Season: Spring
Location: Pyrenees, near Bayonne
Year: 1190
(3rd ed with 2nd ed covenants)
Since we have two more players (they went through our "apprenticeship" by playing grogs and companions), who may soon play magi, the covenant could be growing in the near future.
As you can see, our covenant will not have the best of reputations and is composed mainly of emigrants from other tribunals. Even the grogs are (partially) former bandits, though they are seen as "guerilla" types by the locals. Displacement, being outside and mistrusted is a theme common to our saga, though the magi react to this very differently - the Tremere has begun to build up a good reputation with the locals, whom the magi serve as judges in return for goods.
Al Ahzred, Pontifex Iturriaga esse Sodalibus suis salutem plurinam dicit, I hope this letter finds your covenant healthy and well and may fate smile on you. As the current Head of the humble community of Iturriaga I have one request to make, which,so I hope, will be granted by you and the other honored members of the illustrous Iberia Tribunal. Our covenant, recently founded by two magi from the covenant of Tarn Crag in the Stonehenge Tribunal and having undergone inspection by the honorable and just members of the House Guernicus is in a difficult position, namely being that the aforementioned founding place is located in the Pyrenee mountains in the land of the Vascones or Basque. As such it is juridically in the most delicate position to be situated on the borders of the two ancient Tribunals of Iberia and Provence, though mundane powers would hold it to be subject of the King of Navarre. After careful consideration and council with the said members of House Guernicus the Circle of Magi has decided to apply for membership in the Tribunal of Iberia and hereby would ask of you to look favourable onto our humble request and supporting our plea at the next Tribunal Meeting, build a strong base for friendship and mutual exchange. May the light of knowledge guide your way, Valete Al-Ahzred, House Ex Miscellanea representing Iturriaga
The Redcaps comments: A strange bunch these magi - they live in a cave near a fairy forest, must have some trouble with them, since small fey moved about and acted as if the own the place, they should get a decent Aegis or the wee folk will run their labs in no time. The area is pleasant enough as the mountains go, though quite rainy, but that's the northwest for you, eh, always getting soaked - must be why they are so grumbly up there. Could hardly understand a word in the covenant - all manners of languages from thsi godforsaken Euskadi to Arab and Gaelic. A motley crewe of wild men they have there, some from Hibernia as I have gathered. A good entertainer, though, but the food is a bit poor if you take my meaning... The Magi? Oh, they are a mixed lot and no mistake. A Quaesitor frined of mine told me, that some are not to well liked by Duresca, having had some sort of black spot in their story, but most probably their masters are to blame, since they are so young, not one is older than three score years! How they maintain authority and discipline in their turb is beyond me... Iturriaga - Euskadi for Place of the spring or well - though I have not seen any, must be in those caves - they are a bit secretive about them. Aah, well, a friendly enough lot, though they do not seem to have an excess of books available if you take my meaning, some good works there, though. The locals like them, which is not often the case and heard tales of a magic beast up in the mountains aiding them in times of need, but that may be peasant superstition... Anyway, anymore wine left, pass me the caraffe, kindly thank you sir.
Associated with a mostly destroyed Temple of Mithras.
In the north part of the Ebro Delta is a long sandspit forming Fangar Bay. Gergustia Concordium is at the east end of the bay.
/ -------------
/ | \
/ _--------- -----
| Fangar \ GC \
\ Bay / \
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We are currently working in 1201. I have two other high-aura sites that the PCs turned down in favour of the higher aura in the Ebro.
One is located north of Tortosa and was created by the impact of a shooting star. PCs could (if they think of it) excavate the crater and move the rock to (possibly) add to their existing aura. That site also had an old alcazar (arab castle) which had some spies for the Kingdom of Valencia.
The other site was at Cape Salou (about a day north-east of you, on the coast), which was a lighthouse on a tall Cape. Underneath were a few caverns, one of which centred under an ancient Celtic dolmen (rocks piled in a shape such as Stonehedge, but on a much smalled scale). The dolmen or the cavern underneath were the source of the aura. Vis appears as sea salt which appears from sea water evaporating in pools at the base of the cape. This salt has been used as a source of income for the locals and has been causing a number of strange mutations and events in the area.
One of the magi of my Saga has just sent a letter to many of the covenants of Iberia. I am forwarding it to you, so you can use it in your own sagas. Any answer from your players would be welcome, and could produce interesting exchange between our sagas, regardless of different time lines and power levels (we can adjust them to fit out tastes).
--------- /Start of letter/ ---------
Salve Sodales of conventus <insert the conventus name>,
You probably do not know me. My name is Guillaume de Carcassone from the conventus of Amphoria, near the mundane town of Cardiga. I am writing this missive to establish a link between your conventus and mine. This could concern simple news around your area or more material trading.
For instance, I offer my services to my fellow magi who would need a translator for texts in a strange mundane tongue or another. Fees are to be discussed depending on the text. Also, if you need or want to offer a classical text in Latin, Greek or Arabic, I may be able to help. My own specialty is in Artes Liberales, of course.
On a more commonplace viewpoint, it would not be impossible for me to look at the idea of vis trading. With a little time, I could get my hand on Aquam and perhaps Rego vis. Once again, discussion will be needed before making a deal.
Concerning art books, I may be able to find or write some tractatus. I also could be convinced to travel for some lectio or disputatio, if your arguments are good. Regarding fees, I am very open to payment in money since many interesting items may only be got through mundanes.
If you are interested, send me an answer with your name, conventus name, desires and offers. The Redcap that has given you this litterae is young but trustworthy.
Guillaume de Carcassone, in domo Jerbiton Conventus Amphoria
-------- /End of letter/ --------
The Redcap mentionned is Juliana of Mercere. If you decided to use her in your saga, this would be a good way to introduce her.
The covenant is based on the ruins of an old monastery, which was built on the ruins of an old druidic temple (hence the magic aura). It is built on the lands of a knight names Christophe, who lets the magi use the location because it keeps his peasents thinking about the Satan worshipping magi in the forest, and not on his recent increases in taxes. Also, another fortified site on his land, filled with magiwho are opposed to the muslims and masters of arcane knowledge, is attractive to someone who's land is close to the muslims.
It is located near Iron rich mountains in the southern mountain range in Spain, is well isolated and consists of four magi: Marius of Bonisagus, Vulcan of Flambeau, Cato of Criamon, and Andreas of Verditius.
We use 4th ed ArM
It is a spring covenant in a horrible defensive position (bought -15 points in covenant creation), but very isolated. It is rumoured, amongst the peasents and commoners, that it is home to diabolists, and so the magi have a 3 bad Rep. They have a Hermes Portal going to their winter covenant allies ( a covenant near Murcia), and have recently made friends with Jafeirya.
As for saga stuff, there is a three way political battle going on in the tribunal, with the Pro-Chrisitians led by Jafeirya, the Pro-Muslims led by Estanca-es-Karida, and the Neutrals led by Barcelona. Each has roughly 1/3 of the vote, so Barcelona is the balance of power.
Site +2 Buildings +5 Defenses +3 Stores -5 Relations -4 Improvement -3 Library -2 Mystical -2
A LEGEND, A DREAM, AND A LIE
The Flambeau of the early twelfth century believed in a dream rooted in a legend wrapped in a lie. This belief had great impact on the entire Order, but nowhere was it as central as in the Iberian Tribunal.
The legend told of how Flambeau single-handedly forged an empire in Iberia in the name of the Order. It described his early battles against the hedge wizards of that peninsula; lauded his creation of Val-negra; listed the many apprentices he trained; and sorrowed over his eventual death. But, though Flambeau passed from the world, the Iberian Tribunal was inherited by his children, and they ruled over it wisely for many years. Then, in 1096, the Flambeau were betrayed. At the Grand Tribunal of that year House Jerbiton conspired to redefine the political boundaries of the Order, and suddenly Val-negra, the gem of Iberia, became part of Provencal. Iberia was lost to the Flambeau and Val-negra began its long fall to Winter.
The dream suggested that Flambeau magi might reclaim the Iberian Tribunal for themselves. In the decade after 1096 it was just a wistful thought but as a new generation of magi came to power, one who had not drunk the bitter dregs of 1096, that wistful thought became a true dream, and like all dreams it had power.
The lie was one of self-delusion, a truth that the Flambeau of the early 12th century refused to recognize. The truth they could not accept was as simple as this: The World Had Changed. Flambeau lived in a vast, empty world. Magi of Hermes were few, and so he could put his stamp upon an entire Tribunal, and it could truly be his. But in the three centuries that had followed the world had grown smaller. The carefully calculated movement of Val-negra was an effect, not a cause; Iberia had already been lost to the Flambeau, filled by a new and vibrant life.
THREE DREAMERS, A SHATTERED DREAM
Calefacto de Aquitaine and Isabel completed their apprenticeship at Doissetep in Provencal in 1139. There was no place for them in their home covenant so, like many Flambeau of their generation, they decided to follow The Dream to Iberia.
In Iberia Calefacto and Isabel sought out a young magus named Rasus. He had visited Doissestep some five years previous, speaking of his plans to retake Iberia. Though young he had been charismatic, his words bespeaking the driving emotions that whirled within him. Even surrounded by the splendors of Doissestep, Calefacto and Isabel had been moved by his words.
They found Rasus in Jaferiya, a covenant in Leon. He had already gained great power in that covenant, and had gathered around him half-a-dozen young Flambeau. When Rasus saw the two young magi from Doissetep he greeted them by name, despite the brevity of their previous meeting and the time elapsed since. Calefacto and Isabel were won over once more by Rasus, and with his support they joined the covenant of Jaferiya.
But, Calefacto and Isabel were not solely two Flambeau seeking to burn their mark into the world, they were also two young lovers, and so they saw the world differently than some of their fellows. When Rasus spoke of burning away the Moorish pestilence that had fallen over Iberia, razing their buildings, and blasting the ground until it was as if they had never been, Calefacto and Isabel remembered the beauty, the wisdom, and the knowledge that they had seen on the southern plateau. For a full year they were divided between loyalty to house Flambeau and to their own humanity. In the end their goodness won out; they left Jaferiya during the night without a word.
THREE FRIENDS, DREAMS BORN ANEW
For months Calefacto and Isabel wandered Iberia aimlessly. Word of their betrayal had spread, and so they were shunned by the Flambeau of the Tribunal. It was not until they came one day to the Delta del Ebro that a new dream was born.
Calefacto and Isabel had come to the delta seeking magic, following word of a Mercurian Temple that was situated upon an old Celtic cranog in the area. They had found the cranog, easily distinguished by an ancient tower that rose from its center, but the only ruins there were those of a crude Visigothic fortress. If a Mercurian Temple had once stood on the island in the Delta del Ebro it was buried deep.
However, the trip was not wasted, for Calefacto and Isabel both fell in love with the beauty of the area. When Calefacto discovered that the island had a minor magic aura the die was cast: they would form a covenant here.
But, Calefacto and Isabel knew that they could not accomplish this task alone. Calefacto called upon his brother, Aubrin of Merinita. Their familial ties had always been strong. In 1141 Aubrin arrived in Iberia. He praised the beauty of the delta, and agreed to help his brother form his covenant.
The three friends had three years to prepare, before they made their claim at the tribunal of 1144. Calefacto and Isabel had made many enemies when they abandoned Jaferiya, but much to their surprise they had made friends as well. For three years Isabel used threats, Calefacto used guile, and Aubrin used political wiles to insure that a majority of Iberian magi would vote to accept the covenant. During this period Aubrin also managed to secure legal title to the covenant's land, taking advantage of unrest within the Aragon nobility to plant a forged land grant. Since then the covenant has paid the crown of Aragon 25 pounds of silver every year, and no ruler has questioned the grant supposedly made by one of his ancestors.
Finally, 1144 arrived, and all of the trio's preparation was put to the test. The new covenant, now officially named Prospectus Locus, was accepted-barely.
IDLE YEARS
For a time after that the covenants of Iberia courted Prospectus Locus. The Roman covenants thought that Prospectus Locus would join them immediately; they were surprised to be rebuffed. The Reconquista covenants had little hope of changing the ways of Prospectus Locus, but they tried anyway; as they expected they failed. The neutral covenants naturally thought they had won Prospectus Locus to their side; they were told the three magi just wanted to be left alone.
This is not to say Prospectus Locus did not take a side in the battles between Moors and Christians. They did, often helping the Moors in a defensive capacity, working to save their arts, their books, and their other treasures. Between 1144 and 1194 the magi of Prospectus Locus were engaged in at least 50 skirmishes, always on the side of the Moors, but they refused to enter into the political bickerings of the Tribunal.
Prospectus Locus grew in those years, but only slowly. Its emphasis on Moorish culture instead of Hermetic magic-as well as the poor labs and library that this resulted in-discouraged many a potential candidate for membership. Still, the covenant's membership grew slowly.
The covenant's fourth member, Simon Ex Miscellanea, proved to be a spy for Interritus, the most powerful Flambeau covenant of the time. He joined in 1142 and was asked to leave in 1148. The covenant's fifth member fared no better. Cuneus of Bonisagus joined in 1152 and left in 1158, disgusted by the covenant's facilities.
It was not until 1155 that Prospectus Locus' fortunes began to look up. In that year Tarratus of Tytalus joined. Drake of Bjornaer and Iuxta Ex Miscellanea followed ten years later, then Lignatora of Merinita in 1173. Addictus of Tytalus, Tarratus' first apprentice, was made a full magus in 1174, and he decided to remain at the covenant, the first and only member of the covenant's second generation.
1175 brought tragedy with the death of Lignatora in a minor skirmish against the Christians, but the covenant continued on. Ignisa Lamina of Flambeau joined in 1188, then there was another death. Iuxta Ex Miscellanea passed on mysteriously in 1192.
In 1194, at the covenant's fiftieth anniversary, Prospectus Locus had seven members. The future looked bright.
YEARS OF BATTLE
By the start of 1195 several of the Flambeau and Tytalus of Prospectus Locus-Calefacto, Isabel, Tarratus, and Ignisa Lamina-had grown increasingly militant. They were tired of watching the Moors fight a losing battle, and were ready to take a much more proactive role in the conflict. Isabel declared that they must draw a line, and she choose to draw it at Alarcos, south of Toledo.
That summer the Christian army moved south on Alarcos, as everyone had known they would. Six magi of Prospectus Locus, all but Drake, moved north with the Moorish army to oppose them. They were surprised to find many magi of Jaferiya marching alongside their enemies, Rasus at their lead.
"This was inevitable from the night we fled Jaferiya," Isabel declared, and the battle was begun. In blatant disregard for the Hermetic code powerful magics blazed on both sides. The battle lasted long hours, through the day and into the night. By the time it was done the battlefield was barren. The Christians were badly hurt, but the Moors were in full retreat. It was Aubrin who discovered how much the battle had cost them, when he turned over a woman's blackened body and discovered it was Isabel.
For twelve years after that Calefacto battled the Christian Crusaders with a maniacal, almost insane, zeal. He pressed them as he never had before, uncaring of the consequences. Several times Quaesitors came to investigate him, but they always pronounced a verdict of not guilty and left fearing for their lives. And, the covenant continued to grow. Forticulus of Flambeau joined in 1200, and Shlachten of Flambeau joined in 1205, both inspired by the stories of Calefacto's valor.
Then, in 1207, there came an event that shook the entire Tribunal. The magi of Jaferiya, friends of priests and crusaders alike, were revealed to be the darkest diabolists. With flames, smoke, and destructive magic the magi of Jaferiya managed to escape their just fate. The covenant of Jaferiya was disbanded, but its inhabitants had become the Shadow Flambeau. Ignisa Lamina died during the Tribunal of 1207, trying to prevent the Shadow Flambeau's escape.
For the last five years of his life Calefacto had a new purpose: the lawful destruction of the Shadow Flambeau who had caused the death of his only love. He led the militant magi of Prospectus Locus in this task: Tarratus of Tytalus, Addictus of Tytalus, Forticulus of Flambeau, and Shlacthen of Flambeau. Only Aubrin and Drake remained aloof, both weary of the years of violence. The five warriors of Prospectus Locus joined the Archmage Karandos and helped bring two Shadow Flambeau to justice in the cataclysmic battle of 1208 on the plains east of Toledo. Shortly therafter one final magus joined the covnenant. Centerin of Tremere was eager to help hunt for the Shadow Flambeau.
In 1212 Calefacto learned that Rasus was leading an army of Christians south at Las Navas de Tolosa. After gathering a huge store of vis, Calefacto brought his five allies to support the Moorish army south of Toledo and prepared to face his great enemies one last time. Rasus' diabolic powers had grown vaster than anyone had suspected, and he was able to cast a cloak of fog over the Christian army, allowing them to attack by surprise. The battle was horrendous. Rasus and the four remaining Shadow Flambeau did all they could to insure that none escaped to tell the tale of the battle.
Somehow Forticulus of Tytalus survived and escaped. He had seen both Calefacto and Taratus struck down with his own eyes, and had little hope that the others-Addictus, Shlacthen, and Centerin-had survived. He searched the battlefield for three long days but found no bodies. Finally he returned to Prospectus Locus with his tale of woe.
AN UNCERTAIN FUTURE
Though greatly saddened Aubrin and Drake were not surprised by Forticulus' tale. It had only been a matter of time. Instead of dwelling on the past they began to look toward the future. The covenant of Prospectus Locus faced two dangers.
The lesser of the two was, surprisingly, the Shadow Flambeau. These rogues had killed nearly 50 magi and destroyed two small covenants, but Aubrin did not fear them. They had shown little interest in the east coast and were unlikely to assault Prospectus Locus unless provoked-an increasingly unlikely prospect.
The greater danger came from old political enemies in the Tribunal, chief among them Interritus, one of the covenant's oldest foes, substantially decreased in power since the rise of Barcelona, but still a threat. Unchecked at the Tribunal of 1214 Interritus might force the dissolution of Prospectus Locus, and there were a mere three sigils to protect it.
In 1213 Aubrin put out a unique call for magi, offering the full benefits of membership in Prospectus Locus with but one demand: that sigils be offered without question for use in the Tribunal of 1214. Many magi were eager to take advantage of the offer.
Prospectus Locus is located on an island in the Delta del Ebro, where the Ebro River widens to form a lake. It lies near the east side of the river; a man can wade to the shore on that side with the water never rising higher than waist-deep. There is deep water to the other sides of the island, and the covenant maintains a stone boat deck to the west. In the summer the water level of the river drops and a ridge of land rises up west of the island, forming a lake about the island. At the same time a causeway rises to the east, running from the island to the shore. These conditions last for one to two month's time.
The covenant lies near two major trade-routes, the one down the river Ebro, and the other along the old Roman road between Barcelona and Valencia. The covenant grows much of its food within the covenant: primarily rice and a variety of fruits and vegetables. Additional goods come from several villages within a half day's journey; Sarragossa, which lies a day's travel up the Ebro; and the two cities of Barcelona and Valencia, each about two days away.
One of the nearby villages is just across the delta from the covenant, no more than an hour's walk. It has many stone buildings and the remains of a Roman ampitheater. In summer there is a fair in the village, and many of our craftsfolk attend to sell their surplus wares.
ACCESS
+3 Quality of goods equal to those available to minor clergy 40 20 20 20
SECLUSION
+0 Average of one curious visitor every week
ENVIRONMENT
+0 Environment is of average health
The most impressive building at Prospectus Locus is the old tower, which predates the covenant. It is now five stories high, though it once was higher. The bottom floor is for storage, the second floor is for the officers of the grogs, and the top three floors contains the labs of the surviving magi: Aubrin (5), Drake (4), and Forticulus (3).
Six additional labs stand within the walls of the covenant. The old lab that Calefacto once used, marked by dark, blackened ground, lies just outside the covenant walls.
Also within the walls are a number of a structures that would make most magi of the Order weep with envy, including a reconstructed Roman bathouse and a great feasting hall. The furnace room of the bath house has been broken open, to also supply the kitchen with heat. A gossiping fire elemntal lives within, though it must be constantly fed with logs just like any other fire.
There is room for 20 specialists and 100 grogs within the covenant. All accomidations, for magi and mundanes alike, are of excellent quality, featuring plumbing, good drainage, internal bathrooms, and a little stained glass.
An escape tunnel also lies within the covenant walls, leading out to the stone dock where the covenant's boat is typically docked.
SIZE
+3 Space for 10 magi, 20 specialists, 100 grogs
QUALITY
+8 All space is excellent quality, including plumbling, internal bathrooms, and some stained glass. +1 Good drainage system +1 Central tower +1 Reconstructed Roman bathouse +1 Stone dock +1 Feasting hall +1 Escape tunnel +1 Boat for river
REPAIR
+0 Average
Lying on an island the covenant is well protected. The only easy approach is across the shallow channel to the east. A solid wall surrounds the covenant, warded by a sturdy gatehouse, facing south.
SITE
+8 Covenant is on an island in a lake, with a shallow, wadeable channel lying toward the coast. Approach is Very Hard (3) for three sides and Difficult (2) for coastal side.
EXTENT
+1 Normal stone walls cover most of space. A gatehouse sits in the walls toward the coast.
REPAIR
+0 Average
The covenant is in debt due to Calefacto borrowing heavily for that final battle in 1212. Vis is owed to both Roman covenants, several neutral covenants, and also a scattering of covenants in the Provencal tribunal. At least 10 pawns of vis must be paid every year or additional debts will accrue.
Calefacto's maniacal actions between 1195 and 1207 earned the entire covenant a bad reputation within the order. It is said to be made up of troublemakers and suspected code-breakers as well.
The covenant has always had poor relations with the church, who sees it as a leftover from pagan days. Rumors that members of the covenant have helped Moors has only made this worse.
The local lord simply believes the covenant to be composed of commoners who rose above their station.
Conversely the moors of Southern Iberia remember Prospectus Locus fondly for the help that Calefacto offered them.
VIS STOCKS
-6 Owe 200 pawns of vis
SUPPLIES
+0 No extra stores of mundane supplies
REPUTATION
-6 3 point bad reputation (pagans) with church -3 2 point bad reputation (troublemakers & codebreakers) with order -1 1 point bad reputation (commoners) with local Christian lord +1 1 point good reputation (friends) with moors
The covenant's oldest ally is Anna, the faerie in the lake. She gifted the magi with a magic trellis when they first settled on the island, and has been a good friend since. She will help when asked, though she is wary of the grogs with their iron weapons. Rumors says that Anna has a sister named Natasha, but she is rarely seen.
Unfortunately the covenant has many enemies.
Interritus is the worst. It is a Flambeau-dominated covenant nestled at the foot of the Pyrenees. At one time it was the most powerful covenant in the tribunal, the home of the Praeco of the Tribunal. With the death of that Praeco and the rise of Barcelona, it has descended in power greatly, though Tribunals are still held there. Its hatred of Prospectus Locus is due to the old betrayal of Jaferiya by Calefacto and Isabel. Depsite the fact the Calefacto and Isabel are dead, Jaferiya has been disbanded, and its remaining magi are all cast out from the order, Interritus' old vendetta goes on.
Abbot Costello is a new enemy. He is the head of a monastery founded upon the site of the martyrdom of Saint Odo. The monastery is currently in its final stages of construction, and Costello has not yet expressed ill will toward the covenant, but that will soon change.
Finally, Prospectus Locus has also made enemies of a lone wolf Flambeau by the name of Intentio. He once loved Ignisa Lamina and blames the covenant for her death.
Prospectus Locus' contacts are all bad.
Unknown to anyone at the covenant, one of the coven folk is a spy, reporting information to Interritus. Fortunately this coven folk has no access to councils or other private meetings.
Prospectus Locus has had its own spy, Raul, a knight among the Christian armies. Unfortunately, he is incompetent, and his information has typically gotten the magi of the covenant into trouble; however, the knight has gotten lucky enough to provide the occasional snippet of good information, hiding his total ineptitude. Raul also owns a small herd of sheep, and some land, and occasionally peddles wool.
ALLIES
+1 Minor faerie ally in lake, no extra intensity
ENEMIES
-5 Moderate-sized covenant, no extra intensity -3 Abbot of local monastery, no extra intensity -1 Flambeau wizards, no extra intensity
CONTACTS
-1 spies in our covenant, from enemy covenant -2 incompetent contact, crusading knight
Aubrin's skilled management, the yearly fair, and the availability of natural resources has caused Prospectus Locus to prosper financially; it shows a 50 pound silver surplus every year.
Despite the generally weak magic of the area Prospectus Locus has managed to gather 20 pawns of renewable vis resources over the years.
A full 11 pawns of vis come from the covenant's garden.
A FAERIE TRELLIS that presently has roses growing on it is the center piece of the garden. The Magi can harvest 2 pawns per season from the roses: 2 Terram in winter, 2 Intellego in spring, 2 Herbam in summer, and 2 Vim in autumn. The trellis was a gift to the covenant from the faerie in the lake when she first befriended the Magi. It's made of a very hard and resilient faerie wood. Its resilience was discovered in 1148, when it came a little too close to a conflict between Calefacto and Simon. It withstood a pilum of flame, but the plants growing in it did not, and that was how the covenant learned that the trellis, not the plant, was the actual source of vis.
Each new plant, however, does change the type of vis. As a result, at times when the covenant stores became too rich in one flavor, they ripped up the plants and grew something different. The restrictions are: a total of 8 pawns a year, and the type of vis is unpredictable beforehand; it has to be a climbing plant; and if something new is planted it requires a full year before it can begin to produce vis.
The trellis is six feet wide and is in an arch twenty feet long and twelve feet high. The Magi have a garden table set under it, where Aubrin and Drake like to have their morning meal.
SEVERAL SUNFLOWERS also grow in the garden. At the end of the growing season (Fall), they can be harvested for a total of 1 pawn of Ignem, 1 of Auram, and 1 of Creo. Originally they were brought to the Covenant by Lignatora of Merinita, and with her death they became Covenant property. The flowers are a distinct breed, and increasing the number grown doesn't increase the vis. If only one flower is grown, it will still yield three pawns. The greater the number of flowers, the more the vis will be spread out amoung the crop, but they still only produce three pawns. The covenant keeps a small garden of the subflowers growing, enough to supply an ample amount of seed for next year, and enough to ensure if a flower or two dies they won't lose vis. The Covenant is very protective of its sunflowers, because Lignatora once had a vision that one day her sunflowers would cover all of Iberia, so that no one would ever again be able to collect enough to obtain even one pawn of vis.
The remaining 9 pawns comes from nearby lands.
THE RUINS OF A SMALL HOUSE lie in a wood just upstream of the delta. It is not much more than four stones on top of each other at any one place. This was once the home of a Moorish hedge wizard, killed by Flambeau long ago. As the story goes, he went out with a bang, some say in a violent final strike, others say in a terrible botch. The end result is that the place now has an eeriness about it, that serves to frighten away mundanes. After the founding of the Covenant, Isabel was fascinated with this place and spent much time studying it. After three years she realized that if she built a fire in the ruins on Samhain she could harvest vis from the fire itself. Later experimentation showed olivewood produce the best results, namely, 2 pawns of Ignem, 2 pawns of Rego.
FOURTEEN MILES OUT TO SEA is a spot the convent has recorded on its nautical maps. It was first discovered by Drake, who came to know the ocean floor near the Covenant as thoroughly as his fellow Magi knew the surrounding lands. This is how he came to find what the Covenant came to call the "Sunken Vim", a ship in pieces on the ocean floor. Every year on the Ides of March, the bits and pieces of the ship come together, the crew seems to reappear, and they become involved in some great sea battle, all the while remaining at the bottom of the sea. Every year the Magi of the Covenant gather down current to watch and to gather vis from the water. They watch the ghostly crew fight, they see the ship roll as if on the surface, they see the ship split as if rammed, they see the crew drown yet again, and they gather 1 pawn of Perdo, 2 pawns of Aquam, and 2 pawns of Imagonem.
The covenant is currently rather empty, because of the number of magi and grogs that died in 1212. They are currently 3 magi-Aubrin, Drake, and Forticulus-and 12 fighting men.
INCOME
+1 50 pound of silver surplus each year
VIS SUPPLY
-2 20 pawns of vis per year
INHABITANTS
-5 3 magi, 10 specialists, and 25 [14] grogs beyonds PCs
Total: -6 points, for IMPROVEMENT -3
Prospectus Locus has a mediocre library of hermetic books (given its age), but has quite a respectable collection of mundane books.
HERMETIC BOOKS: ARTS (450 points)
Summae = 350 points
Cr 15 (q6) An 04 (q5) Ig 14 (q5) In 05 (q6) Aq 11 (q7) Im 00 (na) Mu 08 (q6) Au 04 (q5) Me 02 (q3) Pe 06 (q5) Co 06 (q7) Te 03 (q5) Re 11 (q5) He 11 (q6) Vi 01 (q3)
Libri Quaestinonum = 52 points
In 06 (q7); written by Cuneus of Bonisagus Re 06 (q10); written by Aubrin of Merinita
Ig 03 (q7); written by Calefacto of Flambeau Ig 05 (q8); purchased by covenant
Tractatus = 48 points
Co (q2) - Eyes of the Cat; written by Tarratus of Tytalus Im (q4) - Wizard's Sidestep; purchased by covenant Re (q4) - Break the Oncoming Wave; written by Aubrin of Merinita Te (q4) - Object of Increased Size; written by Tarratus of Tytalus Vi (q2) - Sense the Nature of Vis; written by Cuneus of Bonisagus
HERMETIC BOOKS: SPELLS (600 Levels)
ReAq20 - Break the Oncoming Wave; written by Aubrin of Merinita ReAq30 - Push of the Gentle Wave; written by Aubrin of Merinita
CrAu20 - Jupiter's Resounding Blow; written by Ignisa Lamina CrAu30 - Charge of the Angry Winds; written by Ignisa Lamina
MuCo10 - Eyes of the Cat; written by Tarratus of Tytalus MuCo30 - Disguise of the New Visage; written by Tarratus of Tytalus MuCo40 - Arm of the Infant; written by Addictus of Tytalus
CrHe40 - Wall of Thorns; found by covenant InHe20 - Intuition of the Forest; written by Lignatora of Merinita InHe50 - Converse with Plant and Tree; found by covenant
CrIg20 - Lamp Without Flame; written by Forticulus of Flambeau CrIg30 - Flash of the Scarlet Flames; written by Isabel of Flambeau CrIg40 - Pilum of Fire; written by Isabel of Flambeau PeIg30 - Winter's Icy Touch; written by Calefacto of Flambeau
ReIm20 - Wizard's Sidestep; purchased by covenant
MuMe30 - Emotion of Reversed Intent; written by Addictus of Tytalus
MuTe20 - Object of Increased Size; written by Tarratus of Tytalus MuTe50 - Statue to Animal; written by Tarratus of Tytalus
InVi10 - Sense the Nature of Vis; written by Cuneus of Bonisagus MuVi30 - Gather the Essence of the Beast; purchased by covenant ReVi30 - Aegis of the Hearth; purchased by covenant
MUNDANE BOOKS (300 levels)
Church Lore (summa, Latin, L3, q5), "The Old and New Testaments" Faerie Lore (summa, Latin, L4, q7), "The Seelie Court: Tricks and Games" Faerie Lore (libri quaestionum, Latin L4, q10), "The Seelie-Unseelie Debate" Hermetic Law (summa, Latin, L2, q6), "The Precepts of Guernicus" Legend Lore (summa, Latin, L3, q5), "The Iliad & The Odyssey, A Translation" Magic Theory (libri quaestionum, Latin, L4, q6), "Ardus of Bonisagus on the Interrelated Nature of Vim and Vis, and the Practical Applications of this Theory on Spell Casting" Medicine (summa, Arabic, L4, q7), "Moorish Medical Techniques" Occult Lore (summa, Spanish, L4, q6), "Los Diablos de la Espana" Philosophiae (libri quaestionum, Latin, L2, q9), "Plato's Collected Dialogues, A Translation" Scribe Arabic (summa, Latin, L3, q5), "The Arabic Tongue" Scribe Spanish (summa, Latin, L3, q5), "The Beauty of the Spanish Language" Spain Lore (summa, Spanish, L3, q6), "El Libro del Cid y la Reconquista" Theology (summa, Latin, L2, q3), "The Prayers and Meditations of Saint Anselm"
SPELLS
-3 600 levels of spells
HERMETIC BOOKS
+0 450 levels of Hermetic books
MUNDANE BOOKS
+0 300 levels of Mundane books
The covenant's mystical attributes are fairly poor. Past covenant members have had other priorities. The aura is a meager second rank, as it was when the covenant was founded. All labs are slightly substandard (-1), though the three in the tower have a nice view.
The only magic items at the covenant were discovered during past expeditions.
Sitting just outside the tower is a statue of Ebro, the river goddess. It is enchanted to prevent the island from ever flooding the island (ReAq40 +5 for constant use). The statue has been on the island longer than the covenant.
Hanging from the inside roof of the council room is an oddly-shaped green stone which was discovered in a faerie cave decades ago. It always glows as Lamp Without Flame (CrIg20 +5 for constant use).
AURA
-1 2 magical aura
MAGICAL ITEMS
+1 75 levels, including a statue that prevents flooding
LABORATORIES
-5 All 10 labs are at -1
Total: -5 points, for MYSTICAL -2
[The primary storyguide for the elder magi, live and dead, is Shannon, except as noted below]
* Calefacto de Aquitaine, Flambeau; born 1120, fraternal twin of Aubrin, Covenant Founder (1141), died 1212; Favored Techniques: Cr, Pe, Favored Form: Ig; Proud, Vengeful, Admiring of Beauty
Calefacto was always second best. He wasn't as good of a warrior as Isabel, he wasn't as good of a politician as Aubrin, and the less said about his labwork the better. Still he made a place for himself by using his gile and his very common common sense. After Isabel's death in 1195 Calefacto became totally driven, almost insane. If he had not been slain in battle it is likely that the Quaesitors would eventually have Marched him. Forticulus claims to have seen Calefacto struck down with his own eyes.
Calefacto's use of magic was very standard Flambeau. He burned things, and if they wouldn't burn, he destroyed them.
* Isabel, Flambeau; born 1114, Covenant Founder (1141), died 1195; Favored Tecniques: Cr, Mu, Favored Form: Ig; Deadly Calm, Calculated; Admiring of Beauty
Isabel was the de facto leader of the covenant from 1141 to 1195. She did well at her job, and the sole reason for the covenant not gaining great political power was that Isabel did not wish it. Her primary goal was to preserve the beauty of Moorish Spain. Isabel was a dangerous person to cross, for she would accept insults in a strange calm, and then pay them back ten times over, at her own convenience. Isabel's body is buried in the Prospectus Locus graveyard.
Isabel used flames to make her mark upon the world, but she was not solely a crude creator. She manipulated flames, and controlled them, using them as the instrument of a deadly music.
* AUBRIN DE AQUITAINE, Merinita; born 1120, fraternal twin of Calefacto, Covenant Founder (1141); Favored Technique: Re, Favored Forms: Aq, He; Morose +2, Realistic +3, Driven +2
Aubrin, though less then an hour older than his brother, was always mature where Calefacto was juvenile. He has always been the political heart of the covenant, representing it at Tribunals and other meetings of magi. He is very adroit at the skill of compromise and understands that he must give in order to receive. Since the death of his brother and the other magi, Aubrin has become driven to restore Prospectus Locus to its former status, and beyond.
Aubrin has Sidhe blood, a magical hawk named Sheba (the offpsring of his slain familiar), and knows faerie magic. His magical concentration is poor, and thus he has never been able to understand the Mercurian rituals. Aubrin has also been cursed with an alluring demeanor which has frequently gotten him in trouble with members of the opposite sex.
Aubrin manipulates the forces of nature. He works with the elements and plants both. He also speaks with the fay, and knows some of their secret magics. It was Aubrin that the lady of the lake first approached.
* Simon Ex Miscellanea; born 1113, joined 1142, left 1148; Favored Techniques: In, Re; Favored Forms: Me; Self-serving, Manipulative, Dishonest
Simon Ex Miscellanea was a traitor who joined the covenant to spy for Interritus. He used his magical powers in ways the bordered on the edge of the code, manipulating covenfolk and grogs. After Aubrin discovered Simon's true purpose, Calefacto nearly killed him. It is unlikely that Simon is still alive today, given his nature.
Simon was an information specialist. He used Rego and Intellego in order to learn things from others.
* Cuneus, Bonisagus; born 1125, joined 1152, left 1158; Favored Techniques: Cr, In; Favored Forms: Vi; Optimistic, Logical, Inquisitive
Cuneus saw potential in Prospectus Locus, and he joined hoping to help the covenant achieve that potential. He slaved for 6 years trying to convince the older magi that Prospectus Locus could become a great place of learning. Finally, in 1158, he gave up and left, not in disgust, but rather in despair. Cuneus has kept up cordial relationships with the magi of Prospectus Locus over the years. Just 8 years ago he passed the tests to become a member of Doissestep.
Cuneus is a theoretical magician. Almost all of his magic centers around Vim. Some of the effects are so obscure that they can't even be noted without the use of Intellego Vim spells. Cuneus hopes to better understand the underlying theories of magic, and so expand them.
* Taratus, Tytalus; born 1125, joined 1155, died 1212; Favored Tecnique: Mu; Favored Forms: Co, Te; Private, Gruff, Valorous
Taratus first came to Prospectus Locus due to continuing rumors about old Mercurian magic. He spent many years investigating them, although he made few of his discoveries known to his fellows. More often than not Taratus preferred to be left alone, and so it is surprising that of the half-dozen or so apprentices trained at Prospectus Locus it was one of Tarataus' who decided to remain. Forticulus claims to have seen Taratus struck down with his own eyes.
Foremost Taratus was a warrior. He used his magics as a way to improve that prowess. The grogs of Prospectus Locus were extremely loyal to Taratus, for he always acted as if they were his fellows, not the magi. Though always eager to explore the past, it was never Taratus' greatest skill, and thus his investigations into the Mercurian rumors were mixed. [Storyguide: Chris]
* DRAKE, Bjornaer, Heart-beast of a duck; born 1141, joined 1165; Favored Tecniques: In, Mu; Favored Forms: An, Aq; Inquisitive +3, Calm +2, Vengeful +2
A native to Spain, Drake gravitated to Prospectus Locus because of its proximity to the Ebro River and the Mediterranean. He often claims that Prospectus Locus is the most beautiful covenant in the entire Tribunal, as has been forced to fight the occasional certament to back up this claim. Drake agreed with Isabel that the beauties of Moorish Spain should be preserved, but he was never as militant as she and the other Flambeau and Tytalus. He only joined in raids infrequently, and blames himself severely for not being with his friends in 1212 when they were all slain. This guilt has caused a crack in his usually calm demeanor.
As with all of his house, Drake is skilled with shape-changing magics. He also is particularly adept with Animal and when in uninhabited wilderness. Drake's gift is gentle. A major deficiency with Ignem has always challenged Drake when he goes to war. He is also especially susceptible to Divine magic, and thus avoids the cities of Iberia.
Although Drake concentrates in the arts of Animal and Aquam, he is the most generalist of all the magi of Prospectus Locus, past or present. He has often designed spells for the sheer joy of doing so, with little thought for their practical effect.
* Iuxta Ex Misc.; born 1142, joined 1165, died 1192; Favored Techniques: Cr, Mu; Favored Form: He
Little is spoken of Iuxta Ex Misc., other then the fact that she joined in 1142 and died in 1192 while on a covenant mission.
Iuxta was a Herbam specialist, at one with the woods and able to manipulate them freely.
* Lignatora, Merinita; born 1141, joined 1173, died 1175; Favored Techniques: In; Favored Forms: He; Joyful, Gentle, Loyal
Lignatora was taken into Prospectus Locus by Aubrin as a favor to her master. She was an ideal maga, placing the goods of the covenant above her own, a practice which resulted in her quick death.
Lignatora was minorly skilled in learning information from trees and the Earth, but she died before her potential could be realized.
* Addictus, Tytalus, filius of Taratus; born 1154, joined 1174, died 1212; Favored Technique: Mu, Favored Forms: Co, Me; Private, Xenophobic, Follower
Addictus was the apprentice of Taratus, and he remained in his master's shadow for his entire life. Even after he became a full magus he often followed Taratus' lead in decisions. Perhaps because of thea sequestered environment he grew up in Addictus disliked foreigners intensely, which is to say anyone but the Christians or Moors of Spain. Addictus is presumed dead.
Addictus distinguished himself from his master only in the matter of his magic. Where Taratus turned his Muto magics inward, to make himself better, Addictus turned them outward, to harm his foes. [Storyguide: Chris]
* Ignisa Lamina; born 1148, joined 1188, died 1207; Favored Technique: Cr, Favored Forms: Au, Ig; Brave, Just
Of the last magi of Prospectus Locus Ignisa shined the brightest. She was self-sufficient and independent. She often stood up to Calefacto, unafraid to say when he was wrong. Her death at the hands of the Shadow Flambeau was the result of the same attitude, where she was willing to dare anything for truth.
A lone wolf Flambeau named Intentio once loved Ignisa. He blames the covenant for her death.
Ignisa used her magic to destroy by calling on flames, winds, and lightning. [Storyguide: Bill]
* FORTICULUS, Flambeau; born 1172, joined 1200; Favored Techniques: Cr, Favored Forms: Ig; Angry, Judgemental
The first magus to join Prospectus Locus primarily due the ravages of Calefacto. He joined in the destruction eagerly. Forticulus speaks little of the past, and has become even more hot-headed since the disaster of 1212.
Like many of his house, Forticulus is particularly skilled with Ignem. His magic is also subtle, requiring no hand gestures. However, Forticulus' gift is blatant, and he has made a bad name for himself among the mundanes of Aragon. Forticulus also can not heal people with his magic. In the past Forticulus studied under a master renowned for insanity, and some suspect Forticulus may have even darker secrets in his past.
Forticulus magics are unoriginal: he burns things.
* Shlachten, Flambeau; born 1166, joined 1205, died 1212; Favored Techniques: Pe, Favored Forms: An, Co; Destructive, Impulsive, Cruel
A German magus, Shlacten was the second magus to join Prospectus Locus primarily due to the ravages of Calefacto. Shlacten is presumed dead.
Shlacten was a Perdo mage, who evoked destruction by uncreating things.
* Centerin, Tremere, born 1176, joined 1210, died 1212; Favored Techniques: Re, Favored Forms: Co, Me; Sly, Jealous
Centerin joined the Covenant because he saw an opportunity for power if Calefacto succeeded in his battle against the Shadow Flambeau. Subsequent events prove his timing was poor. Centerin is presumed dead.
Centerin's non-gifted son is still residing at the covenant.
Centerin was a manipulator, controlling body and mind.
Prospectus Logs #1: A Wolf in the Fold (or: ABBOT!!!)
+------------------------------------+ | Of the magi that came to Prospectus Locus and what they found there. | | Also, a party, a murder, and a theft. Wherein it is discovered that | | guilt is not always easily determined, and that justice may not be | | easily administered. | +------------------------------------+
Dramatis Personae:
Albus of Tytalus Magus (Shannon Appel) Catorse of Quaesitor Magus (Kevin Wong) Fabricarious of Verditius Magus (Chris Van Horn) Incendium of Flambeau Magus (Eric Fulton) Lourum of Merinita Magus (Bill Filios) Risus of Criamon Magus (Dave Woo) Viator of Jerbiton Magus (Dave Pickering)
Drake of Bjornaer Elder Magus
Alacina Librarian (Eric Rowe) Enrico Stable Boy Isaac Jeweler
Julio Wall Grog Rodrigo Grog Storyteller Stefan Dumb Grog Torp Woodsman Grog
Abbot Castello Monk Leader Fredrico Merchant Marco Good Monk Nameless Angel Angel Paulus Bad Monk Zelipe Baron of the Delta
Gamemaster: Chris Van Horn
+------------------------------------+ | "I'm hoping you're powerful enough to blow up a shrub." | | -Viator, to Incendium | +------------------------------------+
Albus' Dialogues March 24, 1213 Evening
Risus and I have heard interesting word today. Prospectus Locus, a covenant in Iberia, is seeking new members. They ask for nothing but votes in their next Tribunal. It seems an ideal offer. Risus and I have decided to travel there to investigate it fully.
These months since leaving home have been good ones. She is gone. No more incessant whisperings. No more demands that I betray what I am. I was sure that geography could not bind her, but it seems I was wrong. I will not miss the Rhine.
Albus' Dialogues April 13, 1213 Evening
Movement at last. Who would have thought that it would take three weeks to find a boat heading for Iberia? We should have walked. We would have been half-way to Nicaea by now. A third-of-the-way at least. In any case we have a boat now. The Santa Maria.
The Holy Land has been an interesting place. Cyprus, Antioch-Tripoli, and Acre are all clearly doomed. It is but a question of how long they will hold off the Ayyubid Sultanate. Until they fall they will be like brands, burning brightly in the wind. I am tempted to stay, but much to my surprise I yearn for a covenant of fellows. This Prospectus Locus cries loudly to me.
Risus and I met two fellows here in the Holy Lands. Fabricarius of Verditius and Incendium of Flambeau. They are both stout warriors. Incendium is a bit hot-headed, but what Flambeau is not? They have heard the call of Prospectus Locus too. They will accompany us to Iberia.
The Santa Maria leaves with the tide this eve. She is a trading vessel, and so the trip will be long. We will weigh anchor in the Despotate of Rhodes, the Latin Empire, the Kingdom of Sicily, and the Almohad Caliphate. The voyage will be interesting, the destination even more so. Iberia awaits.
Albus' Dialogues May 14, 1213 Early Evening
So far, so good. Or to be more erudite, as Avitus would have preferred, "That which starts simply starts best."
Risus, Fabricarius, Incendium, and I arrived at Prospectus Locus this afternoon. I am not sure what I expected, but I was surprised by the beauty of the covenant. It is located in the middle of the delta of the Ebro River, atop a small island. The surrounding lands are green and verdant, full of life of every type.
We were let off the Santa Maria just a few miles from the covenant itself. There was a small trek, but nothing of particular note. We passed through the town of Bercula on the way. It is really a village more than anything else. I believe I counted twelve houses in all, each built from stone stolen from the nearby ruins of a Roman ampitheatre. There was some type of fair going on at the town, apparently a normal occurrence in summer.
The covenant itself is an interesting hodge-podge. The central tower predates the covenant itself, as does the Roman bath house, though the latter bears clear signs of reconstruction. The rest of the buildings have been built by a variety of people in a variety of times. They lean up against one another, sometimes allowing no passage except through the buildings themselves.
A grog named Julio met us at the gate. He was lazing up against the wall when we arrived, his hound dog sleeping at his feet. He quickly came to attention when alerted of our approach and greeted us properly. Upon hearing that we had come to join the covenant he escorted us to the Roman bath house, where the only elder member of the covenant present was resting.
The elder we met was Drake. A Bjornaer. A strong enough man, I'm sure. Reputedly a warrior of old. Today, though, his emotions controlled him. Our arrival reminded him of many recently dead friends. Their deaths were the reason for Prospectus Locus' offer, as I understand it. A great battle claimed five members of Prospectus Locus in 1212, and the covenant grew too weak. From death comes life.
We exchanged pleasantries with Drake for a time in the tempratorium. While we did two more newcomers showed up, a magus named Pablo Viator and a young woman named Alacina. Viator is a Jerbiton who is wide-travelled. He spoke of France, Germany, Italy, and Spain, and I lost track of which he claimed as home. The home of Alacina, however, I recall. It is the city of Barcelona, up the coast northeast of us. Her father is a magus at the covenant there.
+------------------------------------+ | "I guess I'll put on my pants and show you around." | | -Drake of Bjornaer | +------------------------------------+
Drake's Diary 14 May, 1213 AD
'Lo, there has come a change to Prospectus Locus. As Summer changes to Fall, as Winter changes to Spring, the old must give way to the new, and today has begun that process in our covenant.
It has now been almost half a year since that decisive covenant meeting on 21 December, 1212 AD, when we remaining three members of Prospectus Locus decided to throw open the doors of our home to all and sundry who might come. I was sure that the gambit had failed, for in the long months that followed but one new magus joined our fellowship-Docilli of Bonisagus. Even Aubrin, ever patient, had begun to give up hope, for a month ago he, Forticulus, and Docilli left the covenant to try and raise support for our cause among the other covenants of Iberia, for the Tribunal of 1214 draws dangerously close. I remained, token elder of the covenant, ready in the unlikely event that new magi accept our offer now.
And now, in the last two days, a plethora of magi have arrived, too many even, though I truly doubt Aubrin would take that view. The labs are overflowing. Great preparations are being made in the kitchen for a feast. There is life in Prospectus Locus again, young life.
Note to myself: greeting pretty young librarians from the bath is a poor idea, as they flush and turn bright red.
Yet there is pain too, for the coming of these young, vibrant magi reminds me of what all we have lost, of all those that I shall never see again this side of the veil, if ever. Calefacto, you loved too deeply; Taratus, you fought too boldly; Addictus, you followed too loyally. I could not keep my composure before these new magi, but they understood my loss, I am sure. They will be welcomed into this covenant, and when we have achieved a new equilibrium with the world, I am sure they will be ready to offer their hand in rightful vengeance.
Albus' Dialogues May 14, 1213 Early Evening (continued)
In all there are ten labs at Prospectus Locus: three in the central tower, six in a three-story building near the library, and a final one outside the walls. Five of those were allocated before my arrival. The three in the tower are taken by the three survivors of the old covenant: Aubrin of Merinita, Drake of Bjornaer, and Forticulus of Flambeau. Two new members had preceded us: Docilli of Bjornaer and Lourum of Merinita. They have taken the two labs on the ground floor of the lab building.
I have not yet met Aubrin, Forticulus, or Docilli. They are all away on some task. Lourum greeted us as we entered the lab building, as did his black-furred rabbit. Lourum seems pleasantly coherent. So many Merinita can be lost to the world.
We had no real trouble dividing the five remaining labs between the five of us. Forticulus deemed it prudent to take the external lab, far from the library. When Viator learned that the third floor labs adjoined a beautiful garden on the roof of the library he requested one of them. Risus and I thus took the two second floor labs and Incendium ended up with the other lab on the third floor.
Five magi of Prospectus Locus died that day in 1212. I can name them here, though the names mean little to me: Calefacto of Flambeau, Taratus of Tytalus, Addictus of Tytalus, Shlacten of Flambeau, and Centerin of Tremere. Taratus is reputed to have been a private person who kept to himself. The northern lab of the second floor belonged to him. This was the one I selected.
Calling Taratus private was no exaggeration. A chunk of solid stone blocked the entrance to his old lab. He must have used magic to pass through it. With no other option I began Perdoing. As with all magic my proficiency in Perdo Terram is adequate. Not spectacular, not poor. I realized it would take some time, and so called for help. I was pleased to learn that Lourum was adequate in Perdo Terram too. He joined me while the others began searching through their new labs, uncovering the treasures of the dead.
+------------------------------------+ | "I just want to make sure there aren't any grogs hiding in there." | | -Viator, on secret hiding places | +------------------------------------+
This is no smell like that of the long dead. It is the smell of dust, of time, of rot long-gone. It is the last scent of life departed. It was that smell which began to slowly permeate the stairwell as Lourum and I worked upon the block. As the block slowly disappeared the smell enveloped us, pulling the shawl of death tight about us. We choked on the dry, musty air, but at last the task was done. My new lab was opened. I gazed upon it with watering eyes.
I've seen death frequently enough. Some of it was impersonal, like the young lad Horst who was scalded to death in my old covenant's kitchen. Some of it was very personal. My mother's life passed from between her lips as I clutched her hand. My pater died just days after he made me a magus. Somehow the repercussions of death on others never made themself entirely clear to me before today.
Drake I have already writ of. His sorrow today was obvious-the loss of friends. Within Tarratus' lab I found the dessicated corpses of a dog and a cat. Tarratus' pets. They had suffered the loss of a provider. Viator later told me of an insane ferret that inhabited his lab. A magical talking beast. It had been the companion of Centerin, and the magus' death had driven it near to suicide. Loss is a web that forever connects the dead to the living. In the end it draws us all in.
+------------------------------------+ | "What!? Cats and dogs living together!? | | -Anonymous | +------------------------------------+
It was two and a half years ago that I met the Quaesitor named Olverus and his apprentice Catorse. I had thought Overus was my Avitus' friend. I have since learned that he was spying on my pater. His apprentice was a fine enough man. A little older than me, but my fellow in the magical arts. Risus, he, and I went out drinking on the nights while Olverus visited my pater. The Order is a large place. I did not expect to see Catorse again so soon, definitely not today. I was still standing before my freshly exhumed lab when, much to my surprise, I saw Catorse climbing the stairs.
I learned two valuable lessons last September. Always treat a Quaesitor with the utmost respect. And, tell them everything. Precept Segundus: I at once explained to the Quaesitor that the animals were dead long before I had opened the lab. Further, after searching my lab I discovered two secret doors. One led up to the lab above me. Incendium's. The other was hidden in the bathroom and led outside the covenant. The Quaesitor was promptly notified of their existance. Precept Primus: when I learned that the Quaesitor had come to join Primus Locus I offered him my lab for I knew there were none left. He politely declined and has taken temporary quarters with the specialists until a new lab cab be built.
I dearly wish I had never found Avitus' books. Now I can not help but wonder, friend or spy?
My lab still needs some work. Walls to be shifted around, windows to be opened up, that type of thing. There is a large amount of stained glass in the lab building, but none in my own lab. Taratus was too private to have windows open to the sky.
I have heard work that Catorse has begun organizing a feast for this evening. We magi will attend, of course, and also all the local villagers and even a number of merchants who are visiting for that fair over in Bercula. I stink of death but a quick bath in the frigidorium should clean me for the feast tonight.
Albus' Dialogues May 15, 1213 Morning
My head throbs. Even Creo Corporem is but little help this morning. Yesterday evening is a painful blur.
The feast hall is a grand place. The main hall stands over twenty-foot tall. Yesterday evening it was full of people. Over a hundred. I'm not sure my entire covenant in the Rhine could hold that many people! We magi have a special alcove that stands ten foot above the main hall, overlooking it. It is the trophy hall and the meeting room for the covenant. There are all manner of amazing things in it: shields, swords, favors, banners, stuffed animal heads, everything. There is even a glowing green gem hanging above the table said to be won from the faeries over a score years ago.
We took our places. Drake was at the head of the table. The rest of us sat along its sides. Myself, Risus, Incendium, Fabricarius, Lourum, Viator. Catorse. Viator did not stay with us long. After eating some of the fine fare he went down to join the mundanes. I was tempted to do so as well, but Catorse looked at Viator so scornfully.
Risus lifted the first tankard of ale and challenged us to do the same. Fabricarius and I were happy to accept the challenge. Drake wished to drown his sorrows. Catorse joined the contest as well.
My most vivid recollection of Catorse visiting Risus and myself two and a half years ago involves him retching out behind The Painted Lady. It happened three times, once each night the Quaesitors stayed with us. Some things do not change. After just five tankards Catorse fled for the bathrooms across the hall. Drake, Risus, and I did better. We each collapsed in our various ways after nine tankards. Fabricarius claims he drank himself into a stupor afterward.
And that is all I recall of the evening. Good food. Good ale. Good friends. Good night. My head throbs still.
However, I missed quite a bit of excitement afterward. Enrico was found dead in the bath house. He was a stable boy at the covenant. Incendium and Lourum did their best to investigate.
+------------------------------------+ | "I'll try to keep the party alive." | | -Viator, on priorities | +------------------------------------+
They found a small ruby near the body which seemed to imply that the murderer had been someone wealthy. They further discovered that Enrico had been seen recently with a local prostitute named Sarah. Finally they learned that Sarah had left the party early, at the arm of a rich merchant named Fredrico. Incendium decided to go into town to talk with Fredrico. He took a big, dumb grog named Stefan with him.
I can only guess that Incendium engaged in normal Flambeau tactics in town. That is to say force. He brought Sarah back with him, but Fredrico managed to escape. He has been questioning Sarah all morning, it seems, without success.
By the forked beard of Tytalus, someone outside is yelling about gems now. It is like knives in my skull. I must go shut them up.
Tales of the Grogs of Prospectus Locus as told by Rodrigo
May 14 1213, there is a date I recall well. It was a day of fresh faces, of new sorrows, and of exciting pageantry. It a new beginning.
It had seemed a normal enough day until Julio began to shout that four strangers were coming. At first we thought a magus and his three mundane companions had arrived, for only the flame wielder was deeply touched by magic. Later we learned that all four were magi in their own rights.
That day Lady Luck was greatly enjoying exerting her wiles, for within the hour two more magi had arrived. Six in all and all within the hour. Kind Pablo, commanding Albus, brave Incendium, enigmatic Risus, just Catorse, and wise Fabricarius. I have spoken of their adventures since, the triumphs and tragedies.
We grogs spent much of the afternoon lifting and carrying, as the magi moved furniture and books out of their new labs. Unromantic work, but necessary.
It was not until evening that the true excitement began. The magi had declared there would be a great feast, but they could not predict the tragedy that would strike. It was watchful Julio who brought the news of the murder, who told the magi and us grogs that innocent Enrico had been found brutally slain in the bath house.
Stealthy Torp was sent for at once, for no clue could escape his watchful eye. He was able to track the murderer from the tempratorium to the frigidorium and then outside to a stone path. Alas not even his eagle eyes could find marks of passage in the solid stone. But, he proved his worth once more when he returned to Enrico's body and found a small red gem, a clue which would prove vital the next day.
Sly Torp was quick to tell the magi of one who had left the covenant recently, abandoning the party while it was still going strong. It was cunning Fredrico, a merchant, and upon his arm had been beautiful Sarah, a woman of renown. At once brave Incendium exclaimed his intention to pursue the merchant the town. He took strong Stefan with him, and they set out for tiny Bercula.
The merchant was in Bercula, no doubt, and the twain from Prospectus Locus were able to corner him in his room at the inn. Brave Incendium demanded the merchant's surrender but the knave would not offer it, so strong Stefan began to batter at the door to his room. With but two blows it flew open, shards of wood covering the room. Beautiful Sophia cowered in the bed, but of the cowardly merchant there was no sign. Coarse curtains fluttered before the room's single window.
+------------------------------------+ | "Give him a second. Second's up." | | -Incendium, on the Flambeau Credo | +------------------------------------+
Stout Stefan gave chase at once. He plunged through the window, plummeted to the street below, then picked himself up without word to go after the fleeing merchant. But, alas, stamina and strength are no match for the cunning of a coward. Strong Stefan chased the merchant long and hard, but in the end the knave escaped.
Our flame wielder returned to the covenant with beautiful Sophia in tow. It was several more hours before stout Stefan joined us. The night grew long and cold and it was decided that the mystery and the murder could wait for the dawn of another day.
When it came it would shed new light on the mystery, and we would discover that, despite his cowardly actions, cunning Fredrico was not the culprit, but that is a tale for another day. This day we grogs could be satisfied for we had accomplished the tasks set us by the magi as best we could.
Albus' Dialogues May 15, 1213 Noon
A nice breeze, some invigorating spell casting, and lots of water have helped me recover. I am preparing to ride northwest along the Ebro, but am taking a few minutes to write of the morning's happenings.
I did not properly appreciate this covenant's affluence yesterday. It is quite rich. I suppose I should have realized it by the ubiquitous stained glass and by the plumbing that runs through all the buildings. Prospectus Locus also maintains several highly skilled artists on staff. They include a very fine stained glass maker and a jeweler. The jeweler's name is Isaac. It is he who was screaming this morning.
Isaac apparently maintains a large number of gems on hand, just in case a magus might need a specific one. His screaming this morning was to alert the covenant that a large number of gems had been stolen in the night. The equivalent of fifty pounds of silver! Even for an affluent covenant like this, that is a good year's surplus income. I had been rather nonchalant about the murder previously. Death happens. Upon learning of the theft from the covenant I became deadly serious.
We magi spent our morning fruitlessly casting spells. Risus and I tried to identify the killer. I emptied the jeweler's room of arcane connections to him and his family and then Risus began to test remaining bits of hair to determine whom they belonged to. Unfortunately the only other person who had left hair in Isaac's room was the maid. Viator meanwhile impressed Sarah with his Aura of Rightful Authority. He learned nothing new. She knew nothing about the murder or any gems; Incendium was too quick to blame her and Fredrico for the murder. It will be an interesting task to win that merchant back to our side.
Finally Risus tried to search first the covenant then Bercula for the gems using Intellego Terram magic. There were no gems of note in our covenant and too many in Bercula.
Tytalus teaches us that a man may not succeed with one skill alone. Only the man knowledgeable in all things may meet all challenges. I failed to show knowledge of Tytalus' lesson today. I depended on my magic. It was Viator who turned to other methods.
While I helped Risus to search Bercula for the gems using magic, Viator used words. He asked around and eventually came to speak with Abbot Castello. The Abbot had brought two monks to our party, Marco and Paulus. Marco was still about town but Paulus had left. The Abbot was sure that he had not given Paulus permission to do so, though his recollections of the latter part of the party were hazy.
+------------------------------------+ | "I had this weird thing where I was talking to a suicidal ferret." | | -Abbot Castello | +------------------------------------+
I decided to return to the covenant while Viator, Risus, and Incendium headed out to the covenant. When they returned they announced that Paulus had fled the monastery, breaking his vows. Everything clicked into place. We had our murderer and thief. We just need to find him.
Paulus' home is far up the Ebro River, many days to the northwest. We presume he is heading there. He has approximately ten hours' head start. It is most likely that he is either heading up the old Roman road to Barcelona, or up the river, perhaps hoping to find a boat in Mantiun, the nearest real town.
We have divided into four groups. Drake will fly northeast up the Roman road, getting ahead of Paulus if he takes that route; Lourum and Incendium will follow him on the road. Viator will fly northwest over the Ebro; Risus and I will follow him along the river. Unless Paulus has gone to ground we will catch him.
Albus' Dialogues May 15, 1213 Evening
The flora and fauna of Mantiun await, but first a few notes.
Paulus headed up the river. He got to Mantiun where he was accosted by two other monks. He killed them both. Risus and I were the ones who found the two bodies. After that Paulus' trail grew a little colder.
Three ships left Mantiun this morning, one headed up-river and the other two down-river. I assumed that Paulus was heading home and so made preparations to race upstream after that boat.
Mantiun is the largest town in the area. It houses perhaps 400 people. The baron of the area is a man named Zelipe. He lives in a fine manor house just outside of Mantiun. Word of the murder was brought to him at once and Risus and I were ordered to wait until the Baron arrived to question us.
We rode out to meet him and told him of the situation and my belief that Paulus was on the boat heading up the Ebro. We caught up with the boat and boarded it and discovered that I had been wrong. Zelipe was unimpressed by our investigatory techniques. He left us while Risus and I continued upstream, hoping that Paulus had instead followed the road. A few hours later we ran into Viator. He had gotten far enough ahead to double back. It was clear that Paulus was not on the northwest road. He must be on one of the boats heading out to sea.
Viator has agreed to fly south, to get to the coast before the boats reach the Balearic Sea. If he can beat the ships there we will capture Paulus. Else, the monk and the gems are lost.
Even riding our horses to death Risus and I would not reach the coast in time. Thus we have decided to enjoy Mantiun. Risus waits impatiently for me to finish writing so that we may go and drink and be merry. The ale shall not defeat me this eve.
Albus' Dialogues May 16, 1213 Mid-Day
Prospectus Locus is not home yet. But, it is a beautiful place and I can easily see that it could become home in the future. This is what I was thinking as Risus and I approached the covenant this morn.
As Risus and I rode toward Prospectus Locus we saw Abbot Castello waiting on the side of the road. I am not an impolite man, so when he greeted me I greeted him back.
+------------------------------------+ | "Hi Father Jorge." | | -Risus of Criamon | +------------------------------------+
Peter is the name I was born under. My Christian name. For fifteen years now I have been Albus. It was a taunt the first time it was spoken, for my very pale skin. I made it a name to be feared. After greeting me this morn the Abbot asked me if I was also known as Peter. I knew something was very wrong.
I acknowledged the name and the Abbot began to preach the gospel to me. I tried to politely explain that I was not interested, and then suddenly I felt a burning flame by my right ear. There was a brightness not of the world and an unearthly music. The Abbot dropped to his knees before me. Then her heavenly voice began to whisper into my ear.
"Repent," she said.
The abbot sobbed at her beauty.
I fled as quickly as I could back to safety. I left her and the Abbot and even Risus behind.
She is back.
I do not know what to do.
I suppose I should note the conclusion of that other matter. After leaving us yesterday Viator flew straight south. He arrived at the mouth of the delta ahead of both ships and managed to get a fishing boat to intercept the first one. Paulus was indeed aboard and Viator was more prepared for his wiles than I. He had the sailors take the man prisoner, managed to recover the gems, and in just a few minutes was back on that fishing boat heading for shore.
+------------------------------------+ | "Gag that man before his devil tongue can spread more lies." | | -Viator of Jerbiton | +------------------------------------+
Poor Enrico had been but a pawn. Paulus had used him cruelly, convincing him to steal the gems, then murdering him for his trouble. Truly it can be said that life was a challenge that Enrico did not meet.
As is proper Viator returned Paulus to the Abbot for justice. Apparently Castello has odd ideas, for he did not turn Paulus over to the lord for blood justice, but rather had the man confined in the monastery. Somehow Prospectus Locus even managed to pay a small fee to help implement this judgement. I don't understand precisely what happened.
+------------------------------------+ | "He said that he was tired of being a monk." | | "Well, he'll probably get kicked out." | | "Stern but fair." | | -Viator and Castello, on ecclesiastic justice | +------------------------------------+
During his conversation with the Abbot Viator apparently mentioned my Christian name, and that was what led to the confrontation on the road. Viator apologized and said he would have warned me if he could have. It does not matter and the fault is not his. Fate is inevitable.
I have much to think about. I am tempted to flee once more. I fear my dreams tonight.
Albus' Dialogues May 17, 1213
Life is a series of challenges. By defeating these challenges an individual learns more about himself and also about the world around him. This is the credo that Tytalus taught.
There are many in my house who misunderstand Tytalus' credo. They believe it asserts that they must fight. They believe that it praises physical confrontation and nothing else. This is manifestly false.
In recent days I have engaged in a multitude of challenges though I did not raise my sword. I drank heartily with compatriots. I raced a horse along the roads of Iberia. I matched wits with a thief and sadly found myself lacking. Victory or defeat, they both increase understanding.
There is one further lesson that I learned yesterday. I erred when I left my home covenant in the Rhine. I did not err for the leaving. That was a necessary thing, for the challenges at home will always be lesser things. I erred for the reason, which was to flee the angel which has plagued my dreams for twelve years now.
She is a challenge. She seeks to test my magic with her faith. She pits her ecclesiastical unity against my hermetic individuality. I welcome her return. I welcome her challenge. I shall prove myself worthy of it.
+------------------------------------+ | "I'm not plagued by an angel, I'm plagued by an a abbot." | | -Albus of Tytalus | +------------------------------------+