Runes - Revision history

Twiggy at 15:25, 19 March 2026

2026-03-19T15:25:25Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 15:25, 19 March 2026
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	Runes are often incorporated into crafted items, especially in Wintermark. In the setting they help to enhance the properties of items made - a sword is less likely to rust or shatter, a cloak is less likely to tear - but when used in this way the runes have no rules-based game effect, they are intended purely for roleplaying purposes.		Runes are often incorporated into crafted items, especially in Wintermark. In the setting they help to enhance the properties of items made - a sword is less likely to rust or shatter, a cloak is less likely to tear - but when used in this way the runes have no rules-based game effect, they are intended purely for roleplaying purposes.

	An item may be marked with one or two runes that define or support its purpose - for example, a sword may have the runes for "[[Jotra\|warfare]]" and "[[Tykonus\|victory]]" engraved on either side of the blade..		An item may be marked with one or two runes that define or support its purpose - for example, a sword may have the runes for "[[Jotra\|warfare]]" and "[[Tykonus\|victory]]" engraved on either side of the blade.

	===Realm Affiliations===		===Realm Affiliations===

Twiggy at 18:30, 15 January 2026

2026-01-15T18:30:03Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 18:30, 15 January 2026
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	===Realm Affiliations===		===Realm Affiliations===
	The Runes can be combined together in many different ways, but magicians agree that there is a strong connection between the runes and the [[~~Realms~~]]. The majority of the runes are symbolic of concepts or themes closely tied to one of the supernatural realms. This does not mean that a rune can only be used with workings tied to the affiliated realm; for example, the rune of Purity [[Cavul]] is associated with the Day realm and may be used to purify a poison, but the rune of Blood [[Rhyv]] might be used instead or as well, despite being associated with the Spring realm. Collecting the runes into groups based on their realm affiliation is a useful shorthand for magicians when they are constructing a ritual. Crafters are aware of the distinction, but are usually much more interested in the meanings of the individual runes than their esoteric connections.		The Runes can be combined together in many different ways, but magicians agree that there is a strong connection between the runes and the [[realms]]. The majority of the runes are symbolic of concepts or themes closely tied to one of the supernatural realms. This does not mean that a rune can only be used with workings tied to the affiliated realm; for example, the rune of Purity [[Cavul]] is associated with the Day realm and may be used to purify a poison, but the rune of Blood [[Rhyv]] might be used instead or as well, despite being associated with the Spring realm. Collecting the runes into groups based on their realm affiliation is a useful shorthand for magicians when they are constructing a ritual. Crafters are aware of the distinction, but are usually much more interested in the meanings of the individual runes than their esoteric connections.

	====Runes of Spring====		====Runes of Spring====
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	====The Mystic Runes====		====The Mystic Runes====
	There are two runes that fall outside the ~~Realm~~ groupings. (or perhaps three, depending who you ask). They are [[Gralm]], Rune of Destiny and [[Ull]], Rune of Chance. Some magicians leave them out of the runeset altogether; they are closely tied up with the Wintermark concept of the [[Wintermark_culture_and_customs#Skein\|skein]]. The twenty-seventh rune, called [[The Unnamed]], is the esoteric blank rune that represents the unknown, the concept of things that are outside creation.		There are two runes that fall outside the realm groupings. (or perhaps three, depending who you ask). They are [[Gralm]], Rune of Destiny and [[Ull]], Rune of Chance. Some magicians leave them out of the runeset altogether; they are closely tied up with the Wintermark concept of the [[Wintermark_culture_and_customs#Skein\|skein]]. The twenty-seventh rune, called [[The Unnamed]], is the esoteric blank rune that represents the unknown, the concept of things that are outside creation.

	===Runes and the Imperial Faith===		===Runes and the Imperial Faith===

Matt at 13:42, 3 May 2025

2025-05-03T13:42:50Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 13:42, 3 May 2025
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	{{Category:Runes}}		{{Category:Runes}}
	[[Category:Magic]]		[[Category:Magic]]
			[[Category:Magic Theory]]

Matt: /* Commercial Use */

2024-03-19T16:20:39Z

Commercial Use

← Older revision		Revision as of 16:20, 19 March 2024
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	===Commercial Use===		===Commercial Use===
	Use of the runes is free for all non-commercial projects for Empire. So if you're making something for yourself for Empire, it's fine to use any of the art here or the supporting files.		Use of the runes is free for all non-commercial projects for Empire. So if you're making something for yourself for Empire, it's fine to use any of the art here or the supporting files. For all other projects please see the [[Terms_and_conditions#Fair_Use_Policy\|fair use policy]] in our terms and conditions.

	~~However, the art is not public domain; if you are using the art for commercial reasons or to enhance the value of something you are selling, then~~ please ~~get in touch with us and we'll put you in touch with~~ the ~~artist and you can discuss an appropriate licensing agreement. See our~~ [[terms and conditions~~]] for more details~~.

	===Rune downloads===		===Rune downloads===

Dre at 16:12, 1 March 2021

2021-03-01T16:12:17Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 16:12, 1 March 2021
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	Empire does not use Futhark or other traditional real-world rune systems. Rather it uses a series of twenty-six mystical runes that originated in [[Wintermark]]. While the Winterfolk discovered them, they are used by magicians and crafters all over the Empire.		Empire does not use Futhark or other traditional real-world rune systems. Rather it uses a series of twenty-six mystical runes that originated in [[Wintermark]]. While the Winterfolk discovered them, they are used by magicians and crafters all over the Empire.

	Each rune is associated with a concept, usually a single word that sums up its magical meaning. They are each tied thematically to one of the [[~~Realms~~]] of magic. Runes also have names, which can be invoked, and are believed to physically resemble an iconic item or creature. Many magicians keep a scroll or a notebook containing information about the runes, as memorizing all of them is quite a feat.		Each rune is associated with a concept, usually a single word that sums up its magical meaning. They are each tied thematically to one of the [[realms]] of magic. Runes also have names, which can be invoked, and are believed to physically resemble an iconic item or creature. Many magicians keep a scroll or a notebook containing information about the runes, as memorizing all of them is quite a feat.

	The runes are also used as a simple alphabet by several magicians; each rune stands for a single letter in a typical substitution cipher. Many magicians consider this to be a risky and foolish activity; if the runes have power, then using them to write things invites unexpected and uncontrollable forces to intrude on the life of anyone who handles them.		The runes are also used as a simple alphabet by several magicians; each rune stands for a single letter in a typical substitution cipher. Many magicians consider this to be a risky and foolish activity; if the runes have power, then using them to write things invites unexpected and uncontrollable forces to intrude on the life of anyone who handles them.
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	Runes can be used as a method of performing magic. A magician might trace a rune in the air or while touching a target of a spell, or might use a permanent or temporary design that incorporates a rune. Runes are commonly painted or carved onto the targets of any magic that has a duration, but may also be traced or invoked while performing almost any ritual.		Runes can be used as a method of performing magic. A magician might trace a rune in the air or while touching a target of a spell, or might use a permanent or temporary design that incorporates a rune. Runes are commonly painted or carved onto the targets of any magic that has a duration, but may also be traced or invoked while performing almost any ritual.

	There are no magical functions that are unique to runes, they are an aid to roleplaying when ~~peforming~~ a ritual and can be replaced with other aids as appropriate to the character, but the magical associations of each rune can be used in rituals where the hearth magic properties of the runes may provide a bonus to the effect of the ritual if used correctly.		There are no magical functions that are unique to runes, they are an aid to roleplaying when performing a ritual and can be replaced with other aids as appropriate to the character, but the magical associations of each rune can be used in rituals where the hearth magic properties of the runes may provide a bonus to the effect of the ritual if used correctly.

	===Divining with the Runes===		===Divining with the Runes===
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	The Summer runes are associated with strength, confidence, majesty, adulthood and energy. They are a common sight on weapons and armour, especially in Wintermark and Dawn. They are [[Feresh]] the Rune of Majesty; [[Jotra]], the Rune of Battle; [[Tykonus]], the Rune of Victory; and [[Verys]], the Rune of Might. The runes of Summer are sometimes called "the [[Legendary beasts#Gryphon\|Gryphon]] runes" after the heraldic beast popular in [[Dawn]].		The Summer runes are associated with strength, confidence, majesty, adulthood and energy. They are a common sight on weapons and armour, especially in Wintermark and Dawn. They are [[Feresh]] the Rune of Majesty; [[Jotra]], the Rune of Battle; [[Tykonus]], the Rune of Victory; and [[Verys]], the Rune of Might. The runes of Summer are sometimes called "the [[Legendary beasts#Gryphon\|Gryphon]] runes" after the heraldic beast popular in [[Dawn]].

	<ic>The gryphon is a ~~heraldric~~ beast that combines the aspect of an eagle and a lion, the union of Majesty and Might. It has razor-sharp claws that cleave through armour like the Rune of Swords, and possesses wings that bring to mind the Banner Rune. It exemplifies all that is best in the four runes, and is an enduring symbol of victory, prowess, pride and potency. It is little wonder that it is so popular among the Dawnish.</ic>		<ic>The gryphon is a heraldic beast that combines the aspect of an eagle and a lion, the union of Majesty and Might. It has razor-sharp claws that cleave through armour like the Rune of Swords, and possesses wings that bring to mind the Banner Rune. It exemplifies all that is best in the four runes, and is an enduring symbol of victory, prowess, pride and potency. It is little wonder that it is so popular among the Dawnish.</ic>

	====Runes of Autumn====		====Runes of Autumn====
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	Use of the runes is free for all non-commercial projects for Empire. So if you're making something for yourself for Empire, it's fine to use any of the art here or the supporting files.		Use of the runes is free for all non-commercial projects for Empire. So if you're making something for yourself for Empire, it's fine to use any of the art here or the supporting files.

	However the art is not public domain, if you are using the art for commercial reasons or to enhance the value of something you are selling, then please get in touch with us and we'll put you in touch with the artist and you can discuss an appropriate licensing agreement. See our [[terms and conditions]] for more details.		However, the art is not public domain; if you are using the art for commercial reasons or to enhance the value of something you are selling, then please get in touch with us and we'll put you in touch with the artist and you can discuss an appropriate licensing agreement. See our [[terms and conditions]] for more details.

	===Rune downloads===		===Rune downloads===

Rafferty: Rafferty moved page Rune Overview to Runes without leaving a redirect

2021-03-01T14:53:50Z

Rafferty moved page Rune Overview to Runes without leaving a redirect

← Older revision	Revision as of 14:53, 1 March 2021
(No difference)

Matt at 10:59, 10 September 2020

2020-09-10T10:59:04Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 10:59, 10 September 2020
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	* The [[Naga]] lineage has no single runic correspondence; Kallavesi mystics claim that this is simply because their nature defies easy categorisation, and as a consequence any or all of the four Runes of Night are used to represent them.		* The [[Naga]] lineage has no single runic correspondence; Kallavesi mystics claim that this is simply because their nature defies easy categorisation, and as a consequence any or all of the four Runes of Night are used to represent them.

	===~~Rune Useage~~===		===Commercial Use===
	Use of the runes is free for all non-commercial projects for Empire. So if you're making something for yourself for Empire, it's fine to use any of the art here or the supporting files.		Use of the runes is free for all non-commercial projects for Empire. So if you're making something for yourself for Empire, it's fine to use any of the art here or the supporting files.

Matt at 10:58, 10 September 2020

2020-09-10T10:58:43Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 10:58, 10 September 2020
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	* The [[Merrow]] lineage has an affiliation for the Rune of Discovery, Sular.		* The [[Merrow]] lineage has an affiliation for the Rune of Discovery, Sular.
	* The [[Naga]] lineage has no single runic correspondence; Kallavesi mystics claim that this is simply because their nature defies easy categorisation, and as a consequence any or all of the four Runes of Night are used to represent them.		* The [[Naga]] lineage has no single runic correspondence; Kallavesi mystics claim that this is simply because their nature defies easy categorisation, and as a consequence any or all of the four Runes of Night are used to represent them.

			===Rune Useage===
			Use of the runes is free for all non-commercial projects for Empire. So if you're making something for yourself for Empire, it's fine to use any of the art here or the supporting files.

			However the art is not public domain, if you are using the art for commercial reasons or to enhance the value of something you are selling, then please get in touch with us and we'll put you in touch with the artist and you can discuss an appropriate licensing agreement. See our [[terms and conditions]] for more details.

	===Rune downloads===		===Rune downloads===

Matt: /* Rune downloads */

2019-03-04T13:16:02Z

Rune downloads

← Older revision		Revision as of 13:16, 4 March 2019
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	===Rune downloads===		===Rune downloads===
	You can download an installable [http://~~images~~.profounddecisions.co.uk/resources/downloads/Wintermark-Regular.ttf Wintermark runes windows font file] which contains all the Wintermark runes coded by the first letter of the name of each rune.		You can download an installable [http://www.profounddecisions.co.uk/resources/downloads/Wintermark-Regular.ttf Wintermark runes windows font file] which contains all the Wintermark runes coded by the first letter of the name of each rune.

	You can download a [https://github.com/Beornwulf/TeXEmpireRunes/ LaTeX style file] for using the runes.		You can download a [https://github.com/Beornwulf/TeXEmpireRunes/ LaTeX style file] for using the runes.

	You can download an illustrator [http://~~images~~.profounddecisions.co.uk/resources/downloads/wintermark_runes.ai Wintermark runes vector file] which contains all the Wintermark runes as scalable vectors. There is a similar file for the [http://~~images~~.profounddecisions.co.uk/resources/downloads/magic_runes.ai magic runes].		You can download an illustrator [http://www.profounddecisions.co.uk/resources/downloads/wintermark_runes.ai Wintermark runes vector file] which contains all the Wintermark runes as scalable vectors. There is a similar file for the [http://www.profounddecisions.co.uk/resources/downloads/magic_runes.ai magic runes].

	You can download each of the runes as a .jef file suitable for machine embroidery on a 7x5 hoop or larger, linked off the individual rune pages.		You can download each of the runes as a .jef file suitable for machine embroidery on a 7x5 hoop or larger, linked off the individual rune pages.

Matt: /* Rune downloads */

2017-08-31T11:44:08Z

Rune downloads

← Older revision		Revision as of 11:44, 31 August 2017
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	You can download a [https://github.com/Beornwulf/TeXEmpireRunes/ LaTeX style file] for using the runes.		You can download a [https://github.com/Beornwulf/TeXEmpireRunes/ LaTeX style file] for using the runes.

	You can download an illustrator [http://images.profounddecisions.co.uk/resources/downloads/wintermark_runes.ai Wintermark runes vector file] which contains all the Wintermark runes as scalable vectors.		You can download an illustrator [http://images.profounddecisions.co.uk/resources/downloads/wintermark_runes.ai Wintermark runes vector file] which contains all the Wintermark runes as scalable vectors. There is a similar file for the [http://images.profounddecisions.co.uk/resources/downloads/magic_runes.ai magic runes].

	You can download each of the runes as a .jef file suitable for machine embroidery on a 7x5 hoop or larger, linked off the individual rune pages.		You can download each of the runes as a .jef file suitable for machine embroidery on a 7x5 hoop or larger, linked off the individual rune pages.