Authoritative Authors

We're not near November, but I decided I wanted to post up work when I finalized bits and pieces. This is copied over from a previous post I made in the Ars Magica forum, and would appreciate any comments on these works posted there instead of here.

In my home saga we had some fun discussions about the roleplaying of a Library, and about what happens when you go book shopping during a Tribunal. Magi usually can't apply numerical xp to a book, so I wanted some other way to identify and create books.

A library is one of the most important parts of any covenant. Every covenant has one, some have more. Even if the library is just a magically protected cabinet in the back of a rickety wagon, the magi value their books more than their fingers - the fingers are much easier to replace when lost.
Storyguides and troupes can easily work together to build a library that feels real and fun, and they build libraries that show the interests of the elder magi around, and that give the players something to strive for themselves, either in advancing themselves or in having books to write for their own library.
This task gets harder once Hermetic politics and social shenanigans comes into play - It would make sense that players in Stonehenge would want to visit Voluntas for their famed library, or use their temporary alliance with Blackthorn to gain access to a few seasons of really good books on dark magics. Obviously, the players are going to ask the Redcaps to keep an ear out for any rumors of wonderful, rare books that might be available in any library; I haven't had any game where players did not start asking about trading books for more in their own library.
It feels pretty strange, though, to have the Redcaps say "I have a Quality 10 Tractatus on Ignem, and a Quality 9 Tractatus on Magic Theory, and a Quality 13 Tractatus on ignem. There also is a Level 10 Quality 8 Summae on Ignem." I find it rather hard for me to just pull up books and authors out of nowhere, and when we do come up with a good name, often the players may just ask, "Okay, Ignem. What's its Quality?"

This project is designed to make your libraries more interesting. To give an easy list of authors to use, and to give a series of books they've written. I want the books to feel alive, and I do not want a library to be a series of Abilities, Arts, and raw numbers. To make the books feel alive, we need to make the authors into actual characters, even if those characters are long dead, or barely known newcomers instead of well-known archmagi.
To further enhance the reality of libraries, tractati will all have a topic, in addition to a subject. For example, a book on Faerie Lore (Q11) would be focused on forest faeries. This could be used to provide research opportunities, or bonuses to Lore rolls.

Here is the math I played around with to get a simple concept or schema for what I expect from randomly generated Tractati for sale.

My site and source here if people want to see it or other collections of mine.

5 Likes

Antonio Colucci of House Bonisagus
Hermetic Name: Antonius ex Bonisagus
From the Roman Tribunal, living near Naples.
Reputation: Prolific and known author 4 (Hermetic), Insightful Author 2 (Scholastic)
Preferred Topics: Magic Theory, Order of Hermes Lore, Imaginem and Mentem, Philosphiae

Antonius was a Bonisagus from the Roman Tribunal, a Trianomae with breadth of interests for study. His early years were spent between political manipulation for his Covenant's mundane problems and studying in the lab. During the time representing his Covenant to nobility, he got familiar with his mundane alias, Antonio Colucci, and pretty much stopped using his Hermetic name outside of formal situations. A number of his backroom deals for the local nobles involved aiding and teaching their scions, while sneakily instilling them with a strong respect for Hermetic magi and their independence. [Communication +2]

A Step Beyond Hermetic Theory

A Step Beyond Hermetic Theory by Antonius ex Bonisagus, Magic Theory tractatus in Latin, Quality 8
This book is designed for magi just out of appenticeship, and focuses on the benefits and risks of experimentation.

Discussions on the Fourth Estate

Discussions on the Fourth Estate by Antonio Colucci, Order of Hermes Lore tractatus in Latin, Quality 8
A clever book written by Antonius to be 'accidentally' let loose in the southern Italian nobility, allowing them to learn a bit about long-dead imaginary magi and how they interacted with the local nobility. It is specially tailored to guide nobles into dealing with Magi in a fashion that they prefer.

Mastering Your Own Mind

Mastering Your Own Mind I,II, III by Antonius ex Bonisagus, Collection of three Mentem tractati in Latin, Quality 8
A series of books Antonius wrote as part of a trade with a contact in his House. These books are focused on using Mentem magic to increase one's own capabilities. The first book of the collection includes a lab text for a Creo Mentem spell to refresh and clarify a memory of an event(HoHTL p73). The second book includes a spell to increase ones's study and focus(A&A p34). The third book includes a lab text for Gift of Reason(ArM p148).

All Facets of Existence

All Facets of Existence by Antonius ex Bonisagus, Imaginem Summae in Latin, Level 9, Quality 8
Five slender tomes discussing the study of the senses. This summae focuses on the concept that our experience and our lives, are made up of what our senses can draw from the world around us, and how you can use that to enhance your life or another's. The obvious implication of manipulating others through their senses is not stated overtly.

As Antonius advanced his knowledge and magic, and spent more and more time in correspondence, the Trianomae found an ally who could increase his Communication. By this point, he was firmly nestled into politics instead of magic, and started more often using his alias of Antonio Colucci. [Communication +4]

In addition to the books below, Antonio enjoyed writing commentaries on other authors in the Roman Tribunal.

Further Discussions on the Fourth Estate

Further Discussions on the Fourth Estate by Antonio Colucci II, Magic Lore tractatus in Latin, Quality 10
A comprehensive text including an analysis and critique of the above book. Theoretically written by the son of the original author to hide his age, it viciously tears apart the arguments of the previous book, very firmly pointing out the follies of dealing with wizards and the risks involved. In particular, it encourages the reader to avoid hedge-witches and court wizards, because the likelyhood that they are going to bring ruin to the families involved.

Morality of the MInd

Morality of the Mind by Antonio Colucci, Philosophiae Summae in latin, Level 3 Quality 10
As Antonio focused on his intrigues, he found himself often plagued by the inherent dishonesty of pretending to be different people, and this book records his struggle with it. It resolves that the intent of seeking outcomes optimal to every party involved is morally superior to unblemished truth. The book firmly speaks out against spells that create false memories or directly control another's mind.

Changing Interests of the Roman Tribunal

Changing Interests of the Roman Tribunal by Antonio Colucci, Order of Hermes Lore Summae in Latin, Level 3 Quality 10
A carefully written tome that discusses the events of Tribunals in the Roman Tribunal. It does not focus on the actual Code of Hermes, but instead discusses the interplay between different Houses and covenants during the time he was involved. This book is one of the last written by Antonio.

Finer Points of Visual Species

Finer Points of Visual Species by Antonio Colucci, Imaginem Summae in Latin, Quality 11

A commentary on All Facets of Existence, this book discusses specific uses for Imaginem utilizing visual illusions to enhance one's desired goal. it specializes on subtlety of use, similar to Aura of Ennobled Presence. Colucci wrote a four total commentaries for the five senses, also including Audial Species(sound), Oral Species(taste and scent), and Tactile Species (touch).

3 Likes

Vindicus of Flambbeaux
Hermetic Name: Vindicus ex Flambeau
From the Provencal Tribunal
Reputation: Brilliant but rare author 2 (Hermetic)
Preferred Topics: Magic Theory, Ignem, Teaching

Vindicus of House Flambeaux was found in Montpellier by a tempermental magus who took him in and taught him. As a child, Vindicus was friends with a number of other children, of a variety of heritage and religion, and the young apprentice was a surprisingly tolerant person, especially amongst his house. Though often called to battle in the trouble in Iberia, Vindicus found every opportunity to retire to his quiet tower and study. Uniquely, Vindicus for some unknown reason never created nor accepted a Longevity ritual. He was friends with a number of Jerbiton, and often taught lessons for them in return for favors. He married a scholar's daughter, and then a merchant's widow later in life; he had a number of children, who drifted away from the order. Then, Vindicus died, and was quickly forgotten by his own house. [Com +3, Good Teacher]

A Hermetic Education by Vindicus

A Hermetic Education by Vindicus of Flambeau, Magic Theory summa in Latin, Level 4, Quality 12

Vindicus wrote this summae as a gift for his first and only apprentice, when he learned that they had taken an apprentice. Vindicus's apprentice was, at the time, notoriously impatient and a pretty terrible teacher. The only copy of this book was passed down through the Hermetic line until stolen in a Wizard's War, and reproduced a number of times.

An Apprentice's Ledger

An Apprentice's Ledger by Vindicus of Flambeau, Magic Theory summa in Latin, Level 3 Quality 15

A Jerbiton friend of Vindicus asked for help with his apprentice - the Jerbiton was having teaching issues with the student's comprehension. Vindicus looked at his earlier work and trimmed out advanced concepts to focus on the basics an apprentice would need to start working for their Master.

Archaic Symbols

Archaic Symbols by Vindicus of Flambeau, Magic Theory tractatus in Latin, Quality 12

This small tome describes a number of mystical symbols used in different older cultures. It references a number of connotations, and explains how using non-Latin languages in Hermetic shorthand can be a useful tool.

Light and Shadow

Light and Shadow by Vindicus of Flambeau, Ignem summa in Latin, Level 15, Quality 12

Written after his first major illness one winter, Vindicus gifted this book to his covenant, since their library was lacking. A copy was gifted to Durenmar, and was promptly ignored over other, better known books. A number of Flambeaux in Provencal have trained on copies of this book, as copies of it have found their way into the Flambeau libraries.

Teaching Focused on Inspiration

Teaching Focused on Inspiration by Vindicus, Teaching summa, Level 4 Quality 12

Vindicus, in his final years, wrote his educational knowledge down in a single surprisingly lengthy tome. The book discussed deeply into what he observed to be different kinds of students, and how to inspire them to study further.

On Inspiring the Young

On Inspiring the Young by Vindicus, Teaching tractatae in Latin, Quality 13 (Commentary)

Vicarus wrote a number of books about how to inspire students and to turn their interest to inspiration. His book, On Inspiring the Young, is a commentary on his own book Teaching Focused on Inspiration, often referencing the summa. He also wrote On Inspriring the Wise, focused on teaching magi and scholars, and On Inspiring the Masses, which discusses teaching peasantry.

3 Likes

Regnus of Tremere
Hermetic Name: Regnus ex Tremere
From the Transylvanian
Reputation: Well Trained and prolific author 5 (Hermetic, Tremere), Prolific Author 2 (Hermetic)
Preferred Topics: Tractatae, Magic Theory, Finesse, Penetration, Code of Hermes

Regnus of Tremere is one of the first who began to push for educational power establishment in the Tremere. His era is after the Schism war, and he became a very prolific writer. Regnus was trained by a powerful Tremere who was a particularly bad teacher. His own magical skills were incredibly poor, but his mind and voice were well-trained. He firmly believed that the Tremere could excel by educating each other with such books. His early works are practically unknown, but his superiors acquired numerous magical enhancements to his communication skills, in return for his dedicated creation of books for his House. Despite the fact that his books were only for the Tremere, a near-complete collection was looted by an irate Tytalus during a Wizard's War, and the Tytalus released copies of the books throughout the Normandy tribunal as a mockery for the Tremere he was feuding with.

The Groundwork of a Great Magus

The Groundwork of a Great Magus by A of Tremere, Magic Theory summa in Latin, Level 3 Quality 11

This book is not written by Regnus, but it is the Magic Theory primer he learned on when his own parens was inefficient at teaching him. It is a book that was quite common in numerous Tremere strongholds, and Regnus wrote a number of commentaries with it in mind.

Groundwork of Efficient Laboratory Design

Groundwork of Efficient Laboratory Design by Regnus of Tremere, Magic Theory tractatus in Latin, Quality 11

This book is a commentary on Groundwork of a Great Magus, and expands on the basics of that classic primer. The book Regnus produced expands on a newly Gauntleted apprentice's laboratory set up, design, and customization.

Groundwork of Magical Forging

Groundwork of Magical Forging by Regnus of Tremere, Magic Theory tractatus in Latin, Quality 11

The second book Regnus produced for his House is focused on creation of magical items. Regnus expounds on what a young magus would want to craft in their time. It promotes using metal and semi-precious gems as a focus, since wooden and cloth items will tend to break down over time.

Foundational Training in Magical Skills I

Foundational Training in Magical Skills I by Regnus of Tremere, Finesse tractatus in Latin, Quality 10

This particular book was copied and disseminated throughout Transylvania, and is numerous libraries, sometimes with multiple copies. It specializes in the use of Rego to perform basic craft magic, with a focus in particular in low-magnitude spontaneous spells.

Foundational Training in Magical Skills III

Foundational Training in Magical Skills III by Regnus of Tremere, Penetration tractatus in Latin, Quality 10

Unlike volume I, the third book in Regnus's series was only produced in smaller numbers, but it disseminated out through Tremere strongholds in Normandy. Unfortunately, this book is what brough the attention of Larvos of Tytalus, who proceeded to pursue more copies of Regnus's work by Wizard's Wars.

3 Likes

Vendel the Bold (or Vendel the Brave, Vendel the Vile, Vendel the Wise)
Hermetic Name: Vendel ex Miscellanea
From Normandy Tribunal
Reputation: Insightful author on Martial skills3 (Hermetic, Normandy)
Preferred Topics: Leadership, Brawl, Great Weapon, Muto

Vendel was from a warrior tradition of Ex Miscellanea, and strove to be a good example for those who fought with him. In all accounts, Vendel was an exemplar of Hermetic martial might, some claiming he has the blood of King Arthur's knights in his veins. He spent most of his life in the Normandy tribunal, and early was known for his weak magical skills. Often masquerading as a knight, he became allied with a number of Jerbiton and nobility. Vendel was a fantastic leader and trainer both, it was when convalescing from a number of vicious battles that he started writing books about his tactics and talens. [Com 0, Good Teacher]

Guide from Behind the Shield

Guide from Behind the Shield by Vendel, Leadership tractatus in Latin, Quality 9
Vendel was seriously wounded protecting a younger magus who did not know how to protect himself during the chaos of a battle. While convalescing, he decided to transcribe his knowledge of combat survival tactics - in particular, how to guide and lead grogs to protect you.

Defense of the Magi's Staff

Defense of the Magi's Staff by Vendel, Great Weapon tractatus in Latin, Quality 9
Considering how the majority of magi will carry a staff - including Vendel - he focused this treatise on the study of using the length and sturdiness of a staff in self-defense. The book has been illuminated with hundreds of careful diagrams of bodily forms for combat.

The Grog's Defense

The Grog's Defense by Vendel, Leadership tractatus in Latin, Quality 9
Vendel's favorite treatise from his youth is this one - it is a book that describes the importance of a shield grog, how to properly utilize one, and how to keep a soldier alive. Until the battle that severely wounded him, Vendel had not lost a shield grog in battle, and the grogs who served his covenant loved him for it.

Later in his life, Vendel's work with the Jerbiton brought numerous gifts, including a wife, beautiful lands, and Ritual magic to increase his already sharp mind. As he found most fighting to be beneath him during this time, he began to collect tomes that described battle and warfare, and started his own volumes of Hermetic combat. [Com 2, Good Teacher]

Utilization of Formations and Magic

Utilization of Formations and Magic by Vendel the Brave, Leadership summa in Latin, Level 4 Quality 11

Vendel the Brave was renowned as a leader of men. Inspiring, glorious, and often successful. His younger years often displayed him in great acts of battle in small unit or personal combat, by the later years in his life, he often found himself standing as the leader for large groups of soldiers. His knowledge of leadership was amplified and excelled by his ability to utilize low-magnitude spells effectively, and to plan for his enemies to use magic as well.

Twelve Forms of Staff and Spear

Twelve Forms of Staff and Spear by Vendel the Brave, Great Weapon summa in Latin, Level 4 Quality 11
An expansion on his book, Defense of the Magi's Staff, this is a much larger and thoroughly illuminated manuscript showing basic and advanced techniques for defense using a staff or a spear. The latter part of the book expands upon strikes and attacks, but the book is still primarily focused on a magi defending themself to keep casting spells.

Spells and Enchantments for Personal Enhancement

Spells and Enchantments for Personal Enhancement by Vendel the Brave, Muto tractatus in Latin, Quality 11

Being critiqued by a close Jerbiton friend for having written only books on mundane topics, Vendel began to look in to writing tractati with his magical skills. Considering how little he was known for his magical skills, it is not surprising that Vendel only wrote a few books on Muto during this time.

During his aged years, Vendel found himself unable to fight to to steadily increasing decrepitude. His age hit Vendel's body hard, but his mind maintained itself sharp and eager. The end of Vendel's life, he dedicated himself to writing books, teaching his apprentice, and often teaching other apprentices. [Good Teacher, Com 4]

Transformation in Martial Forms

Transformation in Martial Forms by Vendel the Bold, Muto summa in Latin, Level 12 Quality 13

This book is widely regarded by the Jerbiton in Normandy as a premier summa for learning Muto. This is despite the fact that it focuses entirely on utilizing the art of Muto for combat transformations. Due to the skill of the author, the insights of transformation efficiency is expansible to other scenarios.

Utilizing the Magus Staff in Defense

Utilizing the Magus Staff in Defense by Vendel the Bold, Great Weapon tractatus in Latin, Quality 13

In his aged years, Vendel often expanded on concepts that he had written on earlier. This book is focused entirely on utilizing a staff or other large weapon as a defense, with particular focus on using attacks or the threat thereof to fend off threats.

On Hermetic Warfare

On Hermetic Warfare by Vendel the Bold, Leadership tractatus in Latin, Quality 13

While a magi's skills in combat combat is often focused thoroughly in pure magical ability, warfare is deeply rooted in units, troop movement, and area control. This rather lengthy volume is full of intricately illuminated maps for combat - it begins with small unit combat, and expands on the basic tactics to utilize similar concepts in larger battles.

3 Likes

Carmen ex Tremere
Hermetic Name: Carmen ex Tremere
From Transylvanian Tribunal
Reputation: Good Author on limited fields 3 (Hermetic, Tremere)
Preferred Topics: Rego, Corpus, Terram

Carmen ex Tremere was originally from the Iberian peninsula, an intelligent and communicative maga who specialized in transportation magic. Unlike most of her House, she kept a mundane name into her Hermetic life. During her time she was known for an incredible amount of correspondence, writing letters to all corners of Mythic Europe. Many of her books are also written using the results of her studies and discussions with experts from all over the Order. Outside of her own Tribunal, her renown faded very quickly after her death. [Com 3]

Control at a Distance

Control at a Distance by Carmen ex Tremere, Rego tractatus in Latin, Quality 9

This treatise focuses on levitation and teleportation, in particular focused on distant control. Her very first book, Carmen wrote this tractatus as a gift for a friend of hers, to take with her into the formation of a new Covenant in the Levant tribunal. It took decades before a copy of this book returned to her in the Transylvanian tribunal.

Animus

Animus by Carmen ex Tremere, Corpus and Animal tractatus in Latin, Quality 9

A codified record of Carmen's studies on teleporting living creatures. Mechanically, this tractatus is two separate books, one for Corpus and one for Animal, and must be read separately. These research notes are expansive, and could a curious magus design new spells involving teleportation.

Inanimus

Inanimus by Carmen ex Tremere, Terram tractatus in Latin, Quality 9

A codified record of Carmen ex Tremere's studies on transportation of non-living matter. While it does touch briefly on teleporting liquids, gasses, and energies, the majority of her studies focus on moving inanimate solids. It would be very useful for a magus who is trying to design transportation spells for inanimates.

The Form of Simplicity

The Form of Simplicity by Carmen ex Tremere, Terram tractatus in Latin, Quality 9

Carmen's studies gave her insights in to how Terram can be used for most inanimate objects when being controlled or transformed - solid inanimate objects is a very, very large range of options to affect with one form.

Infinite Forms of Teleportation

Infinite Forms of Teleportation by Carmen ex Tremere, Rego summa in Latin, Level 19 Quality 9

Her final opus, Carmen wrote and rewrote this book during her later years. Discarding much of her earlier drafts, she finally managed to create an expansive summa on utilizing the form of Rego for all forms of movement, transportation, and translocation. There are earlier drafts of her book that some Redcaps have found (L15 Q8, L17 Q7, L19 Q6) sold by her covenant in the Tansylvanian Tribunal and now are in other tribunals..

Correspondence on Teleportation and Travel

Correspondence on Teleportation and Travel by Carmen ex Tremere and Forum ex Mercere, Rego tractatus in Latin, Quality 8

A collection of letters, correspondences, and notes for a four-year-long debate between the two magi. The younger Carmen and the older Forum both specialized in transportation magics, and corresponded together extensively. This collection of letters is mostly focused with the two magi trying to systematically tear down the other's arguments, thereby increasing their understanding of their own work. It also, for some reason, includes transcriptions of Carmen teaching Forum how to play chess.

3 Likes

Fabulos of House Tytalus
Hermetic Name: Fabula ex Tytalus
From Provencal Tribunal
Reputation: Incredibly Prolific and Varied Author 5 (Hermetic)
Preferred Topics: Varied

Fabulos, of House Tytalus, was regarded by his peers as an incredible example of drive, talent, and leaving one's mark in history. Books written by Fabulos are surprisingly common, but the topics are varied, and the quality of his works is all over the spectrum. A number of Tytali are willing to trade his books, should they have them.

In reality, Fabula ex Tutalus is a maga who had little to no social or communication skills, and viewed this as a challenge. Eventually, Fabula (as Fabulos the Grand) became a prolific book-thief during their time, often claiming original copies of manuscripts during Wizard's War, and then rewriting the texts to be released as their own work. Two centuries after their death, few if any people are aware of their prodigious duplicity. Many of the books written by Fabulos are not bound by the Cow and Calf oath.

The Works and Efforts of Bonisagus

The Works and Efforts of Bonisagus by Fabulos of House Tytalus, Magic Theory summa in Latin, Level 4 Quality 8
Originally written by a Bonisagus in the Rhine tribunal, Fabula claimed many of the magus's notes and books, and let the laboratory researcher survive with a promise to leave him alone as long as he stayed quiet on the situation which resulted in Fabulos's new book.

Specialization in Destruction

Specialization in Destruction by Fabulos of House Tytalus, Perdo summa in Latin, Level 16 Quality 10

A Flambeau in Normandy originally wrote this book, but his apprentice bragged too loudly about having a unique and insightful book once it was inherited. After rewriting the book with their name, Fabulos sent the ashes of the original to the elder magus with a Redcap delivery.

Insight into the Mystic Mind

Insight into the Mystic Mind by Fabulos of House Tytalus, Mentem tractatus in Latin, Quality 13

This book is a study on the motivations and personalities of a mortal, and how to influence their actions by playing to their motivations. A Criamon seer wrote this book, and never bound or distributed it. When Fabula got into a conflict with that Criamon's covenant, he just gave Fabula the unbound copy and walked away. This is one of the few times where Fabula feels she lost a conflict.

Sight Beyond Sight

Sight Beyond Sight by Fabulos of House Tytalus, Second Sight tractatus in Latin, Quality 11

When Fabula lost a case in Tribunal for harassment, she targeted a few of the key votes against her with Wizard's Wars. Sight Beyond Sight came from an Ex Miscellanea maga who was a faerie-blooded seer. The text is dedicated to the perception of invisible things.

The Art of Discovery

The Art of Discovery by Fabulos of House Tytalus, Intellego summa in Latin, Level 9 Quality 12

The book that started Fabula's entire career, this original draft of this book was written by one of her contemporary Tytali. The Art of Discovery is dedicated to utilizing the Intellego technique to gather information before acting. After the book was sold to another covenant without the Cow and Calf oath, her rival declared Fabula the victor in their 'duel' and let it go.

The Word of God

The Word of God by Fabulos of House Tytalus, Creo tractatus in Latin, Quality 14

A very devout Flambeau from Iberia was travelling through Provencal when they ran afoul of Fabula. The Tytalus had discvoved he was delivering his book to one of the covenants in the area, and intercepted him to challenge him and take the book from him. He pursued the thief doggedly for years, and after his death Fabulos finally released the book.

3 Likes

Lithia of House Merinita
Hermetic Name: Lithia ex Merinita
From Rhine, Normandy, Novgorod, Roman Tribunals
Reputation: Skilled author on Terram and Mountain Faeries 3 (Hermetic)
Preferred Topics: Terram, Faerie Lore

Lithia was a troll-blooded woman who was regarded as a feared maga during her time. Her dangerous appearance and blatant Gift made few want to deal with her, but the woman herself was subdued when she was out of her native elements. Lithia became a travelling loner, who often stopped at Merinita-held covenants to rest, where she would write and trade her books. She was dedicated to exploring the lives and powers of trolls, giants, and other mountain faeries. The dwarf-blooded apprentice she took was handed to another Merinita before she died. [Com +3, Good Teacher]

Giants, Bones of the Mountain

Giants, Bones of the Mountain by Lithia of House Merinita, Magic Lore tractatus in Latin, Quality 12

Perhaps as some kind of prank, Lithia wrote numerous tractati in her travels that all held the exact same title. Lithia wrote a version for Magic Lore as well as two versions of Faerie lore (focusing on giants and on troll), and three tractati on Terram. It was two decades after her death that the angered covenants finally began to discover that the weren't all sold copies of the same book. A Bonisagus who read all of the books has theorized that the action was done as an Ordeal or Quest for a faerie Mystagoge in the Alps.

Vis Cycles in the Mountain's Heart

Vis Cycles in the Mountain's Heart by Lithia of House Merinita, Faerie Lore tractatus in Latin, Quality 12

This tome was part of Lithia's studies into how vis was formed in Faerie regios and auras. It discusses how Faerie vis forms in regios controlled by powerful faeries, and how it forms in auras uncontrolled by a faerie lord.

Studies on the Origin of Faerie Power

Studies on the Origin of Faerie Power by Lithia of House Merinita, Faerie Lore tractatus in Latin, Quality 12

A self-reflective study focused on how Faerie blood manifests in different individuals. It discusses numerous types of faeries and giants, their human-blooded offspring, and changelings. Most notably, it analyzes how Lithia feels that her House puts an undue level of prestige and desire for apprentices with Strong Faerie Blood.

Stone, Mineral, Metal, and Jewel

Stone, Mineral, Metal, and Jewel by Lithia of House Merinita, Terram Summae in Latin, Level 20, Quality 13

Lithia wrote this book as a gift to her parens, given before the gigantic Terram maga went on her final adventure. Lithia wrote the book with a slight emphasis on learning, lowering the Level by 1 for a little more quality. This book is regarded by those who read it as a phenomianal and ground-breaking text all the same, but most known copies of this book are transcribed from a damaged text (Level 18, Quality 12)

3 Likes

Serpius Bjornaer

Hermetic Name: Serpius Bjornaer
From Rhine
Reputation: Mentem Author 4 (Hermetic)
Preferred Topics: Perdo, Mentem, Magic Lore

Serpius of Bjornaer was a magus who always felt destined for greatness. Descended from an ancient wyrm whose poison rotted mind instead of body, he was gifted in the arts of Mentem. A creature of deceit and intrigue, he rapidly found himself a man who was untrusted and disrespected. He ignored this, as his House treated him with due respect. It was for his House and his lineage that he dedicated his work. Although he played a villain at times, he never worked against his house's interests, and when he grew older, he began to write books for their use.

Most written in Gothic unless directly relating to Hermetic Magic, a number of the books were translated to Latin after his death, and became more available. Anything written in Latin is most likely at -1 Quality. [Com +3]

The Path of the True Serpent

The Path of the True Serpent by Serpius Bjornaer, Intrigue summa in Gothic, Level 4 Quality 9

This work is focused specifically on use for a Bjornaer or shapeshifter. It contains records of numerous conspiracies that Serpius participated in or orchestrated, and specifically how he was able to use his animal forms and those of his allies to great advantage in their machinations.

The Poisoned Mind

The Poisoned Mind by Serpius of Bjornaer, Mentem Summa in Latin, Level 19, Quality 9

The four volumes of this book are traditionally bound in the hide of a giant snake. It focuses on studying different aspects of the mind, seeking weaknesses and vulnerabilities for clever magi to attack, as well as teaching a self-reflection to find the same flaws in your own mind.

Education on Breaking Through

Education on Breaking Through by Serpius Bjornaer, Penetration Tractatus in Gothic, Quality 9

Most hermetic texts focus on using the Penetration ability for maximum effect with hermetic spells. This tractatus focuses on how the hermetic knowledge of the skill can also aid those with inherent magical powers. It has been thoroughly reproduced throughout the House.

The Elements of Destruction and Decay

The Elements of Destruction and Decay by Serpius Bjornaer, Perdo Summae in Latin, Level 18 Quality 9

Serpius's final work, this text was given to his House as he felt that too many of their kin were not practiced at the Art. The early chapters focus on natural decay and erosion, before going in to human-caused distruction. The second half of the book is specialized on the actual Art of Perdo, utilizing concepts from the early chapters.

The Mind that Lies to Itself

The Mind that Lies to Itself by Serpius Bjornaer, Mentem Tractatus in Latin, Quality 9

A relatively small if exhaustive work, this book was written by Serpius on using different tricks of Mentem magic to make people misunderstand or misremember things. In particular, his goal was to have spells that would alter peoples memories long after the actual spell wore off.

Discussions with the Ancestors

Discussions with the Ancestors by Serpius Bjornaer, Magic Lore Tractatus in Gothic Quality 9

When he was not deliberately causing trouble around the Rhine for other Houses, Serpius often journeyed to Novgorod. His goal was to find the ancient creatures which hid there, away from societies, and learn from them. This work is more of a travelogue than an actual educational work.

Life Cycles of Great Wyrms

Life Cycles of Great Wyrms by Serpius Bjornaer, Magic Lore Tractatus in Gothic, Quality 9

One of his broader known works, the Life Cycles of Great Wyrms was translated repeatedly and sold around the Rhine tribunal. Amusingly, there is a large amount of false information in in on the weaknesses of dragons, but for those who have a knowledge about magical beasts, they can easily spot the lie. [Many quality 8 copies of this book are around. Those doing research using this book, who have a Magic Lore ability of 0 or 1 are likely to get false and dangerous information. This also applies to anyone who only has learned from this book.]

4 Likes

Garris ex Criamon
Hermetic Name: Garus ex Criamon
Provencal Tribunal
Reputation: Strange and brilliant author 3 (Hermetic)
Preferred Topics: Muto, Philosophiae, Magic Theory

Garus ex Criamon was a blatantly gifted child. Born Juliet, she ran away from her home near Montpellier and became a travelling beggar. Disguised as a male child for her own protection, she was found by a Criamon travelling through the area, who picked her up and began to teach her. Strangely, Juliet was passed from one Criamon master to another as they travelled, and none of them claimed her as their own. The final Criamon master, who gauntleted the magus, named them 'Garus' in jest.

When Garus began writing books to sell at Tribunals, they wrote under the pen-name Garris, and often pretended to be the student of her 'master' Garris. Many of their books are geared towards aiding apprentices and young magi. Later in life, they claimed to be selling books gifted to them that they no longer had a need of. [Com 4, Good Teacher]

Analysis of the Classical Thought

Analysis of The Classical Thought by Garris ex Criamon, Philosophiae tractatus in Latin, Quality 13

The most widely spread book of the mysterious author, and the book that sparked a lot of interest in their work, this tome systematically tears apart a number of the teachings of Plato, often using rather unrealistic examples. This book seems to hold a large number of deeper truths hidden within it, and rumors say that the book contains secrets of the Enigma. Whether or not it's true, the Criamon support that rumor.

A Standardized Education for the Hermetic Apprentice

A Standardized Education for the Hermetic Apprentice by Garris ex Criamon, Magic Theory summa in Latin, Level 3 Quality 19

This book was one of the most extreme examples of the eccentric Criamon's work. It also perfectly showcases the brilliance of their teaching styles. This book's sale actually caused a number of Bonisagus to try and bribe the imaginary 'Master' of the maga to teach their apprentices.

Advanced Education for the Gauntleted Hermetic

Advanced Education for the Gauntleted Hermetic by Garris ex Criamon, Magic Theory summa in Latin, Level 5 Quality 13

The second great opus of the otherwise unknown Criamon. The Advanced Education tome uses a lot of advanced concepts, often referencing more basic Hermetic theory that is in the appendix of the book. Less educated readers can still learn a lot by studying the books, but they can find it quite frustrating to flip around pages back and forth.

Basic Formulation of Hermetic Language

Basic Formulation of Hermetic Language by Garris ex Criamon, Latin summa in Occitan, Level 3 Quality 13

This book is a primer for a magus to educate their apprentices on basic latin. Almost comedically, most people who can read the book are already well into their studies of Latin.

Transition and Translation by Garris ex Criamon, Muto summa in Latin, Level 14 Quality 15

One of the most sought-after books written in Garris's name, this book is a deep and insightful book studying the nature of change. The forward of the book explains that the inspiration for this came after a botched experiment and a Twilight enlightenment. (This is a lie.)

3 Likes

Richard Randall of Jerbiton
Hermetic Name: Richard Randall of House Jerbiton
Stonehenge Tribunal
Reputation: Skilled and sparse author 4 (Hermetic)
Preferred Topics: Magic Theory, Finesse, magical crafting

Richard Randall was the firstborn son of an English nobleman Gently Gifted and eloquent. His family had frequent interactions with a small covenant nearby, including a number of Jerbiton. His canny mind and gentle Gift had him well into his teen years before he was identified as a gifted individual by a Redcap. The local covenant faked his death, with the aid of his younger brother, and when Richard finally came through his Gauntlet, he was an important part of his covenant. He did bear an eternal resentment against his brother for the betrayal, but the brilliant and hidden world of the Hermetic Society had him entranced.

While he never became a great magus, Richard was a skilled diplomat and negotiator, who became a poupar figure among the Jerbiton in Normandy. He had no known apprentices.

Application of Hermetic Magic for Mundane Uses

Application of Hermetic Magic for Mundane Uses by Richard Randall, Magic Theory tractatus in Latin, Quality 14

With his late start in his Hermetic career, Richard Randall was very focused on the application of magical arts to the mortal world. Instead of delving into the depths of mystical power, Richard - and this tome - explore utilizing magic to make life better, fancier, and grander. It includes descriptions of a number of magical items in his manor home and estates to make the lived of him and his peasantry more enjoyable.

Comparing Craft Magic and Magical Crafting

Comparing Craft Magic and Magical Crafting by Richard Randall, Magic Theory tractatus in Latin, Quality14

In his later years, Richard developed a keen interest in the arts, and pushed his not inconsiderable wealth towards patronage of young artists from modest means. This lead to his authoring this text, which compares the limitations of craft magic and the advantages of utilizing magic to aid in another's craft instead.

Common Problems with Crafting Magic

Common Problems with Crafting Magic by Richard Randall, Finesse tractatus in Latin, Quality 14

One of his more popular books for sale in Normandy, this book discusses shortcomings of craft magic and ways to compensate for them. A keystone of this study is utilizing tactics from other magical foci in finesse, to apply to utilizing craft magic. Despite this book's popularity, Randall asserts in the book that craft magic is a shortcut, and like all shortcuts, should not be relied apon if a true crafter is available.

Depredations in the Tribunal of Stonehenge

Depredations in the Tribunal of Stonehenge by Richard Randall, Code of Hermes tractatus in Latin, Quality 14

A very scathing review published after Richard was stuck in the Stonehenge tribunal for an extended period without seeing a regional tribunal. Some attribute this tractatus as a primary cause of the newer influx of magi at the beginning of the thirteenth century into the Stonehenge tribunal. Rumors by the Redcaps say that a member of the Blackthorn covenant is trying to buy original copies of this book.

Efficient Uses of Craft Magic

Efficient Uses of Craft Magic by Richard Randall, Finesse Summa in Latin, Level 3 Quality 14

Studying the value of low-level and low-complexity craft magic to streamline a covenant's resources, like production of nails and horseshoes, this book is targeted not at magi but at mundanes utilizing magical items to perform apprentice-level crafting magic. This book includes a laboratory text to create a magical item to turn a bar of iron into a thousand nails.

Peripheral Code Rulings with Inevitable Problems

Peripheral Code Rulings with Inevitable Problems by Richard Randall, Code of Hermes tractatus in Latin, Quality 14

One of his last books written, Richard set his sights on improving the lot of his home by pointing out legal flaws in the peripheral rulings of the Normandy tribunal. It references information gleaned from the Peripheral Code of other nearby tribunals.

4 Likes

Barrolos ex Bonisagus
Hermetic Name: Barrolos ex Bonisagus
Rhine Tribunal
Reputation: Rumored Infernalist 2 (Hermetic), Insane Hermetic Researcher 4 (Hermetic)
Preferred Topics: Magic Theory, supernatural Lores, often damaged or explicitly redacted

Barrolos lived a few small centuries ago. He rose rapidly to fame amongst his House, and then to the Order as a whole when he started publishing his findings. Gifted with a brilliant mind and eloquent tongue, he gathered support from a number of sources who wanted his assistance in research, which funded his own exploration into the arts of Vim. He first ran into trouble with the Merinita for trapping Fae for study, as well as magical spirits and beasts. A quesitor was investigating him for diabolism when he disappeared. The group who investigated his laboratory found a number of Infernal and Divine creatures trapped in mystic circles in addition to the Faeries and Magical Spirits that were known about.

The Flambeau who was tasked with burning his notes and texts instead decided to have them rebound under false titles and authors for later study, and the books went to the wider Order of Hermes when he died. Whether or not the texts were Infernally tainted, possession of them can cause significant trouble if a Quaesitor gets inolved.

Investigations into Conjunction

Investigations into Conjunction of the Mythical Realms by Barrolos, Magic Theory summa in Latin, Level 4 Quality 14

One of his better known texts, that first brought the attention of powerful magi to Barrolos, Conjunction was an experimental study on how different mystical realms could each be drawn upon for Hermetic magic. While primarily focused on Faerie Magic, it also mentioned Divine and Infernal rituals he had studied.

Containment and Warding

Containment and Warding for Creatures Mystical and Profane by Barrolos, Magic Theory tractatus in Latin, Quality 14

Barrolos was known to capture Magical and Faerie creatures (and apparently other Realms). Much of his experience went into the writing of this book, which explained risks and tactics for using wards to capture beings for study.

Investigations into Faeries who Play Demonic Roles

Investigations into Faeries who Play Demonic Roles by Barrolos, Faerie Lore tractatus in Latin, Quality 14

This book was divisive amongst the Merinita of the Rhine, as some felt that Barrolos was throwing subtle accusations of Infernal influence at their House, as the beginnings of a campaign similar to the one that destroyed the Diedne. Other Merinita rather enjoyed the opus, pointing out that this book was a good resource to avoid demonic influence.

Investigations into Demons which Mock the Magical Realm

Investigations into Demons which Mock the Magical Realm by Barrolos, Infernal Lore tractatus in Latin, Quality 14

Getting him into trouble with the Quaesitores, Barrolos wrote a book that specifically focused on how demons can corrupt magical auras and places. While on the surface a simple theory exploration, there was a lot of dangerous implications about how the information was gleaned, and what uses it could be put to.

Conversations with a Saint

Conversations with a Saint by Barrolos, Dominion Lore tractatus in Latin, Quality 14

This book earned Barrolos a number of fines when it was innocently sold at a tribunal. The book takes the stance of a blessed Saint of Scholars who was willing to have a number of long conversations about the nature of the Divine with the curious magus. Although the information appears accurate, Barrolos was unable to specify the Saint in question, and the Quaesitores suspected he had captured or coerced one. Only the direct intervention of an elder Bonisagus who was interested in his work deflected the investigation.

Investigation into the Ancient Gods

Investigation into the Ancient Gods and their Echoes by Barrolos, Magic Lore tractatus in Latin, Quality 14

Barrolos took an interest in all four realms. While he did not believe in a Unified Realm Theory, he was interested in how each of the realms interacted with the others. In this book, Barrolos studied the depths of ancient Magical beings who accepted worship as gods, and how their Faerie replacements were different, and in many ways, insufficient.

Insight without Malice

Insight without Malice by Barrolos, Infernal Lore summa in Latin, Level 4 Quality 14

Most everyone who reads this large tome has found that its contents are disturbing, and dangerously close to dancing in the Infernal. The book appears to be gathered information from studies Barrolos performed upon demonic and infernal creatures and spirits - these tests clearly had no care for morality or virtue, and in fact claimed that due to the moral depravity of the Infernal, any actions taken against them could be easily forgiven, as long as it caused no harm to an actual moral being.

5 Likes

Julio ex Flambonis
Hermetic Name: Ignatius ex Flambeaux
Iberia and Provencal Tribunal
Reputation: Skilled Author for Ignem and Auram 2 (Hermetic Iberia), War Wizard 4 (Hermetic)
Preferred Topics: Ignem, Auram

Julio was at first trained as a wizard for the battles constantly going in Iberia against the Sahir. His skill was noticed and renowned, and his name was quickly a common statement of discussion for those following the struggle. However, like many active Flambeau. His Hermetic name, Ignatius, was surprisingly common amongst the Flambeaux, and though he never interacted with others, the records of past magi was renowned in that regard. His sudden retiring from active campaigning caused a lot of suspicion, but in truth his wild activity ended up getting the magus an incredibly large amount of Warping, and eventually became Twilight Prone. Thus he retired to his covenant, took an apprentice, paid extensively for magical enhancement of his Communication from a Gifted Mercere, and began producing the next generation of Iberian crusaders.

The Arts of Fire, Heat and Light

The Arts of Fire, Heat and Light by Julio Flambonis, Ignem Summa in Latin, Level 18 Quality 10

A major book in the Iberian Tribunal, the five known copies of this book each have extensive glossing and notes in their margins by different students. While the librarians in charge are often aghast, the tradition was started by Julio's first Apprentice (Ignatius, of course) who had first defaced his master's work. It is also tradition to not copy the margin notes in the few and rare instances it has been allowed to be copied.

Simpler Arts of Fire, Heat, and Light

Simpler Arts of Fire, Heat, and Light by Ignatius Flambonis, Ignem Summa in Latin, Level 13 Quality 15

A more commonly known book, this book has a simpler copy (L10 Q10) written by Julio's first filius and given to him as a gift. The elder magus, perhaps in a fit of vengeance for defacing the previous book, rewrote the entire book and returned it to his filius. Oddly, he kept the title and author the same.

As Above, So Below: The Power of the Sky

As Above, So Below: The Power of the Sky by Julio Flambonis, Auram Summae in Latin, Level 16 Quality 10

Another formative book in Iberia, As Above So Below was regarded as the premier text for those using Auram magic in combat. While certainly not the most known book outside of the Tribunal, there was a strong Iberian pride in the books written by one of their own in the northern half of the Tribunal.

Weather and Terrain on the Field of War

Weather and Terrain on the Field of War by Julio Flambonis, Auram Tractatus in Latin, Quality 10

A study in how advanced weather manipulation can drastically (and easily!) affect the terrain and surroundings. This book uses extensive examples of real battles, in particularly focusing on tactics used by Sahir magicians in battle against their enemies.

My Notes on Spell Invention in Ignem

My Notes on Spell Invention in Ignem by Julio Flambonis, Magic Theory Tractatus in Latin, Quality 10

A less organized text, but an exhaustive one all the same, this book is made up of numerous notes and studies about spell invention, and details mistakes and discoveries in twelve different examples of spell invention. The specifics of the spells are not included, but could easily be used to aid in Ignem spell invention. Even outside of that Art, the techniques described in this book can aid many different other arts.

3 Likes

Dorian of House Jerbiton
Hermetic Name: Docaria ex Jerbiton
Roman and Thebes Tribunal
Reputation: Prolific Author in Greek and Latin (Hermetic)
Preferred Topics: Mentem, Muto

Dorian of House Jerbiton was a Latinate magus who came to the Greek isles to visit his kin in Constantinople, and he disappeared sometime before the fourth Crusade. He travelled regularly between the two Tribunals and was promoting the two tribunals to more aggressively trade knowledge - and books. In fact, Dorian was an active member of a merchant family that was trading books between Constantinople and Florence. While he had a good reputation among many Hermetic magi, there were a number of Jerbiton who considered him quite a liar and a schemer, and tried to avoid getting entangled in his plots. This turned out badly, when he angered a number of Verditius in both tribunals, after bargaining in bad faith with both, and then mysteriously disappeared, along with a number of his family's ships.

Travels Between Old Empires

Travels Between Old Empires by Dorian of House Jerbiton, Area Lore tractati in Greek, Quality 10

Though technically of a single volume, this memoir of Dorian's travels can be used for Area Lore: Florence, and Area Lore: Constantinople. Comparing his early days traveling with his family, and later with his mentor, and finally his more adult journeys, this book offers some clever insight to the cities and regions he journeyed through. Of particular note, Dorian was prodigious in his use of Mentem to refresh his own memories from his childhood.

Control of the Mind

Control of the Mind by Dorian of House Jerbiton, Mentem Summa in Greek, Level 13 Quality 10

While this tome he had written as a gift to a Tytalus lover in Thebes, most of his own House who studied the book found it practically unreadable. Dorian's mastery of the languages unfortunately translated into incredibly florid and crudely suggestive wordplay, despite the fact the book focused entirely on the mind and emotions, and how to subtly manipulate them. The two stayed in contact and often visited one another until Dorian disappeared.

Metamorphoses

Metamorphoses by Dorian of House Jerbiton, Muto summa in Greek, Level 14 Quality 10

An very thorough study on transformations. It begins looking at natural animals who change, focusing on silkworms, butterflies, and frogs; The study then goes on to study subtler changes, referencing arctic creatures who change their fur color, and domestic canines who have differing thickness of fur during the year. The last section focuses on human society, and how mortals change themselves to suit the world around them.

Paths of Thought

Paths of Thought by Dorian of House Jerbiton, Mentem tractatus in Greek, Quality 10

One of his simpler volumes, Paths of Thought is a study on manipulating others. Inside the books are different subtle uses of Intellego spells to follow a person's train of thoughts and steer them to a goal they normally wouldn't consider. This was the last book he is known to have written, and it is surmised that many examples he uses in the book reference Jerbiton magi he angered.

Secret Thoughts of Docaria

Secret Thoughts of Docaria, by Dorian of House Jerbiton, Intrigue tractatus in Latin, Quality 10

This book was not known about until after Dorian had disappeared. It was found in his personal studies by one of his lovers, in this case a mundane merchant's widow. She had it bound and distributed as a final honorific to him. Unfortunately for her, and for Dorian's legacy, his personal notes reference a very large number of Code-breaking actions he was planning, and some of which he likely performed.

3 Likes

Delectas ex Jerbiton
Hermetic Name: Delectas ex Jerbiton
Roman Tribunal
Reputation: Food-obsessed chef and author 3 (Hermetic), Unparalleled chef and host 5 (Naples)
Preferred Topics: Creo, Muto, Rego

Delectas of House Jerbiton, born as Ronaldo, son of a baker, was Gently Gifted and a popular young lad. He was a great help to his family's business, as his subtly manifested talent created unique and interesting flavors. A Redcap located him and informed the local covenants, and he was easily claimed by a nearby Jerbiton. His master used his interest and skill in baking to entice his focus on his studies, and by the time he had been Gauntleted, Delectas was quite obsessed over food.
Many a Jerbiton who wanted to host a social gathering had pulled him in to help, and he was delighted to do so. Delectas developed a talent for teaching as he found himself beset by larger requests and he refused to back down from a culinary challenge. His Mercere wife, his younger brothers, his children, the grandchildren.... Delectas had gathered to himself a personally trained gastronomic army, utilizing all different manner of magical tricks to enhance food.
As well, Delectas became an incredibly large man, as a Twilight warping experience had left him always hungry, and aways growing larger. Not mere fat, by the time Delectas died, he was eleven feet tall and five feet across, rotund and healthy. He never became a proper author, but when he finally died of old age, one of his grandchildren began selling copies of his library to a few Redcap cousins.

At the storyguide's option, readers with no culinary skill may receive a -2 Source Quality to reading Delectas's work. These books may also be used as Tractati for Profession: Chef (or Craft: Baking) of Source Quality 8.

Subtle Uses of Spice and Flavour

Subtle Uses of Spice and Flavour by Delectas ex Jerbiton, Muto Tractatus in Latin, Quality 11

This book discusses using specific mixes of spices to create certain flavor profiles in prepared food, including an exhaustive study of spice blends common in different cultures around the Mediterranean Sea. Less focused on magic, it still provides much insight on transformation of species and materials by uses of toasting and blending spices together before use.

Transformation of Meats to Aether and Aroma

Transformation of Meats to Aether and Aroma by Delectas ex Jerbiton, Muto Tractatus in Latin, Quality 11

A magically-focused culinary opus, this spell talks about using temporary Muto transformations to assist in unique and interesting food options. It spends a number of chapters discussing turning meats and hearty foods into liquids to be mixed or cooked into other foods to impart their flavor profiles - both temporary changes to be released later in preparation, as well as longer term spells to keep the transformation active until well after consumption. It also discusses other other magical manipulations, and includes a laboratory text to trap the aroma of cooking food as a liquid to be mixed into draughts, such as Delectas's famous Braised Beef Burgandy wine.

Creativity and Experimentation in Creation of Recipe and Meals

Creativity and Experimentation in Creation of Recipe and Meals by Delectas ex Jerbiton, Creo Tractatus in Latin, Quality 11

Delectas's focus on properly preparing food often ran into a problem of scale. Thus, he developed a number of Creo rituals to create entire feasts utilizing a single perfect serving as a base. The culinary magus preferred to create food using a sample as a base, thus taking away any guesswork or finesse in its creation, and minimizing the effects of a magus's sigil in creation. This tractatus contains a laboratory text for a ritual spell that perfectly duplicates a singular circlular platter off food into four hundred servings.

Limitations of Magical Preparation in Masterful Meals

Limitations of Magical Preparation in Masterful Meals by Delectas ex Jerbiton, Rego Tractatus in Latin, Quality 11

This is a brief and surprisingly insightful study into what parts of feast preparation can be done with Rego spells, not merely in craft magic, but in efficiency. Levitating cooking implements to ease space, magical pots to preserve spices, enchanted mortars to grind ingredients to fine or coarse mixes. It also describes a pair of matched tables for dining and preparation, that instantly transported any food placed on one table to be served at another, allowing for meals to be served at perfect temperature with no spillage.

Utilizing Magical Aids in Culinary Mastery

Utilizing Magical Aids in Culinary Mastery by Delectas ex Jerbiton, Finesse Tractatus in Latin, Quality 9

This partially-finished opus is a study on utilizing Rego craft magic as part of a cooking or craft rather than for whole meals. It describes techniques to quicken and enhance ingredient preparation rather than using magic to just make the final product; Craft magic can easily create perfectly even cuts of meat for later cooking, incredibly fine spice-grinding in a moment, even aging or drying components, all with the goal of delivering a chef the most perfect ingredients. A skilled chef with sufficient communication and Finesse could proofread and edit this work up to its full Quality 11 potential.

4 Likes

Igneos ex Verditius
Hermetic Name: Igneos ex Verditius
Roman Tribunal
Reputation: Skilled but critical volcanic Magus 3 (Roman Tribunal)
Preferred Topics: Ignem, Terram, commentaries

Igneos was a Sicilian magus of the Verditius who was very skilled with both Terram and Ignem. A personal field of study for this magus was volcanic action, and he claimed to have the blood of Vulcan in his heritage. He was known to be quite a braggart, and a caustic character in the Tribunal's social field. He had a terrible habit of finding ways to attribute any serious setbacks in his experiments to 'bad information' spread by the other authors he had read. This did not stop him from voraciously reading every book he could on the subject, if only to find more faults.
Igneos was very prone to accidents and risks in his work, establishing a number of hidden laboratories to do different experiments, and often finding a lab exploded or burned down (or buried in rock, or turning everything inside it to duck soup) two or three times every decade. He was a prolific writer of commentaries on other books that were in common circulation.

Fire and the Forge

Fire and the Forge by Igneos ex Verditius, Ignem Tractatus in Latin, Quality 8

Igneos's first self-inspired work, he still spent a significant portion of the book delivering scathing critiques and reviews of other Ignem tractati he had recently read. It actually has some interesting insights into the mixture of Ignem and metal used in forging, and a lot of Verditius enjoy this particular work. Many of the copies of this book in Verditius libraries have extensive side-bar commentaries about which sections to skip or re-read to help the readers.

Metal and the Forge

Metal and the Forge by Igneos ex Verditius, Terram Tractatus in Latin, Quality 8

Similar to Fire and the Forge, this particular book is a study on how forging materials can be transformed in the process. It shows heavy analysis of forge temperatures and different metals. Igneos reportedly had a pair of enchanted eye-pieces that let him see temperature scales, and the book references the visual scale he had - This book makes it clear that Igneos's mind was clever but did not work in ways that could be easily translated. Most Verditius who have copies of this book have transcribed their own metal-forging tables next to the ones in the book. This book is also often sold used, with a Ignem-resistant enchantment for an extra vis.

Use of Craft and Artifice in Laboratory Work

Use of Craft and Artifice in Laboratory Work by Igneos ex Verditius, Magic Theory tractatus in Latin, Quality 8

Igneos became very untrusting in his longer years, and stopped allowing other crafters to create anything that he would utilize in his laboratory, believing they would inevitably fail at a terrible time. This thoroughly illustrated book (he did not do the work himself, since its success did not affect his lab work) describes a large number of personalized and customized lab equipment he had in one of his labs. Unmentioned was the fact that he did not release this book to his sodales until after that lab exploded.

The Heritage of Verdi

The Heritage of Verdi by Igneos ex Verditius, Ignem and Terram summae in Latin, Level 16 Quality 8

His 'grand opus', Igneos reportedly wrote this entire book four or five times, because before he had it bound and published, it kept burning up or turning into mud before he had it finished during lab explosions. Each time the book draft was destroyed, Igneos became more dedicated on finishing it, and more reckless in his experiments to 'get it done before something goes wrong'. This book is a massive tome, and the known copies are all enchanted with flame resistance (making them more expensive). Mechanically, this book is two separate summae, but are sold as a single book.

4 Likes

Testudinis of Criamon
Hermetic Name: Testudinis of Criamon
Roman and Alpine Tribunals
Reputation: Brilliant and insightful Vim educator 2 (Alpine), Insightful and useless author on subjects 4 (Roman)
Preferred Topics: Vim, Creo, esoteric Lores

Design Notes

This character was the guidance and elder magus NPC for the first game I ran, who was around to help guide and teach the newer players. I gave him Incomprehensible to make sure the players didn't ask him for personal teaching much.

Testudinis was a well-renowned Criamon trained originally at the Cave of Twisting Shadows. He did not become truly known as a scholar until he travelled. His studies guided him to travel to a number of different Criamon creches, and during the travel he wrote a well-renowned book focusing on creation, including a strong study on different religious beliefs. He also spent a number of seasons teaching young apprentices, becoming known as a great teacher. Unfortunately, after disappearing back into the Tribunal of the Greater Alps, he experienced a number of negative Twilight experiences, and most of his later books were practically incomprehensible.
Testudinis during his early years had a Communication of 4 and Good Teacher. During his later years, he developed the Incomprehensible flaw from Warping. At Storyguide discretion, a reader with significant levels of Warping or The Enigma may gain additional insight and experience. I highly suggest allowing Criamon to study his work as practice experience sources for Enigmatic Wisdom, because fun.

Creation and Perfection

Creation and Perfection by Testudinis, Creo Summa in Latin, Level 23 Quality 13

Three copies of this book were originally created, and sent to three different Criamon magi in the Roman, Theban, and Normandy tribunals as a gift for aiding Testudinis in his travels and research. His ally in Normandy unfortunately lost the book in a Wizard's War, and a few reproductions were made and sold before Testudinis extracted a large amount of vis in compensation for breach of Cow and Calf. Creation and Perfection compares and studies the different myths of many cultures and studies how their origins affect the manifestation of Creo conjurations from the Realm of Forms. This book is a masterpiece.

Insubordination and Delight

Insubordination and Delight by Testudinis ex Criamon, Vim tractatus in Latin, Quality 6

A deeply confusing book, members of the Criamon have said there is great insight in its pages. The chapters are completely disjointed form one another, discussing Angels and Demons, the human body, and legends of Witches' familiars. Trying to read the book in order is dizzying and useless, but a number of Criamon claim that opening to a random page always offers some great insight into the fabric of magic.

A Comprehensible Description of Reality and God

A Comprehensible Description of Reality and God by Testudinis ex Criamon, Vim Summa in Latin, Level 24, Quality 6

A number of Jerbiton describe this opus as 'An emotionally crippling disappointment from a brillant lunatic'. This book has numerous copies around the Theban tribunal for new magi who had not yet learned the local language. This long, unwieldy book has many cognizant points, but they're buried in simile and comparisons.

Studying the Path

Studying the Path by Testudinis ex Criamon, Magic Lore tractatus in Latin, Quality 6

One of his shortest books, Studying the Path has the same short study and description of a Magical Ritual catastrophe from a number of different perspectives. Most people find the book as a whole pretty repetitive and hard to read, but most readers can relate well to at least one of the chapters' perspective points.

4 Likes

Janus ex Tytalus
Hermetic Name: Janus ex Tytalus
Thebes, Rhine Tribunals.
Reputation: Author who shares information readily 2 (Rhine)
Preferred Topics: Vim, Rego, MT

Janus ex Tytalus was born and trained in the northern Rhine. He was apprenticed and trained in secret by an over-ambitious Tytalus, and his education on the Order of Hermes was incomplete and lackluster - all at the design of his Master. When he was long in the apprenticeship, his attempts to break free oft foiled, Janus found himself speaking to another Hermetic Magus for the first time, and brought him back to his Master's lab. While the Merinita and his Master were entering into a heated argument over apprentice abuse, Janus throttled his Master to death. Brought up to charges at Tribunal, he was acquitted.
This fame at Tribunal brought his name some recognition. He proceeded to sell off his Master's possessions for Vis to advance his own study, and when he ran out of things worth selling, he began to sell his own written works as his master's collection. With few traditional trained skills, he allied with Titanoi in his House and used those secrets to advance himself. Though he is not regarded as a brilliant author, his works always include some surprisingly rare and potent information on the creatures he deals with, as he never was good at keeping secrets.

Birthplace of Earth Spirits

Birthplace of Earth Spirits by Janus ex Tytalus, Vim tractatus in Latin, Quality 9

This text was originally credited to his Master, Dispas ex Tytalus, but Janus was rapidly caught as lying about its origins. All later works are listed as his own work. The text describes a regio in the Southern Rhine, where every 3-4 years a powerful spirit is born from the gathering vortex of Magical energies there. It goes on to offer the True Names of seven different young spirits, but records report no success in conjuring those spirits. The regio and Names of the spirits seem fabrications, but the techniques and studies into the nature of Vim are accurate.

Sleeping Oceanic Power

Sleeping Oceanic Power by Janus ex Tytalus, Vim Tractatus in Latin, Quality 9

This text describes the power and potential of a spirit that was trapped beneath the North Sea. It is reportedly a Terram mountain spirit trapped under the ocean waves. Janus expounds upon the potential and power of Vim-based spirit-bindings, boldly stating that elementally-focused spiritbinders are crippling themselves. It mentions a few old Pagan sites that he used in forming a pact with the sleeping elemental spirit, but at least one of the sites has washed into the North Sea.

Sleeping Power in the Stars

Sleeping Power in the Stars by Janus ex Tytalus, Vim tractatus in Latin, Quality 9

A wide-spread work of Janus, since he did not include the Cow and Calf oath, reportedly in spite to the spirit who he wrote this book about. It focuses on the origin and powers of a Magic Spirit of Midnight, a patron of Hedge Witches, who apparently offended the Tytalus. It includes the spirit's True Name, reportedly, but many say it has been incorrect.

Binding Rituals for Tempermental Spirits

Binding Rituals for Tempermental Spirits by Janus ex Tytalus, Rego tractatus in Latin, Quality 9

A well-regarded but rarer text, because Janus included the laboratory texts for three different Rego circle-binding rituals in its pages. Though the text itself is not considered particularly brilliant, the fact that Janus so readily included additional useful spells marked the turning point where Janus was regarded as a good author, even if not brilliant.

3 Likes

Emporos of Troy
Hermetic Name: Emporos Troia Merinita
Theban Tribunal
Reputation: Educated Longevity specialist 3 (Theban)
Preferred Topics: Corpus, Creo, Perdo

Emporos of Troy, a satyr-blooded Merinita of moderate fame, was known as a younger healer and longevity specialist, disassociated from Asklepios. He was known to be not as lustful as many of his fey heritage, and a generally friendly if gruff individual. He had a particular delight in meeting and bargaining with merchants, despite being Gifted, and unlike many of his House, he had little tolerance for Faerie games, making him a popular companion amongst Jerbiton.

Despite a good talent with Creo and an incredible affinity for Corpus, Emporos was not focused entirely on healing, and actually quietly harbored a strong Perdo specialty. Merchants who tried to cheat his covenant often ended up catching diseases or struck by terribly aging winters. He did manage to keep a very positive reputation amongst the Order in the Theban Tribunal despite a few sketchy rumors. His own rumor-mongering may have had something to do with that. At least one Bonisagus magus complained that the numerous interests of the Merinita made him unable to properly focus on advancing his magical skills, so his books are not as high quality as they should be.

Extension of Life and Dangers of Age

Extension of Life and Dangers of Age by Emporos of Troy, Corpus tractatus in Greek, Quality 9

This text involves a deep study in how the effects of age affect the human body. Though merely a tractatus, this tome was written over the course of ten years, studying a young carpenter who was afflicted with a quick-aging plague that magic was unable to remove. The focus on how the human body functions at different stages of age are quite insightful to a curious Corpus magus, and very educational to those studying Longevity Rituals.

Studies on Decay and Rust

Studies on Decay and Rust by Emporos of Troy, Perdo tractatus in Greek, Quality 9

Again, a subtle focus on age, this book explores the collapse of function on the human body, with small notes to resist it. The latter half of the book explores how age affects numerous other substances, including different animals, different metals and stone, and organic liquids such as oil and fruit juices.

Wellsprings of Life

Wellsprings of Life by Emporos of Troy, Creo Summa in Greek, Level 14 Quality 9

Emporos was reported to live on an island with a powerful Creo vis source that enhanced the health of the island (and somehow had all of the local animals being intelligent). This let the magus advance his Art to a good degree despite his mercantile distractions and Athenian troubles. His best-known book, Wellsprings of Life, explores creatures reaching towards their perfect selves and how the use of Creo magic can aid this. The focus on improvement rather than raw creation is rare take on the topic.

Restoration With Vis

Restoration With Vis by Emporos of Troy, Corpus tractatus in Greek, Quality 8

A briefer text, and one more commonly found around Thebes, this is a study on how different methods of magical healing affect the human body. It describes the enhanced healing of slower Creo spells like Purification of the Festering Wounds, specific targeted healing similar to Chirurgeon's Healing Touch, and generalized and powerful healing such as Incantation of the Body Made Whole. Surprisingly, it explores healing practices of a specific Hedge Witch, and a bit of Faerie-based healing. This work does not have the same care and clarification of concept that his other works have, for some reason.

2 Likes

Forum ex Mercere
Hermetic Name: Forum ex Mercere
Normandy Tribunal
Reputation: Skilled Author and Traveller 5 (Redcaps), Reclusive Scholar 1 (Normandy)
Preferred Topics: Auram, Aquam, Rego
(Note, I'm assuming every single Redcap has heard something about the dozen Gifted Mercere.)

Forum of Mercere was the son of a Redcap who was well-regarded by the Order, and much disliked by the covenfolk and administrators who had to deal with his attitude and prodigious urges. He had left a large collection of bastard children around the Normandy Tribunal, and used the single Gifted child he produced as an excuse for it. Forum was not even found by the Redcaps, in fact, but originally was apprenticed to a Bonisagus maga. When her lineage was discovered, the maga traded the barely-trained apprentice to the Mercere on the condition that his father be made to care for his many children. Forum's parens very firmly agreed, and the Redcap rapidly found himself with over thirty children he had to pay for.

Young Forum, however, found he did not care about the history. He enjoyed the travel. Though as a Gifted Mercere, he had numerous responsibilities, he managed to somehow not shirk them - rather than finding his time spread too thin, Forum worked at his studies and his House requirements with aggressive eagerness, and then would immediately disappear to go on an adventure, returning a season or two later looking hale and refreshed before diving into his work once again. Forum accepted an apprentice early in his life, and trained the apprentice well, and later on began to author books for the local Mercere house. Most of the Tribunal was unaware of Forum's regular adventures, assuming he just was focused on his work.

Walking the Winds

Walking the Winds by Forum ex Mercere, Auram tractatus in Latin, Quality 11

This eloquent book features a number of beautiful illustrations, as well as six different poems that read as love-songs to the four winds and the spirit of travel. More importantly to the Magi who read the book, it describes techniques to utilize wind-patterns as an aid to travelling quickly, as well as ways to track the changes in the wind to avoid being misdirected.

Walking the Waves

Walking the Waves by Forum ex Mercere, Aquam tractatus in Latin, Quality 11

This opus describes spells utilizing currents and waves to move about the world at an accelerated speed. Forum often used solidified water as a vehicle for transport, when he wasn't riding the winds. The chapters, like the previous, featured lovely illustrations of different aquatic environs, but did not feature any poetry.

Travel and Transport

Travel and Transport by Forum ex Mercere, Rego Summa in Latin, Level 11 Quality 11

When Forum was training his first apprentice in Normandy, he also ended up writing this book. It was a long term study of means of transportation, so he could continue exploring to his delight without shirking his duties to the apprentice. In the end, he dedicated his time to the protege, and when gauntleted, he gifted this book to his former apprentice.

The Clouds as a Means of Transport

The Clouds as a Means of Transport by Forum ex Mercere, Auram Summa in Latin, Level 15 Quality 11

Forum's favorite book is the longest of his written works. It includes a large amount of poetry, woodcuts and illuminations, and a few maps of the Rhine and Normandy Tribunals as seen from atop a cloud. This book discusses weather patterns, wind patterns, and the easiest ways to transform normal weather into a means of useful utilization.

Hidden Glens in Burgandy

Hidden Glens in Burgandy by Forum ex Mercere, Area Lore: Burgandy tractatus in Latin, Quality 11

This book was regularly passed between the Redcaps on duty, as it described a number of locations in Burgandy with minor Magical or Faerie auras and the beneficial or dangerous properties of spending time in them. Of particular note, Forum had located a seemingly bottomless well that lead through Faerie to the Lavant, traveling it took only seven hours by the explorer's reckoning, but seven weeks in actual seasonal time.

3 Likes