Carve the Crystal Guardian - Revision history

Twiggy at 02:44, 22 January 2026

2026-01-22T02:44:09Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 02:44, 22 January 2026
Line 22:		Line 22:

	==Description==		==Description==
	The crystal warriors called forth by this ritual draw themselves together from light, raw mana and the minerals found at the mana site. They begin as rough crystal shapes but quickly become more complex until they eventually take humanoid form. Scholars who have studied the magic believe that they are imbued with the spirits of certain lesser creatures of the ~~Realm~~ of Day, and that is why their consciousness is so well suited to obeying orders and fighting alongside an organised army. They are usually accoutred with staves and mage armour or with pole-weapons with the appearance of medium armour. Regardless of the appearance, their armour or lack thereof does not seem to restrict their ability to fight or the ability to use their supernatural abilities. The majority of these crystal warriors are capable of performing a limited repertoire of battlefield spells, often related to the nature of the mana site from which they are formed. Observers have seen crystal warriors channelling mana to duplicate effects such as [[heal]] and [[repel]] to aid their allies, restore their own numbers, or harry their enemies. Careful interrogation of these warriors has suggested that their magical abilities are much closer to the innate abilities of eternals and heralds, or the functions of magical items, than to true spellcasting.		The crystal warriors called forth by this ritual draw themselves together from light, raw mana and the minerals found at the mana site. They begin as rough crystal shapes but quickly become more complex until they eventually take humanoid form. Scholars who have studied the magic believe that they are imbued with the spirits of certain lesser creatures of the realm of Day, and that is why their consciousness is so well suited to obeying orders and fighting alongside an organised army. They are usually accoutred with staves and mage armour or with pole-weapons with the appearance of medium armour. Regardless of the appearance, their armour or lack thereof does not seem to restrict their ability to fight or the ability to use their supernatural abilities. The majority of these crystal warriors are capable of performing a limited repertoire of battlefield spells, often related to the nature of the mana site from which they are formed. Observers have seen crystal warriors channelling mana to duplicate effects such as [[heal]] and [[repel]] to aid their allies, restore their own numbers, or harry their enemies. Careful interrogation of these warriors has suggested that their magical abilities are much closer to the innate abilities of eternals and heralds, or the functions of magical items, than to true spellcasting.

	These supernatural warriors can speak, and appear to be intelligent although there is something ... ''distant'' about them, as if they are not entirely focused on the present or the conversation. They follow orders well, but tend to become confused by strong emotions and unruly celebrations, and do not seem to have individual names (although they clearly have individual identities). They maintain a slightly angular or jerky quality that harks back to their supernatural origins, and often appear to be composed of crystal or metal rather than flesh; they can be hurt and even disrupted by blows as easily as any other warrior, however. They can be healed by magic, but the [[Surgical skills#Chirurgeon\|chirurgeon]] and [[Surgical skills#Physick\|physick]] skills are often of limited use once they have taken sufficient damage to incapacitate them.		These supernatural warriors can speak, and appear to be intelligent although there is something ... ''distant'' about them, as if they are not entirely focused on the present or the conversation. They follow orders well, but tend to become confused by strong emotions and unruly celebrations, and do not seem to have individual names (although they clearly have individual identities). They maintain a slightly angular or jerky quality that harks back to their supernatural origins, and often appear to be composed of crystal or metal rather than flesh; they can be hurt and even disrupted by blows as easily as any other warrior, however. They can be healed by magic, but the [[Surgical skills#Chirurgeon\|chirurgeon]] and [[Surgical skills#Physick\|physick]] skills are often of limited use once they have taken sufficient damage to incapacitate them.
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	In [[Highguard]] this ritual is viewed with some suspicion; as with [[Conclave of Trees and Shadow]] there is concern that some of the crystal warriors are capable of remaining beyond the duration of the ritual, for their own reasons. The [[The Brass Coast\|Freeborn]] express concerns also, that the crystal warriors are somehow enslaved by the one who controls them<!---, because it is much less clear where the motivating spirit comes from than it is with the ''Conclave'' ritual--->. Regardless, the [[Earl#Enchanter\|enchanters]] of [[Dawn]], the [[The Marches\|Marcher]] [[Landskeeper\|landskeepers]] and the Urizen [[Urizen magical traditions#Mages\|mages]] are all known to make good use of this spell. Many enchanters see it is a powerful way to reinforce their troops with well-disciplined, resplendent warriors; the landskeepers see it as drawing on the energy of their territories to support the [[Marcher Household\|household]] troops; and the Urizen, unsurprisingly, see it as a marvellous, if expensive, alternative to relying on mundane soldiers to fight their battles.		In [[Highguard]] this ritual is viewed with some suspicion; as with [[Conclave of Trees and Shadow]] there is concern that some of the crystal warriors are capable of remaining beyond the duration of the ritual, for their own reasons. The [[The Brass Coast\|Freeborn]] express concerns also, that the crystal warriors are somehow enslaved by the one who controls them<!---, because it is much less clear where the motivating spirit comes from than it is with the ''Conclave'' ritual--->. Regardless, the [[Earl#Enchanter\|enchanters]] of [[Dawn]], the [[The Marches\|Marcher]] [[Landskeeper\|landskeepers]] and the Urizen [[Urizen magical traditions#Mages\|mages]] are all known to make good use of this spell. Many enchanters see it is a powerful way to reinforce their troops with well-disciplined, resplendent warriors; the landskeepers see it as drawing on the energy of their territories to support the [[Marcher Household\|household]] troops; and the Urizen, unsurprisingly, see it as a marvellous, if expensive, alternative to relying on mundane soldiers to fight their battles.

	In the past, this ritual has been used to call up warriors to take part in a tourney or to test the mettle of soldiers or knights. The expense of performing the ritual means that this is a rare, magical activity that attracts warriors from all over when it is attempted, especially in Dawn. Like several other summoned creatures, the crystal warriors cannot pass through the [[Sentinel Gate]] at Anvil. As with creatures such as the husks conjured by [[Quickening Cold Meat]], magicians theorise that this is because the gate cannot latch-on to the spirits of Day (or magical construction, depending on which theory one ascribes to) that empower them; when they try to travel through the gate their spiritless 'bodies' simply shatter into dull chunks of material and their now bodiless spirits flare, and are extinguished (or return to the ~~Realm~~ of Day).		In the past, this ritual has been used to call up warriors to take part in a tourney or to test the mettle of soldiers or knights. The expense of performing the ritual means that this is a rare, magical activity that attracts warriors from all over when it is attempted, especially in Dawn. Like several other summoned creatures, the crystal warriors cannot pass through the [[Sentinel Gate]] at Anvil. As with creatures such as the husks conjured by [[Quickening Cold Meat]], magicians theorise that this is because the gate cannot latch-on to the spirits of Day (or magical construction, depending on which theory one ascribes to) that empower them; when they try to travel through the gate their spiritless 'bodies' simply shatter into dull chunks of material and their now bodiless spirits flare, and are extinguished (or return to the realm of Day).

	('''OOC Note:''' Under most circumstances, the crystal warriors summoned during Profound Decisions events will, unfortunately, have to remain primarily as a downtime or plot resource rather than something that can be used on the field. At player events, this might not be the case; but we cannot commit to phys-repping crystal warriors at short notice nor can they be used in uptime battles due to their inability to pass the portal.)		('''OOC Note:''' Under most circumstances, the crystal warriors summoned during Profound Decisions events will, unfortunately, have to remain primarily as a downtime or plot resource rather than something that can be used on the field. At player events, this might not be the case; but we cannot commit to phys-repping crystal warriors at short notice nor can they be used in uptime battles due to their inability to pass the portal.)

Matt: Text replacement - "[[Imperial Conclave" to "[[Conclave"

2026-01-15T15:57:24Z

Text replacement - "[[Imperial Conclave" to "[[Conclave"

← Older revision		Revision as of 15:57, 15 January 2026
Line 26:		Line 26:
	These supernatural warriors can speak, and appear to be intelligent although there is something ... ''distant'' about them, as if they are not entirely focused on the present or the conversation. They follow orders well, but tend to become confused by strong emotions and unruly celebrations, and do not seem to have individual names (although they clearly have individual identities). They maintain a slightly angular or jerky quality that harks back to their supernatural origins, and often appear to be composed of crystal or metal rather than flesh; they can be hurt and even disrupted by blows as easily as any other warrior, however. They can be healed by magic, but the [[Surgical skills#Chirurgeon\|chirurgeon]] and [[Surgical skills#Physick\|physick]] skills are often of limited use once they have taken sufficient damage to incapacitate them.		These supernatural warriors can speak, and appear to be intelligent although there is something ... ''distant'' about them, as if they are not entirely focused on the present or the conversation. They follow orders well, but tend to become confused by strong emotions and unruly celebrations, and do not seem to have individual names (although they clearly have individual identities). They maintain a slightly angular or jerky quality that harks back to their supernatural origins, and often appear to be composed of crystal or metal rather than flesh; they can be hurt and even disrupted by blows as easily as any other warrior, however. They can be healed by magic, but the [[Surgical skills#Chirurgeon\|chirurgeon]] and [[Surgical skills#Physick\|physick]] skills are often of limited use once they have taken sufficient damage to incapacitate them.

	Magicians who have spent time in the company of the [[eternal\|eternals]] of Day have reported encountering very similar beings as guards and servants. The [[Urizen magical traditions#Stargazer\|stargazer]] ''Lydia of Beacon's Hollow'' claimed in an address to the [[~~Imperial~~ Conclave]] that these creatures were actually constructs similar in principle to the [[Urizen economic interests\|ushabti]] but animated by a more complex form of magic that gave them the appearance of being living creatures with personalities. She further theorised that this was why the destruction of the warriors had no effect on the mana site itself - that it simply tied up the energies of the location in the form of crystal constructs, and that the magic 'snapped back' when there was no more need to maintain the warriors' pseudo-personalities. Regardless, it is reasonably well-known that<!--- some Day eternals ---> Zakalwe is prepared to offer [[Hierarchs_of_sea_and_sky#The_Key_of_Commitment\|materials or items]] that assist with the performance of this ritual, although they rarely do so lightly.		Magicians who have spent time in the company of the [[eternal\|eternals]] of Day have reported encountering very similar beings as guards and servants. The [[Urizen magical traditions#Stargazer\|stargazer]] ''Lydia of Beacon's Hollow'' claimed in an address to the [[Conclave]] that these creatures were actually constructs similar in principle to the [[Urizen economic interests\|ushabti]] but animated by a more complex form of magic that gave them the appearance of being living creatures with personalities. She further theorised that this was why the destruction of the warriors had no effect on the mana site itself - that it simply tied up the energies of the location in the form of crystal constructs, and that the magic 'snapped back' when there was no more need to maintain the warriors' pseudo-personalities. Regardless, it is reasonably well-known that<!--- some Day eternals ---> Zakalwe is prepared to offer [[Hierarchs_of_sea_and_sky#The_Key_of_Commitment\|materials or items]] that assist with the performance of this ritual, although they rarely do so lightly.

	In [[Highguard]] this ritual is viewed with some suspicion; as with [[Conclave of Trees and Shadow]] there is concern that some of the crystal warriors are capable of remaining beyond the duration of the ritual, for their own reasons. The [[The Brass Coast\|Freeborn]] express concerns also, that the crystal warriors are somehow enslaved by the one who controls them<!---, because it is much less clear where the motivating spirit comes from than it is with the ''Conclave'' ritual--->. Regardless, the [[Earl#Enchanter\|enchanters]] of [[Dawn]], the [[The Marches\|Marcher]] [[Landskeeper\|landskeepers]] and the Urizen [[Urizen magical traditions#Mages\|mages]] are all known to make good use of this spell. Many enchanters see it is a powerful way to reinforce their troops with well-disciplined, resplendent warriors; the landskeepers see it as drawing on the energy of their territories to support the [[Marcher Household\|household]] troops; and the Urizen, unsurprisingly, see it as a marvellous, if expensive, alternative to relying on mundane soldiers to fight their battles.		In [[Highguard]] this ritual is viewed with some suspicion; as with [[Conclave of Trees and Shadow]] there is concern that some of the crystal warriors are capable of remaining beyond the duration of the ritual, for their own reasons. The [[The Brass Coast\|Freeborn]] express concerns also, that the crystal warriors are somehow enslaved by the one who controls them<!---, because it is much less clear where the motivating spirit comes from than it is with the ''Conclave'' ritual--->. Regardless, the [[Earl#Enchanter\|enchanters]] of [[Dawn]], the [[The Marches\|Marcher]] [[Landskeeper\|landskeepers]] and the Urizen [[Urizen magical traditions#Mages\|mages]] are all known to make good use of this spell. Many enchanters see it is a powerful way to reinforce their troops with well-disciplined, resplendent warriors; the landskeepers see it as drawing on the energy of their territories to support the [[Marcher Household\|household]] troops; and the Urizen, unsurprisingly, see it as a marvellous, if expensive, alternative to relying on mundane soldiers to fight their battles.

Twiggy at 23:57, 1 August 2025

2025-08-01T23:57:26Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 23:57, 1 August 2025
Line 17:		Line 17:

	===Assurance===		===Assurance===
	This ritual [[~~Ritual_theory~~#Transmutation\|transforms]] a resource into a military unit, and as with other such rituals, draws on the power of an [[eternal]], in this case [[Zakalwe]]. The ritual was originally believed to not have an [[~~Ritual_theory~~#~~Agreement~~\|assurance]], but this was proven false when it was uncovered by members of the [[Unfettered Mind]] shortly before the Winter Solstice 386YE. This ritual loses all power and becomes useless if the ritual "''Bond of Thorn and Razor''" is ever added to Imperial lore.		This ritual [[Limits_of_magic#Transmutation\|transforms]] a resource into a military unit, and as with other such rituals, draws on the power of an [[eternal]], in this case [[Zakalwe]]. The ritual was originally believed to not have an [[Eternals_and_rituals#Assurance_and_Stipulation\|assurance]], but this was proven false when it was uncovered by members of the [[Unfettered Mind]] shortly before the Winter Solstice 386YE. This ritual loses all power and becomes useless if the ritual "''Bond of Thorn and Razor''" is ever added to Imperial lore.

	''Michael, child of Amos,'' one of the researchers of the order, highlights that there is only one mention of ''Bond of Thorn and Razor'' in the ritual text. It is the revulsion of Phronesis, Polemarch of Strategy, on discovering the ritual that is referenced as the reason for Zakalwe's agreement to support Carve the Crystal Guardian. ''Michael'' is unclear if the act of adding "''Bond of Thorn and Razor''" to Urizen lore would be sufficient to break this assurance, and suggests that the [[Archmage of Day]] contact the Master Strategist if such an action were to ever be considered.		''Michael, child of Amos,'' one of the researchers of the order, highlights that there is only one mention of ''Bond of Thorn and Razor'' in the ritual text. It is the revulsion of Phronesis, Polemarch of Strategy, on discovering the ritual that is referenced as the reason for Zakalwe's agreement to support Carve the Crystal Guardian. ''Michael'' is unclear if the act of adding "''Bond of Thorn and Razor''" to Urizen lore would be sufficient to break this assurance, and suggests that the [[Archmage of Day]] contact the Master Strategist if such an action were to ever be considered.

Rosemary: /* Assurance */

2025-05-29T15:26:11Z

Assurance

← Older revision		Revision as of 15:26, 29 May 2025
Line 19:		Line 19:
	This ritual [[Ritual_theory#Transmutation\|transforms]] a resource into a military unit, and as with other such rituals, draws on the power of an [[eternal]], in this case [[Zakalwe]]. The ritual was originally believed to not have an [[Ritual_theory#Agreement\|assurance]], but this was proven false when it was uncovered by members of the [[Unfettered Mind]] shortly before the Winter Solstice 386YE. This ritual loses all power and becomes useless if the ritual "''Bond of Thorn and Razor''" is ever added to Imperial lore.		This ritual [[Ritual_theory#Transmutation\|transforms]] a resource into a military unit, and as with other such rituals, draws on the power of an [[eternal]], in this case [[Zakalwe]]. The ritual was originally believed to not have an [[Ritual_theory#Agreement\|assurance]], but this was proven false when it was uncovered by members of the [[Unfettered Mind]] shortly before the Winter Solstice 386YE. This ritual loses all power and becomes useless if the ritual "''Bond of Thorn and Razor''" is ever added to Imperial lore.

	''Michael, child of Amos,'' one of the researchers of the order, highlights that there is only one mention of ''Bond of Thorn and Razor'' in the ritual text. It is the revulsion of Phronesis, Polemarch of Strategy, on discovering the ritual that is referenced as the reason for ~~Zakawle~~'s agreement to support Carve the Crystal Guardian. ''Michael'' is unclear if the act of adding "''Bond of Thorn and Razor''" to Urizen lore would be sufficient to break this assurance, and suggests that the [[Archmage of Day]] contact the Master Strategist if such an action were to ever be considered.		''Michael, child of Amos,'' one of the researchers of the order, highlights that there is only one mention of ''Bond of Thorn and Razor'' in the ritual text. It is the revulsion of Phronesis, Polemarch of Strategy, on discovering the ritual that is referenced as the reason for Zakalwe's agreement to support Carve the Crystal Guardian. ''Michael'' is unclear if the act of adding "''Bond of Thorn and Razor''" to Urizen lore would be sufficient to break this assurance, and suggests that the [[Archmage of Day]] contact the Master Strategist if such an action were to ever be considered.

	==Description==		==Description==

Beeswax at 18:33, 26 March 2025

2025-03-26T18:33:25Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 18:33, 26 March 2025
Line 28:		Line 28:
	Magicians who have spent time in the company of the [[eternal\|eternals]] of Day have reported encountering very similar beings as guards and servants. The [[Urizen magical traditions#Stargazer\|stargazer]] ''Lydia of Beacon's Hollow'' claimed in an address to the [[Imperial Conclave]] that these creatures were actually constructs similar in principle to the [[Urizen economic interests\|ushabti]] but animated by a more complex form of magic that gave them the appearance of being living creatures with personalities. She further theorised that this was why the destruction of the warriors had no effect on the mana site itself - that it simply tied up the energies of the location in the form of crystal constructs, and that the magic 'snapped back' when there was no more need to maintain the warriors' pseudo-personalities. Regardless, it is reasonably well-known that<!--- some Day eternals ---> Zakalwe is prepared to offer [[Hierarchs_of_sea_and_sky#The_Key_of_Commitment\|materials or items]] that assist with the performance of this ritual, although they rarely do so lightly.		Magicians who have spent time in the company of the [[eternal\|eternals]] of Day have reported encountering very similar beings as guards and servants. The [[Urizen magical traditions#Stargazer\|stargazer]] ''Lydia of Beacon's Hollow'' claimed in an address to the [[Imperial Conclave]] that these creatures were actually constructs similar in principle to the [[Urizen economic interests\|ushabti]] but animated by a more complex form of magic that gave them the appearance of being living creatures with personalities. She further theorised that this was why the destruction of the warriors had no effect on the mana site itself - that it simply tied up the energies of the location in the form of crystal constructs, and that the magic 'snapped back' when there was no more need to maintain the warriors' pseudo-personalities. Regardless, it is reasonably well-known that<!--- some Day eternals ---> Zakalwe is prepared to offer [[Hierarchs_of_sea_and_sky#The_Key_of_Commitment\|materials or items]] that assist with the performance of this ritual, although they rarely do so lightly.

	In [[Highguard]] this ritual is viewed with some suspicion; as with [[Conclave of Trees and Shadow]] there is concern that some of the crystal warriors are capable of remaining beyond the duration of the ritual, for their own reasons. The [[The Brass Coast\|Freeborn]] express concerns also, that the crystal warriors are somehow enslaved by the one who controls them, because it is much less clear where the motivating spirit comes from than it is with the ''Conclave'' ritual. Regardless, the [[Earl#Enchanter\|enchanters]] of [[Dawn]], the [[The Marches\|Marcher]] [[Landskeeper\|landskeepers]] and the Urizen [[Urizen magical traditions#Mages\|mages]] are all known to make good use of this spell. Many enchanters see it is a powerful way to reinforce their troops with well-disciplined, resplendent warriors; the landskeepers see it as drawing on the energy of their territories to support the [[Marcher Household\|household]] troops; and the Urizen, unsurprisingly, see it as a marvellous, if expensive, alternative to relying on mundane soldiers to fight their battles.		In [[Highguard]] this ritual is viewed with some suspicion; as with [[Conclave of Trees and Shadow]] there is concern that some of the crystal warriors are capable of remaining beyond the duration of the ritual, for their own reasons. The [[The Brass Coast\|Freeborn]] express concerns also, that the crystal warriors are somehow enslaved by the one who controls them<!---, because it is much less clear where the motivating spirit comes from than it is with the ''Conclave'' ritual--->. Regardless, the [[Earl#Enchanter\|enchanters]] of [[Dawn]], the [[The Marches\|Marcher]] [[Landskeeper\|landskeepers]] and the Urizen [[Urizen magical traditions#Mages\|mages]] are all known to make good use of this spell. Many enchanters see it is a powerful way to reinforce their troops with well-disciplined, resplendent warriors; the landskeepers see it as drawing on the energy of their territories to support the [[Marcher Household\|household]] troops; and the Urizen, unsurprisingly, see it as a marvellous, if expensive, alternative to relying on mundane soldiers to fight their battles.

	In the past, this ritual has been used to call up warriors to take part in a tourney or to test the mettle of soldiers or knights. The expense of performing the ritual means that this is a rare, magical activity that attracts warriors from all over when it is attempted, especially in Dawn. Like several other summoned creatures, the crystal warriors cannot pass through the [[Sentinel Gate]] at Anvil. As with creatures such as the husks conjured by [[Quickening Cold Meat]], magicians theorise that this is because the gate cannot latch-on to the spirits of Day (or magical construction, depending on which theory one ascribes to) that empower them; when they try to travel through the gate their spiritless 'bodies' simply shatter into dull chunks of material and their now bodiless spirits flare, and are extinguished (or return to the Realm of Day).		In the past, this ritual has been used to call up warriors to take part in a tourney or to test the mettle of soldiers or knights. The expense of performing the ritual means that this is a rare, magical activity that attracts warriors from all over when it is attempted, especially in Dawn. Like several other summoned creatures, the crystal warriors cannot pass through the [[Sentinel Gate]] at Anvil. As with creatures such as the husks conjured by [[Quickening Cold Meat]], magicians theorise that this is because the gate cannot latch-on to the spirits of Day (or magical construction, depending on which theory one ascribes to) that empower them; when they try to travel through the gate their spiritless 'bodies' simply shatter into dull chunks of material and their now bodiless spirits flare, and are extinguished (or return to the Realm of Day).

Beeswax: /* Description */

2025-03-26T18:29:13Z

Description

← Older revision		Revision as of 18:29, 26 March 2025
Line 26:		Line 26:
	These supernatural warriors can speak, and appear to be intelligent although there is something ... ''distant'' about them, as if they are not entirely focused on the present or the conversation. They follow orders well, but tend to become confused by strong emotions and unruly celebrations, and do not seem to have individual names (although they clearly have individual identities). They maintain a slightly angular or jerky quality that harks back to their supernatural origins, and often appear to be composed of crystal or metal rather than flesh; they can be hurt and even disrupted by blows as easily as any other warrior, however. They can be healed by magic, but the [[Surgical skills#Chirurgeon\|chirurgeon]] and [[Surgical skills#Physick\|physick]] skills are often of limited use once they have taken sufficient damage to incapacitate them.		These supernatural warriors can speak, and appear to be intelligent although there is something ... ''distant'' about them, as if they are not entirely focused on the present or the conversation. They follow orders well, but tend to become confused by strong emotions and unruly celebrations, and do not seem to have individual names (although they clearly have individual identities). They maintain a slightly angular or jerky quality that harks back to their supernatural origins, and often appear to be composed of crystal or metal rather than flesh; they can be hurt and even disrupted by blows as easily as any other warrior, however. They can be healed by magic, but the [[Surgical skills#Chirurgeon\|chirurgeon]] and [[Surgical skills#Physick\|physick]] skills are often of limited use once they have taken sufficient damage to incapacitate them.

	Magicians who have spent time in the company of the [[eternal\|eternals]] of Day have reported encountering very similar beings as guards and servants. The [[Urizen magical traditions#Stargazer\|stargazer]] ''Lydia of Beacon's Hollow'' claimed in an address to the [[Imperial Conclave]] that these creatures were actually constructs similar in principle to the [[Urizen economic interests\|ushabti]] but animated by a more complex form of magic that gave them the appearance of being living creatures with personalities. She further theorised that this was why the destruction of the warriors had no effect on the mana site itself - that it simply tied up the energies of the location in the form of crystal constructs, and that the magic 'snapped back' when there was no more need to maintain the warriors' pseudo-personalities. Regardless, it is reasonably well-known that some Day eternals ~~are~~ prepared to offer materials or items that assist with the performance of this ritual, although they rarely do so lightly.		Magicians who have spent time in the company of the [[eternal\|eternals]] of Day have reported encountering very similar beings as guards and servants. The [[Urizen magical traditions#Stargazer\|stargazer]] ''Lydia of Beacon's Hollow'' claimed in an address to the [[Imperial Conclave]] that these creatures were actually constructs similar in principle to the [[Urizen economic interests\|ushabti]] but animated by a more complex form of magic that gave them the appearance of being living creatures with personalities. She further theorised that this was why the destruction of the warriors had no effect on the mana site itself - that it simply tied up the energies of the location in the form of crystal constructs, and that the magic 'snapped back' when there was no more need to maintain the warriors' pseudo-personalities. Regardless, it is reasonably well-known that<!--- some Day eternals ---> Zakalwe is prepared to offer [[Hierarchs_of_sea_and_sky#The_Key_of_Commitment\|materials or items]] that assist with the performance of this ritual, although they rarely do so lightly.

	In [[Highguard]] this ritual is viewed with some suspicion; as with [[Conclave of Trees and Shadow]] there is concern that some of the crystal warriors are capable of remaining beyond the duration of the ritual, for their own reasons. The [[The Brass Coast\|Freeborn]] express concerns also, that the crystal warriors are somehow enslaved by the one who controls them, because it is much less clear where the motivating spirit comes from than it is with the ''Conclave'' ritual. Regardless, the [[Earl#Enchanter\|enchanters]] of [[Dawn]], the [[The Marches\|Marcher]] [[Landskeeper\|landskeepers]] and the Urizen [[Urizen magical traditions#Mages\|mages]] are all known to make good use of this spell. Many enchanters see it is a powerful way to reinforce their troops with well-disciplined, resplendent warriors; the landskeepers see it as drawing on the energy of their territories to support the [[Marcher Household\|household]] troops; and the Urizen, unsurprisingly, see it as a marvellous, if expensive, alternative to relying on mundane soldiers to fight their battles.		In [[Highguard]] this ritual is viewed with some suspicion; as with [[Conclave of Trees and Shadow]] there is concern that some of the crystal warriors are capable of remaining beyond the duration of the ritual, for their own reasons. The [[The Brass Coast\|Freeborn]] express concerns also, that the crystal warriors are somehow enslaved by the one who controls them, because it is much less clear where the motivating spirit comes from than it is with the ''Conclave'' ritual. Regardless, the [[Earl#Enchanter\|enchanters]] of [[Dawn]], the [[The Marches\|Marcher]] [[Landskeeper\|landskeepers]] and the Urizen [[Urizen magical traditions#Mages\|mages]] are all known to make good use of this spell. Many enchanters see it is a powerful way to reinforce their troops with well-disciplined, resplendent warriors; the landskeepers see it as drawing on the energy of their territories to support the [[Marcher Household\|household]] troops; and the Urizen, unsurprisingly, see it as a marvellous, if expensive, alternative to relying on mundane soldiers to fight their battles.

Hailmur: /* Additional Targets */

2025-03-26T17:07:47Z

Additional Targets

← Older revision		Revision as of 17:07, 26 March 2025
Line 15:		Line 15:
	===Additional Targets===		===Additional Targets===
	This ritual can affect additional mana sites in the same territory. Each additional mana site increases the magnitude by 15. The character who controls each mana site must be present throughout the ritual, and each receives control of their own military unit.		This ritual can affect additional mana sites in the same territory. Each additional mana site increases the magnitude by 15. The character who controls each mana site must be present throughout the ritual, and each receives control of their own military unit.

			===Assurance===
			This ritual [[Ritual_theory#Transmutation\|transforms]] a resource into a military unit, and as with other such rituals, draws on the power of an [[eternal]], in this case [[Zakalwe]]. The ritual was originally believed to not have an [[Ritual_theory#Agreement\|assurance]], but this was proven false when it was uncovered by members of the [[Unfettered Mind]] shortly before the Winter Solstice 386YE. This ritual loses all power and becomes useless if the ritual "''Bond of Thorn and Razor''" is ever added to Imperial lore.

			''Michael, child of Amos,'' one of the researchers of the order, highlights that there is only one mention of ''Bond of Thorn and Razor'' in the ritual text. It is the revulsion of Phronesis, Polemarch of Strategy, on discovering the ritual that is referenced as the reason for Zakawle's agreement to support Carve the Crystal Guardian. ''Michael'' is unclear if the act of adding "''Bond of Thorn and Razor''" to Urizen lore would be sufficient to break this assurance, and suggests that the [[Archmage of Day]] contact the Master Strategist if such an action were to ever be considered.

	==Description==		==Description==

Hailmur: /* Common Elements */

2025-03-26T17:03:15Z

Common Elements

← Older revision		Revision as of 17:03, 26 March 2025
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	The ritual often involves a map of the mana site to be [[enchantment\|enchanted]]; in the case of the [[Urizen]] a map of the entire area may be studied, and that information woven into the invocation itself. Where possible the ritual is performed using crystals that come from the mana site in question although this is not a requirement. Other common features include minerals from the target area; valuable crystals of gemstones; symbols of [[Loyalty]]; or weapons and armour (or implements and mage armour), especially enchanted version of those items.		The ritual often involves a map of the mana site to be [[enchantment\|enchanted]]; in the case of the [[Urizen]] a map of the entire area may be studied, and that information woven into the invocation itself. Where possible the ritual is performed using crystals that come from the mana site in question although this is not a requirement. Other common features include minerals from the target area; valuable crystals of gemstones; symbols of [[Loyalty]]; or weapons and armour (or implements and mage armour), especially enchanted version of those items.

	As with many Day rituals, mirrors, light and careful invocations are common elements. The character who will control the summoned crystal warriors may be symbolically [[Dawn hearth magic#Girded\|girded]] as a warrior or general, or crowned in some fashion, especially with a crystalline crown. ~~The name~~ of the ~~eternal~~ [[Zakalwe]] is often evoked during the performance of this ritual.		As with many Day rituals, mirrors, light and careful invocations are common elements. The character who will control the summoned crystal warriors may be symbolically [[Dawn hearth magic#Girded\|girded]] as a warrior or general, or crowned in some fashion, especially with a crystalline crown. One of the common sobriquets of [[Zakalwe]] is often evoked during the performance of this ritual.

	[[Category:Day Ritual]]		[[Category:Day Ritual]]
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	[[Category:Warfare]]		[[Category:Warfare]]
	[[Category:Resource]]		[[Category:Resource]]
	~~[[Category:Review]]~~

Hailmur: /* Description */

2025-03-26T17:02:46Z

Description

← Older revision		Revision as of 17:02, 26 March 2025
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	These supernatural warriors can speak, and appear to be intelligent although there is something ... ''distant'' about them, as if they are not entirely focused on the present or the conversation. They follow orders well, but tend to become confused by strong emotions and unruly celebrations, and do not seem to have individual names (although they clearly have individual identities). They maintain a slightly angular or jerky quality that harks back to their supernatural origins, and often appear to be composed of crystal or metal rather than flesh; they can be hurt and even disrupted by blows as easily as any other warrior, however. They can be healed by magic, but the [[Surgical skills#Chirurgeon\|chirurgeon]] and [[Surgical skills#Physick\|physick]] skills are often of limited use once they have taken sufficient damage to incapacitate them.		These supernatural warriors can speak, and appear to be intelligent although there is something ... ''distant'' about them, as if they are not entirely focused on the present or the conversation. They follow orders well, but tend to become confused by strong emotions and unruly celebrations, and do not seem to have individual names (although they clearly have individual identities). They maintain a slightly angular or jerky quality that harks back to their supernatural origins, and often appear to be composed of crystal or metal rather than flesh; they can be hurt and even disrupted by blows as easily as any other warrior, however. They can be healed by magic, but the [[Surgical skills#Chirurgeon\|chirurgeon]] and [[Surgical skills#Physick\|physick]] skills are often of limited use once they have taken sufficient damage to incapacitate them.

	Magicians who have spent time in the ~~courts~~ of the [[eternal\|eternals]] of Day have reported encountering very similar beings as guards and servants. The [[Urizen magical traditions#Stargazer\|stargazer]] Lydia of Beacon's Hollow claimed in an address to the [[Imperial Conclave]] that these creatures were actually constructs similar in principle to the [[Urizen economic interests\|ushabti]] but animated by a more complex form of magic that gave them the appearance of being living creatures with personalities. She further theorised that this was why the destruction of the warriors had no effect on the mana site itself - that it simply tied up the energies of the location in the form of crystal constructs, and that the magic 'snapped back' when there was no more need to maintain the warriors' pseudo-personalities. Regardless, it is reasonably well-known that some Day eternals are prepared to offer materials or items that assist with the performance of this ritual, although they rarely do so lightly.		Magicians who have spent time in the company of the [[eternal\|eternals]] of Day have reported encountering very similar beings as guards and servants. The [[Urizen magical traditions#Stargazer\|stargazer]] ''Lydia of Beacon's Hollow'' claimed in an address to the [[Imperial Conclave]] that these creatures were actually constructs similar in principle to the [[Urizen economic interests\|ushabti]] but animated by a more complex form of magic that gave them the appearance of being living creatures with personalities. She further theorised that this was why the destruction of the warriors had no effect on the mana site itself - that it simply tied up the energies of the location in the form of crystal constructs, and that the magic 'snapped back' when there was no more need to maintain the warriors' pseudo-personalities. Regardless, it is reasonably well-known that some Day eternals are prepared to offer materials or items that assist with the performance of this ritual, although they rarely do so lightly.

	In [[Highguard]] this ritual is viewed with some suspicion; as with [[Conclave of Trees and Shadow]] there is concern that some of the crystal warriors are capable of remaining beyond the duration of the ritual, for their own reasons. The [[The Brass Coast\|Freeborn]] express concerns also, that the crystal warriors are somehow enslaved by the one who controls them, because it is much less clear where the motivating spirit comes from than it is with the ''Conclave'' ritual. Regardless, the [[Earl#Enchanter\|enchanters]] of [[Dawn]], the [[The Marches\|Marcher]] [[Landskeeper\|landskeepers]] and the Urizen [[Urizen magical traditions#Mages\|mages]] are all known to make good use of this spell. Many enchanters see it is a powerful way to reinforce their troops with well-disciplined, resplendent warriors; the landskeepers see it as drawing on the energy of their territories to support the [[Marcher Household\|household]] troops; and the Urizen, unsurprisingly, see it as a marvellous, if expensive, alternative to relying on mundane soldiers to fight their battles.		In [[Highguard]] this ritual is viewed with some suspicion; as with [[Conclave of Trees and Shadow]] there is concern that some of the crystal warriors are capable of remaining beyond the duration of the ritual, for their own reasons. The [[The Brass Coast\|Freeborn]] express concerns also, that the crystal warriors are somehow enslaved by the one who controls them, because it is much less clear where the motivating spirit comes from than it is with the ''Conclave'' ritual. Regardless, the [[Earl#Enchanter\|enchanters]] of [[Dawn]], the [[The Marches\|Marcher]] [[Landskeeper\|landskeepers]] and the Urizen [[Urizen magical traditions#Mages\|mages]] are all known to make good use of this spell. Many enchanters see it is a powerful way to reinforce their troops with well-disciplined, resplendent warriors; the landskeepers see it as drawing on the energy of their territories to support the [[Marcher Household\|household]] troops; and the Urizen, unsurprisingly, see it as a marvellous, if expensive, alternative to relying on mundane soldiers to fight their battles.
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	In the past, this ritual has been used to call up warriors to take part in a tourney or to test the mettle of soldiers or knights. The expense of performing the ritual means that this is a rare, magical activity that attracts warriors from all over when it is attempted, especially in Dawn. Like several other summoned creatures, the crystal warriors cannot pass through the [[Sentinel Gate]] at Anvil. As with creatures such as the husks conjured by [[Quickening Cold Meat]], magicians theorise that this is because the gate cannot latch-on to the spirits of Day (or magical construction, depending on which theory one ascribes to) that empower them; when they try to travel through the gate their spiritless 'bodies' simply shatter into dull chunks of material and their now bodiless spirits flare, and are extinguished (or return to the Realm of Day).		In the past, this ritual has been used to call up warriors to take part in a tourney or to test the mettle of soldiers or knights. The expense of performing the ritual means that this is a rare, magical activity that attracts warriors from all over when it is attempted, especially in Dawn. Like several other summoned creatures, the crystal warriors cannot pass through the [[Sentinel Gate]] at Anvil. As with creatures such as the husks conjured by [[Quickening Cold Meat]], magicians theorise that this is because the gate cannot latch-on to the spirits of Day (or magical construction, depending on which theory one ascribes to) that empower them; when they try to travel through the gate their spiritless 'bodies' simply shatter into dull chunks of material and their now bodiless spirits flare, and are extinguished (or return to the Realm of Day).

	(''OOC Note: Under most circumstances, the crystal warriors summoned during Profound Decisions events will, unfortunately, have to remain primarily as a downtime or plot resource rather than something that can be used on the field. At player events, this might not be the case; but we cannot commit to phys-repping crystal warriors at short notice nor can they be used in uptime battles due to their inability to pass the portal.'')		('''OOC Note:''' Under most circumstances, the crystal warriors summoned during Profound Decisions events will, unfortunately, have to remain primarily as a downtime or plot resource rather than something that can be used on the field. At player events, this might not be the case; but we cannot commit to phys-repping crystal warriors at short notice nor can they be used in uptime battles due to their inability to pass the portal.)

	==Common Elements==		==Common Elements==

Rafferty: /* Effects */

2025-03-14T10:38:52Z

Effects

← Older revision		Revision as of 10:38, 14 March 2025
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	The target [[mana site]] produces ''no'' crystal mana during the coming season. At the end of the season, or if they are destroyed, the warriors return to the mana site and dissolve back into it, restoring its production to normal.		The target [[mana site]] produces ''no'' crystal mana during the coming season. At the end of the season, or if they are destroyed, the warriors return to the mana site and dissolve back into it, restoring its production to normal.

	The military unit created consists of supernatural troops that can be [[Military_unit#Downtime_Options\|assigned]] any of the tasks that a normal military unit can undertake. While they are effective at all these tasks, the warriors are especially well suited to [[Military_unit#~~Support_Army~~\|~~fighting as part of a campaign army~~]] and receive a five rank bonus (equivalent to an additional 100 fighting force) when they do so.		The military unit created consists of supernatural troops that can be [[Military_unit#Downtime_Options\|assigned]] any of the tasks that a normal military unit can undertake. While they are effective at all these tasks, the warriors are especially well suited to [[Military_unit#Campaigning\|campaigning]] actions, and receive a five rank bonus (equivalent to an additional 100 fighting force) when they do so.

	===Additional Targets===		===Additional Targets===

← Older revision		Revision as of 15:57, 15 January 2026
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	These supernatural warriors can speak, and appear to be intelligent although there is something ... ''distant'' about them, as if they are not entirely focused on the present or the conversation. They follow orders well, but tend to become confused by strong emotions and unruly celebrations, and do not seem to have individual names (although they clearly have individual identities). They maintain a slightly angular or jerky quality that harks back to their supernatural origins, and often appear to be composed of crystal or metal rather than flesh; they can be hurt and even disrupted by blows as easily as any other warrior, however. They can be healed by magic, but the [[Surgical skills#Chirurgeon\|chirurgeon]] and [[Surgical skills#Physick\|physick]] skills are often of limited use once they have taken sufficient damage to incapacitate them.		These supernatural warriors can speak, and appear to be intelligent although there is something ... ''distant'' about them, as if they are not entirely focused on the present or the conversation. They follow orders well, but tend to become confused by strong emotions and unruly celebrations, and do not seem to have individual names (although they clearly have individual identities). They maintain a slightly angular or jerky quality that harks back to their supernatural origins, and often appear to be composed of crystal or metal rather than flesh; they can be hurt and even disrupted by blows as easily as any other warrior, however. They can be healed by magic, but the [[Surgical skills#Chirurgeon\|chirurgeon]] and [[Surgical skills#Physick\|physick]] skills are often of limited use once they have taken sufficient damage to incapacitate them.

	Magicians who have spent time in the company of the [[eternal\|eternals]] of Day have reported encountering very similar beings as guards and servants. The [[Urizen magical traditions#Stargazer\|stargazer]] ''Lydia of Beacon's Hollow'' claimed in an address to the [[~~Imperial~~ Conclave]] that these creatures were actually constructs similar in principle to the [[Urizen economic interests\|ushabti]] but animated by a more complex form of magic that gave them the appearance of being living creatures with personalities. She further theorised that this was why the destruction of the warriors had no effect on the mana site itself - that it simply tied up the energies of the location in the form of crystal constructs, and that the magic 'snapped back' when there was no more need to maintain the warriors' pseudo-personalities. Regardless, it is reasonably well-known that<!--- some Day eternals ---> Zakalwe is prepared to offer [[Hierarchs_of_sea_and_sky#The_Key_of_Commitment\|materials or items]] that assist with the performance of this ritual, although they rarely do so lightly.		Magicians who have spent time in the company of the [[eternal\|eternals]] of Day have reported encountering very similar beings as guards and servants. The [[Urizen magical traditions#Stargazer\|stargazer]] ''Lydia of Beacon's Hollow'' claimed in an address to the [[Conclave]] that these creatures were actually constructs similar in principle to the [[Urizen economic interests\|ushabti]] but animated by a more complex form of magic that gave them the appearance of being living creatures with personalities. She further theorised that this was why the destruction of the warriors had no effect on the mana site itself - that it simply tied up the energies of the location in the form of crystal constructs, and that the magic 'snapped back' when there was no more need to maintain the warriors' pseudo-personalities. Regardless, it is reasonably well-known that<!--- some Day eternals ---> Zakalwe is prepared to offer [[Hierarchs_of_sea_and_sky#The_Key_of_Commitment\|materials or items]] that assist with the performance of this ritual, although they rarely do so lightly.

	In [[Highguard]] this ritual is viewed with some suspicion; as with [[Conclave of Trees and Shadow]] there is concern that some of the crystal warriors are capable of remaining beyond the duration of the ritual, for their own reasons. The [[The Brass Coast\|Freeborn]] express concerns also, that the crystal warriors are somehow enslaved by the one who controls them<!---, because it is much less clear where the motivating spirit comes from than it is with the ''Conclave'' ritual--->. Regardless, the [[Earl#Enchanter\|enchanters]] of [[Dawn]], the [[The Marches\|Marcher]] [[Landskeeper\|landskeepers]] and the Urizen [[Urizen magical traditions#Mages\|mages]] are all known to make good use of this spell. Many enchanters see it is a powerful way to reinforce their troops with well-disciplined, resplendent warriors; the landskeepers see it as drawing on the energy of their territories to support the [[Marcher Household\|household]] troops; and the Urizen, unsurprisingly, see it as a marvellous, if expensive, alternative to relying on mundane soldiers to fight their battles.		In [[Highguard]] this ritual is viewed with some suspicion; as with [[Conclave of Trees and Shadow]] there is concern that some of the crystal warriors are capable of remaining beyond the duration of the ritual, for their own reasons. The [[The Brass Coast\|Freeborn]] express concerns also, that the crystal warriors are somehow enslaved by the one who controls them<!---, because it is much less clear where the motivating spirit comes from than it is with the ''Conclave'' ritual--->. Regardless, the [[Earl#Enchanter\|enchanters]] of [[Dawn]], the [[The Marches\|Marcher]] [[Landskeeper\|landskeepers]] and the Urizen [[Urizen magical traditions#Mages\|mages]] are all known to make good use of this spell. Many enchanters see it is a powerful way to reinforce their troops with well-disciplined, resplendent warriors; the landskeepers see it as drawing on the energy of their territories to support the [[Marcher Household\|household]] troops; and the Urizen, unsurprisingly, see it as a marvellous, if expensive, alternative to relying on mundane soldiers to fight their battles.

← Older revision		Revision as of 18:29, 26 March 2025
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	These supernatural warriors can speak, and appear to be intelligent although there is something ... ''distant'' about them, as if they are not entirely focused on the present or the conversation. They follow orders well, but tend to become confused by strong emotions and unruly celebrations, and do not seem to have individual names (although they clearly have individual identities). They maintain a slightly angular or jerky quality that harks back to their supernatural origins, and often appear to be composed of crystal or metal rather than flesh; they can be hurt and even disrupted by blows as easily as any other warrior, however. They can be healed by magic, but the [[Surgical skills#Chirurgeon\|chirurgeon]] and [[Surgical skills#Physick\|physick]] skills are often of limited use once they have taken sufficient damage to incapacitate them.		These supernatural warriors can speak, and appear to be intelligent although there is something ... ''distant'' about them, as if they are not entirely focused on the present or the conversation. They follow orders well, but tend to become confused by strong emotions and unruly celebrations, and do not seem to have individual names (although they clearly have individual identities). They maintain a slightly angular or jerky quality that harks back to their supernatural origins, and often appear to be composed of crystal or metal rather than flesh; they can be hurt and even disrupted by blows as easily as any other warrior, however. They can be healed by magic, but the [[Surgical skills#Chirurgeon\|chirurgeon]] and [[Surgical skills#Physick\|physick]] skills are often of limited use once they have taken sufficient damage to incapacitate them.

	Magicians who have spent time in the company of the [[eternal\|eternals]] of Day have reported encountering very similar beings as guards and servants. The [[Urizen magical traditions#Stargazer\|stargazer]] ''Lydia of Beacon's Hollow'' claimed in an address to the [[Imperial Conclave]] that these creatures were actually constructs similar in principle to the [[Urizen economic interests\|ushabti]] but animated by a more complex form of magic that gave them the appearance of being living creatures with personalities. She further theorised that this was why the destruction of the warriors had no effect on the mana site itself - that it simply tied up the energies of the location in the form of crystal constructs, and that the magic 'snapped back' when there was no more need to maintain the warriors' pseudo-personalities. Regardless, it is reasonably well-known that some Day eternals ~~are~~ prepared to offer materials or items that assist with the performance of this ritual, although they rarely do so lightly.		Magicians who have spent time in the company of the [[eternal\|eternals]] of Day have reported encountering very similar beings as guards and servants. The [[Urizen magical traditions#Stargazer\|stargazer]] ''Lydia of Beacon's Hollow'' claimed in an address to the [[Imperial Conclave]] that these creatures were actually constructs similar in principle to the [[Urizen economic interests\|ushabti]] but animated by a more complex form of magic that gave them the appearance of being living creatures with personalities. She further theorised that this was why the destruction of the warriors had no effect on the mana site itself - that it simply tied up the energies of the location in the form of crystal constructs, and that the magic 'snapped back' when there was no more need to maintain the warriors' pseudo-personalities. Regardless, it is reasonably well-known that<!--- some Day eternals ---> Zakalwe is prepared to offer [[Hierarchs_of_sea_and_sky#The_Key_of_Commitment\|materials or items]] that assist with the performance of this ritual, although they rarely do so lightly.

	In [[Highguard]] this ritual is viewed with some suspicion; as with [[Conclave of Trees and Shadow]] there is concern that some of the crystal warriors are capable of remaining beyond the duration of the ritual, for their own reasons. The [[The Brass Coast\|Freeborn]] express concerns also, that the crystal warriors are somehow enslaved by the one who controls them, because it is much less clear where the motivating spirit comes from than it is with the ''Conclave'' ritual. Regardless, the [[Earl#Enchanter\|enchanters]] of [[Dawn]], the [[The Marches\|Marcher]] [[Landskeeper\|landskeepers]] and the Urizen [[Urizen magical traditions#Mages\|mages]] are all known to make good use of this spell. Many enchanters see it is a powerful way to reinforce their troops with well-disciplined, resplendent warriors; the landskeepers see it as drawing on the energy of their territories to support the [[Marcher Household\|household]] troops; and the Urizen, unsurprisingly, see it as a marvellous, if expensive, alternative to relying on mundane soldiers to fight their battles.		In [[Highguard]] this ritual is viewed with some suspicion; as with [[Conclave of Trees and Shadow]] there is concern that some of the crystal warriors are capable of remaining beyond the duration of the ritual, for their own reasons. The [[The Brass Coast\|Freeborn]] express concerns also, that the crystal warriors are somehow enslaved by the one who controls them, because it is much less clear where the motivating spirit comes from than it is with the ''Conclave'' ritual. Regardless, the [[Earl#Enchanter\|enchanters]] of [[Dawn]], the [[The Marches\|Marcher]] [[Landskeeper\|landskeepers]] and the Urizen [[Urizen magical traditions#Mages\|mages]] are all known to make good use of this spell. Many enchanters see it is a powerful way to reinforce their troops with well-disciplined, resplendent warriors; the landskeepers see it as drawing on the energy of their territories to support the [[Marcher Household\|household]] troops; and the Urizen, unsurprisingly, see it as a marvellous, if expensive, alternative to relying on mundane soldiers to fight their battles.