"Fascinating!" He wasn't quite up to date on all of the expeditions going out, but the discovery of a magical society off in a place like Venezuela was intriguing. Zach appeared sympathetic that her trip had been cut short. It was, of course, understandably. A death of a family member ought to be an occasion for one to return home, but right in the middle of an important discovery! How unfortunate. "Do you think you'll be returning? I do hope your compatriots are owling you updates on the search."

"My friend and his apprentice believe so. They've been studying the natives for going on six years now, learning the language, but they live much different than we do in their tribes. It's my understanding their magic is much less civilized. It's also difficult to separate their magic from their folklore; it has led them down a few dead ends. I'm hoping to read his latest research before replicating it and passing it along. Would you like a copy?"

He paused, realizing he was likely rambling. He reached out and took the offered book, thumbing carefully through the pages. From the limited description he had, it seemed as if it were the most likely culprit. "I believe so! Good eye, Miss Smith."