"Well, not exactly, but they can create a means to." Eli could have easily gone into the theory as to exactly what they did or how they worked, but it would have been lost on this man and really he did have his own issues to deal with. It was probably best that this man was going to share the information with his smarter friend. Except it would be interesting to watch him struggle. And even see just what he might come up with.
"Runic magic is actually quite useful, but often overlooked." People preferred the flourish of wands and spells. While that was all well and fine, Eli had always needed more substance. "But that is probably a good place to start."