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The Arcane

"Fear not the power of magic, but the magic of power."
-- Sevren Platford, Master Craftsman in the Duchass order, 1292

           Drai'ocht, Dus, the Fifth Element, Magic. For aeons both the Mahrgrave and the Si'odan have had a yearning born from their core to control this power. Over the ages many ways have come to be known for manipulating Magic, each is common in that they all are based upon a person's innate ability. The basic thaumatergic arts are Spellcraft and Channeling--where Spellcraft uses a set ritual or recipe to focus the user's powers in a specific manner with known results, and Channelling focuses the user's raw power. The latter is considerably harder, and many do not attempt it at all.

Orders of the Arcane

           There are three castes of thaumaterges: the Magi, Clerics and the Jzaoleux (jz-yah-low). The Magi originate from the original Mahrgrave thaumatergists, although they are no longer a Mahrgrave-only sect. Clerics follow the beliefs of an Archon pantheon, and generally have a religious dogma which they follow, dictating their thaumatergical practices. Jzaoleux originate from the various organized Si'odan orders (towers) existing before the Mahrgrave arrival.
           It is possible to practice thaumatergy without belonging to any particular sect. However, each will attempt to bring the thaumatergist into their fold. The Magi are the most fanatic in this respect, and regions where they hold sway often have parents fearing their children show signs of magical ability--as the Magi may come and take them away for training. The Jzaoleux try to bring the thaumatergist to understand the error in their ways, and show them the correct path (that being into the Jzaoleux order).

Magi

           The Magi trace their roots to the original Mahrgrave channelers. Since that time they have changed dramatically. They are a secretive closed order. Internally they have many tiers of organization, rituals between ranks and ceremonious behaviour and garb. When acting in public official Magi capacity, their official attire is white robes from head to foot, covering all common clothing (although the hood is commonly pulled back). The Magi also tend to be secretly involved in politics, corporations and other shadier organizations.

Jzaoleux

           Jzaoleux are divided into several orders. Each order represents a common mode of thought within the Jzaoleux. Because the Magi have a common public garb, the Jzaoleux tend to stay away from such public statements, and instead show their alleigences through other more subtle means (talismans, emblems, etc).

           A Jzaoleux cloister is known generically as a Hall, regardless of the order inhabiting it or the overall architectural design. There are only four Halls where all orders hold a presence at all times. However, Halls exist througout the galaxy containing one or more of the orders (usually those orders which co-exist well). It is not unusual to find several different Halls within one large city. All orders are present in most major cities, and on all major planets, just not all in one Hall.

Duchass (Nature)
[do-chass]

           This order holds nature and the natural way above all else. Its primary color is Green. Its symbol is a black triangle on a green field.

Stata (Technocrats)
[stah-tah]

           This order believes constant advancement and forward movement is always a requirement. Often called technocrats they are sometimes blinded by the desire to stay at the forefront of advancements. They are often computer developers and government ministers. This order's primary color is Grey. Its symbol is a flaring blue star on a grey field.

Baas (Death)
[baas]

           This order investigates death and the spiritual existance. Its primary color is black. Its symbol is a white circle on a black field.

Ceist (Judgement)
[kesht]

           This order believes in absolute judgement. Its members often hold judiciary positions or are officers of the law. In ancient times this order has also been responsible for over-zelous purging and inquisitions. Its primary color is purple. Its symbol is a scale on a purple background.

Cath Soichan (Peace and Meditation)
[coh su-chan]

           This order is often found meditating and working to bring peace between factions. Most members are against war and battle of any type, although some members believe some battles are necessary, and a select group are very adept and martial. Its primary color is white. Its symbol is a blue drop of water on a white background.

Coagadh Dearg (Martial)
[cug-uh dyarg]

           This order is martial and military. They believe a show of force is always the best approach. They primarily train in combat magics. Its primary color is red. Its symbol is a black fist on a red field.

Cur Caoi'ar (Life)
[kur-quar]

           This order focuses its attentions on healing and nurturing the living, primarily humanoids, although some work on other creations. Its primary color is blue. Its symbol is an open hand on a blue field.