Icy Maw Devours the Spark of Essence - Revision history

Matt: Text replacement - "[[Imperial army" to "[[Army"

2026-01-16T09:44:04Z

Text replacement - "[[Imperial army" to "[[Army"

← Older revision		Revision as of 09:44, 16 January 2026
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	The curse is invariably accompanied by unpredictably bad weather. In Winter this usually means snowstorms and plunging temperatures, while in Spring and Autumn it tends to invoke miserable rain and an unseasonable cold snap. In Summer it often brings cloying, oppressive heat such as that experienced by the people of [[Tassato]] when their city was [[O_rose_thou_art_sick#The_stink_of_Tassato\|subject to this curse]] in 380YE. Whether this is a direct result of the curse's effect on mana, or simply a consequence of the way the ritual has been designed.		The curse is invariably accompanied by unpredictably bad weather. In Winter this usually means snowstorms and plunging temperatures, while in Spring and Autumn it tends to invoke miserable rain and an unseasonable cold snap. In Summer it often brings cloying, oppressive heat such as that experienced by the people of [[Tassato]] when their city was [[O_rose_thou_art_sick#The_stink_of_Tassato\|subject to this curse]] in 380YE. Whether this is a direct result of the curse's effect on mana, or simply a consequence of the way the ritual has been designed.

	A few scholars are concerned about where the mana is going if it is not forming mana crystals; some have suggested that it is being channelled into the Winter realm in some way. [[Various_storms_and_saints#Fen_and_Fastness\|Investigation]] undertaken by some members of the [[Unfettered Mind]] in 385YE uncovered nothing to suggest that the ritual was specifically tied to an eternal. In theory, though, an eternal might be able to work with mortal magicians to ensure some of the disruption results in magic being directed towards such a creature either with a similar ritual or a carefully crafted boon. As it currently stands, however, the ritual is not deemed by the magistrates to involve theft - the mana is simply depleted or scattered, not stolen. If the ritual were employed repeatedly, however, there might be significant side-effects. The Empire relies on a healthy supply of crystal mana to [[enchantment\|enchant]] its [[~~Imperial army~~\|armies]] for example, and disrupting that supply could have major repercussions. The League is home to several prestigious mana-exchanges, and disruptions to the flow of mana could have a noticeable economic impact on the trade of crystal mana.		A few scholars are concerned about where the mana is going if it is not forming mana crystals; some have suggested that it is being channelled into the Winter realm in some way. [[Various_storms_and_saints#Fen_and_Fastness\|Investigation]] undertaken by some members of the [[Unfettered Mind]] in 385YE uncovered nothing to suggest that the ritual was specifically tied to an eternal. In theory, though, an eternal might be able to work with mortal magicians to ensure some of the disruption results in magic being directed towards such a creature either with a similar ritual or a carefully crafted boon. As it currently stands, however, the ritual is not deemed by the magistrates to involve theft - the mana is simply depleted or scattered, not stolen. If the ritual were employed repeatedly, however, there might be significant side-effects. The Empire relies on a healthy supply of crystal mana to [[enchantment\|enchant]] its [[Army\|armies]] for example, and disrupting that supply could have major repercussions. The League is home to several prestigious mana-exchanges, and disruptions to the flow of mana could have a noticeable economic impact on the trade of crystal mana.

	Since the death of [[Empress Britta]], the curse has been laid on Imperial territories several times. In 379YE for example it was laid first [[Wolf_in_summer\|on the four cities of the League]], and then [[Red_phoenix_down\|in the Autumn]] on the three territories of [[Urizen]]. Speculation at the time suggested that the notorious House de Lusignan of [[Dawn]] was responsible for both incidents, but any hope of discovering the truth died along with most of the house's witches, many of whom took their own lives.		Since the death of [[Empress Britta]], the curse has been laid on Imperial territories several times. In 379YE for example it was laid first [[Wolf_in_summer\|on the four cities of the League]], and then [[Red_phoenix_down\|in the Autumn]] on the three territories of [[Urizen]]. Speculation at the time suggested that the notorious House de Lusignan of [[Dawn]] was responsible for both incidents, but any hope of discovering the truth died along with most of the house's witches, many of whom took their own lives.

Twiggy at 15:02, 15 July 2025

2025-07-15T15:02:51Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 15:02, 15 July 2025
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	===Effects===		===Effects===
	Over the coming season the target territory is ~~scoured~~ with unpleasant weather. [[Magical skills#Magician\|Magicians]] in the area begin to feel increasingly uncomfortable, becoming short tempered, irritable, and even aggressive. The ritual may also damage weak [[regio]], potentially permanently. It also causes many magical beasts to begin behaving erratically; some become lethargic while others become dangerously active.		Over the coming season, the target territory is scourged with unpleasant weather. [[Magical skills#Magician\|Magicians]] in the area begin to feel increasingly uncomfortable, becoming short tempered, irritable, and even aggressive. The ritual may also damage weak [[regio]], potentially permanently. It also causes many magical beasts to begin behaving erratically; some become lethargic while others become dangerously active.

	All [[mana site\|mana sites]] in the territory produce three fewer mana crystals over the coming season.		All [[mana site\|mana sites]] in the territory produce three fewer mana crystals over the coming season.
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	==Common Elements==		==Common Elements==
	The ritual releases a malign, oppressive force into a territory. Grim, throbbing musical rhythms, slow threatening movement and invocations of dread and hunger are all used to raise and direct this malign power. It is common to evoke the rune [[Naeve]] or [[Kyrop]] with this ritual. Some [[Wintermark]] covens attempt to channel or mitigate its effects with [[Hirmok]], or to channel the depleted mana towards their own [[mana site]] but they do not report much success.		The ritual releases a malign, oppressive force into a territory. Grim, throbbing musical rhythms, slow threatening movement and invocations of dread and hunger are all used to raise and direct this malign power. It is common to evoke the rune [[Naeve]] or [[Kyrop]] with this ritual. Some [[Wintermark]] covens attempt to channel or mitigate its effects with [[Hirmok]], or to channel the depleted mana towards their own [[mana site]], but they do not report much success.

	[[Category:Winter Ritual]]		[[Category:Winter Ritual]]
	[[Category:Rituals]]		[[Category:Rituals]]

Dre at 14:30, 3 June 2024

2024-06-03T14:30:54Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 14:30, 3 June 2024
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	==Description==		==Description==
	The power of this ritual disrupts the flows of magic across a territory, making it harder to [[mana site\|refine crystal mana]]. It brings with it a malaise that seeps into the spirits of [[Magical skills#Magician\|magicians]]. While their personal mana reserves are not affected, they often become short-tempered and irritable, and may even become uncharacteristically aggressive if they spend an extended period in the territory. This latter effect is particularly ~~prevelant~~ among magicians who are already prone to lashing out. It has similar effects on many supernatural creatures, especially those with innate magical abilities or that rely on mana in some way. Typically they become slothful and docile or volatile and ill-tempered. When the curse was [[Red_phoenix_down\|laid over]] [[Redoubt]], [[Zenith]], and [[Morrow]] in late 379YE for example, there was a noticeable increase in attacks by the [[trogoni]], hungry for mana.		The power of this ritual disrupts the flows of magic across a territory, making it harder to [[mana site\|refine crystal mana]]. It brings with it a malaise that seeps into the spirits of [[Magical skills#Magician\|magicians]]. While their personal mana reserves are not affected, they often become short-tempered and irritable, and may even become uncharacteristically aggressive if they spend an extended period in the territory. This latter effect is particularly prevalent among magicians who are already prone to lashing out. It has similar effects on many supernatural creatures, especially those with innate magical abilities or that rely on mana in some way. Typically they become slothful and docile or volatile and ill-tempered. When the curse was [[Red_phoenix_down\|laid over]] [[Redoubt]], [[Zenith]], and [[Morrow]] in late 379YE for example, there was a noticeable increase in attacks by the [[trogoni]], hungry for mana.

	The curse is invariably accompanied by unpredictably bad weather. In Winter this usually means snowstorms and plunging temperatures, while in Spring and Autumn it tends to invoke miserable rain and an unseasonable cold snap. In Summer it often brings cloying, oppressive heat such as that experienced by the people of [[Tassato]] when their city was [[O_rose_thou_art_sick#The_stink_of_Tassato\|subject to this curse]] in 380YE. Whether this is a direct result of the ~~curses~~ effect on mana, or simply a consequence of the way the ritual has been designed.		The curse is invariably accompanied by unpredictably bad weather. In Winter this usually means snowstorms and plunging temperatures, while in Spring and Autumn it tends to invoke miserable rain and an unseasonable cold snap. In Summer it often brings cloying, oppressive heat such as that experienced by the people of [[Tassato]] when their city was [[O_rose_thou_art_sick#The_stink_of_Tassato\|subject to this curse]] in 380YE. Whether this is a direct result of the curse's effect on mana, or simply a consequence of the way the ritual has been designed.

	A few scholars are concerned about where the mana is going if it is not forming mana crystals; some have suggested that it is being channelled into the Winter ~~Realm~~ in some way. [[Various_storms_and_saints#Fen_and_Fastness\|Investigation]] undertaken by some members of the [[Unfettered Mind]] in 385YE uncovered nothing to suggest that the ritual was specifically tied to an eternal. In theory, though, an eternal might be able to work with mortal magicians to ensure some of the disruption results in magic being directed towards such a creature either with a similar ritual or a carefully crafted boon. As it currently stands, however, the ritual is not deemed by the magistrates to involve theft - the mana is simply depleted or scattered, not stolen. If the ritual were employed repeatedly, however, there might be significant side-effects. The Empire relies on a healthy supply of crystal mana to [[enchantment\|enchant]] its [[Imperial army\|armies]] for example, and disrupting that supply could have major repercussions. The League is home to several prestigious mana-exchanges, and disruptions to the flow of mana could have a ~~noticable~~ economic impact on the trade of crystal mana.		A few scholars are concerned about where the mana is going if it is not forming mana crystals; some have suggested that it is being channelled into the Winter realm in some way. [[Various_storms_and_saints#Fen_and_Fastness\|Investigation]] undertaken by some members of the [[Unfettered Mind]] in 385YE uncovered nothing to suggest that the ritual was specifically tied to an eternal. In theory, though, an eternal might be able to work with mortal magicians to ensure some of the disruption results in magic being directed towards such a creature either with a similar ritual or a carefully crafted boon. As it currently stands, however, the ritual is not deemed by the magistrates to involve theft - the mana is simply depleted or scattered, not stolen. If the ritual were employed repeatedly, however, there might be significant side-effects. The Empire relies on a healthy supply of crystal mana to [[enchantment\|enchant]] its [[Imperial army\|armies]] for example, and disrupting that supply could have major repercussions. The League is home to several prestigious mana-exchanges, and disruptions to the flow of mana could have a noticeable economic impact on the trade of crystal mana.

	Since the death of [[Empress Britta]], the curse has been laid on Imperial territories several times. In 379YE for example it was laid first [[Wolf_in_summer\|on the four cities of the League]], and then [[Red_phoenix_down\|in the Autumn]] on the three territories of [[Urizen]]. Speculation at the time suggested that the notorious House ~~duLusignan~~ of [[Dawn]] was responsible for both incidents, but any hope of discovering the truth died along with most of the house's witches, many of whom took their own lives.		Since the death of [[Empress Britta]], the curse has been laid on Imperial territories several times. In 379YE for example it was laid first [[Wolf_in_summer\|on the four cities of the League]], and then [[Red_phoenix_down\|in the Autumn]] on the three territories of [[Urizen]]. Speculation at the time suggested that the notorious House de Lusignan of [[Dawn]] was responsible for both incidents, but any hope of discovering the truth died along with most of the house's witches, many of whom took their own lives.

	As with any magic employed over a large area, Icy Maw Devours the Spark of Essence can have unexpected effects. In one [[Power,_corruption,_and_lies#A_Shadow_Over_Anvil\|recent case]] for example the disruption of mana extended so far as to make it impossible to establish magical chambers such as the [[Chamber of Delights]], while the consequence of several castings on the cities of the League prompted open conflict between [[guild\|guilds]] whose prosperity relied on steady access to crystal mana.		As with any magic employed over a large area, Icy Maw Devours the Spark of Essence can have unexpected effects. In one [[Power,_corruption,_and_lies#A_Shadow_Over_Anvil\|recent case]] for example, the disruption of mana extended so far as to make it impossible to establish magical chambers such as the [[Chamber of Delights]], while the consequence of several castings on the cities of the League prompted open conflict between [[guild\|guilds]] whose prosperity relied on steady access to crystal mana.

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

Rafferty: /* Effects */

2024-06-03T13:48:11Z

Effects

← Older revision		Revision as of 13:48, 3 June 2024
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	All [[mana site\|mana sites]] in the territory produce three fewer mana crystals over the coming season.		All [[mana site\|mana sites]] in the territory produce three fewer mana crystals over the coming season.

	{{Territory Effects}} For example, [[sinecure\|sinecures]] or [[ministry\|ministries]] that provide mana may see their production interrupted, or attacks by magical beasts might increase to the point where heroes must pass through the [[~~Sentinell~~ Gate]] to deal with them.		{{Territory Effects}} For example, [[sinecure\|sinecures]] or [[ministry\|ministries]] that provide mana may see their production interrupted, or attacks by magical beasts might increase to the point where heroes must pass through the [[Sentinel Gate]] to deal with them.

	{{Season Duration}}		{{Season Duration}}

Rafferty at 13:47, 3 June 2024

2024-06-03T13:47:37Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 13:47, 3 June 2024
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	==Rules==		==Rules==
	{{Season\|Winter\|15}}		{{Season\|Winter\|30}}

	===Performing the Ritual===		===Performing the Ritual===
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	===Effects===		===Effects===
	~~The~~ target territory is scoured with unpleasant weather~~, and~~ [[Magical skills#Magician\|~~magicians~~]] in the area begin to feel increasingly uncomfortable. In some ~~cases they~~ become ~~depressed and~~ lethargic~~, in~~ others ~~short tempered and aggressive~~.		Over the coming season the target territory is scoured with unpleasant weather. [[Magical skills#Magician\|Magicians]] in the area begin to feel increasingly uncomfortable, becoming short tempered, irritable, and even aggressive. The ritual may also damage weak [[regio]], potentially permanently. It also causes many magical beasts to begin behaving erratically; some become lethargic while others become dangerously active.

	All [[mana site\|mana sites]] in the territory ~~provide only half as many~~ mana crystals ~~as they would otherwise produce in~~ the coming season. ~~The ritual~~ may ~~also damage weak regio~~, ~~as well as encouraging some~~ magical beasts to ~~either become lethargic or dangerously aggressive~~.		All [[mana site\|mana sites]] in the territory produce three fewer mana crystals over the coming season.

			{{Territory Effects}} For example, [[sinecure\|sinecures]] or [[ministry\|ministries]] that provide mana may see their production interrupted, or attacks by magical beasts might increase to the point where heroes must pass through the [[Sentinell Gate]] to deal with them.

	{{Season Duration}}		{{Season Duration}}

	==Description==		==Description==
			The power of this ritual disrupts the flows of magic across a territory, making it harder to [[mana site\|refine crystal mana]]. It brings with it a malaise that seeps into the spirits of [[Magical skills#Magician\|magicians]]. While their personal mana reserves are not affected, they often become short-tempered and irritable, and may even become uncharacteristically aggressive if they spend an extended period in the territory. This latter effect is particularly prevelant among magicians who are already prone to lashing out. It has similar effects on many supernatural creatures, especially those with innate magical abilities or that rely on mana in some way. Typically they become slothful and docile or volatile and ill-tempered. When the curse was [[Red_phoenix_down\|laid over]] [[Redoubt]], [[Zenith]], and [[Morrow]] in late 379YE for example, there was a noticeable increase in attacks by the [[trogoni]], hungry for mana.

	The ~~power of this ritual encourages~~ bad weather ~~across the territory~~, ~~but also~~ brings ~~with it a malaise~~ that ~~seeps into~~ the ~~spirits~~ of [[~~Magical skills~~#~~Magician~~\|~~magicians~~]] ~~- while their personal~~ mana ~~reserves are not affected~~, ~~they often become either lethargic and depressed~~ or ~~short-tempered and aggressive if they spend an extended period in~~ the ~~territory~~.		The curse is invariably accompanied by unpredictably bad weather. In Winter this usually means snowstorms and plunging temperatures, while in Spring and Autumn it tends to invoke miserable rain and an unseasonable cold snap. In Summer it often brings cloying, oppressive heat such as that experienced by the people of [[Tassato]] when their city was [[O_rose_thou_art_sick#The_stink_of_Tassato\|subject to this curse]] in 380YE. Whether this is a direct result of the curses effect on mana, or simply a consequence of the way the ritual has been designed.

	~~The ritual also effects supernatural creatures, either encouraging them to become lethargic and docile or aggressive and ill-tempered. Used against~~ the ~~barbarians,~~ it is ~~most likely to penalise~~ the [[~~Thule~~]] ~~and~~ the [[~~Druj~~]] ~~rather than~~ the [[~~Jotun~~]] ~~or the~~ [[~~Grendel~~]].		A few scholars are concerned about where the mana is going if it is not forming mana crystals; some have suggested that it is being channelled into the Winter Realm in some way. [[Various_storms_and_saints#Fen_and_Fastness\|Investigation]] undertaken by some members of the [[Unfettered Mind]] in 385YE uncovered nothing to suggest that the ritual was specifically tied to an eternal. In theory, though, an eternal might be able to work with mortal magicians to ensure some of the disruption results in magic being directed towards such a creature either with a similar ritual or a carefully crafted boon. As it currently stands, however, the ritual is not deemed by the magistrates to involve theft - the mana is simply depleted or scattered, not stolen. If the ritual were employed repeatedly, however, there might be significant side-effects. The Empire relies on a healthy supply of crystal mana to [[enchantment\|enchant]] its [[Imperial army\|armies]] for example, and disrupting that supply could have major repercussions. The League is home to several prestigious mana-exchanges, and disruptions to the flow of mana could have a noticable economic impact on the trade of crystal mana.

	~~The ritual is only known to have been invoked once in~~ the ~~last hundred years by Imperial citizens on an Imperial territory; during a dispute between a~~ [[~~The Brass Coast\|Freeborn~~]] ~~covens based in~~ [[~~Madruga~~\|~~Siroc~~]] and ~~several~~ [[~~troupe~~\|~~troupes]]~~ in ~~[[Sarvos~~]], the ~~ritual was used by the Freeborn to drain the mana sites of the City~~ of ~~Jewels. In this case, the Freeborn~~ [[~~Groups#Covens\|coven~~]] ~~were exonerated by~~ the [[~~Imperial Conclave~~]] ~~who deemed the matter to be resolved internally without~~ the ~~intervention~~ of ~~magistrates. The ritual is not deemed to involve theft -~~ the ~~mana is simply depleted~~, ~~not stolen~~.		Since the death of [[Empress Britta]], the curse has been laid on Imperial territories several times. In 379YE for example it was laid first [[Wolf_in_summer\|on the four cities of the League]], and then [[Red_phoenix_down\|in the Autumn]] on the three territories of [[Urizen]]. Speculation at the time suggested that the notorious House duLusignan of [[Dawn]] was responsible for both incidents, but any hope of discovering the truth died along with most of the house's witches, many of whom took their own lives.

	~~A few scholars are concerned about where~~ the mana ~~is going if~~ it ~~is not forming~~ mana ~~crystals; suspicious types suggest it is being stolen by or channelled into the Winter Realm in some way~~.		As with any magic employed over a large area, Icy Maw Devours the Spark of Essence can have unexpected effects. In one [[Power,_corruption,_and_lies#A_Shadow_Over_Anvil\|recent case]] for example the disruption of mana extended so far as to make it impossible to establish magical chambers such as the [[Chamber of Delights]], while the consequence of several castings on the cities of the League prompted open conflict between [[guild\|guilds]] whose prosperity relied on steady access to crystal mana.

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

Dre at 23:16, 3 August 2023

2023-08-03T23:16:54Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 23:16, 3 August 2023
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	==Description==		==Description==

	The power of this ritual encourages bad weather across the territory, but also brings with it a malaise that seeps into the spirits of [[Magical skills#Magician\|magicians]] - while their personal mana reserves are not ~~effected~~, they often become either lethargic and depressed or short-tempered and aggressive if they spend an extended period in the territory.		The power of this ritual encourages bad weather across the territory, but also brings with it a malaise that seeps into the spirits of [[Magical skills#Magician\|magicians]] - while their personal mana reserves are not affected, they often become either lethargic and depressed or short-tempered and aggressive if they spend an extended period in the territory.

	The ritual also effects supernatural creatures, either encouraging them to become lethargic and docile or aggressive and ill-tempered. Used against the barbarians, it is most likely to penalise the [[Thule]] and the [[Druj]] rather than the [[Jotun]] or the [[Grendel]].		The ritual also effects supernatural creatures, either encouraging them to become lethargic and docile or aggressive and ill-tempered. Used against the barbarians, it is most likely to penalise the [[Thule]] and the [[Druj]] rather than the [[Jotun]] or the [[Grendel]].

Rafferty at 17:31, 23 February 2023

2023-02-23T17:31:01Z

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	===Performing the Ritual===		===Performing the Ritual===
	{{Casting time\|10}} {{regio\|Winter}} {{Target Territory}}		{{Casting time\|10}} {{Imperial Reduction}}

			{{regio\|Winter}} {{Target Territory}}

	{{curse}}		{{curse}}

Beeswax: /* Description */

2017-05-01T14:54:14Z

Description

← Older revision		Revision as of 14:54, 1 May 2017
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	The ritual also effects supernatural creatures, either encouraging them to become lethargic and docile or aggressive and ill-tempered. Used against the barbarians, it is most likely to penalise the [[Thule]] and the [[Druj]] rather than the [[Jotun]] or the [[Grendel]].		The ritual also effects supernatural creatures, either encouraging them to become lethargic and docile or aggressive and ill-tempered. Used against the barbarians, it is most likely to penalise the [[Thule]] and the [[Druj]] rather than the [[Jotun]] or the [[Grendel]].

	The ritual ~~has~~ been invoked once in the last hundred years by Imperial citizens on an Imperial territory; during a dispute between a [[The Brass Coast\|Freeborn]] covens based in [[Madruga\|Siroc]] and several [[troupe\|troupes]] in [[Sarvos]], the ritual was used by the Freeborn to drain the mana sites of the City of Jewels. In this case, the Freeborn [[Groups#Covens\|coven]] were exonerated by the [[Imperial Conclave]] who deemed the matter to be resolved internally without the intervention of magistrates. The ritual is not deemed to involve theft - the mana is simply depleted, not stolen.		The ritual is only known to have been invoked once in the last hundred years by Imperial citizens on an Imperial territory; during a dispute between a [[The Brass Coast\|Freeborn]] covens based in [[Madruga\|Siroc]] and several [[troupe\|troupes]] in [[Sarvos]], the ritual was used by the Freeborn to drain the mana sites of the City of Jewels. In this case, the Freeborn [[Groups#Covens\|coven]] were exonerated by the [[Imperial Conclave]] who deemed the matter to be resolved internally without the intervention of magistrates. The ritual is not deemed to involve theft - the mana is simply depleted, not stolen.

	A few scholars are concerned about where the mana is going if it is not forming mana crystals; suspicious types suggest it is being stolen by or channelled into the Winter Realm in some way.		A few scholars are concerned about where the mana is going if it is not forming mana crystals; suspicious types suggest it is being stolen by or channelled into the Winter Realm in some way.

Rafferty at 09:38, 18 November 2015

2015-11-18T09:38:02Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 09:38, 18 November 2015
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	==Common Elements==		==Common Elements==
	The ritual releases a malign, oppressive force into a territory. Grim, throbbing musical rhythms, slow threatening movement and invocations of dread and hunger are all used to raise and direct this malign power. It is common to evoke the rune [[Naeve]] or [[Kyrop]] with this ritual. Some [[Wintermark]] covens attempt to channel or mitigate its effects with [[Hirmok]], or to channel the depleted mana towards their own [[mana site]] but they do not report much success.		The ritual releases a malign, oppressive force into a territory. Grim, throbbing musical rhythms, slow threatening movement and invocations of dread and hunger are all used to raise and direct this malign power. It is common to evoke the rune [[Naeve]] or [[Kyrop]] with this ritual. Some [[Wintermark]] covens attempt to channel or mitigate its effects with [[Hirmok]], or to channel the depleted mana towards their own [[mana site]] but they do not report much success.

	~~<!--- Marcher flavour. --->~~

	[[Category:Winter Ritual]]		[[Category:Winter Ritual]]
	[[Category:Rituals]]		[[Category:Rituals]]
	~~[[Category:IC Text Required]]~~

Dre at 17:43, 18 September 2015

2015-09-18T17:43:56Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 17:43, 18 September 2015
Line 20:		Line 20:
	The ritual also effects supernatural creatures, either encouraging them to become lethargic and docile or aggressive and ill-tempered. Used against the barbarians, it is most likely to penalise the [[Thule]] and the [[Druj]] rather than the [[Jotun]] or the [[Grendel]].		The ritual also effects supernatural creatures, either encouraging them to become lethargic and docile or aggressive and ill-tempered. Used against the barbarians, it is most likely to penalise the [[Thule]] and the [[Druj]] rather than the [[Jotun]] or the [[Grendel]].

	The ritual has been invoked once in the last hundred years by Imperial citizens on an Imperial territory; during a dispute between a [[The Brass Coast\|Freeborn]] covens based in [[Madruga\|Siroc]] and several [[troupe\|troupes]] in [[Sarvos]], the ritual was used by the Freeborn to drain the mana sites of the City of Jewels. In this case, the Freeborn [[Groups#Covens\|coven]] were ~~exonnerated~~ by the [[Imperial Conclave]] who deemed the matter to be resolved internally without the intervention of magistrates. The ritual is not deemed to involve theft - the mana is simply depleted, not stolen.		The ritual has been invoked once in the last hundred years by Imperial citizens on an Imperial territory; during a dispute between a [[The Brass Coast\|Freeborn]] covens based in [[Madruga\|Siroc]] and several [[troupe\|troupes]] in [[Sarvos]], the ritual was used by the Freeborn to drain the mana sites of the City of Jewels. In this case, the Freeborn [[Groups#Covens\|coven]] were exonerated by the [[Imperial Conclave]] who deemed the matter to be resolved internally without the intervention of magistrates. The ritual is not deemed to involve theft - the mana is simply depleted, not stolen.

	A few scholars are concerned about where the mana is going if it is not forming mana crystals; suspicious types suggest it is being stolen by or ~~channeled~~ into the Winter Realm in some way.		A few scholars are concerned about where the mana is going if it is not forming mana crystals; suspicious types suggest it is being stolen by or channelled into the Winter Realm in some way.

	==Common Elements==		==Common Elements==
	The ritual releases a malign, oppressive force into a territory. Grim, throbbing musical rhythms, slow threatening movement and invocations of dread and hunger are all used to raise and direct this malign power. It is common to evoke the rune [[Naeve]] or [[Kyrop]] with this ritual. Some [[Wintermark]] covens attempt to channel or mitigate ~~it's~~ effects with [[Hirmok]], or to channel the depleted mana towards their own [[mana site]] but they do not report much success.		The ritual releases a malign, oppressive force into a territory. Grim, throbbing musical rhythms, slow threatening movement and invocations of dread and hunger are all used to raise and direct this malign power. It is common to evoke the rune [[Naeve]] or [[Kyrop]] with this ritual. Some [[Wintermark]] covens attempt to channel or mitigate its effects with [[Hirmok]], or to channel the depleted mana towards their own [[mana site]] but they do not report much success.

	<!--- Marcher flavour. --->		<!--- Marcher flavour. --->

← Older revision		Revision as of 09:44, 16 January 2026
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	The curse is invariably accompanied by unpredictably bad weather. In Winter this usually means snowstorms and plunging temperatures, while in Spring and Autumn it tends to invoke miserable rain and an unseasonable cold snap. In Summer it often brings cloying, oppressive heat such as that experienced by the people of [[Tassato]] when their city was [[O_rose_thou_art_sick#The_stink_of_Tassato\|subject to this curse]] in 380YE. Whether this is a direct result of the curse's effect on mana, or simply a consequence of the way the ritual has been designed.		The curse is invariably accompanied by unpredictably bad weather. In Winter this usually means snowstorms and plunging temperatures, while in Spring and Autumn it tends to invoke miserable rain and an unseasonable cold snap. In Summer it often brings cloying, oppressive heat such as that experienced by the people of [[Tassato]] when their city was [[O_rose_thou_art_sick#The_stink_of_Tassato\|subject to this curse]] in 380YE. Whether this is a direct result of the curse's effect on mana, or simply a consequence of the way the ritual has been designed.

	A few scholars are concerned about where the mana is going if it is not forming mana crystals; some have suggested that it is being channelled into the Winter realm in some way. [[Various_storms_and_saints#Fen_and_Fastness\|Investigation]] undertaken by some members of the [[Unfettered Mind]] in 385YE uncovered nothing to suggest that the ritual was specifically tied to an eternal. In theory, though, an eternal might be able to work with mortal magicians to ensure some of the disruption results in magic being directed towards such a creature either with a similar ritual or a carefully crafted boon. As it currently stands, however, the ritual is not deemed by the magistrates to involve theft - the mana is simply depleted or scattered, not stolen. If the ritual were employed repeatedly, however, there might be significant side-effects. The Empire relies on a healthy supply of crystal mana to [[enchantment\|enchant]] its [[~~Imperial army~~\|armies]] for example, and disrupting that supply could have major repercussions. The League is home to several prestigious mana-exchanges, and disruptions to the flow of mana could have a noticeable economic impact on the trade of crystal mana.		A few scholars are concerned about where the mana is going if it is not forming mana crystals; some have suggested that it is being channelled into the Winter realm in some way. [[Various_storms_and_saints#Fen_and_Fastness\|Investigation]] undertaken by some members of the [[Unfettered Mind]] in 385YE uncovered nothing to suggest that the ritual was specifically tied to an eternal. In theory, though, an eternal might be able to work with mortal magicians to ensure some of the disruption results in magic being directed towards such a creature either with a similar ritual or a carefully crafted boon. As it currently stands, however, the ritual is not deemed by the magistrates to involve theft - the mana is simply depleted or scattered, not stolen. If the ritual were employed repeatedly, however, there might be significant side-effects. The Empire relies on a healthy supply of crystal mana to [[enchantment\|enchant]] its [[Army\|armies]] for example, and disrupting that supply could have major repercussions. The League is home to several prestigious mana-exchanges, and disruptions to the flow of mana could have a noticeable economic impact on the trade of crystal mana.

	Since the death of [[Empress Britta]], the curse has been laid on Imperial territories several times. In 379YE for example it was laid first [[Wolf_in_summer\|on the four cities of the League]], and then [[Red_phoenix_down\|in the Autumn]] on the three territories of [[Urizen]]. Speculation at the time suggested that the notorious House de Lusignan of [[Dawn]] was responsible for both incidents, but any hope of discovering the truth died along with most of the house's witches, many of whom took their own lives.		Since the death of [[Empress Britta]], the curse has been laid on Imperial territories several times. In 379YE for example it was laid first [[Wolf_in_summer\|on the four cities of the League]], and then [[Red_phoenix_down\|in the Autumn]] on the three territories of [[Urizen]]. Speculation at the time suggested that the notorious House de Lusignan of [[Dawn]] was responsible for both incidents, but any hope of discovering the truth died along with most of the house's witches, many of whom took their own lives.

← Older revision		Revision as of 14:30, 3 June 2024
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	==Description==		==Description==
	The power of this ritual disrupts the flows of magic across a territory, making it harder to [[mana site\|refine crystal mana]]. It brings with it a malaise that seeps into the spirits of [[Magical skills#Magician\|magicians]]. While their personal mana reserves are not affected, they often become short-tempered and irritable, and may even become uncharacteristically aggressive if they spend an extended period in the territory. This latter effect is particularly ~~prevelant~~ among magicians who are already prone to lashing out. It has similar effects on many supernatural creatures, especially those with innate magical abilities or that rely on mana in some way. Typically they become slothful and docile or volatile and ill-tempered. When the curse was [[Red_phoenix_down\|laid over]] [[Redoubt]], [[Zenith]], and [[Morrow]] in late 379YE for example, there was a noticeable increase in attacks by the [[trogoni]], hungry for mana.		The power of this ritual disrupts the flows of magic across a territory, making it harder to [[mana site\|refine crystal mana]]. It brings with it a malaise that seeps into the spirits of [[Magical skills#Magician\|magicians]]. While their personal mana reserves are not affected, they often become short-tempered and irritable, and may even become uncharacteristically aggressive if they spend an extended period in the territory. This latter effect is particularly prevalent among magicians who are already prone to lashing out. It has similar effects on many supernatural creatures, especially those with innate magical abilities or that rely on mana in some way. Typically they become slothful and docile or volatile and ill-tempered. When the curse was [[Red_phoenix_down\|laid over]] [[Redoubt]], [[Zenith]], and [[Morrow]] in late 379YE for example, there was a noticeable increase in attacks by the [[trogoni]], hungry for mana.

	The curse is invariably accompanied by unpredictably bad weather. In Winter this usually means snowstorms and plunging temperatures, while in Spring and Autumn it tends to invoke miserable rain and an unseasonable cold snap. In Summer it often brings cloying, oppressive heat such as that experienced by the people of [[Tassato]] when their city was [[O_rose_thou_art_sick#The_stink_of_Tassato\|subject to this curse]] in 380YE. Whether this is a direct result of the ~~curses~~ effect on mana, or simply a consequence of the way the ritual has been designed.		The curse is invariably accompanied by unpredictably bad weather. In Winter this usually means snowstorms and plunging temperatures, while in Spring and Autumn it tends to invoke miserable rain and an unseasonable cold snap. In Summer it often brings cloying, oppressive heat such as that experienced by the people of [[Tassato]] when their city was [[O_rose_thou_art_sick#The_stink_of_Tassato\|subject to this curse]] in 380YE. Whether this is a direct result of the curse's effect on mana, or simply a consequence of the way the ritual has been designed.

	A few scholars are concerned about where the mana is going if it is not forming mana crystals; some have suggested that it is being channelled into the Winter ~~Realm~~ in some way. [[Various_storms_and_saints#Fen_and_Fastness\|Investigation]] undertaken by some members of the [[Unfettered Mind]] in 385YE uncovered nothing to suggest that the ritual was specifically tied to an eternal. In theory, though, an eternal might be able to work with mortal magicians to ensure some of the disruption results in magic being directed towards such a creature either with a similar ritual or a carefully crafted boon. As it currently stands, however, the ritual is not deemed by the magistrates to involve theft - the mana is simply depleted or scattered, not stolen. If the ritual were employed repeatedly, however, there might be significant side-effects. The Empire relies on a healthy supply of crystal mana to [[enchantment\|enchant]] its [[Imperial army\|armies]] for example, and disrupting that supply could have major repercussions. The League is home to several prestigious mana-exchanges, and disruptions to the flow of mana could have a ~~noticable~~ economic impact on the trade of crystal mana.		A few scholars are concerned about where the mana is going if it is not forming mana crystals; some have suggested that it is being channelled into the Winter realm in some way. [[Various_storms_and_saints#Fen_and_Fastness\|Investigation]] undertaken by some members of the [[Unfettered Mind]] in 385YE uncovered nothing to suggest that the ritual was specifically tied to an eternal. In theory, though, an eternal might be able to work with mortal magicians to ensure some of the disruption results in magic being directed towards such a creature either with a similar ritual or a carefully crafted boon. As it currently stands, however, the ritual is not deemed by the magistrates to involve theft - the mana is simply depleted or scattered, not stolen. If the ritual were employed repeatedly, however, there might be significant side-effects. The Empire relies on a healthy supply of crystal mana to [[enchantment\|enchant]] its [[Imperial army\|armies]] for example, and disrupting that supply could have major repercussions. The League is home to several prestigious mana-exchanges, and disruptions to the flow of mana could have a noticeable economic impact on the trade of crystal mana.

	Since the death of [[Empress Britta]], the curse has been laid on Imperial territories several times. In 379YE for example it was laid first [[Wolf_in_summer\|on the four cities of the League]], and then [[Red_phoenix_down\|in the Autumn]] on the three territories of [[Urizen]]. Speculation at the time suggested that the notorious House ~~duLusignan~~ of [[Dawn]] was responsible for both incidents, but any hope of discovering the truth died along with most of the house's witches, many of whom took their own lives.		Since the death of [[Empress Britta]], the curse has been laid on Imperial territories several times. In 379YE for example it was laid first [[Wolf_in_summer\|on the four cities of the League]], and then [[Red_phoenix_down\|in the Autumn]] on the three territories of [[Urizen]]. Speculation at the time suggested that the notorious House de Lusignan of [[Dawn]] was responsible for both incidents, but any hope of discovering the truth died along with most of the house's witches, many of whom took their own lives.

	As with any magic employed over a large area, Icy Maw Devours the Spark of Essence can have unexpected effects. In one [[Power,_corruption,_and_lies#A_Shadow_Over_Anvil\|recent case]] for example the disruption of mana extended so far as to make it impossible to establish magical chambers such as the [[Chamber of Delights]], while the consequence of several castings on the cities of the League prompted open conflict between [[guild\|guilds]] whose prosperity relied on steady access to crystal mana.		As with any magic employed over a large area, Icy Maw Devours the Spark of Essence can have unexpected effects. In one [[Power,_corruption,_and_lies#A_Shadow_Over_Anvil\|recent case]] for example, the disruption of mana extended so far as to make it impossible to establish magical chambers such as the [[Chamber of Delights]], while the consequence of several castings on the cities of the League prompted open conflict between [[guild\|guilds]] whose prosperity relied on steady access to crystal mana.

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