Conclave of Trees and Shadow - Revision history

Twiggy at 19:29, 16 January 2026

2026-01-16T19:29:51Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 19:29, 16 January 2026
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	==Description==		==Description==
	The shadow warriors called forth by this ritual ooze forth from between the trees into clearings and across boundaries. They begin as shapeless forms of living darkness, but quickly take on more physical forms. Scholars who have studied the magic believe that they are made partially from darkness, partially from the vital essence of the forest, and partly from lesser spirits of the ~~Realm~~ of Night. They are usually armed-and-armoured in a fashion that reflects the kind of raw [[materials]] commonly gathered from the forest that spawns them. For example, a forest that produces [[Materials#Iridescent Gloaming\|iridescent gloaming]] tends to form warriors with pole-arms and robes, while a forest that produces [[Materials#Ambergelt\|ambergelt]] spawns warriors with great two-handed axes and dark furs. A forest that normally provides [[Materials#Dragonbone\|dragonbone]] tends to produce warriors in hides armed with one-handed spear and shield, while a forest that produces [[Materials#Beggar's Lye\|beggar's lye]] spawns warriors in blackened chain with great shields and maces. These effects are by no means universal.		The shadow warriors called forth by this ritual ooze forth from between the trees into clearings and across boundaries. They begin as shapeless forms of living darkness, but quickly take on more physical forms. Scholars who have studied the magic believe that they are made partially from darkness, partially from the vital essence of the forest, and partly from lesser spirits of the realm of Night. They are usually armed-and-armoured in a fashion that reflects the kind of raw [[materials]] commonly gathered from the forest that spawns them. For example, a forest that produces [[Materials#Iridescent Gloaming\|iridescent gloaming]] tends to form warriors with pole-arms and robes, while a forest that produces [[Materials#Ambergelt\|ambergelt]] spawns warriors with great two-handed axes and dark furs. A forest that normally provides [[Materials#Dragonbone\|dragonbone]] tends to produce warriors in hides armed with one-handed spear and shield, while a forest that produces [[Materials#Beggar's Lye\|beggar's lye]] spawns warriors in blackened chain with great shields and maces. These effects are by no means universal.

	The shadow warriors invariably appear to be in medium armour. They can speak, and appear to be intelligent although there is something ... ''hollow'' about them, as if they are not entirely present. They follow orders well, but tend to shy away from fire and bright lights. They maintain a slightly incorporeal quality, as if they are not entirely physical, but they can be hurt and even disrupted by blows as easily as any other warrior. They tend to move quietly, even in a group, and excel at remaining unobtrusive. This quality makes them effective at fading into the shadows, taking small groups of enemies unaware, and quickly retreating when they encounter serious opposition.		The shadow warriors invariably appear to be in medium armour. They can speak, and appear to be intelligent although there is something ... ''hollow'' about them, as if they are not entirely present. They follow orders well, but tend to shy away from fire and bright lights. They maintain a slightly incorporeal quality, as if they are not entirely physical, but they can be hurt and even disrupted by blows as easily as any other warrior. They tend to move quietly, even in a group, and excel at remaining unobtrusive. This quality makes them effective at fading into the shadows, taking small groups of enemies unaware, and quickly retreating when they encounter serious opposition.

	Magicians who have spent time as guests of the [[eternal\|eternals]] of Night have reported encountering very similar beings as guards, servants and even courtiers in those realms. The [[Earl\|enchanter]] ''Chretien l'Incroyable'' wrote a well-researched treatise on them and claimed that these creatures were actually formless - that like the eternals themselves they are shapeshifters who take on forms based on the expectations of observers. This ritual, he theorised, used the energy of mana to summon these spirits and clothed them in a form of animus or eidolon drawn from the target forest. He further theorised that the warriors did not actually die when 'killed'; the essence drawn from the forest returned to it, and the warriors' spirits returned to the ~~Realm~~ of Night. Regardless, it is reasonably well-known that<!--- several Night eternals ---> the Azoth is prepared to offer [[Begins_where_it_ends#The_Azoth\|materials or items]] that assist with the performance of this ritual, although they rarely do so lightly.		Magicians who have spent time as guests of the [[eternal\|eternals]] of Night have reported encountering very similar beings as guards, servants and even courtiers in those realms. The [[Earl\|enchanter]] ''Chretien l'Incroyable'' wrote a well-researched treatise on them and claimed that these creatures were actually formless - that like the eternals themselves they are shapeshifters who take on forms based on the expectations of observers. This ritual, he theorised, used the energy of mana to summon these spirits and clothed them in a form of animus or eidolon drawn from the target forest. He further theorised that the warriors did not actually die when 'killed'; the essence drawn from the forest returned to it, and the warriors' spirits returned to the realm of Night. Regardless, it is reasonably well-known that<!--- several Night eternals ---> the Azoth is prepared to offer [[Begins_where_it_ends#The_Azoth\|materials or items]] that assist with the performance of this ritual, although they rarely do so lightly.

	In [[Highguard]] this ritual is called ''Call Forth the Hollow Ones'' and is frowned upon; there is some suspicion that some of the shadow warriors are capable of remaining in the world for their own reasons, especially since they have been summoned with the assistance of an eternal. In [[Varushka]] the ritual is used carefully; some [[Varushka religious beliefs\|wise ones]] are concerned that it would be better if the darkness-under-the-trees remained there, in a land where that darkness may already be haunted by malign spirits. The ritual remains popular, however, because it offers a way to call up a band of warriors in a time of need - there are several stories of [[Varushka magical traditions#Volhov\|volhov]], [[Varushka magical traditions#Cabalists\|cabalists]] and [[The Marches\|Marcher]] [[Landskeeper\|landskeepers]] who have used this ritual to great effect when vales or villages have been threatened by monsters, [[Feni]] or bandits. The warriors may be more effective when scouting, but the ability to summon soldiers from the forests in desperate situations is not to be sneered at.		In [[Highguard]] this ritual is called ''Call Forth the Hollow Ones'' and is frowned upon; there is some suspicion that some of the shadow warriors are capable of remaining in the world for their own reasons, especially since they have been summoned with the assistance of an eternal. In [[Varushka]] the ritual is used carefully; some [[Varushka religious beliefs\|wise ones]] are concerned that it would be better if the darkness-under-the-trees remained there, in a land where that darkness may already be haunted by malign spirits. The ritual remains popular, however, because it offers a way to call up a band of warriors in a time of need - there are several stories of [[Varushka magical traditions#Volhov\|volhov]], [[Varushka magical traditions#Cabalists\|cabalists]] and [[The Marches\|Marcher]] [[Landskeeper\|landskeepers]] who have used this ritual to great effect when vales or villages have been threatened by monsters, [[Feni]] or bandits. The warriors may be more effective when scouting, but the ability to summon soldiers from the forests in desperate situations is not to be sneered at.

Twiggy at 23:44, 1 August 2025

2025-08-01T23:44:12Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 23:44, 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 [[Azoth]]. The ritual was originally believed to not have an [[~~Ritual_theory~~#~~Agreement~~\|assurance]], but this was proven false following research undertaken by members of the [[Unfettered Mind]] shortly before the Winter Solstice 386YE. This ritual loses all power and becomes useless if the ''Stone of Cee-Anak'' is destroyed.		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 [[Azoth]]. The ritual was originally believed to not have an [[Eternals_and_rituals#Assurance_and_Stipulation\|assurance]], but this was proven false following research undertaken by members of the [[Unfettered Mind]] shortly before the Winter Solstice 386YE. This ritual loses all power and becomes useless if the ''Stone of Cee-Anak'' is destroyed.

	''Liege Robert de Meurig'', one of the magicians of the order, points out that even though the order was unable to nail down exactly where the Stone of Cee-Anak is - or even what it is - that the heralds of the Crucible are somehow bound in the assurance to seek the aid of Imperials if it is threatened.		''Liege Robert de Meurig'', one of the magicians of the order, points out that even though the order was unable to nail down exactly where the Stone of Cee-Anak is - or even what it is - that the heralds of the Crucible are somehow bound in the assurance to seek the aid of Imperials if it is threatened.

Beeswax at 18:32, 26 March 2025

2025-03-26T18:32:16Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 18:32, 26 March 2025
Line 28:		Line 28:
	Magicians who have spent time as guests of the [[eternal\|eternals]] of Night have reported encountering very similar beings as guards, servants and even courtiers in those realms. The [[Earl\|enchanter]] ''Chretien l'Incroyable'' wrote a well-researched treatise on them and claimed that these creatures were actually formless - that like the eternals themselves they are shapeshifters who take on forms based on the expectations of observers. This ritual, he theorised, used the energy of mana to summon these spirits and clothed them in a form of animus or eidolon drawn from the target forest. He further theorised that the warriors did not actually die when 'killed'; the essence drawn from the forest returned to it, and the warriors' spirits returned to the Realm of Night. Regardless, it is reasonably well-known that<!--- several Night eternals ---> the Azoth is prepared to offer [[Begins_where_it_ends#The_Azoth\|materials or items]] that assist with the performance of this ritual, although they rarely do so lightly.		Magicians who have spent time as guests of the [[eternal\|eternals]] of Night have reported encountering very similar beings as guards, servants and even courtiers in those realms. The [[Earl\|enchanter]] ''Chretien l'Incroyable'' wrote a well-researched treatise on them and claimed that these creatures were actually formless - that like the eternals themselves they are shapeshifters who take on forms based on the expectations of observers. This ritual, he theorised, used the energy of mana to summon these spirits and clothed them in a form of animus or eidolon drawn from the target forest. He further theorised that the warriors did not actually die when 'killed'; the essence drawn from the forest returned to it, and the warriors' spirits returned to the Realm of Night. Regardless, it is reasonably well-known that<!--- several Night eternals ---> the Azoth is prepared to offer [[Begins_where_it_ends#The_Azoth\|materials or items]] that assist with the performance of this ritual, although they rarely do so lightly.

	In [[Highguard]] this ritual is called ''Call Forth the Hollow Ones'' and is frowned upon; there is some suspicion that some of the shadow warriors are capable of remaining in the world for their own reasons~~<!---~~ , especially ~~when~~ they have been summoned with the assistance of an eternal~~--->~~. In [[Varushka]] the ritual is used carefully; some [[Varushka religious beliefs\|wise ones]] are concerned that it would be better if the darkness-under-the-trees remained there, in a land where that darkness may already be haunted by malign spirits. The ritual remains popular, however, because it offers a way to call up a band of warriors in a time of need - there are several stories of [[Varushka magical traditions#Volhov\|volhov]], [[Varushka magical traditions#Cabalists\|cabalists]] and [[The Marches\|Marcher]] [[Landskeeper\|landskeepers]] who have used this ritual to great effect when vales or villages have been threatened by monsters, [[Feni]] or bandits. The warriors may be more effective when scouting, but the ability to summon soldiers from the forests in desperate situations is not to be sneered at.		In [[Highguard]] this ritual is called ''Call Forth the Hollow Ones'' and is frowned upon; there is some suspicion that some of the shadow warriors are capable of remaining in the world for their own reasons, especially since they have been summoned with the assistance of an eternal. In [[Varushka]] the ritual is used carefully; some [[Varushka religious beliefs\|wise ones]] are concerned that it would be better if the darkness-under-the-trees remained there, in a land where that darkness may already be haunted by malign spirits. The ritual remains popular, however, because it offers a way to call up a band of warriors in a time of need - there are several stories of [[Varushka magical traditions#Volhov\|volhov]], [[Varushka magical traditions#Cabalists\|cabalists]] and [[The Marches\|Marcher]] [[Landskeeper\|landskeepers]] who have used this ritual to great effect when vales or villages have been threatened by monsters, [[Feni]] or bandits. The warriors may be more effective when scouting, but the ability to summon soldiers from the forests in desperate situations is not to be sneered at.

	Like several other summoned creatures, the shadow 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 Night that empower the shadow warriors, and when they try to travel through the gate their spirit-less 'bodies' are simply shredded back into darkness and the vital essence of the trees.		Like several other summoned creatures, the shadow 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 Night that empower the shadow warriors, and when they try to travel through the gate their spirit-less 'bodies' are simply shredded back into darkness and the vital essence of the trees.

Beeswax at 18:30, 26 March 2025

2025-03-26T18:30:53Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 18:30, 26 March 2025
Line 26:		Line 26:
	The shadow warriors invariably appear to be in medium armour. They can speak, and appear to be intelligent although there is something ... ''hollow'' about them, as if they are not entirely present. They follow orders well, but tend to shy away from fire and bright lights. They maintain a slightly incorporeal quality, as if they are not entirely physical, but they can be hurt and even disrupted by blows as easily as any other warrior. They tend to move quietly, even in a group, and excel at remaining unobtrusive. This quality makes them effective at fading into the shadows, taking small groups of enemies unaware, and quickly retreating when they encounter serious opposition.		The shadow warriors invariably appear to be in medium armour. They can speak, and appear to be intelligent although there is something ... ''hollow'' about them, as if they are not entirely present. They follow orders well, but tend to shy away from fire and bright lights. They maintain a slightly incorporeal quality, as if they are not entirely physical, but they can be hurt and even disrupted by blows as easily as any other warrior. They tend to move quietly, even in a group, and excel at remaining unobtrusive. This quality makes them effective at fading into the shadows, taking small groups of enemies unaware, and quickly retreating when they encounter serious opposition.

	Magicians who have spent time as guests of the [[eternal\|eternals]] of Night have reported encountering very similar beings as guards, servants and even courtiers in those realms. The [[Earl\|enchanter]] ''Chretien l'Incroyable'' wrote a well-researched treatise on them and claimed that these creatures were actually formless - that like the eternals themselves they are shapeshifters who take on forms based on the expectations of observers. This ritual, he theorised, used the energy of mana to summon these spirits and clothed them in a form of animus or eidolon drawn from the target forest. He further theorised that the warriors did not actually die when 'killed'; the essence drawn from the forest returned to it, and the warriors' spirits returned to the Realm of Night. Regardless, it is reasonably well-known that<!--- several Night eternals ---> the Azoth is 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 as guests of the [[eternal\|eternals]] of Night have reported encountering very similar beings as guards, servants and even courtiers in those realms. The [[Earl\|enchanter]] ''Chretien l'Incroyable'' wrote a well-researched treatise on them and claimed that these creatures were actually formless - that like the eternals themselves they are shapeshifters who take on forms based on the expectations of observers. This ritual, he theorised, used the energy of mana to summon these spirits and clothed them in a form of animus or eidolon drawn from the target forest. He further theorised that the warriors did not actually die when 'killed'; the essence drawn from the forest returned to it, and the warriors' spirits returned to the Realm of Night. Regardless, it is reasonably well-known that<!--- several Night eternals ---> the Azoth is prepared to offer [[Begins_where_it_ends#The_Azoth\|materials or items]] that assist with the performance of this ritual, although they rarely do so lightly.

	In [[Highguard]] this ritual is called ''Call Forth the Hollow Ones'' and is frowned upon; there is some suspicion that some of the shadow warriors are capable of remaining in the world for their own reasons<!--- , especially when they have been summoned with the assistance of an eternal--->. In [[Varushka]] the ritual is used carefully; some [[Varushka religious beliefs\|wise ones]] are concerned that it would be better if the darkness-under-the-trees remained there, in a land where that darkness may already be haunted by malign spirits. The ritual remains popular, however, because it offers a way to call up a band of warriors in a time of need - there are several stories of [[Varushka magical traditions#Volhov\|volhov]], [[Varushka magical traditions#Cabalists\|cabalists]] and [[The Marches\|Marcher]] [[Landskeeper\|landskeepers]] who have used this ritual to great effect when vales or villages have been threatened by monsters, [[Feni]] or bandits. The warriors may be more effective when scouting, but the ability to summon soldiers from the forests in desperate situations is not to be sneered at.		In [[Highguard]] this ritual is called ''Call Forth the Hollow Ones'' and is frowned upon; there is some suspicion that some of the shadow warriors are capable of remaining in the world for their own reasons<!--- , especially when they have been summoned with the assistance of an eternal--->. In [[Varushka]] the ritual is used carefully; some [[Varushka religious beliefs\|wise ones]] are concerned that it would be better if the darkness-under-the-trees remained there, in a land where that darkness may already be haunted by malign spirits. The ritual remains popular, however, because it offers a way to call up a band of warriors in a time of need - there are several stories of [[Varushka magical traditions#Volhov\|volhov]], [[Varushka magical traditions#Cabalists\|cabalists]] and [[The Marches\|Marcher]] [[Landskeeper\|landskeepers]] who have used this ritual to great effect when vales or villages have been threatened by monsters, [[Feni]] or bandits. The warriors may be more effective when scouting, but the ability to summon soldiers from the forests in desperate situations is not to be sneered at.

Beeswax at 18:25, 26 March 2025

2025-03-26T18:25:28Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 18:25, 26 March 2025
Line 26:		Line 26:
	The shadow warriors invariably appear to be in medium armour. They can speak, and appear to be intelligent although there is something ... ''hollow'' about them, as if they are not entirely present. They follow orders well, but tend to shy away from fire and bright lights. They maintain a slightly incorporeal quality, as if they are not entirely physical, but they can be hurt and even disrupted by blows as easily as any other warrior. They tend to move quietly, even in a group, and excel at remaining unobtrusive. This quality makes them effective at fading into the shadows, taking small groups of enemies unaware, and quickly retreating when they encounter serious opposition.		The shadow warriors invariably appear to be in medium armour. They can speak, and appear to be intelligent although there is something ... ''hollow'' about them, as if they are not entirely present. They follow orders well, but tend to shy away from fire and bright lights. They maintain a slightly incorporeal quality, as if they are not entirely physical, but they can be hurt and even disrupted by blows as easily as any other warrior. They tend to move quietly, even in a group, and excel at remaining unobtrusive. This quality makes them effective at fading into the shadows, taking small groups of enemies unaware, and quickly retreating when they encounter serious opposition.

	Magicians who have spent time as guests of the [[eternal\|eternals]] of Night have reported encountering very similar beings as guards, servants and even courtiers in those realms. The [[Earl\|enchanter]] ''Chretien l'Incroyable'' wrote a well-researched treatise on them and claimed that these creatures were actually formless - that like the eternals themselves they are shapeshifters who take on forms based on the expectations of observers. This ritual, he theorised, used the energy of mana to summon these spirits and clothed them in a form of animus or eidolon drawn from the target forest. He further theorised that the warriors did not actually die when 'killed'; the essence drawn from the forest returned to it, and the warriors' spirits returned to the Realm of Night. Regardless, it is reasonably well-known that several Night 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 as guests of the [[eternal\|eternals]] of Night have reported encountering very similar beings as guards, servants and even courtiers in those realms. The [[Earl\|enchanter]] ''Chretien l'Incroyable'' wrote a well-researched treatise on them and claimed that these creatures were actually formless - that like the eternals themselves they are shapeshifters who take on forms based on the expectations of observers. This ritual, he theorised, used the energy of mana to summon these spirits and clothed them in a form of animus or eidolon drawn from the target forest. He further theorised that the warriors did not actually die when 'killed'; the essence drawn from the forest returned to it, and the warriors' spirits returned to the Realm of Night. Regardless, it is reasonably well-known that<!--- several Night eternals ---> the Azoth is 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 called ''Call Forth the Hollow Ones'' and is frowned upon; there is some suspicion that some of the shadow warriors are capable of remaining in the world for their own reasons, especially when they have been summoned with the assistance of an eternal. In [[Varushka]] the ritual is used carefully; some [[Varushka religious beliefs\|wise ones]] are concerned that it would be better if the darkness-under-the-trees remained there, in a land where that darkness may already be haunted by malign spirits. The ritual remains popular, however, because it offers a way to call up a band of warriors in a time of need - there are several stories of [[Varushka magical traditions#Volhov\|volhov]], [[Varushka magical traditions#Cabalists\|cabalists]] and [[The Marches\|Marcher]] [[Landskeeper\|landskeepers]] who have used this ritual to great effect when vales or villages have been threatened by monsters, [[Feni]] or bandits. The warriors may be more effective when scouting, but the ability to summon soldiers from the forests in desperate situations is not to be sneered at.		In [[Highguard]] this ritual is called ''Call Forth the Hollow Ones'' and is frowned upon; there is some suspicion that some of the shadow warriors are capable of remaining in the world for their own reasons<!--- , especially when they have been summoned with the assistance of an eternal--->. In [[Varushka]] the ritual is used carefully; some [[Varushka religious beliefs\|wise ones]] are concerned that it would be better if the darkness-under-the-trees remained there, in a land where that darkness may already be haunted by malign spirits. The ritual remains popular, however, because it offers a way to call up a band of warriors in a time of need - there are several stories of [[Varushka magical traditions#Volhov\|volhov]], [[Varushka magical traditions#Cabalists\|cabalists]] and [[The Marches\|Marcher]] [[Landskeeper\|landskeepers]] who have used this ritual to great effect when vales or villages have been threatened by monsters, [[Feni]] or bandits. The warriors may be more effective when scouting, but the ability to summon soldiers from the forests in desperate situations is not to be sneered at.

	Like several other summoned creatures, the shadow 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 Night that empower the shadow warriors, and when they try to travel through the gate their spirit-less 'bodies' are simply shredded back into darkness and the vital essence of the trees.		Like several other summoned creatures, the shadow 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 Night that empower the shadow warriors, and when they try to travel through the gate their spirit-less 'bodies' are simply shredded back into darkness and the vital essence of the trees.

Hailmur: Assurance

2025-03-26T16:42:02Z

Assurance

← Older revision		Revision as of 16:42, 26 March 2025
Line 15:		Line 15:
	===Additional Targets===		===Additional Targets===
	This ritual can affect additional forests in the same territory. Each additional forest increases the magnitude by 15. The character who controls each forest must be present throughout the ritual, and each receives control of their own military unit.		This ritual can affect additional forests in the same territory. Each additional forest increases the magnitude by 15. The character who controls each forest 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 [[Azoth]]. The ritual was originally believed to not have an [[Ritual_theory#Agreement\|assurance]], but this was proven false following research undertaken by members of the [[Unfettered Mind]] shortly before the Winter Solstice 386YE. This ritual loses all power and becomes useless if the ''Stone of Cee-Anak'' is destroyed.

			''Liege Robert de Meurig'', one of the magicians of the order, points out that even though the order was unable to nail down exactly where the Stone of Cee-Anak is - or even what it is - that the heralds of the Crucible are somehow bound in the assurance to seek the aid of Imperials if it is threatened.

	==Description==		==Description==
Line 21:		Line 26:
	The shadow warriors invariably appear to be in medium armour. They can speak, and appear to be intelligent although there is something ... ''hollow'' about them, as if they are not entirely present. They follow orders well, but tend to shy away from fire and bright lights. They maintain a slightly incorporeal quality, as if they are not entirely physical, but they can be hurt and even disrupted by blows as easily as any other warrior. They tend to move quietly, even in a group, and excel at remaining unobtrusive. This quality makes them effective at fading into the shadows, taking small groups of enemies unaware, and quickly retreating when they encounter serious opposition.		The shadow warriors invariably appear to be in medium armour. They can speak, and appear to be intelligent although there is something ... ''hollow'' about them, as if they are not entirely present. They follow orders well, but tend to shy away from fire and bright lights. They maintain a slightly incorporeal quality, as if they are not entirely physical, but they can be hurt and even disrupted by blows as easily as any other warrior. They tend to move quietly, even in a group, and excel at remaining unobtrusive. This quality makes them effective at fading into the shadows, taking small groups of enemies unaware, and quickly retreating when they encounter serious opposition.

	Magicians who have spent time as guests of the [[eternal\|eternals]] of Night have reported encountering very similar beings as guards, servants and even courtiers in those realms. The [[Earl\|enchanter]] Chretien l'Incroyable wrote a well-researched treatise on them and claimed that these creatures were actually formless - that like the eternals themselves they are shapeshifters who take on forms based on the expectations of observers. This ritual, he theorised, used the energy of mana to summon these spirits and clothed them in a form of animus or eidolon drawn from the target forest. He further theorised that the warriors did not actually die when 'killed'; the essence drawn from the forest returned to it, and the warriors' spirits returned to the Realm of Night. Regardless, it is reasonably well-known that several Night 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 as guests of the [[eternal\|eternals]] of Night have reported encountering very similar beings as guards, servants and even courtiers in those realms. The [[Earl\|enchanter]] ''Chretien l'Incroyable'' wrote a well-researched treatise on them and claimed that these creatures were actually formless - that like the eternals themselves they are shapeshifters who take on forms based on the expectations of observers. This ritual, he theorised, used the energy of mana to summon these spirits and clothed them in a form of animus or eidolon drawn from the target forest. He further theorised that the warriors did not actually die when 'killed'; the essence drawn from the forest returned to it, and the warriors' spirits returned to the Realm of Night. Regardless, it is reasonably well-known that several Night 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 called ''Call Forth the Hollow ~~Men~~'' and is frowned upon; there is some suspicion that some of the shadow warriors are capable of remaining in the world for their own reasons, especially when they have been summoned with the assistance of an eternal. In [[Varushka]] the ritual is used carefully; some [[Varushka religious beliefs\|wise ones]] are concerned that it would be better if the darkness-under-the-trees remained there, in a land where that darkness may already be haunted by malign spirits. The ritual remains popular, however, because it offers a way to call up a band of warriors in a time of need - there are several stories of [[Varushka magical traditions#Volhov\|volhov]], [[Varushka magical traditions#Cabalists\|cabalists]] and [[The Marches\|Marcher]] [[Landskeeper\|landskeepers]] who have used this ritual to great effect when vales or villages have been threatened by monsters, [[Feni]] or bandits. The warriors may be more effective when scouting, but the ability to summon soldiers from the forests in desperate situations is not to be sneered at.		In [[Highguard]] this ritual is called ''Call Forth the Hollow Ones'' and is frowned upon; there is some suspicion that some of the shadow warriors are capable of remaining in the world for their own reasons, especially when they have been summoned with the assistance of an eternal. In [[Varushka]] the ritual is used carefully; some [[Varushka religious beliefs\|wise ones]] are concerned that it would be better if the darkness-under-the-trees remained there, in a land where that darkness may already be haunted by malign spirits. The ritual remains popular, however, because it offers a way to call up a band of warriors in a time of need - there are several stories of [[Varushka magical traditions#Volhov\|volhov]], [[Varushka magical traditions#Cabalists\|cabalists]] and [[The Marches\|Marcher]] [[Landskeeper\|landskeepers]] who have used this ritual to great effect when vales or villages have been threatened by monsters, [[Feni]] or bandits. The warriors may be more effective when scouting, but the ability to summon soldiers from the forests in desperate situations is not to be sneered at.

	Like several other summoned creatures, the shadow 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 Night that empower the shadow warriors, and when they try to travel through the gate their spirit-less 'bodies' are simply shredded back into darkness and the vital essence of the trees.		Like several other summoned creatures, the shadow 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 Night that empower the shadow warriors, and when they try to travel through the gate their spirit-less 'bodies' are simply shredded back into darkness and the vital essence of the trees.

	(''OOC Note: This might make an interesting event for a player-event, but under most circumstances the shadow 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.'')		('''OOC Note:''' This might make an interesting event for a player-event, but under most circumstances the shadow 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.)

	==Common Elements==		==Common Elements==
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	[[Category:Rituals]]		[[Category:Rituals]]
	[[Category:Warfare]]		[[Category:Warfare]]
	~~[[Category:Review]]~~

Rafferty: /* Effects */

2025-03-14T10:38:08Z

Effects

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	The target forest produces ''no'' special [[Materials#Natural_Materials\|materials]] during the coming season. At the end of the season, or if they are destroyed, the warriors return to the forest and melt back into its shadows, restoring its production to normal.		The target forest produces ''no'' special [[Materials#Natural_Materials\|materials]] during the coming season. At the end of the season, or if they are destroyed, the warriors return to the forest and melt back into its shadows, 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#~~Raiding~~\|~~raiding~~]] actions 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#Scouting\|scouting]] actions and receive a five rank bonus (equivalent to an additional 100 fighting force) when they do so.

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

Rafferty: /* Description */

2025-03-14T10:37:55Z

Description

← Older revision		Revision as of 10:37, 14 March 2025
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	The shadow warriors called forth by this ritual ooze forth from between the trees into clearings and across boundaries. They begin as shapeless forms of living darkness, but quickly take on more physical forms. Scholars who have studied the magic believe that they are made partially from darkness, partially from the vital essence of the forest, and partly from lesser spirits of the Realm of Night. They are usually armed-and-armoured in a fashion that reflects the kind of raw [[materials]] commonly gathered from the forest that spawns them. For example, a forest that produces [[Materials#Iridescent Gloaming\|iridescent gloaming]] tends to form warriors with pole-arms and robes, while a forest that produces [[Materials#Ambergelt\|ambergelt]] spawns warriors with great two-handed axes and dark furs. A forest that normally provides [[Materials#Dragonbone\|dragonbone]] tends to produce warriors in hides armed with one-handed spear and shield, while a forest that produces [[Materials#Beggar's Lye\|beggar's lye]] spawns warriors in blackened chain with great shields and maces. These effects are by no means universal.		The shadow warriors called forth by this ritual ooze forth from between the trees into clearings and across boundaries. They begin as shapeless forms of living darkness, but quickly take on more physical forms. Scholars who have studied the magic believe that they are made partially from darkness, partially from the vital essence of the forest, and partly from lesser spirits of the Realm of Night. They are usually armed-and-armoured in a fashion that reflects the kind of raw [[materials]] commonly gathered from the forest that spawns them. For example, a forest that produces [[Materials#Iridescent Gloaming\|iridescent gloaming]] tends to form warriors with pole-arms and robes, while a forest that produces [[Materials#Ambergelt\|ambergelt]] spawns warriors with great two-handed axes and dark furs. A forest that normally provides [[Materials#Dragonbone\|dragonbone]] tends to produce warriors in hides armed with one-handed spear and shield, while a forest that produces [[Materials#Beggar's Lye\|beggar's lye]] spawns warriors in blackened chain with great shields and maces. These effects are by no means universal.

	The shadow warriors invariably appear to be in medium armour. They can speak, and appear to be intelligent although there is something ... ''hollow'' about them, as if they are not entirely present. They follow orders well, but tend to shy away from fire and bright lights. They maintain a slightly incorporeal quality, as if they are not entirely physical, but they can be hurt and even disrupted by blows as easily as any other warrior. They tend to move quietly, even in a group, and excel at remaining unobtrusive. This quality makes them effective at fading into the shadows, ~~and~~ taking small groups of enemies unaware when ~~raiding into barbarian territories~~.		The shadow warriors invariably appear to be in medium armour. They can speak, and appear to be intelligent although there is something ... ''hollow'' about them, as if they are not entirely present. They follow orders well, but tend to shy away from fire and bright lights. They maintain a slightly incorporeal quality, as if they are not entirely physical, but they can be hurt and even disrupted by blows as easily as any other warrior. They tend to move quietly, even in a group, and excel at remaining unobtrusive. This quality makes them effective at fading into the shadows, taking small groups of enemies unaware, and quickly retreating when they encounter serious opposition.

	Magicians who have spent time as guests of the [[eternal\|eternals]] of Night have reported encountering very similar beings as guards, servants and even courtiers in those realms. The [[Earl\|enchanter]] Chretien l'Incroyable wrote a well-researched treatise on them and claimed that these creatures were actually formless - that like the eternals themselves they are shapeshifters who take on forms based on the expectations of observers. This ritual, he theorised, used the energy of mana to summon these spirits and clothed them in a form of animus or eidolon drawn from the target forest. He further theorised that the warriors did not actually die when 'killed'; the essence drawn from the forest returned to it, and the warriors' spirits returned to the Realm of Night. Regardless, it is reasonably well-known that several Night 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 as guests of the [[eternal\|eternals]] of Night have reported encountering very similar beings as guards, servants and even courtiers in those realms. The [[Earl\|enchanter]] Chretien l'Incroyable wrote a well-researched treatise on them and claimed that these creatures were actually formless - that like the eternals themselves they are shapeshifters who take on forms based on the expectations of observers. This ritual, he theorised, used the energy of mana to summon these spirits and clothed them in a form of animus or eidolon drawn from the target forest. He further theorised that the warriors did not actually die when 'killed'; the essence drawn from the forest returned to it, and the warriors' spirits returned to the Realm of Night. Regardless, it is reasonably well-known that several Night 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 called ''Call Forth the Hollow Men'' and is frowned upon; there is some suspicion that some of the shadow warriors are capable of remaining in the world for their own reasons, especially when they have been summoned with the assistance of an eternal. In [[Varushka]] the ritual is used carefully; some [[Varushka religious beliefs\|wise ones]] are concerned that it would be better if the darkness-under-the-trees remained there, in a land where that darkness may already be haunted by malign spirits. The ritual remains popular, however, because it offers a way to call up a band of warriors in a time of need - there are several stories of [[Varushka magical traditions#Volhov\|volhov]], [[Varushka magical traditions#Cabalists\|cabalists]] and [[The Marches\|Marcher]] [[Landskeeper\|landskeepers]] who have used this ritual to great effect when vales or villages have been threatened by monsters, [[Feni]] or bandits. The warriors may be more effective when ~~raiding enemies~~, but the ability to summon soldiers from the forests is not to be sneered at.		In [[Highguard]] this ritual is called ''Call Forth the Hollow Men'' and is frowned upon; there is some suspicion that some of the shadow warriors are capable of remaining in the world for their own reasons, especially when they have been summoned with the assistance of an eternal. In [[Varushka]] the ritual is used carefully; some [[Varushka religious beliefs\|wise ones]] are concerned that it would be better if the darkness-under-the-trees remained there, in a land where that darkness may already be haunted by malign spirits. The ritual remains popular, however, because it offers a way to call up a band of warriors in a time of need - there are several stories of [[Varushka magical traditions#Volhov\|volhov]], [[Varushka magical traditions#Cabalists\|cabalists]] and [[The Marches\|Marcher]] [[Landskeeper\|landskeepers]] who have used this ritual to great effect when vales or villages have been threatened by monsters, [[Feni]] or bandits. The warriors may be more effective when scouting, but the ability to summon soldiers from the forests in desperate situations is not to be sneered at.

	Like several other summoned creatures, the shadow 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 Night that empower the shadow warriors, and when they try to travel through the gate their spirit-less 'bodies' are simply shredded back into darkness and the vital essence of the trees.		Like several other summoned creatures, the shadow 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 Night that empower the shadow warriors, and when they try to travel through the gate their spirit-less 'bodies' are simply shredded back into darkness and the vital essence of the trees.

Rafferty: /* Effects */

2025-03-14T10:32:13Z

Effects

← Older revision		Revision as of 10:32, 14 March 2025
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	The target forest produces ''no'' special [[Materials#Natural_Materials\|materials]] during the coming season. At the end of the season, or if they are destroyed, the warriors return to the forest and melt back into its shadows, restoring its production to normal.		The target forest produces ''no'' special [[Materials#Natural_Materials\|materials]] during the coming season. At the end of the season, or if they are destroyed, the warriors return to the forest and melt back into its shadows, 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#~~Take_Independent_Action~~\|~~taking independent action~~]] 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#Raiding\|raiding]] actions and receive a five rank bonus (equivalent to an additional 100 fighting force) when they do so.

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

Rafferty: /* Description */

2025-03-14T10:31:47Z

Description

← Older revision		Revision as of 10:31, 14 March 2025
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	==Description==		==Description==

	The shadow warriors called forth by this ritual ooze forth from between the trees into clearings and across boundaries. They begin as shapeless forms of living darkness, but quickly take on more physical forms. Scholars who have studied the magic believe that they are made partially from darkness, partially from the vital essence of the forest, and partly from lesser spirits of the Realm of Night. They are usually armed-and-armoured in a fashion that reflects the kind of raw [[materials]] commonly gathered from the forest that spawns them. For example, a forest that produces [[Materials#Iridescent Gloaming\|iridescent gloaming]] tends to form warriors with pole-arms and robes, while a forest that produces [[Materials#Ambergelt\|ambergelt]] spawns warriors with great two-handed axes and dark furs. A forest that normally provides [[Materials#Dragonbone\|dragonbone]] tends to produce warriors in hides armed with one-handed spear and shield, while a forest that produces [[Materials#Beggar's Lye\|beggar's lye]] spawns warriors in blackened chain with great shields and maces. These effects are by no means universal.		The shadow warriors called forth by this ritual ooze forth from between the trees into clearings and across boundaries. They begin as shapeless forms of living darkness, but quickly take on more physical forms. Scholars who have studied the magic believe that they are made partially from darkness, partially from the vital essence of the forest, and partly from lesser spirits of the Realm of Night. They are usually armed-and-armoured in a fashion that reflects the kind of raw [[materials]] commonly gathered from the forest that spawns them. For example, a forest that produces [[Materials#Iridescent Gloaming\|iridescent gloaming]] tends to form warriors with pole-arms and robes, while a forest that produces [[Materials#Ambergelt\|ambergelt]] spawns warriors with great two-handed axes and dark furs. A forest that normally provides [[Materials#Dragonbone\|dragonbone]] tends to produce warriors in hides armed with one-handed spear and shield, while a forest that produces [[Materials#Beggar's Lye\|beggar's lye]] spawns warriors in blackened chain with great shields and maces. These effects are by no means universal.

	The shadow warriors invariably appear to be in medium armour. They can speak, and appear to be intelligent although there is something ... ''hollow'' about them, as if they are not entirely present. They follow orders well, but tend to shy away from fire and bright lights. They maintain a slightly incorporeal quality, as if they are not entirely physical, but they can be hurt and even disrupted by blows as easily as any other warrior. They tend to move quietly, even in a group, and excel at remaining unobtrusive. This quality makes them ~~equally~~ effective at fading into the shadows ~~when guarding a [[business]] establishment~~, ~~or at~~ taking small groups of enemies unaware when raiding into barbarian territories~~, dealing with bandits, or exploring a ruin~~.		The shadow warriors invariably appear to be in medium armour. They can speak, and appear to be intelligent although there is something ... ''hollow'' about them, as if they are not entirely present. They follow orders well, but tend to shy away from fire and bright lights. They maintain a slightly incorporeal quality, as if they are not entirely physical, but they can be hurt and even disrupted by blows as easily as any other warrior. They tend to move quietly, even in a group, and excel at remaining unobtrusive. This quality makes them effective at fading into the shadows, and taking small groups of enemies unaware when raiding into barbarian territories.

	Magicians who have spent time as guests of the [[eternal\|eternals]] of Night have reported encountering very similar beings as guards, servants and even courtiers in those realms. The [[Earl\|enchanter]] Chretien l'Incroyable wrote a well-researched treatise on them and claimed that these creatures were actually formless - that like the eternals themselves they are shapeshifters who take on forms based on the expectations of observers. This ritual, he theorised, used the energy of mana to summon these spirits and clothed them in a form of animus or eidolon drawn from the target forest. He further theorised that the warriors did not actually die when 'killed'; the essence drawn from the forest returned to it, and the warriors' spirits returned to the Realm of Night. Regardless, it is reasonably well-known that several Night 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 as guests of the [[eternal\|eternals]] of Night have reported encountering very similar beings as guards, servants and even courtiers in those realms. The [[Earl\|enchanter]] Chretien l'Incroyable wrote a well-researched treatise on them and claimed that these creatures were actually formless - that like the eternals themselves they are shapeshifters who take on forms based on the expectations of observers. This ritual, he theorised, used the energy of mana to summon these spirits and clothed them in a form of animus or eidolon drawn from the target forest. He further theorised that the warriors did not actually die when 'killed'; the essence drawn from the forest returned to it, and the warriors' spirits returned to the Realm of Night. Regardless, it is reasonably well-known that several Night 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 called ''Call Forth the Hollow Men'' and is frowned upon; there is some suspicion that some of the shadow warriors are capable of remaining in the world for their own reasons, especially when they have been summoned with the assistance of an eternal. In [[Varushka]] the ritual is used carefully; some [[Varushka religious beliefs\|wise ones]] are concerned that it would be better if the darkness-under-the-trees remained there, in a land where that darkness may already be haunted by malign spirits. The ritual remains popular, however, because it offers a way to call up a band of warriors in a time of need - there are several stories of [[Varushka magical traditions#Volhov\|volhov]], [[Varushka magical traditions#Cabalists\|cabalists]] and [[The Marches\|Marcher]] [[Landskeeper\|landskeepers]] who have used this ritual to great effect when vales or villages have been threatened by monsters, [[Feni]] or bandits.		In [[Highguard]] this ritual is called ''Call Forth the Hollow Men'' and is frowned upon; there is some suspicion that some of the shadow warriors are capable of remaining in the world for their own reasons, especially when they have been summoned with the assistance of an eternal. In [[Varushka]] the ritual is used carefully; some [[Varushka religious beliefs\|wise ones]] are concerned that it would be better if the darkness-under-the-trees remained there, in a land where that darkness may already be haunted by malign spirits. The ritual remains popular, however, because it offers a way to call up a band of warriors in a time of need - there are several stories of [[Varushka magical traditions#Volhov\|volhov]], [[Varushka magical traditions#Cabalists\|cabalists]] and [[The Marches\|Marcher]] [[Landskeeper\|landskeepers]] who have used this ritual to great effect when vales or villages have been threatened by monsters, [[Feni]] or bandits. The warriors may be more effective when raiding enemies, but the ability to summon soldiers from the forests is not to be sneered at.

	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 shadow 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 Night that empower the shadow warriors, and when they try to travel through the gate their spirit-less 'bodies' are simply shredded back into darkness and the vital essence of the trees.		Like several other summoned creatures, the shadow 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 Night that empower the shadow warriors, and when they try to travel through the gate their spirit-less 'bodies' are simply shredded back into darkness and the vital essence of the trees.

	(''OOC Note: This might make an interesting event for a player-event, but under most circumstances the shadow 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.'')		(''OOC Note: This might make an interesting event for a player-event, but under most circumstances the shadow 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.'')