Stars and sigils - Revision history

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

2026-01-16T09:45:07Z

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

← Older revision		Revision as of 09:45, 16 January 2026
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	* '''A Grand Conjunction of the Great Wyrm and the Mountain has had a profound effect on magical laws'''		* '''A Grand Conjunction of the Great Wyrm and the Mountain has had a profound effect on magical laws'''
	* '''Several enchantments have been empowered by the conjunction of the Great Wyrm and the Mountain'''		* '''Several enchantments have been empowered by the conjunction of the Great Wyrm and the Mountain'''
	Since the Winter Solstice, Imperial [[astronomancy\|astronomancers]] have marked a rare Grand Conjunction of [[the Great Wyrm]] and [[the Mountain]] in the skies above the Empire. The stars known as ''Uril, Who Twists'' and ''Omadan, Who Breaks All Names'' seem particularly bright, and there is a passionate discussion as to what it might mean (if anything) that these two stars are generally seen as being the end of the tail and the point of the snout of the notional celestial Wyrm. The impact of this conjunction has already been felt by magicians, with seismic changes to the way certain types of magic, specifically those associated with warfare, function. This has led to permanent alterations to the way [[~~Imperial army~~\|armies]], [[military unit\|warbands]], and [[fleet\|ships]] are [[enchantment\|enchanted]], and to how certain divinations work.		Since the Winter Solstice, Imperial [[astronomancy\|astronomancers]] have marked a rare Grand Conjunction of [[the Great Wyrm]] and [[the Mountain]] in the skies above the Empire. The stars known as ''Uril, Who Twists'' and ''Omadan, Who Breaks All Names'' seem particularly bright, and there is a passionate discussion as to what it might mean (if anything) that these two stars are generally seen as being the end of the tail and the point of the snout of the notional celestial Wyrm. The impact of this conjunction has already been felt by magicians, with seismic changes to the way certain types of magic, specifically those associated with warfare, function. This has led to permanent alterations to the way [[Army\|armies]], [[military unit\|warbands]], and [[fleet\|ships]] are [[enchantment\|enchanted]], and to how certain divinations work.

	As predicted [[Patterns_of_fairytales#Wyrm_and_Mountain\|last season]], the power of the Grand Conjunction has increased since the Winter Solstice and is not entirely negative. The Great Wyrm is a symbol of magic that moves magic, and it seems that while this celestial event is causing problems for some, it is empowering others. Until the Summer Solstice, several rituals that provide a personal empowerment to magicians are made more powerful.		As predicted [[Patterns_of_fairytales#Wyrm_and_Mountain\|last season]], the power of the Grand Conjunction has increased since the Winter Solstice and is not entirely negative. The Great Wyrm is a symbol of magic that moves magic, and it seems that while this celestial event is causing problems for some, it is empowering others. Until the Summer Solstice, several rituals that provide a personal empowerment to magicians are made more powerful.
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	* '''The ability to exchange an arcane projection lasts until the end of the Autumn Equinox 387YE'''		* '''The ability to exchange an arcane projection lasts until the end of the Autumn Equinox 387YE'''
	* '''The inability to cast these arcane projections is permanent'''		* '''The inability to cast these arcane projections is permanent'''
	The Unfettered Mind were also the first people to spot the peculiar phenomenon that coincided with this Grand Conjunction. Dubbed ''the Unravelling'' in some parts of the Empire, it means that any arcane projection issued before E1-2025 that attempts to [[enchantment\|enchant]] an [[~~Imperial army~~\|army]] or [[navy\|navy]] can no longer be cast. Likewise, arcane projections that involve enchanting a [[military unit]] or [[fleet]] no longer function. The Grand Conjunction appears to have scrambled the magic bound into the projections themselves.		The Unfettered Mind were also the first people to spot the peculiar phenomenon that coincided with this Grand Conjunction. Dubbed ''the Unravelling'' in some parts of the Empire, it means that any arcane projection issued before E1-2025 that attempts to [[enchantment\|enchant]] an [[Army\|army]] or [[navy\|navy]] can no longer be cast. Likewise, arcane projections that involve enchanting a [[military unit]] or [[fleet]] no longer function. The Grand Conjunction appears to have scrambled the magic bound into the projections themselves.

	Any of these arcane projections that no longer function can be brought to GOD and exchanged for 10 crystal mana. This either represents someone intentionally speeding the unravelling process along to reclaim the mana invested in the projection, or might mean that in-character a valued projection (that the player no longer wants OOC) has fallen apart despite their best efforts. The ability to exchange defunct arcane projections for mana in this way will persist until the end of the Autumn Equinox 387YE.		Any of these arcane projections that no longer function can be brought to GOD and exchanged for 10 crystal mana. This either represents someone intentionally speeding the unravelling process along to reclaim the mana invested in the projection, or might mean that in-character a valued projection (that the player no longer wants OOC) has fallen apart despite their best efforts. The ability to exchange defunct arcane projections for mana in this way will persist until the end of the Autumn Equinox 387YE.

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

2026-01-16T09:44:26Z

Text replacement - "[[Imperial navy" to "[[navy"

← Older revision		Revision as of 09:44, 16 January 2026
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	* '''The ability to exchange an arcane projection lasts until the end of the Autumn Equinox 387YE'''		* '''The ability to exchange an arcane projection lasts until the end of the Autumn Equinox 387YE'''
	* '''The inability to cast these arcane projections is permanent'''		* '''The inability to cast these arcane projections is permanent'''
	The Unfettered Mind were also the first people to spot the peculiar phenomenon that coincided with this Grand Conjunction. Dubbed ''the Unravelling'' in some parts of the Empire, it means that any arcane projection issued before E1-2025 that attempts to [[enchantment\|enchant]] an [[Imperial army\|army]] or [[~~Imperial~~ navy\|navy]] can no longer be cast. Likewise, arcane projections that involve enchanting a [[military unit]] or [[fleet]] no longer function. The Grand Conjunction appears to have scrambled the magic bound into the projections themselves.		The Unfettered Mind were also the first people to spot the peculiar phenomenon that coincided with this Grand Conjunction. Dubbed ''the Unravelling'' in some parts of the Empire, it means that any arcane projection issued before E1-2025 that attempts to [[enchantment\|enchant]] an [[Imperial army\|army]] or [[navy\|navy]] can no longer be cast. Likewise, arcane projections that involve enchanting a [[military unit]] or [[fleet]] no longer function. The Grand Conjunction appears to have scrambled the magic bound into the projections themselves.

	Any of these arcane projections that no longer function can be brought to GOD and exchanged for 10 crystal mana. This either represents someone intentionally speeding the unravelling process along to reclaim the mana invested in the projection, or might mean that in-character a valued projection (that the player no longer wants OOC) has fallen apart despite their best efforts. The ability to exchange defunct arcane projections for mana in this way will persist until the end of the Autumn Equinox 387YE.		Any of these arcane projections that no longer function can be brought to GOD and exchanged for 10 crystal mana. This either represents someone intentionally speeding the unravelling process along to reclaim the mana invested in the projection, or might mean that in-character a valued projection (that the player no longer wants OOC) has fallen apart despite their best efforts. The ability to exchange defunct arcane projections for mana in this way will persist until the end of the Autumn Equinox 387YE.

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

2026-01-15T16:48:54Z

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

← Older revision		Revision as of 16:48, 15 January 2026
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	There is magic in the weavings of the cabalists, and the spells of the witches, and in the prowess of the artisans. There is also magic in the world itself, strangeness and serendipity, spirits and stars, the wind and the waves. Things that do not move to the will of mortals - or if they do, then not for long - but instead carve out their own inscrutable patterns across the Empire and the world.		There is magic in the weavings of the cabalists, and the spells of the witches, and in the prowess of the artisans. There is also magic in the world itself, strangeness and serendipity, spirits and stars, the wind and the waves. Things that do not move to the will of mortals - or if they do, then not for long - but instead carve out their own inscrutable patterns across the Empire and the world.

	The heavens and the earth reflect one another, and the echoes of magic waver back and forth between the two. The runes clack and dance, the masks shift and change, the aspects and symbols speak and are silent. Here we talk of many different things - rituals cast, the doings of the [[~~Imperial~~ Conclave]], the often contradictory demands of the [[eternal\|eternals]]. Scattered stories, just beginning or moving to their inevitable end. Not all of them make sense right now, but they all share something in common. Wonder. Mystery. Magic.		The heavens and the earth reflect one another, and the echoes of magic waver back and forth between the two. The runes clack and dance, the masks shift and change, the aspects and symbols speak and are silent. Here we talk of many different things - rituals cast, the doings of the [[Conclave]], the often contradictory demands of the [[eternal\|eternals]]. Scattered stories, just beginning or moving to their inevitable end. Not all of them make sense right now, but they all share something in common. Wonder. Mystery. Magic.

	Some magic is familiar and predictable, and some is not. It isn't always the strict purview of magicians either - anyone might make a deal with an eternal or come into possession of a tool that lets them alter the world in some way, large or small. One thing is sure though, from the most mundane [[hearth magic]] to the strange influence of [[Astronomancy\|the stars]], to the vagaries of fate and chance, it changes what it touches.		Some magic is familiar and predictable, and some is not. It isn't always the strict purview of magicians either - anyone might make a deal with an eternal or come into possession of a tool that lets them alter the world in some way, large or small. One thing is sure though, from the most mundane [[hearth magic]] to the strange influence of [[Astronomancy\|the stars]], to the vagaries of fate and chance, it changes what it touches.
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	This comes after a period where the civil service have increasingly found it easier to hire [[magical skills#Magician\|magicians]] (or [[Crafting skills#Artisan\|artisans]]) living in a given nation to operate a college of magic or runeforge established there. This has allowed the upkeep of a college or runeforge to be standardised, just as it is for most other forms of [[commission]]. The Empire can now build such a commission and know that the upkeep will be 12 thrones a season.		This comes after a period where the civil service have increasingly found it easier to hire [[magical skills#Magician\|magicians]] (or [[Crafting skills#Artisan\|artisans]]) living in a given nation to operate a college of magic or runeforge established there. This has allowed the upkeep of a college or runeforge to be standardised, just as it is for most other forms of [[commission]]. The Empire can now build such a commission and know that the upkeep will be 12 thrones a season.

	The work has also led to a reassessment of where new colleges or runeforges might be profitably built. Similar to the way a nation can support a certain number of armies, it seems that some nations can support a [[College_of_magic#Maximum_numbers_of_Colleges\|new college]] or a [[Runeforge#Maximum_Numbers_of_Runeforges\|new runeforge]] without additional difficulty or the need for an [[opportunity]]. Lutomysla Niegoslava has presented a short list of the nations in question to help the [[Senate]] and the [[~~Imperial~~ Conclave]] with future planning. It's also been agreed that a central list of which rituals are being worked on at each college, and which magic items are being developed, in the same way that the folk of Urizen know what they are working on with the [[Doyen of the Spires]].		The work has also led to a reassessment of where new colleges or runeforges might be profitably built. Similar to the way a nation can support a certain number of armies, it seems that some nations can support a [[College_of_magic#Maximum_numbers_of_Colleges\|new college]] or a [[Runeforge#Maximum_Numbers_of_Runeforges\|new runeforge]] without additional difficulty or the need for an [[opportunity]]. Lutomysla Niegoslava has presented a short list of the nations in question to help the [[Senate]] and the [[Conclave]] with future planning. It's also been agreed that a central list of which rituals are being worked on at each college, and which magic items are being developed, in the same way that the folk of Urizen know what they are working on with the [[Doyen of the Spires]].

	'''OOC Note:''' Further details of this change to colleges of magic and runeforges are detailed in the [[Rules_update_2025#Colleges_and_Runeforges\|rules update]].		'''OOC Note:''' Further details of this change to colleges of magic and runeforges are detailed in the [[Rules_update_2025#Colleges_and_Runeforges\|rules update]].

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

2026-01-15T15:09:38Z

Text replacement - "[[Imperial Senate" to "[[Senate"

← Older revision		Revision as of 15:09, 15 January 2026
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	This comes after a period where the civil service have increasingly found it easier to hire [[magical skills#Magician\|magicians]] (or [[Crafting skills#Artisan\|artisans]]) living in a given nation to operate a college of magic or runeforge established there. This has allowed the upkeep of a college or runeforge to be standardised, just as it is for most other forms of [[commission]]. The Empire can now build such a commission and know that the upkeep will be 12 thrones a season.		This comes after a period where the civil service have increasingly found it easier to hire [[magical skills#Magician\|magicians]] (or [[Crafting skills#Artisan\|artisans]]) living in a given nation to operate a college of magic or runeforge established there. This has allowed the upkeep of a college or runeforge to be standardised, just as it is for most other forms of [[commission]]. The Empire can now build such a commission and know that the upkeep will be 12 thrones a season.

	The work has also led to a reassessment of where new colleges or runeforges might be profitably built. Similar to the way a nation can support a certain number of armies, it seems that some nations can support a [[College_of_magic#Maximum_numbers_of_Colleges\|new college]] or a [[Runeforge#Maximum_Numbers_of_Runeforges\|new runeforge]] without additional difficulty or the need for an [[opportunity]]. Lutomysla Niegoslava has presented a short list of the nations in question to help the [[~~Imperial~~ Senate]] and the [[Imperial Conclave]] with future planning. It's also been agreed that a central list of which rituals are being worked on at each college, and which magic items are being developed, in the same way that the folk of Urizen know what they are working on with the [[Doyen of the Spires]].		The work has also led to a reassessment of where new colleges or runeforges might be profitably built. Similar to the way a nation can support a certain number of armies, it seems that some nations can support a [[College_of_magic#Maximum_numbers_of_Colleges\|new college]] or a [[Runeforge#Maximum_Numbers_of_Runeforges\|new runeforge]] without additional difficulty or the need for an [[opportunity]]. Lutomysla Niegoslava has presented a short list of the nations in question to help the [[Senate]] and the [[Imperial Conclave]] with future planning. It's also been agreed that a central list of which rituals are being worked on at each college, and which magic items are being developed, in the same way that the folk of Urizen know what they are working on with the [[Doyen of the Spires]].

	'''OOC Note:''' Further details of this change to colleges of magic and runeforges are detailed in the [[Rules_update_2025#Colleges_and_Runeforges\|rules update]].		'''OOC Note:''' Further details of this change to colleges of magic and runeforges are detailed in the [[Rules_update_2025#Colleges_and_Runeforges\|rules update]].

Rafferty at 12:04, 23 July 2025

2025-07-23T12:04:13Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 12:04, 23 July 2025
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	'''<big>Participation:</big>''' Anyone in Sermersuaq, Hahnmark, Skarsind, or Hercynia, is welcome to roleplay that they have had a violent encounter with an animal or beast or with a human or orc who explodes into unexpected violence. The exception is rats - nobody seems to be being attacked by rats. Characters from Temeschwar, Karov, Weirwater, Astolat, and Miaren might also have had unsettling encounters in wild places, or with people losing their temper unexpectedly, but they are much less immediate and pronounced than those in the more north-westerly territories.		'''<big>Participation:</big>''' Anyone in Sermersuaq, Hahnmark, Skarsind, or Hercynia, is welcome to roleplay that they have had a violent encounter with an animal or beast or with a human or orc who explodes into unexpected violence. The exception is rats - nobody seems to be being attacked by rats. Characters from Temeschwar, Karov, Weirwater, Astolat, and Miaren might also have had unsettling encounters in wild places, or with people losing their temper unexpectedly, but they are much less immediate and pronounced than those in the more north-westerly territories.
	<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=Icebarn.png\|align=left\|caption=The great icy creatures known as artoks emerge from the endless storm to tread fixed paths across Wintermark before they head back into the ice.\|width=500}}</div>		<div style="float:right; width: 500px; clear: left;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=Icebarn.png\|align=left\|caption=The great icy creatures known as artoks emerge from the endless storm to tread fixed paths across Wintermark before they head back into the ice.\|width=500}}</div>

	==Ravens and Giants==		==Ravens and Giants==
	* '''The Ravenseer asked the Mystics of Ishal to study the omens of the artoks bound to the service of Wintermark'''		* '''The Ravenseer asked the Mystics of Ishal to study the omens of the artoks bound to the service of Wintermark'''

Kirkbride at 20:03, 11 June 2025

2025-06-11T20:03:22Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 20:03, 11 June 2025
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	[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:387YE Spring]][[Category:Recent History]][[Category:Winds of Magic]]		[[Category:Winds of Fortune]][[Category:387YE Spring]][[Category:Recent History]][[Category:Winds of Magic]]
	<ic>'''Wind in Progress'''<br>This wind is a roundup of magical events and effects. Normally, this would be one of the last winds to be published because it is heavily dependant on plots that are running at the event. This can be unsatisfying, because it often results in us presenting things that don't leave players enough time to consider them before heading to the event. To try and combat this, we're planning to publish it in an "unfinished" state - and add elements to it as they are developed. Once everything is on here that needs to be on here, we'll remove this box and the tag at the top of the page and let people know that it isn't going to change again.</ic>
	<div style="float:left; width: 400px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=V838 Mon HST.jpg\|caption=Alone of all the stars, the Wanderer moves seemingly without pattern but with unknowable purpose.\|align=left\|width=400}}</div>		<div style="float:left; width: 400px; clear: right;">{{CaptionedImage\|file=V838 Mon HST.jpg\|caption=Alone of all the stars, the Wanderer moves seemingly without pattern but with unknowable purpose.\|align=left\|width=400}}</div>
	==Overview==		==Overview==

Kirkbride: /* The College That Could */

2025-06-11T19:14:35Z

The College That Could

← Older revision		Revision as of 19:14, 11 June 2025
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	* '''The Loom of Spells continues to be controlled by the Church of The Little Mother'''		* '''The Loom of Spells continues to be controlled by the Church of The Little Mother'''
	The Church of The Little Mother is continuing the practice of auctioning access to the Loom of Spells. A [[bishop]] of the Church will attend the Imperial Regio at 14:00 on Sunday of the forthcoming summit, where the auction will take place. Bids are to be given in mine or forest measures. It does not matter what measures are given, and bids may include a mixture of different materials. The only thing that matters is the raw quantity. They remind potential bidders that the Loom can only codify rituals of up to the tenth magnitude, but have established that the ritual [[Quick Study]], which is part of Urizen lore, will work. The bishop taking the bids has been assigned as head of the work crews on the Loom this season, and may be targeted by this ritual if needed, though they will expect any bidders who require such a thing to have arranged their own casting and to be ready to cast it as soon as their bid is declared successful.		The Church of The Little Mother is continuing the practice of auctioning access to the Loom of Spells. A [[bishop]] of the Church will attend the Imperial Regio at 14:00 on Sunday of the forthcoming summit, where the auction will take place. Bids are to be given in mine or forest measures. It does not matter what measures are given, and bids may include a mixture of different materials. The only thing that matters is the raw quantity. They remind potential bidders that the Loom can only codify rituals of up to the tenth magnitude, but have established that the ritual [[Quick Study]], which is part of Urizen lore, will work. The bishop taking the bids has been assigned as head of the work crews on the Loom this season, and may be targeted by this ritual if needed, though they will expect any bidders who require such a thing to have arranged their own casting and to be ready to cast it as soon as their bid is declared successful.

			==The Crow's Rest (Mournwold)==
			* '''A peculiar tavern has appeared in the Ore Hills of Mournwold'''
			* '''The egregores of Marches and Wintermark should know more'''
			A few days before the summit, a mysterious tavern appeared high on a rocky hill in the Mournwold. According to ''Maggie Miner'', a local who was out walking her hounds, the morning had the usual heavy fog, and then all of a sudden, the tavern was just there. Lights and noises drift out, but the forbidding location means it's difficult to reach. A few locals manage to make the journey - purely to say they have- and report back that it's called "The Crows Rest". They describe a warm welcome, with the tavern having a Wintermark vibe and the barkeeper being pleasant enough. They were welcomed so long as they accepted hospitality, and went on to describe an odd assortment of patrons. Once their drinks were finished, they found themselves back outside and on their way home.

Dre at 10:50, 11 June 2025

2025-06-11T10:50:20Z

Kirkbride: /* The College That Could */

2025-06-11T10:42:25Z

The College That Could

← Older revision		Revision as of 10:42, 11 June 2025
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	==The College That Could==		==The College That Could==
	* '''Access to the Loom of Spells will be auctioned at 14:00 on Sunday at the Imperial Regio'''		* '''Access to the Loom of Spells will be auctioned at 14:00 on Sunday at the Imperial Regio'''
	* '''The Loom of Spells ~~is now~~ controlled by the Church of The Little Mother'''		* '''The Loom of Spells continues to be controlled by the Church of The Little Mother'''
	The Church of The Little Mother is continuing the practice of auctioning access to the Loom of Spells. A [[bishop]] of the Church will attend the Imperial Regio at 14:00 on Sunday of the forthcoming summit, where the auction will take place. Bids are to be given in mine or forest measures. It does not matter what measures are given, and bids may include a mixture of different materials. The only thing that matters is the raw quantity. They remind potential bidders that the Loom can only codify rituals of up to the tenth magnitude, but have established that the ritual [[Quick Study]], which is part of Urizen lore, will work. The bishop taking the bids has been assigned as head of the work crews on the Loom this season, and may be targeted by this ritual if needed, though they will expect any bidders who require such a thing to have arranged their own casting and to be ready to cast it as soon as their bid is declared successful.		The Church of The Little Mother is continuing the practice of auctioning access to the Loom of Spells. A [[bishop]] of the Church will attend the Imperial Regio at 14:00 on Sunday of the forthcoming summit, where the auction will take place. Bids are to be given in mine or forest measures. It does not matter what measures are given, and bids may include a mixture of different materials. The only thing that matters is the raw quantity. They remind potential bidders that the Loom can only codify rituals of up to the tenth magnitude, but have established that the ritual [[Quick Study]], which is part of Urizen lore, will work. The bishop taking the bids has been assigned as head of the work crews on the Loom this season, and may be targeted by this ritual if needed, though they will expect any bidders who require such a thing to have arranged their own casting and to be ready to cast it as soon as their bid is declared successful.

Kirkbride: /* Dedicated Dreams */

2025-06-11T10:42:10Z

Dedicated Dreams

← Older revision		Revision as of 10:42, 11 June 2025
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	'''OOC Note:''' This event, if the Dedication skill is used to induce dreams, instead of the normal roleplaying effect of lucid dreams, players can go to GOD, the Regio tent, or the Ref Access Tent the following day and get a Dedication vision slip. Both the priest and the pilgrim should go together to ensure they receive the same vision. If either or both the pilgrim and the priest don't want to do this, they can roleplay the normal lucid dreams if they prefer. Note that it is not possible for the priest and the pilgrim to receive ''different'' visions from one liao ceremony.		'''OOC Note:''' This event, if the Dedication skill is used to induce dreams, instead of the normal roleplaying effect of lucid dreams, players can go to GOD, the Regio tent, or the Ref Access Tent the following day and get a Dedication vision slip. Both the priest and the pilgrim should go together to ensure they receive the same vision. If either or both the pilgrim and the priest don't want to do this, they can roleplay the normal lucid dreams if they prefer. Note that it is not possible for the priest and the pilgrim to receive ''different'' visions from one liao ceremony.

			==The College That Could==
			* '''Access to the Loom of Spells will be auctioned at 14:00 on Sunday at the Imperial Regio'''
			* '''The Loom of Spells is now controlled by the Church of The Little Mother'''
			The Church of The Little Mother is continuing the practice of auctioning access to the Loom of Spells. A [[bishop]] of the Church will attend the Imperial Regio at 14:00 on Sunday of the forthcoming summit, where the auction will take place. Bids are to be given in mine or forest measures. It does not matter what measures are given, and bids may include a mixture of different materials. The only thing that matters is the raw quantity. They remind potential bidders that the Loom can only codify rituals of up to the tenth magnitude, but have established that the ritual [[Quick Study]], which is part of Urizen lore, will work. The bishop taking the bids has been assigned as head of the work crews on the Loom this season, and may be targeted by this ritual if needed, though they will expect any bidders who require such a thing to have arranged their own casting and to be ready to cast it as soon as their bid is declared successful.

← Older revision		Revision as of 16:48, 15 January 2026
Line 4:		Line 4:
	There is magic in the weavings of the cabalists, and the spells of the witches, and in the prowess of the artisans. There is also magic in the world itself, strangeness and serendipity, spirits and stars, the wind and the waves. Things that do not move to the will of mortals - or if they do, then not for long - but instead carve out their own inscrutable patterns across the Empire and the world.		There is magic in the weavings of the cabalists, and the spells of the witches, and in the prowess of the artisans. There is also magic in the world itself, strangeness and serendipity, spirits and stars, the wind and the waves. Things that do not move to the will of mortals - or if they do, then not for long - but instead carve out their own inscrutable patterns across the Empire and the world.

	The heavens and the earth reflect one another, and the echoes of magic waver back and forth between the two. The runes clack and dance, the masks shift and change, the aspects and symbols speak and are silent. Here we talk of many different things - rituals cast, the doings of the [[~~Imperial~~ Conclave]], the often contradictory demands of the [[eternal\|eternals]]. Scattered stories, just beginning or moving to their inevitable end. Not all of them make sense right now, but they all share something in common. Wonder. Mystery. Magic.		The heavens and the earth reflect one another, and the echoes of magic waver back and forth between the two. The runes clack and dance, the masks shift and change, the aspects and symbols speak and are silent. Here we talk of many different things - rituals cast, the doings of the [[Conclave]], the often contradictory demands of the [[eternal\|eternals]]. Scattered stories, just beginning or moving to their inevitable end. Not all of them make sense right now, but they all share something in common. Wonder. Mystery. Magic.

	Some magic is familiar and predictable, and some is not. It isn't always the strict purview of magicians either - anyone might make a deal with an eternal or come into possession of a tool that lets them alter the world in some way, large or small. One thing is sure though, from the most mundane [[hearth magic]] to the strange influence of [[Astronomancy\|the stars]], to the vagaries of fate and chance, it changes what it touches.		Some magic is familiar and predictable, and some is not. It isn't always the strict purview of magicians either - anyone might make a deal with an eternal or come into possession of a tool that lets them alter the world in some way, large or small. One thing is sure though, from the most mundane [[hearth magic]] to the strange influence of [[Astronomancy\|the stars]], to the vagaries of fate and chance, it changes what it touches.
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	This comes after a period where the civil service have increasingly found it easier to hire [[magical skills#Magician\|magicians]] (or [[Crafting skills#Artisan\|artisans]]) living in a given nation to operate a college of magic or runeforge established there. This has allowed the upkeep of a college or runeforge to be standardised, just as it is for most other forms of [[commission]]. The Empire can now build such a commission and know that the upkeep will be 12 thrones a season.		This comes after a period where the civil service have increasingly found it easier to hire [[magical skills#Magician\|magicians]] (or [[Crafting skills#Artisan\|artisans]]) living in a given nation to operate a college of magic or runeforge established there. This has allowed the upkeep of a college or runeforge to be standardised, just as it is for most other forms of [[commission]]. The Empire can now build such a commission and know that the upkeep will be 12 thrones a season.

	The work has also led to a reassessment of where new colleges or runeforges might be profitably built. Similar to the way a nation can support a certain number of armies, it seems that some nations can support a [[College_of_magic#Maximum_numbers_of_Colleges\|new college]] or a [[Runeforge#Maximum_Numbers_of_Runeforges\|new runeforge]] without additional difficulty or the need for an [[opportunity]]. Lutomysla Niegoslava has presented a short list of the nations in question to help the [[Senate]] and the [[~~Imperial~~ Conclave]] with future planning. It's also been agreed that a central list of which rituals are being worked on at each college, and which magic items are being developed, in the same way that the folk of Urizen know what they are working on with the [[Doyen of the Spires]].		The work has also led to a reassessment of where new colleges or runeforges might be profitably built. Similar to the way a nation can support a certain number of armies, it seems that some nations can support a [[College_of_magic#Maximum_numbers_of_Colleges\|new college]] or a [[Runeforge#Maximum_Numbers_of_Runeforges\|new runeforge]] without additional difficulty or the need for an [[opportunity]]. Lutomysla Niegoslava has presented a short list of the nations in question to help the [[Senate]] and the [[Conclave]] with future planning. It's also been agreed that a central list of which rituals are being worked on at each college, and which magic items are being developed, in the same way that the folk of Urizen know what they are working on with the [[Doyen of the Spires]].

	'''OOC Note:''' Further details of this change to colleges of magic and runeforges are detailed in the [[Rules_update_2025#Colleges_and_Runeforges\|rules update]].		'''OOC Note:''' Further details of this change to colleges of magic and runeforges are detailed in the [[Rules_update_2025#Colleges_and_Runeforges\|rules update]].

← Older revision		Revision as of 15:09, 15 January 2026
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	This comes after a period where the civil service have increasingly found it easier to hire [[magical skills#Magician\|magicians]] (or [[Crafting skills#Artisan\|artisans]]) living in a given nation to operate a college of magic or runeforge established there. This has allowed the upkeep of a college or runeforge to be standardised, just as it is for most other forms of [[commission]]. The Empire can now build such a commission and know that the upkeep will be 12 thrones a season.		This comes after a period where the civil service have increasingly found it easier to hire [[magical skills#Magician\|magicians]] (or [[Crafting skills#Artisan\|artisans]]) living in a given nation to operate a college of magic or runeforge established there. This has allowed the upkeep of a college or runeforge to be standardised, just as it is for most other forms of [[commission]]. The Empire can now build such a commission and know that the upkeep will be 12 thrones a season.

	The work has also led to a reassessment of where new colleges or runeforges might be profitably built. Similar to the way a nation can support a certain number of armies, it seems that some nations can support a [[College_of_magic#Maximum_numbers_of_Colleges\|new college]] or a [[Runeforge#Maximum_Numbers_of_Runeforges\|new runeforge]] without additional difficulty or the need for an [[opportunity]]. Lutomysla Niegoslava has presented a short list of the nations in question to help the [[~~Imperial~~ Senate]] and the [[Imperial Conclave]] with future planning. It's also been agreed that a central list of which rituals are being worked on at each college, and which magic items are being developed, in the same way that the folk of Urizen know what they are working on with the [[Doyen of the Spires]].		The work has also led to a reassessment of where new colleges or runeforges might be profitably built. Similar to the way a nation can support a certain number of armies, it seems that some nations can support a [[College_of_magic#Maximum_numbers_of_Colleges\|new college]] or a [[Runeforge#Maximum_Numbers_of_Runeforges\|new runeforge]] without additional difficulty or the need for an [[opportunity]]. Lutomysla Niegoslava has presented a short list of the nations in question to help the [[Senate]] and the [[Imperial Conclave]] with future planning. It's also been agreed that a central list of which rituals are being worked on at each college, and which magic items are being developed, in the same way that the folk of Urizen know what they are working on with the [[Doyen of the Spires]].

	'''OOC Note:''' Further details of this change to colleges of magic and runeforges are detailed in the [[Rules_update_2025#Colleges_and_Runeforges\|rules update]].		'''OOC Note:''' Further details of this change to colleges of magic and runeforges are detailed in the [[Rules_update_2025#Colleges_and_Runeforges\|rules update]].

← Older revision		Revision as of 10:50, 11 June 2025
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	One particularly notable event takes place when the largest pack of wolves recorded since the [[Imperial Orcs]] gained their homeland attack the cattle of the [[Shepherd_of_the_Great_Herd#The_Great_Herd\|Great Herd]] in [[Skarsind#Estermark\|Estermark]]. The orcs are able to fight them off, under the guidance of the [[Shepherd of the Great Herd]] but the attacks continue sporadically through the Winter. There's real concern that if this predatory behaviour by the beasts continues to escalate the next attack might cause significant damage.		One particularly notable event takes place when the largest pack of wolves recorded since the [[Imperial Orcs]] gained their homeland attack the cattle of the [[Shepherd_of_the_Great_Herd#The_Great_Herd\|Great Herd]] in [[Skarsind#Estermark\|Estermark]]. The orcs are able to fight them off, under the guidance of the [[Shepherd of the Great Herd]] but the attacks continue sporadically through the Winter. There's real concern that if this predatory behaviour by the beasts continues to escalate the next attack might cause significant damage.

	There's also a marked increase in violence among humans and orcs as well. Following on from several incidents during the Winter Solstice, the magistrates report an increase in brawling and fighting in the four territories that has in some cases ~~lead~~ to loss of life. None of it seems particularly premeditated - it just seems that tempers boil over more easily through the cold Winter months. it's especially pronounced along the [[Northern trade network]], where there's a particular concentration of strangers moving with merchant caravans, and they are often the victims or perpetrators of the unexpected violence. Again, it's not ~~lead~~ to any impact on the trade route but gloomy sorts suggest it is only a matter of time.		There's also a marked increase in violence among humans and orcs as well. Following on from several incidents during the Winter Solstice, the magistrates report an increase in brawling and fighting in the four territories that has in some cases led to loss of life. None of it seems particularly premeditated - it just seems that tempers boil over more easily through the cold Winter months. It's especially pronounced along the [[Northern trade network]], where there's a particular concentration of strangers moving with merchant caravans, and they are often the victims or perpetrators of the unexpected violence. Again, it's not led to any impact on the trade route but gloomy sorts suggest it is only a matter of time.

	Finally, there have been more attacks on actual halls, villages, and steadings by animals and great beasts that seem almost maddened. Several folk have lost their lives, including a number of skilled hunters who have gone missing and are presumed slain and eaten by wild animals. The [[Banner-bearer_of_Atkonaroq#Hall_of_the_Hunters\|Hall of the Hunters]] has been hit by several such disappearances, but fortunately the heroes who [[Venture#Hunt_the_Suaq_Wastes\|hunt the Suaq Wastes]] each season are helping to keep such losses to a minimum.		Finally, there have been more attacks on actual halls, villages, and steadings by animals and great beasts that seem almost maddened. Several folk have lost their lives, including a number of skilled hunters who have gone missing and are presumed slain and eaten by wild animals. The [[Banner-bearer_of_Atkonaroq#Hall_of_the_Hunters\|Hall of the Hunters]] has been hit by several such disappearances, but fortunately the heroes who [[Venture#Hunt_the_Suaq_Wastes\|hunt the Suaq Wastes]] each season are helping to keep such losses to a minimum.
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	* '''A Grand Conjunction of the Great Wyrm and the Mountain has had a profound effect on magical laws'''		* '''A Grand Conjunction of the Great Wyrm and the Mountain has had a profound effect on magical laws'''
	* '''Several enchantments have been empowered by the conjunction of the Great Wyrm and the Mountain'''		* '''Several enchantments have been empowered by the conjunction of the Great Wyrm and the Mountain'''
	Since the Winter Solstice, Imperial [[astronomancy\|astronomancers]] have marked a rare Grand Conjunction of [[the Great Wyrm]] and [[the Mountain]] in the skies above the Empire. The stars known as ''Uril, Who Twists'' and ''Omadan, Who Breaks All Names'' seem particularly bright, and there is a passionate discussion as to what it might mean (if anything) that these two stars are generally seen as being the end of the tail and the point of the snout of the notional celestial Wyrm. The impact of this conjunction has already been felt by magicians, with seismic changes to the way certain types of magic, specifically those associated with warfare, function. This has ~~lead~~ to permanent alterations to the way [[Imperial army\|armies]], [[military unit\|warbands]], and [[fleet\|ships]] are [[enchantment\|enchanted]], and to how certain divinations work.		Since the Winter Solstice, Imperial [[astronomancy\|astronomancers]] have marked a rare Grand Conjunction of [[the Great Wyrm]] and [[the Mountain]] in the skies above the Empire. The stars known as ''Uril, Who Twists'' and ''Omadan, Who Breaks All Names'' seem particularly bright, and there is a passionate discussion as to what it might mean (if anything) that these two stars are generally seen as being the end of the tail and the point of the snout of the notional celestial Wyrm. The impact of this conjunction has already been felt by magicians, with seismic changes to the way certain types of magic, specifically those associated with warfare, function. This has led to permanent alterations to the way [[Imperial army\|armies]], [[military unit\|warbands]], and [[fleet\|ships]] are [[enchantment\|enchanted]], and to how certain divinations work.

	As predicted [[Patterns_of_fairytales#Wyrm_and_Mountain\|last season]], the power of the Grand Conjunction has increased since the Winter Solstice and is not entirely negative. The Great Wyrm is a symbol of magic that moves magic, and it seems that while this celestial event is causing problems for some, it is empowering others. Until the Summer Solstice, several rituals that provide a personal empowerment to magicians are made more powerful.		As predicted [[Patterns_of_fairytales#Wyrm_and_Mountain\|last season]], the power of the Grand Conjunction has increased since the Winter Solstice and is not entirely negative. The Great Wyrm is a symbol of magic that moves magic, and it seems that while this celestial event is causing problems for some, it is empowering others. Until the Summer Solstice, several rituals that provide a personal empowerment to magicians are made more powerful.
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	==Dedicated Dreams==		==Dedicated Dreams==
	* '''There is a ~~dramaturgial~~ confluence involving the Witch, the Lantern and the Library around Anvil this summit'''		* '''There is a dramaturgical confluence involving the Witch, the Lantern, and the Library around Anvil this summit'''
	*'''Liao dreams in Casinea induced by the Dedication skill sometimes take an unusual form'''		*'''Liao dreams in Casinea induced by the Dedication skill sometimes take an unusual form'''
	*'''The dreams people have seem to be snippets of past life visions, some known to the Empire, some not'''		*'''The dreams people have seem to be snippets of past life visions, some known to the Empire, some not'''
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	Careful study by the archivists of Highguard reveals that some of these seem to be parts of past life visions, being experienced by citizens in some fashion through the combination of liao and [[Dramaturgy#The_Rule_of_Three\|the three elements]] of dramaturgy. It is not always straightforward to interpret the visions, which can be fragmentary or unclear. But some of the visions received do not appear to match up anything in the Echoes. The Highborn do not seem to be too concerned about this turn of events - unless the Assemblies of the Synod decide differently, of course.		Careful study by the archivists of Highguard reveals that some of these seem to be parts of past life visions, being experienced by citizens in some fashion through the combination of liao and [[Dramaturgy#The_Rule_of_Three\|the three elements]] of dramaturgy. It is not always straightforward to interpret the visions, which can be fragmentary or unclear. But some of the visions received do not appear to match up anything in the Echoes. The Highborn do not seem to be too concerned about this turn of events - unless the Assemblies of the Synod decide differently, of course.

	Those who study such things carefully believe that this phenomenon is a confluence - akin to a conjunction of stars, but most easily studied and understood through dramaturgy. They cite local dramaturgists who have noticed that [[the Witch]], [[the Lantern]], and [[the Library]] have begun appearing in performances that they have no reason to be in. Productions of ''My Tassatan Cousin'' have seen the protagonist switch part way through to be portrayed by the Witch rather than [[the Prince]]; the recitations of ''[[Salvation (poem)\|Salvation]]'' see the poem jumbled halfway through - one instance had the performer stop halfway through and then repeat themselves; and songs about neverending heartache see the lyrics twist, so that the ending has the singer come to terms with their loss. A confluence, like a conjunction, is nothing to worry about. They are usually more localised than a shift in the stars, but like a conjunction,n they usually pass quickly. Things might be a little ''weird'' until that happens, is all.		Those who study such things carefully believe that this phenomenon is a confluence - akin to a conjunction of stars, but most easily studied and understood through dramaturgy. They cite local dramaturgists who have noticed that [[the Witch]], [[the Lantern]], and [[the Library]] have begun appearing in performances that they have no reason to be in. Productions of ''My Tassatan Cousin'' have seen the protagonist switch part way through to be portrayed by the Witch rather than [[the Prince]]; the recitations of ''[[Salvation (poem)\|Salvation]]'' see the poem jumbled halfway through - one instance had the performer stop halfway through and then repeat themselves; and songs about neverending heartache see the lyrics twist, so that the ending has the singer come to terms with their loss. A confluence, like a conjunction, is nothing to worry about. They are usually more localised than a shift in the stars, but like a conjunction, they usually pass quickly. Things might be a little ''weird'' until that happens, is all.

	'''Participation:''' Anyone performing at the event might find themselves leaning towards one of the three elements. The Witch might appear as an unexpected character, the Lantern might present itself as the perfect prop, or the Library might come to mind as the ideal setting.		'''Participation:''' Anyone performing at the event might find themselves leaning towards one of the three elements. The Witch might appear as an unexpected character, the Lantern might present itself as the perfect prop, or the Library might come to mind as the ideal setting.

	'''OOC Note:''' This event, if the ~~Dedication~~ skill is used to induce dreams, instead of the normal roleplaying effect of lucid dreams, players can go to GOD, the Regio tent, or the Ref Access Tent the following day and get a ~~Dedication~~ vision slip. Both the priest and the pilgrim should go together to ensure they receive the same vision. If either or both the pilgrim and the priest don't want to do this, they can roleplay the normal lucid dreams if they prefer. Note that it is not possible for the priest and the pilgrim to receive ''different'' visions from one liao ceremony.		'''OOC Note:''' This event, if the dedication skill is used to induce dreams, instead of the normal roleplaying effect of lucid dreams, players can go to GOD, the Regio tent, or the Ref Access Tent the following day and get a dedication vision slip. Both the priest and the pilgrim should go together to ensure they receive the same vision. If either or both the pilgrim and the priest don't want to do this, they can roleplay the normal lucid dreams if they prefer. Note that it is not possible for the priest and the pilgrim to receive ''different'' visions from one liao ceremony.

	==The College That Could==		==The College That Could==