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THE ACCADMIE OF MAESTROS

 

ACCADEMIE OF MAESTROS

 The Accademie is an order of mages, dedicated to the study and preservation of the knowledge of magic. They are a loose organization that stretches through most of the known world. Heirs to the Allemanni culture, their magic is rooted in the work done by the Allemanni mages before the fall of the Empire. Often associated with the cult of Illior the Allemanni God of magic whose early adherents were mage/clerics before Illorian mages developed separately from the Empire’s temple system? New influences came with the invading cultures from both north and south and Illorian magic as it was known disappeared early in the dark ages. It was the early efforts of the Accademie which preserved magic though the Dark Ages that followed the fall and into the age of the High Empire. For this reason their influence does not push deep into the southern continent or into the barbarous lands of Llynern or Skye.

 The Accademie is presently centered in the City of Eye where it has found haven in the University from the anti-magic efforts of the Church. Of course there are many mages who live throughout the High Empire, but their studies remain well hidden from the eyes of the Caldensian Church, which sees magic outside of the priesthood as demonic and forbidden. The tolerance found in Eye stems from many factors. The first was that at the Republic's foundation, they sought the aid of the persecuted wizards during the First Wizard's War. Also, the mercantile culture of the city is tolerant of most anything as long as it does not interfere with trade. Furthermore the many colleges that have emerged in the eastern city have relied heavily on the scholars who come to the city from all over in search of safety. Those who show the most promise and power are encouraged to join the Accademie. Those who don't still must register and are watched by the order to protect against interference in the Accademie's interest.

 

 Membership is only offered if there is a member who can nominate the candidate for membership. The ring each also recognizes maestros one possesses. A Silver Dragon coiled about the finger. Often a jewel representing the member's circle is held in the dragon's mouth. This is a hold over from the cult of Illior, God of Magic, Prophecy, and Darkness, whose symbol was the silver dragon.

 

ORGANIZATION

 A loose association of members is the rule. Since most are interested in their own studies, privacy is a major part of the order. This is not to say that politics plays a small part in the Accademie and its circles. Power struggles come easily for those trained to wield the powers of the arcane world.

 The Accademie is divided into twelve "Circles" or "Orbis", each dedicated to various interest and goals. Like the departments of a college, each Circle specializes in its studies. The governing body is made up of all active members called the "Corona", with supervision falling to the First Circle, a council of representatives from the twelve factions. The twelve circles are known by both color and their nicknames:

 
 
CIRCLE 
JEWEL/RING
NAME 
REALM OF INTEREST/STUDIES
1.First 
 Any 
 Primus Orbustus 
 The ruling body of the Accademie
2. Blue  
 Sapphire 
 Caelani
Custodians for The Greater Good 
3.Green 
 Emerald  
OrbisGaia 
 Natural World, Life Science
4. Black  
 Clear Diamond 
 Petrarch 
 Battle, destruction, the next conflict
5. Red  
 Garnet 
 Red Guard 
 Enforcers, Inquisitors
6. Purple  
 Amethyst  
Mystagogues  
 Mysticism, Self Enlightenment
7.Yellow  
 Topaz    
 Vanestus  
 Dilettante Mages, mixed goals 
8.Brown  
 Cat's Eye 
 Orbis Excubaras 
 Art, Literature, Humanities, History
9.Orange  
 Jacinth  
 Jacinth  
 Zealotry, Mystic combat
10.White  
 Moonstone  
Lunarium/

Seekers 
 The Ancient Ones, Prophesy
11.Copper  
 Copper  
 Fabrege   
 Object makers, Alchemist, Artificers
12.Aqua  
 Aquamarine 
 Nauticum  
 Water Wizards, Windmasters
(12.Gray  
 Moonstone  
 Gray Wizards 
 Balance, allied with the Druids)
13. Black
Jet, All Others
Nocturni
Power, The Dark One

 

 The original Accademie was not a harmonious group. The many factions opposed one another for philosophical, stylistic, and historic reason. The fact that they could unite at all seemed a miracle. The leaders of Lunarium insisted that the mystic warriors of the Kapok Hills be included; and even today, they have had little contact with their fellows in the other circles. Nor do they take part in the First Circle. The Fabrege and Vanesti were also ignored at first, being considered more craftsmen and dilettantes, but their contributions have been great, especially in the integration of the Accademie into mundane society. The greatest internal threat came from the Kwenscy Schism, when the faction in the Gray Circle of the Gray Wizards began taking actions against various Accademie members in an effort to correct a balance they saw in the world of magic. The Red Guard was unable to control this uprising and the other circles especially the Petrarchs joined in the battle. The whole Gray Circle was cast from the group, and they either fled or blended into other circles. This internal threat remains as the Grays have decided to work from the inside as well as from the outside. It is said that those who fled have found haven among the more balance oriented factions of the Druids in Llynern and that they have many contacts among the hedge wizards and primitive shamans throughout the world. 

 A thirteenth circle is said to exist, known as the "Shadow Circle" or "Nocturni". They could be best called Darkfriends, who have offered their services to the Dark for power in this world and the hereafter. This group is very secretive and its members make up a cell within other cells. Their goals are both for personal gain and the return of the Dark One or "Those Who Can't Be Named" to the world. While not all Nocturni are Accademie members, they often have contacts with those who are members of the Shadow Circle. The Dark is a mighty force to reckon with.

 All of the Circles maintain property in the City of Eye. For some these are their Prima Domus, but all are gathering places for their respective circles and places of contact with the other members. These palaces are well guarded and offer places to bring recruits to the various circles from the many students of magic who find their way to the city. Only the Jacinth has no Eyen location, but they will often stay at one or the other when passing though the city. Otherwise the monks find accommodation where they can. 

 The University is the greatest connection between the Accademie and the mundane world. It is in the many colleges that mages work and learn from one another and from outside traditions. The students are also a fertile ground to look for new members. Of course the fact that at least one Accademie member sits on the Star Council is also a big factor. Until recently three of five councilors were Maestros, but the rebellious Sorcerer Sestus was defeated in an anti-republican uprising. His followers among the Petrarchs and other circles were either removed or switched allegiances. At present Councilor Att and Psoas both hold seats on the Star Council and in the First Circle. 

 The Professions vary greatly within the Accademie, though almost all Maestros are Essence spell casters (Magicians, Alchemist, Runemasters, Runemages, Mana Molders, Conjurers, Warrior Mages, and Monks as well as a few Illusionist). In the last century the Accademie has debated welcoming spell users from the Mentalist Realm. (Mentalist, Astrologers, Sages, and Lay Healers), but this have not occurred. There seems to be some belief that Mentalist are not true masters of magic. This may be due to the fact that the Accademie has trouble understanding the basis of this more personal group. The Lunarium and Mystagogues have both encouraged contact with these spell casters. The Jacinth is the most comfortable with these mind witches, but their wandering monks take so little part in the order that no one listens. Sorcerers and Necromancers have been known members, but rarely or at least openly. These have usually turned out to be Nocturni.

 

PRINCIPLES OF THE ACCADEMIE

 

 Little has changed since the founding of the Accademie, but the decline in magic and the many arts forgotten with time have made the group more secretive and insular. The founding principles were to provide for protection from others and interference from the mundane world and to allow the sharing of information with other mages. The Accademie protects the membership from each other, as attacks on another member are prohibited unless during a duel known as "Certamon". These limits of this conflict are set in the beginning but can end in death. No outsiders are allowed to interfere in this battle. While some in the Accademie openly aided the resistors to the High Empire, most kept quiet perceiving it as a political battle. The involvement of the Maestro in the mundane world is also frowned upon. The lure of the ivory tower, distances the Maestro from his fellow men. But it also keeps intolerant eyes away.

 

The Code:

1. No Maestro can attack another non-outlawed Accademie member unless within the bounds of Certamon. This dual can be to the death. No one may interfere once Certamon is declared.

2. All members will protect the secret of the Accademie and will bring no undue attention to the institution.

3. All members will abide by the decisions made by the various Circles and the Corona deferring to the First Circle. The circles will take no action against a member without a hearing, and any appeals will be made to the First Circle. Circles elect their leaders as they see fit, but the First Circle will have a member from each group and will sit twice a year at the equinoxes.

4. All Members shun the path of Darkness. With it comes power but at the price of evil and madness. Those who follow the Dark will be outlawed their lives forfeit. Contact with infernal and demonic forces will be limited and discouraged.

5. All petitioners for membership are to be nominated by a Maestro who vouches for their integrity and honor. That Maestro will be answerable to any violations to this code, during this Probationary period.

 

THE CIRCLES OF MAESTROS

 

PRIMUS ORBITUS

 The "First Circle" is the leadership of the Accademie of Maestros. Its members come from all the other circles and act as the governing body; pursuing policy, setting in judgment of violators of the code, and promoting the development of magic.

* Prima-  The seat is elected from the twelve Primi. Usually Caelanie, Lunarium, Petrarch, or Orbis Excubaras holds the position. At the present Primo Dulles of Excubaras holds the position but Primo Att of Caelanie holds the power.

* Prima Domus- The First Circle sits in The City of Eye. Their Palace is located not far from the University where they exert a tremendous amount of influence. 

* Current Concerns- They are concerned with the actions of some mages of the dark who have been trying to retrieve objects of power not in the possession of the Accademie. They are also trying to push Eye into acting against the Caldensians who have begun seizing the Nauticum mages off their ships. A bad sign, hinting at new purges.

* Notable Members- All of the founders of the Accademie as well as all of the Leaders of the various circles.

* Outlook- The preservation of the Accademie and the battle for magic in the Caldensian world.

 

THE CAELANIE

 Political, manipulative, and often self-righteous are all terms used for the Caelanie. They are often in the service of powerful men and rulers in far off lands. It is not clear what are the true goals for Caelanie. With Att on the Star Council, they influence the direction of the entire Republic. Many of the circles are away from the City; if they are working toward Caelanie's common goal it is not obvious. Att has worked to consolidate power and the removal of the anti-republican Sestus has raised his position among the mundane. This grab for control has many in the Accademie very worried. The Red Guard is afraid to challenge such a powerful group, and the other loss of the Grays removed those most able to out maneuver the Caelanie. At present Lunarium is the group's closest ally, but members of Caelanie of all levels have approached everyone else. It feels that something is about to happen, and the forces behind it will come from Caelanie.

Prima - Maestro Primo Att, Lord Councilor of the Republic.

* Prima Domus- Located in a woods east of the city, the manor Felldasher is a retreat for the Caelanie from the machinations of the City and the world. Att's palace is the headquarters in Eye.

* Current Concerns- They work as diplomats, administrators, and educators. Like their Caldensian counterparts, they try to guide policy that is in the best interest of the Accademie under the auspices of what's best for mankind. But this assessment may be too strong. Caelanie Maestros often are very involved with struggles of mankind, sometimes acting as defenders of the weak. But they are too involved with the powerful to really pull themselves away from the system. 

* Notable Members- Councilman Bursar Parsia founder of the Republic and University.

* Area - Any of the other schools.

* Outlook- They see themselves as the shepherds and protectors of mankind from dark forces and from those who would abuse magic. Of course this is just an excuse to meddle.

 

ORBIS GAIA

 These nature mages are fascinated by the world about them. The "scientist" of Accademie, their interests range from fauna and flora lore to medicine, to geography and astrology. The most curious of all maestros, members of Orbis Gaia hold many positions within the University. There are known Gaia mages even among the cloistered Kendalen monks, who see little conflict between their faith and their "science". There are also many who are fascinated with the more primal magic that works with nature. These members are suspected by the Red Guard and Petrarchs of being possible Grays, but so far they have been unmolested. 

* Prima - Maestra Prima Verdeir

* Prima Domus- They have many cabals scattered throughout the known lands, but like many others their Prima Domus is in the City of Eye, at Restnil Hall a part of the University. 

* Current Concerns- The Circle is concerned with the many members who have had trouble traveling and engaging in their studies. The ongoing war in Hammoth and other conflicts has put Orbis Gaia on the defensive as several of their mages have recently vanished. 

 Other than this "political" interest, the circle is most concerned with the opportunity to continue their studies and research in the natural world.

* Notable Members-

* Area - These natural mages are often MAGICIANS, ALCHEMIST, RUNEMASTERS, and a few NATURE MAGES/WITCHES; usually with Catalyst casting methods.

* Outlook- The Orbis Gaia seeks believes that the understanding of the natural world will reveal the mysteries of magic. The order and laws that govern nature are in part rules to live by. 

 

PETRARCH

 The "Battle Mages" are the most belligerent and aggressive members of the Accademie. They were those who spent their lives in the last two Wizard Wars and have opposed Caldensian pogroms through out the world. The prohibition against mundane activities is often ignored by the Petrarchs who work as mercenaries and "specialist" in the service of others. 

 The first Petrarchs seemed to have some connections with the War Priest of Sakor, though their arts were different. Many are still adherents to the Cult of Sakor.

 Petrarch was very aggressive in the Kwenscy Schism, especially since their members were often those who suffered most from The Grays' efforts to enforce the "Balance". 

* Prima - Magus Primo Eadros of Terrofon.

* Prima Domus- Seaview Keep in the Reper Tel in the Duchy of Barill is the Prima Domus for Petrarch. 

* Current Concerns- They are eager for anything uncovered by the Lunarium and utilize much created by Fabrege mages. The groups most at odds with Petrarch are the nature mages of Orbis Gaia and the Jacinth Monks who they don't understand. Private duels with the later do occur and most members of each group avoid the others.

* Notable Members-

* Area - Petrarchs are made up of MAGICIANS, CONJURERS, MANA MOLDERS, and WARRIOR MAGES. They are most interested in the spells of force. Most lack the self-discipline of the mystical Jacinth.

* Outlook- They believe in power and the adage- might makes right. While they differ to the First Circle, and respect some of the skills developed by the other circles, their main concern are spells of force and destruction. While most have not philosophically embraced Chaos like the followers of the White Council, they are considered not that much different. And some would probably be happier in that company. 

 

RED GUARD

 The Red Guard is the law and sword of the Accademie. They are responsible for keeping an eye on those members accused of breaking the Code. If an accusation is made the Red Guard will send members to investigate and if serious they then bring the guilty before the First Circle. The Reds also watch the for outsider mages who may threaten the peace of the Accademie. By controlling the University office of Sumpner, they can protect and enforce the code among members there. Often spell use by and outsider will result in a visit from a Red Guardsman wearing a red ribbon and issuing a slightly veiled threat.

* Prima - Maestra Prima Evaine Heywood, a stickler for the rules. 

* Prima Domus- The Goldrun Palace, near the University of Eye is the main holding of the Red Guard. They also have several "safe" houses in the city for quick action and the holding of violators before trial.

* Current Concerns- They don't trust anybody, especially the Jacinth, the Lunarium, Caelanie and the Mystagogues. They constantly strive to separate the Accademie from mundane society. They often hold up the Grays as an example of disruption from those too concerned with the world. Prima Evaine has worked to increase the Red Guard's involvement in the Accademie, and has many of her people watching the other Maestros closely.

* Notable Members-

* Area - The Red Guard can be of any group as they often come from one of the other circles. Usually the are MANA MOLDERS, MAGICIANS, RUNEMASTERS, and WARRIOR MAGES. they may have a spell list with skills that mimic the Arcane MAGEHUNTER.

* Outlook- The Code of the Accademie is the supreme law. The Red Guard zealously pursue any who flagrantly abuse the code, but the politics of unity and the force of the First Circle thwart their efforts. Because of this they are uncomfortable with the University and the contacts with the Kendalens there. 

 

MYSTAGOGUES

  The mystics of the association, this circle is more preoccupied with their private searches into the mysteries to take much part in the Accademie's politics. Often ignored by other mages, they are very influential within the University.  The obsessive hunt for the hidden truths, drives many mad, or at least they seem that way. They often work isolated from the rest of their circle and explore everything from their own studies to the more primal magic of the hedge wizards and barbarian cultures. Their search for the Truth puts them in competition from the Lunarium who pursues the lost magic of the past. But the Mystagogues search is for personal enlightenment and not the more universal goals of the Lunarium. 

* Prima - Maestro Primo Kaspar Deathfreer. Once a noted lecturer at the Scrymon College, he has since given up all public appearances to pursue his current magic experiments.

* Prima Domus- Widowkeep located in the Duchy of Abnaile is the headquarters, but most are found around the city of Eye, even Primo Kaspar is often at the Guild house.

* Current Concerns- This circle's members are lost in their search for "Truth". Almost all efforts are directed in the hunt and exploration of the mysteries of life, magic, and the individual. They seem to care little for politics of the Accademie, except those who are faculty at the various colleges.

* Notable Members-

* Area - The mystics are CONJURERS, RUNEMASTERS, and MYSTICS. There are some hints of ARCANE as well. Most are Nomenist with a mix of Catalyst casters, some use hybrid styles.

* Outlook-Called the madmen of the maestros, this circle produces very powerful mages. Mystagogues shun the works of the Fabrege alchemist and artificers as well as the more physical magic of the Petrarchs and Nauticum. They also do not seem at all interested in the Orbis Gaia and Excubaras. Their feelings toward the Jacinth are not really known though they seek a similar goal just from a different path. They are often very chaotic and carnal in their pursuits, but for all the path are considered different.

 

VANESTUS

 Vanestus are thought of as the dilettantes of the Accademie. Their circle has no real over riding goal, instead they encourage the development of the many odd talents held by their members as well as protect them from the more crusading maestros of the other circles. They are often accused of using magic for earthly pleasures and financial gain. But the new spells and powers uncovered by this diverse group have greatly increased magic lore for the rest of the Accademie. 

* Prima - Maestro Primo Volrath Itscow, a scion of Count Itscow's family. 

* Prima Domus- Their headquarters Swan Hyde is outside Damovarum, but they have most of their members in the City of Eye.

* Current Concerns- The protection of their members abroad and the advancement of those in the City. The rest of the circles do not take the Vanestus seriously, ignoring the great resources and unique talents found in this circle. They have been campaigning for the inclusion of the Mind mages (Mentalist, Loremasters, and Lay Healers). They also are very active in the colleges and among the Kendalen Monks at St. Tomas Abbey. 

* Notable Members-

* Area -  All forms of Essence use are accepted and encouraged. 

* Outlook- Live and let live is their motto. They see all mages as brothers and so their circle is the most accepting. It is also the most disorganized and fraught with strife. 

 

ORBIS EXCUBARAS

 The Orbis Excubaras holds the Prime seat of the First Council but little of the power. The members of Orbis are often too caught up in the world of letters and art to really notice. They claim to avoid the mundane by avoiding the politics of states. But they find positions among the wealthy and learned where they pursue their interest.

* Prima - Maestro Primo Dulles, Bursar of Royal College is the present leader of this circle.

* Prima Domus- Clayrkhall in Eye is the headquarters for the circle.

* Current Concerns- They are concerned with the preservation of the great works of man and see the art of magic as one of them. Many members of Orbis Excubaras are associated with the University and are very involved with the politics there. They have found some common allies among the less "science" minded faculty and students, including some Caldensian monks.

* Notable Members-

* Area-  These mages are MAGICIANS, MANA MOLDERS, RUNEMASTERS, RUNEMAGES, ILLUSIONIST, and CONJURERS.

* Outlook- Philosophy, music, art, and letters are what set us apart from the beast. Magic that does not embrace the best in men is the magic of the barbarian.

 

 

THE JACINTH MONKS

 The orange robed Monks are occasionally seen traveling the roads and paths of Keen. Their membership in the Accademie protects them from most interference from other mages. But they seem little interested in the organization, other than for this protection. The Jacinth Monks practice a form of Essence magic that is very self-disciplined and individual. The search for perfection of one's self is the goal of all Jacinth, and their wanderings and quest are means and test to achieve this goal. It is said that some Lunarium mages maintain some dealings with the monks, but this is rare.  It was the Lunarium founders who insisted that the Accademie include the monks, claiming that they would be needed sometime in the future. But the Lunarium is widely thought to be a bit overly concerned with regaining the magic of the past and combating the evils that once lived there. 

 It should be noted that most spells of the circle are self-directed. They modify the fighting and defensive skills as well offer various forms of protection, healing and warding. Because the power of the spell comes from the runes and symbols used by the brotherhood and are on the monk’s skin.

* Prima - Master Ogodai Te Togha, an ancient man who has been master for the last sixty years. He must be over a hundred twenty now.

* Prima Domus-  The stronghold of Mount Dair Usun is their home. Almost all monks are trained there, though some are picked up by masters on their travels and learn as they follow the quest.

* Current Concerns-  The path to enlightenment.

* Notable Members- Askipa, Warren Marico, Hoelun the Swift (f)

* Area - All Jacinth Monks are ESSENCE MONKS.

 

 

GM Note: The Jacinth Monks are an unusual style of Nomenist Casters who use Rune Tattoos to power and cast their spells. Since most Monk spells are instantaneous, it is as if the Runes act in response to the threat or need. Their Starting Kit List is a form of SYMBOLISM that allows the imbedding of tattoos instead of stone. Because the Monks are Nomenist they must search out and learn a multitude of languages to increase their knowledge of the Primal Tongue, which is represented in their archaic rune tattoos. The martial forms they learn as monks are also used to align the Rune patterns, putting into play the spells they know. Each new list requires 2d4 runes to be applied. 

 

* Outlook- The path toward enlightenment is individual and hard. Self-denial leads to the freeing of the self from the shackles of the ordinary world opening up the monk to greater potential. This is necessary so that the Brethren will be ready when the time comes for them to act. The train and increase in power for the "Final Conflict". They are mystic warriors who by denying the world try to avoid corruption in the hope of saving it.

 

LUNARIUM

 "Seekers" who delve into the distant past in search for the magic that has faded. They are the obsessed with prophecy and spend lifetimes mulling over archaic text. They believe something is going on and they are planning for it. The other circles have benefited from the "lost" knowledge they have uncovered so far, but are also distrustful. The taint of the past evil lingers close. 

 Lunarium searches the world for lost relics, languages, spells, and creatures. It is said that they have vaults of these items. Fabrege would love to get their hands on any keys to such places. There is also a strange alliance between Lunarium and the Jacinth Monks. It was at their insistence that the mystic warriors be included in the Accademie, though the later have done nothing to contribute to it. This is a sore spot for all the other circles. It is widely believed that Lunarium wanted twelve circles including the First for auspicious reasons.

* Prima - Magus Prima Matilda d' Veneer.

* Prima Domus- The Lunarium headquarters is in the City of Eye at Royal College. They also have several palaces, one held by Councilman Psoas of Maegir.

* Current Concerns- The are revitalize the Accademie after the loss of the Grays, who they felt might tip the scales in the final conflict. The "Final Conflict" and the "Endless Night" are the terms they use to stir up the interest in their aims. Almost chicken littles, many of the maestros wonder if the Lunarium has railed too long. They seem close to all the other circles but the Red Guard who doesn't trust all of the delving into forbidden lore, the Nauticum, the Fabrege, and the Caelanie. The later circle is often at odds regarding what is best for the present or the future.

* Notable Members- Councilor Psoas

* Area-  Lunarium is made up of RUNEMASTERS, RUNEMAGES, MANA MOLDERS, CONJURERS and MAGICIANS. More than any other group, Lunarium may have access to ARCANE SPELLS discovered from their searches into the past.

* Outlook- The passage of time has not been good for the practice of magic. The essence that was once plentiful is fading. Magical creatures and beings are disappearing. To make this even more of a crisis, the Dark Powers that once threatened the world are striving to return. If they bring with them the power they held in the past, then those who could stand against them will be destroyed and with them the world. The constant study of the histories, legends and prophecies, has made the Lunarium men with a mission.

 

FABREGE

 Fabrege is one of the late circles to join the Accademie. While their magic is rooted in the objects they create, they are a powerful force in Eye and the University. They are on the faculty at the Royal, Scrymon, Galen, and Kendal Colleges as well as operate several workshops and forges about town. Their inclusion of a few Dwarven artificers has hurt their standing some, especially since Dwarves are not allowed full faculty status at the University. Still everybody, from other Maestros to ordinary people, wants Fabrege products. Everybody but the Jacinth, who don't seem to want anything, and the Mystagogues, who are too involved in their own pursuits.

* Prima - Master Primo Naesmyth Forfot, an artificer who spends much of his time at a manor he holds east of the City.

* Prima Domus- The Bronze Palace in the City of Eye. Their members are find haven at many halls held by scattered members since their work is always in demand. Their are very few Cabal Houses that don't have a skilled mage from this circle.

* Current Concerns- As usual, Fabrege is concerned with the advancement of its arts. The need for more exotic materials and skills drives the members. Most enjoy the status and protection afforded by the Accademie, but dislike the meddling in private business affairs. The Red Guard, who are good customers, are also tough on any non-Accademie business that Fabrege may take part in. 

* Notable Members-

* Area -  Fabrege are the mechanical and practical minded maestros. They are ALCHEMIST, and ARTIFICERS, with some skills as MAGICIANS and ILLUSIONIST. They are also strictly Catalyst mages. Some Dwarves were the first to enter the circle, but few have followed.

* Outlook- Fabrege holds that

 

NAUTICUM

 This Circle was formed from the WINDMASTERS GUILD after the spot was left open by the Schism with the Gray Wizards. The Windmasters were originally associated the Cult of Astellus during the Allemanni Empire. With the purging of the Pagan Gods by the Caldensians, the Windmasters either fled to the southern city of Tyrolach, or became part of the maritime guilds. Until recently they were disguised as a Craft Guild associated with the Navigators and Sea Captains Guilds, thus under the notice of the Accademie's mages. This changed as the Republic of Eye became the dominant maritime power and the Windmasters became known to the First Circle. They were watched and tolerated, their activities among normal society was viewed with suspect, but they seemed to prosper and not create undue suspicions. When the dust cleared from the Schism, the spot was offered to the Windmasters who took the name Nauticum and the stone Aquamarine as their own. 

 Most of the other Maestros look down on Nauticum except for the Fabrege, who are frowned upon as well for their "practical" activities. Still they are a vibrant addition. Their control over the seas and their constant travel makes them perfect messengers and spies for the group. The steady supply of cash has also made them quite wealthy and some Windmasters either own their ships or have interest in several Shipping Firms through out the Dunrach. 

 Great explorers, they often travel vast distances on either land or sea to satisfy their curiosity. For this reason both Orbis Gaia and Orbis Excubaras are softening their feelings toward these "craft wizards".

* Prima - Master Prima Danilys Talbert is the present leader of Nauticum. She follows in her father's footsteps and actually has a fleet of three ships to her self. 

* Prima Domus- The present Prima Domus is Riel Tower an isle in the lagoon. The circle also has a "Guild House" in Eye's South Harbor. They have such houses in many major ports though out the Dunrach Sea.

* Current Concerns- There greatest concern is the protection of the members, especially from the Church, which is turning more attention to the mariners. The Archbishop of Lantilo and other Caldensian forces have seized Windmasters from ships. The training of new members is also at the core of their work.

* Notable Members-

* Area -  Windmasters are either MAGICIANS or MANA MOLDERS. They use Water and Wind Elemental list as well as Ocean and Traveling Kits. Training is via the Mentor system only.

 

 

THE GRAY CIRCLE

 At this time the gray wizards are outcast from the Accademie. The Kwenscy Schism has left deep scars, and distrust throughout the Accademie. While it was thought that all of the Grays had been purged, several former members were found among the Vanestus and Orbis Gaia circles. Of course they were quietly dealt with, but the fear they instill has not lessened. It is felt that they are about to exact their vengeance at any time, wiping out the Accademie in the name of Balance.

 At the birth of the Accademie, the Gray Wizards were very instrumental in bringing the various mages together. Whether this was due to their natural role of diplomats and peacemakers or as an effort to keep a closer watch and exert more control on other mages toward the Balance is not clear. 

 Most Grays who escaped the purges have left the Republic and remain on the outskirts of civilization and among the more Barbarian peoples. The connection between the Grays and the less formalized Druids has caused a chill over any contacts between the Druids and the mages of the Allemanni. Still some Lunarium continue to search among the Galdoran ruins in Llynern.

* Prima - Master Primus Modesky is the titular head. But the decentralized nature of the Grays means that the independents cabals or cells direct much of the activity.

* Prima Domus- The Prima Domus moved from Blacksburg in Rhudella to Bucklow Hills, but was destroyed during the Schism. Supposedly Primus Modesky is now living among a group of Druids but that has not been confirmed.

* Current Concerns- The main concern is the safety of the Circles members from persecution by the rest of the Accademie. They also have been working to get their people within almost every organization that's known. The philosophy of Balance that is so central to their beliefs is in regards to all spheres; magic, spiritual, economic, and political. 

* Notable Members-

* Area - Gray Wizards can be almost any form of ESSENCE USER, though most are RUNEMASTERS, MAGICIANS, ILLUSIONIST, WARRIOR MAGES, and NATURAL MAGES/ WITCHES. Sorcerers and Necromancers need not apply.

* Outlook- THE BALANCE is the core of the Gray's understanding of magic. They see magic as springing from Chaos with the will of the spell casters imposing enough order to harness it. But the chaos is often greater than the order, tipping the scales of the world's balance. The more use of disorderly or chaotic magic the more order suffers. They also oppose strict order as well. The rise of the Caldensian Church has instilled order over one area, encouraging chaos in others. This again places the world out of whack. Their dogmatic adherence to the Balance makes the Grays formidable opponents, quiet and calm zealots in a philosophical war.

 

THE SHADOW CIRCLE  (NOCTURNI)

Some claim that this “circle” does not exist, and in reality it is more than just a circle. There are many Nocturni cells throughout the world, all working for one dark end or another. What separates this group from many other cults and evil covens are that they follow the Allemanni Tradition like most of the Accademie members. It is said that they operate from within the other circles, and thus they touch almost all forms of magic. They can also have supporters who are non-Essence users or even non-mages. It is the personal goals of the membership and the force of darkness not the pursuit of magic per se that drives the Nocturni.

CURRENT STATUS

* Prima - unknown

* Prima Domus- unknown

* Current Concerns-  The return of the Dark and the ascension of the Nocturni over all others. Some seem interested in their personal gain, while others follow a more nihilistic path toward total destruction of everything, including them.

* Notable Members- Casra the Red, Halitgar of Eye, and many others have been uncovered plotting to subvert the Accademie.

* Area - All areas with the addition of any DARK SPELL LIST.

* Outlook- Bad, very bad.