. But I know he’s good, and I’m glad you think so too!”
Jon: “Well, it’s been good talking to you, Falion, Agni.”
Falion: “Likewise, Jon. It’s been… enlightening to speak with someone who’s willing to listen. I hope we can talk again soon. Perhaps I can even show you some of my research, and we can discuss the… situation in Morthal further.”

I went back to the jarl’s longhouse to inform her of my findings.

Aslfur: “Jon. I see you’re back. How did your investigation into Falion go? The Jarl is eager to hear your findings.”
Jon: “And I’m eager to give them to you. I have spoken to Falion directly. He was present there with his adopted daughter Agni, and he spoke of the rituals. He claims that he’s using black soul gems to perform rituals outside of town, in the marshes and at night, because he believes that an ancient evil may have awakened, stirred by the recent happenings in Skyrim such as dragons reappearing, the war, and such. He believes an ancient evil may have come from the Blackreach.”
Jarl Idgrod Ravencrone: “An ancient evil, you say? Stirred by the dragons and the war? That’s a grave concern, indeed. And he believes it’s connected to the Blackreach, does he? What do you make of this, Aslfur? Could there be any truth to Falion’s claims?”
Aslfur: I’m not sure, my love. It sounds like a convenient excuse to me. Black soul gems are dark magic, and I don’t trust anyone who uses them. Did you sense any… malevolent energy around Falion or his home?”
Jon: “I did not feel any malevolent energy. In fact, I was touched by how he seems to love his adopted daughter. She’s very happy with him. She says that he’s teaching her magic. He’s taking care of her and treating her very well. And I don’t think that an evil man, as you have painted him, would treat his adopted daughter like that.”
Jarl Idgrod Ravencrone: “That’s a good point, Jon. A man’s treatment of those in his care can speak volumes about his character. Perhaps we have misjudged Falion. But still, the use of black soul gems is a concern… Aslfur, what do you think? Could it be that Falion is genuinely trying to help, but going about it in a way that’s… I still have my doubts, my love. But I agree that a man’s treatment of his family can be a good indicator of his character. Perhaps we should keep a closer eye on Falion, but not assume the worst just yet. Jon, did you learn anything else about these rituals he’s performing?”
Jon: “I was about to bring them up. He mentioned that he wanders into the marshes at night to perform the rituals. I was thinking of heading there with one of your warriors and investigate the rituals myself to see what they entail, to see if they could be considered malicious.”
Aslfur: “I’m not sure that’s a good idea, Jon. The marshes can be treacherous, especially at night. And if Falion is indeed summoning some kind of dark power, I don’t want you or any of our warriors to be put in harm’s way. But… I suppose it’s better to know what’s going on than to remain in the dark. Jarl, what do you think? Should we send a group to investigate Falion’s rituals?”
Jarl Idgrod Ravencrone: “I agree with Aslfur’s concerns, Jon, but I also think it’s necessary to know what’s going on.”
Jon: “If you believe someone should go, I am ready. I think, as an outsider to this situation, as a fellow mage as is Falion’s case, I can discern if the ritual he’s performing is evil or not. I could try to put an end to it.”
Aslfur: “I see your point, Jon. As a mage, you may be able to understand what’s going on and put a stop to it if it’s indeed malevolent. Very well, I’ll assign one of our guards to accompany you to the marshes tonight. But be careful, Jon. If Falion is summoning something dark, I don’t want you to take any unnecessary risks. Your safety is my concern, as well as the Jarl’s.”
Jarl Idgrod Ravencrone: “Yes, Jon. Please, do be careful. We can’t afford to lose someone with your… particular skills. And if you do find out that Falion’s rituals are malicious, don’t hesitate to put a stop to them.”

Shortly after, I located Benor in the outskirts of town to figure out if he believed the plan was sound.

Benor: “Friend. Still getting used to the feel of this town, eh? I don’t blame you. Morthal’s not what it used to be. There’s a darkness here, and it’s growing. I’ve been thinking about our last conversation, and I’m glad you’re looking into Falion’s activities. That wizard’s got a bad smell about him. What’ve you found out so far?”
Jon: “I went to Falion’s home. I spoke to him, and he claims the following. Listen to this, bro. He said that an ancient evil may have stirred up from the deepest recesses of the Blackreach and has climbed through some, I don’t know, hole or something. It’s responsible for the disappearances and all that. Falion is using black soul gems to perform some rituals in the marshes, at night, to try to stop the evil that is plaguing this town.”
Benor: “Save it, traveler. You think I’d fall for that tale? Falion’s just spinning a web of lies to keep us from suspecting him. Black soul gems, ancient evil, rituals in the marshes… Sounds like a bunch of wizard nonsense to me. I’ve lived in Morthal all my life, and I know the Blackreach is just a myth, a story to scare children. No, I think Falion’s hiding something, and I aim to find out what.”
Jon: “Then we have the chance to find out what. I spoke to the jarl, and she allowed me to venture into the marshes at night with one of the town’s warriors to figure out what the hell is going on with this Falion of yours.”
Benor: “You’re saying we’ve got a chance to catch Falion in the act? Count me in, traveler! I’ll grab my gear and we can head into the marshes tonight. We’ll get to the bottom of this, and I’ll make sure Falion doesn’t spin any more lies. I’ve got a score to settle with that wizard, and this is the perfect chance. Let’s meet up at the edge of the marshes at, say, 10 in the evening? I’ll bring my steel and a torch, and we’ll be ready for whatever darkness Falion’s cooked up.”
Jon: “That is the plan, Benor. I’ll be here at 10 in the evening. Let’s try to stop this evil plaguing the town.”
Benor: “I like your spirit, traveler! Tonight, we’ll put an end to whatever evil’s been haunting Morthal. I’ll be ready and waiting for you at the edge of the marshes. Don’t come alone, bring your blade and your wits, and we’ll face whatever darkness Falion’s stirring up. Together, we’ll put an end to this terror and clean up this town. See you at 10, traveler!”

To make time, I headed to the local inn and proceeded to continue my investigations. One of the people I spoke to, the innkeeper, turned out to be Falion’s sister, and was offended by my accusations. The conversation wasn’t that interesting, so moving on. Another person I hit up was Ange the Song-Bearer, a traveling female bard.

Jon: “Actually, I’m quite on edge because I have gotten tangled in whatever Falion, that wizard, is doing. He seems to be performing rituals in the marshes at night, and that is quite troublesome, don’t you think?”
Ange the Song-Bearer: “Ah, you’re speaking of that strange wizard, aren’t you? I’ve heard whispers about his activities in the marshes, and I share your concern. Dark rituals under the cover of night are rarely a good omen. As a bard, I’ve traveled far and wide, and I’ve seen my share of darkness. If what you’re saying is true, it could be a threat to the whole town. Tell me, what have you seen exactly? What makes you think he’s performing rituals?”
Jon: “I spoke to the jarl, who gave me permission to enter Falion’s home and question him. He had an enchanting table with black soul gems on it. I spoke to Falion and he told me that at night he goes into the marshes and performs dark rituals. So I am heading there with Banor, the local warrior, so we can figure out what exactly Falion is doing.”
Ange the Song-Bearer: “By the gods… Black soul gems, you say? That’s a dark and malevolent force, indeed. And Falion admitted to performing dark rituals in the marshes? That’s brazen, to say the least. I commend you for taking action, traveler. Going with Banor to investigate is a brave move. I’ll tell you this, as a bard, I’ve got some knowledge of the arcane and the forces of darkness. If you’d like, I can join you on this venture, provide some…”
Jon: “Yes, by all means, follow me, Ange.”
Ange the Song-Bearer: “Ah, I’m with you, traveler! Let’s gear up and meet Banor. I’ll bring my steel sword, just in case. We’ll see what Falion’s got brewing in those marshes. A bard’s got to be prepared for all sorts of performances, after all… even the ones that involve a bit of danger. Shall we meet Banor and get moving? The night’s not getting any younger…”
Jon: “Hey Ange, what kind of fighting abilities do you have?”
Ange the Song-Bearer: “My fighting abilities? Well, as a bard, I’m a bit of a jack-of-all-trades, but I’ve got some skill with a sword, particularly my trusty steel sword. I’ve had to defend myself on the road more times than I can count, and I’ve learned to hold my own in a fight. I’m not a master warrior, by any means, but I can hold my own in a scrap. And, of course, I’ve got my music – a well-placed sonic blast from my lute can be quite… distracting to an enemy. But I’m not counting on doing too much fighting tonight, if we’re lucky. Stealth and stealthy observation are usually the best policy when it comes to investigating dark rituals…”

We exited the inn to find Banor approaching it.

Jon: “Hey, Benor is here. Let’s inform him that now there’s three of us going to investigate the marshes.”
(the speech-to-text algorithm erroneously picked it up as “Martians.”)
Benor: “Ah, Jon! Good to see you, and I see you’ve got some company. A bard, if I’m not mistaken? Welcome to Morthal, Ange. What brings you to our humble town? And what’s this I hear about Martians? I think there’s been some mistake – we’re dealing with dark rituals and a suspicious wizard, not Martians!”
Jon: “I don’t know where you got the Martians thing from, but I was talking to Ange about the rituals that Falion might be performing, and she offered to come along. What do you think about that?”
Banor: “Ah, Falion, that’s the one we’re after, all right. I’m glad you’re taking this seriously, Jon. And having Ange along might not be a bad idea – an extra pair of eyes and a bit of musical… distraction, if needed. I’m not sure what to make of the bard’s skills in a fight, but we’ll take all the help we can get. As long as you’re both clear on what we’re getting into – this could get ugly, and fast. Falion’s not someone to be trifled with. We’re still meeting at the edge of the marshes at 10 in the evening, right? With any luck, we’ll catch him in the act and put an end to whatever dark business he’s brewing.”

I wanted to have a strategy meeting, and Benor suggested the inn. Standing around in one of the rooms, the following conversation took place:

Jon: “Ange, Benor, what kind of strategy should we follow for this ritual-hunting thing that we’re doing tonight in the marshes? As a wizard, I should be support.”
Ange the Song-Bearer: “A wise plan, Jon. As a bard, I can provide some… distraction, shall we say, if needed. My music can be quite… persuasive. Benor, here, can provide the brawn, and you, Jon, can provide the magical expertise. What do you think our approach should be? Should we sneak up on Falion, or make a more… dramatic entrance?”
Jon: “No, Ange, I think we should definitely sneak onto the site to get a feeling of what kind of terrain we are dealing with. At night, it’s going to be even more troublesome. There will probably be monsters about, I don’t know what kind. We should sneak in and try to spot Falion in the distance to find out what he’s doing.”
Benor: “Aye, sneaking in is the best plan. I know the marshes can be treacherous, especially at night. We don’t want to alert Falion or any other… creatures that might be lurking about. I’ll take point and lead the way, my eyes are adjusted to the dark and I know the terrain. We’ll move quietly and try to get a glimpse of what Falion is up to. If we’re lucky, we might even catch him off guard. What’s the signal if we need to retreat or attack?”
Jon: “The signal to attack is ‘banzai.’ I will shout that word if we are to attack. And the word to retreat should be… I’m out of ideas. What word could we use as code to retreat?”
Ange the Song-Bearer: “How about ‘Ragnar’? It’s a name from one of the old songs I sing, and it’s not likely to be mistaken for anything else in the heat of the moment. If someone shouts ‘Ragnar,’ we’ll know it’s time to fall back and regroup. What do you think, Benor? Does that sound like a good retreat signal to you?”
Jon: “Very well, I will shout ‘banzai’ if we are to attack, and I will shout…”
Ange the Song-Bearer: “‘Ragnar,’ if we need to retreat. Let’s hope we don’t have to use either signal too soon. Benor, shall we gear up and get moving? We’ve got a wizard to catch, and the marshes aren’t getting any safer.”
Benor: “About time, indeed. I’ve been waiting for this moment. Let’s move out, and may the road rise up to meet us. I’ll follow your lead, Jon. With your magic, Ange’s… distractions, and my steel, I think we’ve got a good chance of taking down Falion and putting an end to whatever dark rituals he’s been performing.”

Shortly before ten at night, we gathered in what passes for streets in Morthal, ready to head out. However…

Jon: “I hadn’t considered how incredibly dark Morthal gets at night. This isn’t a good omen.”
Benor: “Your words are wise, I sense a bad omen too. Morthal’s nights are shrouded in mystery and our target, Falion… he’s at the thick of it all. There’s no backing out tonight, we see this plan through. Stay close while we move in. You, Ange the Song-Bearer – got eyes peeled for a vulture’s nest anywhere close?”
Ange the Song-Bearer: “Donning the cloak of caution in dark times seems only… prudent. Benor mentions wise words on stealth ahead – indeed any warning our approach could foretell unwanted outcomes.”

The last summary of this sequence of events, right before I got a game-over “screen,” was the following, recorded by the AI: “Jon picked up a Deathbell and suggested heading into the marshes together. Benor warned that the Deathbell is a bad omen, indicating death is nearby. As they journeyed to Movarth’s Lair, Jon became increasingly erratic, casting the Flames spell repeatedly and jumping back and forth between Movarth’s Lair and Morthal. Benor and Ange attempted to calm Jon down, warning that his magic was getting out of control and that they needed to work together to defeat the zombies. Despite their efforts, Jon continued to cast Flames, causing chaos and confusion.”

If you have enjoyed this account of AI-helped roleplaying, you will probably love BrainFrog’s hilarious videos doing the same thing but with a psychotic bent: