Scribed by Hypatia
Spring 1312AD
On the morning of the first day of spring, we attended the council to discuss news and make plans for the season and the year. Still fulfilling his ill-suited role as Princeps, Pyrrhus commenced his laborious agenda by asking for news from the previous season.
Whilst it was barely news, given events had already been discussed and recorded in the journal, the appearance of Rhys at Lydney was related. It is not clear who exactly this faerie is or why he has appeared, though the fact that he adopts the role of a wandering minstrel or songsmith seems evident. Jari believes that Rhys could potentially have considerable power and significant magical abilities – though what those powers might be or how they might be used remains unknown. He also said that the faerie may originate from within the Seelie court of the Wood, which might imply the recent awakening of the forest may have played some part in his appearance – however, this was speculation. This illuminating discussion ended with the council noting some similarity in the name of this faerie bard, ‘Rhys’ and a faerie knight we have met in the past called ‘Maurice’. Though what this signifies (assuming it is not mere coincidence) is also unknown.
There weren’t any other events to report. Therefore, Pyrrhus determined we discuss the challenges and threats facing the covenant. This led to a round of fairly aimless and often poorly informed conjecture (as usual).
I was asked to anticipate the King’s plans for the year. Aeddan will have to make a choice as to whether to further bolster the defence of Calais against French ambition or try to break De Brus’ fragile coalition by invading Scotland. His Barons will press him for both, as they have lost lands to the French and the Scots. However, given the strength of Philip’s armies and the difficulty in extending military forces beyond English borders into Scotland, my nephew will have to choose only one of these paths. Pushed for an assessment regarding which he would choose, I suggested that my counsel would be to avoid calls for the invasion of Scotland. The coalition which De Brus assembled is apparently starting to unravel following the defeats in battle last year and retreat across the border. Attacking him now might only serve to shore up his alliances, as the fractious clan leaders would likely set aside their ambitions and arguments in the face of a common enemy invading their lands.
The Unnamed House was next on the agenda. Rumours from Glenrisdell of their interest in Roxburgh became the source of speculative discussion. The fact that a Grandmaster resided there provides quite a few reasons why they might be interested in the Templar stronghold. Perhaps there is some infernal power within the place that the magi of the Unnamed House seek to exploit; alternatively, we know the Templars collected a great deal of intelligence about the covenants and magi of Stonehenge; on the other hand, we know the Templars collected magical artefacts which they hoped to use against their enemies. Any of these might serve as motivation for the Unnamed House, but there may equally be reasons we could not guess.
Despite our ignorance about their plans and the fact that Eurus Aquilae, Borri-Tor and Holy Isle were equally advised as to the rumours of their presence, our council was not dissuaded from forming vague plans as to how we might involve ourselves. Both Terentius and Jari have some knowledge of the area, including Roxburgh castle itself, so might feasibly lend some aid to those covenants and Glenrisdell when they investigate this report. Of course, the whole thing might be spurious – perhaps even a trap. For all we know, the Unnamed House deliberately left signs of their mundane agents in the area to draw our attention away from their real plans and intentions.
However, given our local knowledge of the area, working with our sodales in the North is at least a valid contribution our covenant might make. Pyrrhus, as ever, had a less practical suggestion. Our Princeps suggested we start patrolling the coasts and the Irish Sea to search for the black-sailed ship the Unnamed House use to launch their attacks. Others on the council were forced to remind him about the sheer scale of such an exercise – given the convoluted coastlines and the size of the Irish Sea – and the potential folly of confronting an unknown number of potentially old and powerful magi even if you were, by some misfortune, to happen upon them. It was clear Pyrrhus was not actually volunteering to spend months and months at sea, so the suggestion went the same way as most of the others that he proposes at council.
The last ‘threat’ to debate was that arising from the ‘Pagan Spirits’. The influence of the Green King is still a source of concern, and it is unclear how to challenge his hold over the heart of the forest. One possible approach to investigating would be to speak to the Nynniaw come mid-Summer, which Jari suggested he would be willing to do. Another approach would be to seek out the spirit of the forest – which wears the form of a hind – to see whether if it can provide any insight or guidance. My feeling is that Jack’s powers will not be easily contested, and it is unlikely these approaches will lead to a viable plan of action. The wisdom of seeking to challenge such an old power is also questionable – not least because a failed attempt would almost certainly lead to escalation of hostilities.
Following these discussions, Pyrrhus led the council as it discussed potential covenant services for the year, and dispensed vis and coin to members of the council. I announced that I would be travelling to London to attend the royal court. As covenant service, Naevius will complete an enchantment upon a pouch which will allow the bearer to take a hair or similar arcane connection from a target.
After these routine matters were resolved, I had opportunity to make a formal request. I asked that the council consider inviting Eleanor, my apprentice, to join the council of Severn Temple contingent on her successful completion of her gauntlet later this year. Unfortunately, it seemed that, despite her having lived here for the 15 years of her apprenticeship, certain members of the council were unable to make an informed assessment of her capability or character. After a brief debate, the proposal was voted upon and rejected.
Hypatia’s Private Journal
Over the past months, two shadows have haunted my thoughts and dreams:
The first is a pale shadow: I feel the presence of the blade all the time now. The temporary relief that came with the retrieval of the scabbard seems all but lost since I drew the sword in vengeance. Like an apparition it appears to me, howling for violence and bloodshed. By act of will I’ve been able to place these thoughts aside, but the continuous strain is taking its toll. Myrddyn knew of its terrible power and sought to bind and temper its fury. He failed – though without his work and the scabbard, I have no doubt that I would have lost my mind completely by now. No wonder Arthur sickened and lost hope. The presence of the gift doesn’t appear to make me any more immune to its influence. I cannot close my eyes or relax my guard without hearing the blade screaming for battle. What is worse is that I sometimes cannot tell where my thoughts end and its influence begins. The Pale Blade is truly cursed. The ruin of my end looms ahead of me with increasing certainty – each step upon the path is a descent into darkness and madness – and there is no way back.
The second shadow is cast by the wings of countless ravens: The vision I received at Samhain last year also preoccupies me. The Morrigan’s message is clear enough – but the timing and precise circumstances are not known to me. My death is necessary – I accept that, welcome it even. To give my life to save my nephew is something that I would gladly do even were I not doomed by this wretched sword. It will cost my life, but I will let the blade free one last time – allow it to guide my hand faster than my will against my enemies – let it slake its fierce appetite; let it drink blood and bathe in their wounds.
I leave upon the morrow not knowing whether I will return. Part of me will be glad if I do not.
But what of Eleanor? I did not see her in my vision, but does she see me fall? Will I have chance to complete her training before I go? What becomes of these artefacts and cursed treasures once I am gone?
I had hoped – despite experience – that my sodales would go beyond their bureaucratic conventions and petty suspicions to formally offer her a home at the covenant. Knowing she had a place here – with magi who are aware some of the dangers as well as of the powers of Myrddyn’s treasures – would have allowed me to face my end with more peace of mind.
Yet peace of mind and a peaceful end was n’er my fate. Damn you Theo! You cursed us all when you set the crown upon your brow! Whatever form it takes, a violent and cruel death awaits each poor soul who follows in your luckless steps.
I’m too tired to write more. For all that is unfinished and remains unsaid, still I shall gratefully embrace death as a long-awaited friend.
Summer
Scribed by Naevius
I have taken up the duty of recording events in our journal. The unhappy reason for this is the death of Hypatia at the hands of the Unnamed House.
Last season the Unnamed House launched a brazen assault upon the White Castle in London. The black sailed ship navigated the Thames and managed to bring its infernal magi within a stone’s throw of the castle’s walls. As witnessed in the South of Wales, the attack was preceded by a noxious, magical mist which quickly overcame all mundane defenders. It appears that Hypatia, Eleanor and King Aeddan were in a council chamber when the attack began – Eleanor reported that Hypatia had shared her parma magica with her nephew, sparing him the chocking death suffered by his guards and councilors.
Under the cover of the fog, two enemies left the ship and stole into the fortress. From report, both individuals wore leather armour and had black, spiral tattoos on their neck and arms. Jari believes one of them was the tattooed mage that he scried in the attack upon Penally. Whilst unconfirmed, the other we presume was a companion or servant.
Recognising the threat, Hypatia drew the pale blade and launched an attack the moment they entered the King’s chamber. Eleanor was not able to relate very much of the battle, but it seems our sodalis was able to slay both men and save the King, but at the cost of her life. The unusual and ornate blade that was stolen from Penally appeared able to penetrate her magical defences and armour – striking a mortal blow to her heart even as her own blade came down upon the enemy mage. By the time news reached us of these events, the black-sailed ship had already made its escape – returning down the Thames and out into the open sea.
Terentius and Jari travelled to London where they eventually managed to retrieve Eleanor and Hypatia’s body and effects. At the council meeting we heard that the King had been evacuated to the castle at Windsor and, it appears, was being protected by senior magi from both Eurus Aquilae and Bori-Tor. Through the King, our sodales were able to secure access to the White Castle for the magi of Holy Isle to begin an investigation of their own.
Hypatia was cremated close to the spring which marks the heart of our magical aura. The ceremony was a brief one, though several spoke heartfelt words to mark her passing.
Even as an apprentice, her life was eventful and controversial. As Emma – filia of magus Lysimachus – she was apparently tutored by the shade of Myrddyn and given secrets of an old magic believed inherent to these lands. With these magics she broke a curse which had inflicted King Theo, her brother, and slew a number of powerful infernalists in Chepstow.
She joined House Ex-Miscellanea initially and was sworn to the Covenant of Severn Temple in the year 1275 – the same year that Lysimachus, Astrius and Husam lost their lives at Tomar. She spent much of her time away from the covenant dealing with matters of mundane politic, providing the covenant with significant news and resources over the years. For a time, she even served as regent which, along with a mysterious storm which wiped out an invading French fleet in 1287, almost certainly led to her being accused by House Guernicus of interfering with mundane affairs and court wizardry in 1291. That charge was due to be heard at the Grand Tribunal of 1296. Given the widespread prejudice against Stonehenge and her lineage, perhaps only the Templar attack upon Durenmar spared her from being cast out of the Order.
After the Templar attacks upon the Domus Magni, and the defence of Severn Temple in 1306 – where Hypatia awoke the old spirit of the forest to take battle to the enemy – these questions relating to the relationship between the mundane crown and the Order appear to have been answered. The presence of so many magi at Windsor perhaps the most recent evidence that, in Stonehenge at least, our fates have become inextricably intwined.
It was the death of Theo in 1308 which perhaps marked the beginning of the end for our sodalis. The ancient treasures bestowed upon her had long weighed heavily, but the influence of the pale sword retrieved from the court of Niamh, appeared to dominate her spirit after her brother was assassinated. A terrible thirst for revenge that could never truly be sated seemed to rage within her. She was a deeply troubled – and troubling – figure at council. It would not be an exaggeration to say I felt afeared of her at times. Perhaps it was this dread influence which prevented her from revealing her visions and fears to her sodales – though the full extent to which she anticipated her death will likely never be known.
Her legacy lives on through the survival of her royal nephew, and her magical lineage through her niece. As Eleanor had not yet completed her training as an apprentice, she was taken to Blackthorn covenant. Her final tuition and gauntlet will be provided by Suffucius of Bonisagus.
The many questions regarding the nature and eventual distribution of the treasures she possessed remain unanswered, however. Hypatia’s belongings were returned to the covenant and – given their strange powers – became a topic of debate at the council.
After a brief recess, Jari was able to locate something of a will within Hypatia’s sanctum. The simple instruction “All to Eleanor” struck me as a precarious case upon which to bestow such artefacts – especially as she is currently the apprentice to a wizard not sworn to our council. My experience of the Rome Tribunal certainly influenced my fears; it was not uncommon for lengthy legal battles and even Wizards’ War to be fought over the estate of a magus. In the end, we determined to seek the judgement of Senior Quaesitor Romanus – in the hope that we will receive a strong ruling to support our ability to dispense these artefacts as the council chooses.
Following this discussion, more ordinary matters of seasonal activities were discussed. Branwyn and Jari will make an assay of the forest as covenant service – to help us better understand the nature and extent of the awakened forest and the new threats emerging from Jack of the Green’s influence. Terentius – who had initially planned to travel north to assist investigation into reports of unnamed house activity near Roxburgh – will instead perform a service crafting potions imbued with the enchantment ‘Leap of Homecoming’. Given so many of Eurus Aquilae are currently in Windsor guarding the king, it seems uncovering whatever mischief our enemy has planned in Loch Leglean will have to wait.
Pyrrhus requested the use of the ship to travel to Hibernia. It appears there is some politics afoot within House Flambeau. The Primus of that House – Guido – is apparently preoccupied with assisting Primus Praesulis of Bonisagus’ efforts to persuade the ‘Order of the East’ to rejoin the Order of Hermes. In his absence, it appears a rival - Magus Aloisius of Cliffeheart covenant - has laid claim to the title of Primus Flambeau and called a House meeting. Permission to use the ship was granted. I hope our sodalis has no cause to regret attending this meeting – as doing so might signal his affiliation with this rival claim to the leadership of his house.
Within the covenant, the season passed peacefully.
Autumn
Our third formal council of the year began with news of events from summer.
Branwyn and Jari related the outcomes of their covenant service last season. It seems they encountered the strange faerie bard, Rhys, within Chepstow. Jari apparently happened upon him in an inn within the town but, despite trying to reassure the faerie, his presence appeared to cause Rhys to offer apologies for any trespass and swiftly take his leave. Whether this reaction was due to Jari’s status as a magus, or a fellow musician, or his faerie heritage, was not known. However, it appears this character remains in the vicinity of the Dean and his motivations and intentions are still poorly understood. Close to Chepstow lie the Trellech stones – where the covenant harvests Intellego vis each year. Upon visiting the site however, there appeared to be a curious, ethereal light about the place – a phenomenon not witnessed before according to our journal. Upon touching the stone, Branwyn was granted a vision of some kind – a warning regarding the hostility of the forest against those mundanes who dare enter it. Recognising a potential threat, but not fully understanding the message of the stone, the two magi continued to Monmouth and beyond to the settlements of Coleford and Clearwell.
The village of Coleford appeared hail enough. Its inhabitants concerned by the sudden encroachment of the wood – but the road to Monmouth remains open and the people appear to be surviving despite the reduction in the farmland around the settlement. The situation in Clearwell was significantly more troubling. It appears that the forest has swallowed up the village and its people. Jari suspected that the denizens of the village had been transformed into trees – as has been the dark fate of several of our grogs at the hands of the Green King. Searching more widely, the two magi also discovered that many of the small settlements of free miners in the region had also disappeared.
In conjunction with Branwyn’s vision, this raised the prospect that Monmouth would make investigation into the disappearances. If the omens proved true, any such attempt would lead to the deaths of the noble and his men – and almost certainly escalate the likelihood that the mundanes would respond with axe and flame against the trees.
Returning to the covenant, Jari enlisted the aid of Terentius. Between them they hatched a plan involving both magic and subterfuge which might dissuade Monmouth from instigating an inquiry. The plan involved convincing the locals that there had been an outbreak of disease – scarlet fever – at a nearby freeminer settlement. To this end, Jari took on the guise of a miner and staggered, apparently ravaged by the disease, into Coleford. His ruse certainly raised the alarm – and at first it appeared unclear whether they would let him leave the village again. However, he was eventually able to travel out of the village and beyond their sight to meet up with Terentius. Here, Terentius conjured up a corpse bearing the likeness of the sick miner – and they left it for the locals to discover for themselves.
By the end of summer, the influence of this ruse – and the many rumours sown within Monmouth – appeared to have the desired effect. There are now plague fires on the road to Coleford and it appears the Baron’s men have set aside any plans to investigate the woods. In the short term, this provides a sufficiently plausible explanation for the disappearance of the freeminers and the people of Clearwell. However, longer term this does not solve our problems. Mining in the region provided iron ore for the Barony of Monmouth – and with its loss it seems likely the Baron will order the forest to be cut back to encourage mining to resume. It is possible we might divert some of our mining activity (and profits thereof) through Monmouth to offset the urgency with which this will happen. Yet even this sacrifice would make up only a small portion of the iron Monmouth needs – and, perhaps within a year, it seems inevitable that the Baron would act.
Over the late part of the season, Branwyn remained in the Dean to examine the boundary of the wild magic influencing the forest. By her assessment, it seems that the border of the most dangerous part of the woods is extensive – but that there is no sign that this influence is expanding any further within the Dean.
There was also some news from Pyrrhus regarding his House meeting last season. From his report, it was attended only by the magi Ladislau, Nemerius and Ricardus of Cliffeheart along with Emerius and his filius Plutus from Stonehenge. The meeting mainly appears to have involved feasting and hunting. However, Aloisius has declared himself Primus and named Cliffeheart as the Domus Magnus of House Flambeau. It was clear from the warmth of Pyrrhus’ words that he wholeheartedly approves of his new ‘Primus’. With no Grand Tribunal and given the reputation of the house, I fear this may yet lead to more violent means to resolve these rival claims. I hope my sodalis does not come to regret his decision to cast his support with one of these factions so eagerly.
After briefly discussing other plans for the season – Jari and Terentius plan to travel abroad to seek ideas or a method of resolution to the situation in Monmouth – the council was called to an end.
Early in the season, Jari travelled beyond the Dean to seek insight from our sodales within Cad Gadu. Given that their forest also appears influenced by a wild, hostile presence, there was hope they might possess insights into how our own problems might be managed or resolved. Upon return, he shared what he had learned from his visit to the Domus Magnus Ex-Miscellanea.
He spoke to Maga Sertoria – a Merinitan apparently touched by the faerie court of the wood. Her advice was to approach to Nynniaw, the Lord of Oaks who has been recently encountered within the faerie regio within our wood. She believed it might be possible to persuade that faerie lord to intercede – perhaps even contest the hold of the Green King on the heart of the wood. However, what the price for such aid might be was unknown.
Jari also approached the new Prima of House Ex-Miscellanea, Lluddwyn. She also did not know a simple way to resolve our problems within the forest but suggested that it might be possible to persuade or strike a bargain with the spirits of the forest. There is an old – barely Hermetic – ritual called ‘Council of the Trees’ which might be cast to bring about a gathering of these tree spirits.
I must confess deep unease at both these suggested plans – things appear difficult now, but there is the prospect that we can make them worse through unwise dealings with powerful faeries and spirits whose motivations we don’t fully understand. I dare say there will be further debate at council on this topic!
Terentius was also abroad at the start of the season, and informally reported his visit to King Aeddan upon his return. Hypatia’s nephew was genuinely sympathetic to our concerns and appeared to believe our strange warnings about the forest. However, it seems that – despite being King of England – his hands are tied by the Great Charter and Parliament. Whilst the bounds of the royal forest have long been under the protection of the crown, the forest has expanded into regions traditionally held by the Baron of Monmouth. Were the King seek to extend the boundary of the royal forest to match the new extent of the woods, he would quickly find himself accused of seeking to rob the Baron of his landholdings. It seems the law prohibits him taking land from the barons so easily, and that parliament would swiftly contest such a decree. Given the recent death of his father and the tension created by the loss of lands upon the continent, Aiden expressed serious concern that seeking to challenge parliament over such an issue could potentially weaken his position on the throne. Therefore, we can expect no solution from the crown on this matter.
Towards the end of the season, the covenant was visited by Senior Quaesitor Romanus. He had received our message regarding Hypatia’s will and agreed to provide us with a ruling after undertaking a brief investigation of the matter and considering the various and many rulings of the peripheral code. After a few days, he announced his intention to make a ruling and we assembled as a council. Romanus ruled that, given Eleanor’s status as an apprentice at the time of Hypatia’s death, that her belongings would pass into possession of the council of Severn Temple. The council thanked the Senior Quaesitor for his considered judgement – should this matter one day be contested at Tribunal, we have a firm ruling to support our claim over Hypatia’s goods and chattels.
It is worth noting that the Senior Quaesitor advised us to re-examine our charter with a view to ensuring that there were clear rules for the inheritance of a magus’ belongings in future. A suggestion I think it would be most wise for our council to act upon.
With this matter resolved and Romanus’ departure, the season came to an end with no further events of note to report.
Winter
Our last formal council of the year began with a discussion regarding the problems on the western edge of the forest.
Terentius began by reminding us that the new king would provide limited aid in the matter of Monmouth, should the Baron seek to cut back the forest. King Aeddan believed he could delay such action by as much as a year, but (as previously discussed) had limited powers to directly intervene.
We began to review the various options apparently open to us. However, Pyrrhus interjected with lengthy speculation regarding the cause of these events. He noted that the faerie part of the forest occasionally appeared to shift between seasons, having recently been in winter and now returned to summer following Nynniaw’s recapture of the Silver Gate. He suggested what was happening in the heart of the forest might be a similar change in ‘season’. This did not ring true to any other, and we were sidetracked into a discussion of the variety of entities which had held power over the ancient grove. It was difficult to see how he had arrived at such a conclusion and, even if true, it did not appear to present any additional course of action for the council to consider. We eventually managed to get back to the main topic of discussion.
One option was to approach Nynniaw – who might have the power to intervene with the Green King. Jari warned that there was a danger that this might expand the influence of the faerie to the heart of the forest – and thereby influence the character of the whole wood. This was not something any on the council appeared keen to facilitate.
Another option was to call a ‘Council of the Trees’ using the Hermetic translation of an old ritual which summons awakened trees to a specific spot where matters might be negotiated. I must confess, despite this being a Hermetic spell, the uncertainty regarding the outcomes of this ‘council’ disturbed me. It seems that the caster would have a voice at this meeting, but there were no guarantees that the deliberations would settle upon actions which we wanted. Even were the council keen on such a move, it would take Jari the majority of a year to learn to cast such a ritual.
A further option was that one of us learn from the extensive library of pagan lore and ritual to discover a non-Hermetic method to contest Jack’s power – for example, by summoning a pagan spirit called the ‘Anu’ back to the grove. Again, relying on one ancient spirit to contest the power of another struck me as something of a gamble. However, given that this ‘option’ might take many years of study, even assuming such a ritual exists within the tomes, it was not really an option available to us.
A range of options which did not involve calling upon faeries or spirits were also considered. We might seek to dissuade or kill any mundanes who threatened to bring axe and flame to the new expanse of forest. There was brief discussion of whether illusions might deter the Baron and his followers, and what likely consequences we might expect if we took more drastic action. The opposite proposition, that we do nothing, was also mooted; simply letting the mundanes encounter Jack and lose their lives in the process. However, Jari believed that this would lead to an escalation of confrontation eventually leading to the mundanes attacking the covenant. Pressed as to the logic of this threat, Jari claimed that most folk within the Dean are aware there are wizards who live in the forest and might blame them for deaths and disappearances. There was also a question regarding what consequences Jari and Terentius might suffer if the forest were to be harmed by axe or flame, given their mystical status as ‘Guardians’.
Terentius offered an achievable – if time intensive – alternative. He estimated that it would take around 8 seasons of work to use the spell ‘Free the Striding Tree’ to move the forest away from the free mining camps – allowing mundanes to resume the extraction of ore. Jari knows the spell, and Terentius could easily learn it, it appeared as if we would therefore be capable of such a task. However, it would require both magi to give up all time next year to accomplish it; something the council could not require them to do as service. This investment of time would also mean that Jari would be unable to learn the arts required to cast ‘Council of the Trees’, removing that option if this plan were followed.
As we were discussing this proposal, Jari’s familiar ‘Races with Winds’ suggested there was another option we hadn’t considered. It was clear from the interaction that this was something supposedly known to Jari though, despite his familiar’s knowing tone and guarded hints about maga Branwyn, he appeared to have no idea what his familiar might be referring to. We agreed to a recess so that Jari could talk to his familiar in private.
Upon return, it was revealed that Races with Winds had experienced a vision involving the maga Branwyn. As I consider such to be private matters, I will not record what was revealed to her. Suffice to say, it did not present an immediate solution to our problems.
Naevius’ Private Journal
It appears that when Branwyn disappeared during the visit to Halls of the Forest, she came upon – quite how was not revealed – a magical wand of some kind. I must confess I was most curious to learn more, but she claimed the powers and capabilities of this artefact to be unknown to her. When she produced it in council, it had the form of bleached wood with a strange, blood-red core running through the middle. Her possession of this item featured in Races with Winds’ vision about her contesting the power of the Green King, which implies it has potentially very significant power. She plans to investigate it this season but regrettably, given her somewhat secretive nature, I doubt whether she will reveal any insights she gains. Still … a magnificent find, and demonstrates that these old ruins of former covenants may yet hold some valuable secrets.
However, the recess perhaps freshened minds and Terentius returned with an additional suggestion. Despite the large extension of the forest bounds, it appears there are some areas where it may still be possible to access potentially iron-rich hills around the Dean. The option was to survey these areas to see whether new sources of iron could be found and then find a way to encourage free miners to them. Whilst it was unlikely that these new sources would come close to matching the previous supply of iron the Baron enjoyed, it might further delay attempts to cut back the forest.
Despite these long deliberations, we failed to conclusively settle on a plan of action. Instead, Terentius committed to learning the spell ‘Free the Striding Tree’ and Jari to furthering his understanding of Herbam so that he could eventually learn the ‘Council of the Trees’ ritual.
Following Romanus’ suggestion to the council, Pyrrhus had drafted an amendment to the charter relating to the inheritance of personal goods. Whilst there was some debate regarding the wording, a simplified form of the amendment was unanimously accepted.
Given the disruption to mining in the region and our decision, earlier in the year, to divert some of our ore and profits through Monmouth, our finances were briefly discussed. We will lose a significant sum this year, but still maintain a small profit. Losing the stipend which Hypathia donated to the council meant that our finances would be further diminished. However, there was no appetite for lengthy arguments regarding ways to further improve our financial position and the matter was left for another council meeting.
Lastly, Pyrrhus wanted to discuss Hypathia’s belongings which had been left to the council following Romanus’ ruling last season. However, there was no specific actions proposed to the council regarding what should become of the crown, sword or chalice – therefore their status remained unchanged.
As covenant service, Pyrrhus will extract vis from the aura to provide resources for the re-casting of the Aegis next year.
Spring 1312AD
On the morning of the first day of spring, we attended the council to discuss news and make plans for the season and the year. Still fulfilling his ill-suited role as Princeps, Pyrrhus commenced his laborious agenda by asking for news from the previous season.
Whilst it was barely news, given events had already been discussed and recorded in the journal, the appearance of Rhys at Lydney was related. It is not clear who exactly this faerie is or why he has appeared, though the fact that he adopts the role of a wandering minstrel or songsmith seems evident. Jari believes that Rhys could potentially have considerable power and significant magical abilities – though what those powers might be or how they might be used remains unknown. He also said that the faerie may originate from within the Seelie court of the Wood, which might imply the recent awakening of the forest may have played some part in his appearance – however, this was speculation. This illuminating discussion ended with the council noting some similarity in the name of this faerie bard, ‘Rhys’ and a faerie knight we have met in the past called ‘Maurice’. Though what this signifies (assuming it is not mere coincidence) is also unknown.
There weren’t any other events to report. Therefore, Pyrrhus determined we discuss the challenges and threats facing the covenant. This led to a round of fairly aimless and often poorly informed conjecture (as usual).
I was asked to anticipate the King’s plans for the year. Aeddan will have to make a choice as to whether to further bolster the defence of Calais against French ambition or try to break De Brus’ fragile coalition by invading Scotland. His Barons will press him for both, as they have lost lands to the French and the Scots. However, given the strength of Philip’s armies and the difficulty in extending military forces beyond English borders into Scotland, my nephew will have to choose only one of these paths. Pushed for an assessment regarding which he would choose, I suggested that my counsel would be to avoid calls for the invasion of Scotland. The coalition which De Brus assembled is apparently starting to unravel following the defeats in battle last year and retreat across the border. Attacking him now might only serve to shore up his alliances, as the fractious clan leaders would likely set aside their ambitions and arguments in the face of a common enemy invading their lands.
The Unnamed House was next on the agenda. Rumours from Glenrisdell of their interest in Roxburgh became the source of speculative discussion. The fact that a Grandmaster resided there provides quite a few reasons why they might be interested in the Templar stronghold. Perhaps there is some infernal power within the place that the magi of the Unnamed House seek to exploit; alternatively, we know the Templars collected a great deal of intelligence about the covenants and magi of Stonehenge; on the other hand, we know the Templars collected magical artefacts which they hoped to use against their enemies. Any of these might serve as motivation for the Unnamed House, but there may equally be reasons we could not guess.
Despite our ignorance about their plans and the fact that Eurus Aquilae, Borri-Tor and Holy Isle were equally advised as to the rumours of their presence, our council was not dissuaded from forming vague plans as to how we might involve ourselves. Both Terentius and Jari have some knowledge of the area, including Roxburgh castle itself, so might feasibly lend some aid to those covenants and Glenrisdell when they investigate this report. Of course, the whole thing might be spurious – perhaps even a trap. For all we know, the Unnamed House deliberately left signs of their mundane agents in the area to draw our attention away from their real plans and intentions.
However, given our local knowledge of the area, working with our sodales in the North is at least a valid contribution our covenant might make. Pyrrhus, as ever, had a less practical suggestion. Our Princeps suggested we start patrolling the coasts and the Irish Sea to search for the black-sailed ship the Unnamed House use to launch their attacks. Others on the council were forced to remind him about the sheer scale of such an exercise – given the convoluted coastlines and the size of the Irish Sea – and the potential folly of confronting an unknown number of potentially old and powerful magi even if you were, by some misfortune, to happen upon them. It was clear Pyrrhus was not actually volunteering to spend months and months at sea, so the suggestion went the same way as most of the others that he proposes at council.
The last ‘threat’ to debate was that arising from the ‘Pagan Spirits’. The influence of the Green King is still a source of concern, and it is unclear how to challenge his hold over the heart of the forest. One possible approach to investigating would be to speak to the Nynniaw come mid-Summer, which Jari suggested he would be willing to do. Another approach would be to seek out the spirit of the forest – which wears the form of a hind – to see whether if it can provide any insight or guidance. My feeling is that Jack’s powers will not be easily contested, and it is unlikely these approaches will lead to a viable plan of action. The wisdom of seeking to challenge such an old power is also questionable – not least because a failed attempt would almost certainly lead to escalation of hostilities.
Following these discussions, Pyrrhus led the council as it discussed potential covenant services for the year, and dispensed vis and coin to members of the council. I announced that I would be travelling to London to attend the royal court. As covenant service, Naevius will complete an enchantment upon a pouch which will allow the bearer to take a hair or similar arcane connection from a target.
After these routine matters were resolved, I had opportunity to make a formal request. I asked that the council consider inviting Eleanor, my apprentice, to join the council of Severn Temple contingent on her successful completion of her gauntlet later this year. Unfortunately, it seemed that, despite her having lived here for the 15 years of her apprenticeship, certain members of the council were unable to make an informed assessment of her capability or character. After a brief debate, the proposal was voted upon and rejected.
Hypatia’s Private Journal
Over the past months, two shadows have haunted my thoughts and dreams:
The first is a pale shadow: I feel the presence of the blade all the time now. The temporary relief that came with the retrieval of the scabbard seems all but lost since I drew the sword in vengeance. Like an apparition it appears to me, howling for violence and bloodshed. By act of will I’ve been able to place these thoughts aside, but the continuous strain is taking its toll. Myrddyn knew of its terrible power and sought to bind and temper its fury. He failed – though without his work and the scabbard, I have no doubt that I would have lost my mind completely by now. No wonder Arthur sickened and lost hope. The presence of the gift doesn’t appear to make me any more immune to its influence. I cannot close my eyes or relax my guard without hearing the blade screaming for battle. What is worse is that I sometimes cannot tell where my thoughts end and its influence begins. The Pale Blade is truly cursed. The ruin of my end looms ahead of me with increasing certainty – each step upon the path is a descent into darkness and madness – and there is no way back.
The second shadow is cast by the wings of countless ravens: The vision I received at Samhain last year also preoccupies me. The Morrigan’s message is clear enough – but the timing and precise circumstances are not known to me. My death is necessary – I accept that, welcome it even. To give my life to save my nephew is something that I would gladly do even were I not doomed by this wretched sword. It will cost my life, but I will let the blade free one last time – allow it to guide my hand faster than my will against my enemies – let it slake its fierce appetite; let it drink blood and bathe in their wounds.
I leave upon the morrow not knowing whether I will return. Part of me will be glad if I do not.
But what of Eleanor? I did not see her in my vision, but does she see me fall? Will I have chance to complete her training before I go? What becomes of these artefacts and cursed treasures once I am gone?
I had hoped – despite experience – that my sodales would go beyond their bureaucratic conventions and petty suspicions to formally offer her a home at the covenant. Knowing she had a place here – with magi who are aware some of the dangers as well as of the powers of Myrddyn’s treasures – would have allowed me to face my end with more peace of mind.
Yet peace of mind and a peaceful end was n’er my fate. Damn you Theo! You cursed us all when you set the crown upon your brow! Whatever form it takes, a violent and cruel death awaits each poor soul who follows in your luckless steps.
I’m too tired to write more. For all that is unfinished and remains unsaid, still I shall gratefully embrace death as a long-awaited friend.
Summer
Scribed by Naevius
I have taken up the duty of recording events in our journal. The unhappy reason for this is the death of Hypatia at the hands of the Unnamed House.
Last season the Unnamed House launched a brazen assault upon the White Castle in London. The black sailed ship navigated the Thames and managed to bring its infernal magi within a stone’s throw of the castle’s walls. As witnessed in the South of Wales, the attack was preceded by a noxious, magical mist which quickly overcame all mundane defenders. It appears that Hypatia, Eleanor and King Aeddan were in a council chamber when the attack began – Eleanor reported that Hypatia had shared her parma magica with her nephew, sparing him the chocking death suffered by his guards and councilors.
Under the cover of the fog, two enemies left the ship and stole into the fortress. From report, both individuals wore leather armour and had black, spiral tattoos on their neck and arms. Jari believes one of them was the tattooed mage that he scried in the attack upon Penally. Whilst unconfirmed, the other we presume was a companion or servant.
Recognising the threat, Hypatia drew the pale blade and launched an attack the moment they entered the King’s chamber. Eleanor was not able to relate very much of the battle, but it seems our sodalis was able to slay both men and save the King, but at the cost of her life. The unusual and ornate blade that was stolen from Penally appeared able to penetrate her magical defences and armour – striking a mortal blow to her heart even as her own blade came down upon the enemy mage. By the time news reached us of these events, the black-sailed ship had already made its escape – returning down the Thames and out into the open sea.
Terentius and Jari travelled to London where they eventually managed to retrieve Eleanor and Hypatia’s body and effects. At the council meeting we heard that the King had been evacuated to the castle at Windsor and, it appears, was being protected by senior magi from both Eurus Aquilae and Bori-Tor. Through the King, our sodales were able to secure access to the White Castle for the magi of Holy Isle to begin an investigation of their own.
Hypatia was cremated close to the spring which marks the heart of our magical aura. The ceremony was a brief one, though several spoke heartfelt words to mark her passing.
Even as an apprentice, her life was eventful and controversial. As Emma – filia of magus Lysimachus – she was apparently tutored by the shade of Myrddyn and given secrets of an old magic believed inherent to these lands. With these magics she broke a curse which had inflicted King Theo, her brother, and slew a number of powerful infernalists in Chepstow.
She joined House Ex-Miscellanea initially and was sworn to the Covenant of Severn Temple in the year 1275 – the same year that Lysimachus, Astrius and Husam lost their lives at Tomar. She spent much of her time away from the covenant dealing with matters of mundane politic, providing the covenant with significant news and resources over the years. For a time, she even served as regent which, along with a mysterious storm which wiped out an invading French fleet in 1287, almost certainly led to her being accused by House Guernicus of interfering with mundane affairs and court wizardry in 1291. That charge was due to be heard at the Grand Tribunal of 1296. Given the widespread prejudice against Stonehenge and her lineage, perhaps only the Templar attack upon Durenmar spared her from being cast out of the Order.
After the Templar attacks upon the Domus Magni, and the defence of Severn Temple in 1306 – where Hypatia awoke the old spirit of the forest to take battle to the enemy – these questions relating to the relationship between the mundane crown and the Order appear to have been answered. The presence of so many magi at Windsor perhaps the most recent evidence that, in Stonehenge at least, our fates have become inextricably intwined.
It was the death of Theo in 1308 which perhaps marked the beginning of the end for our sodalis. The ancient treasures bestowed upon her had long weighed heavily, but the influence of the pale sword retrieved from the court of Niamh, appeared to dominate her spirit after her brother was assassinated. A terrible thirst for revenge that could never truly be sated seemed to rage within her. She was a deeply troubled – and troubling – figure at council. It would not be an exaggeration to say I felt afeared of her at times. Perhaps it was this dread influence which prevented her from revealing her visions and fears to her sodales – though the full extent to which she anticipated her death will likely never be known.
Her legacy lives on through the survival of her royal nephew, and her magical lineage through her niece. As Eleanor had not yet completed her training as an apprentice, she was taken to Blackthorn covenant. Her final tuition and gauntlet will be provided by Suffucius of Bonisagus.
The many questions regarding the nature and eventual distribution of the treasures she possessed remain unanswered, however. Hypatia’s belongings were returned to the covenant and – given their strange powers – became a topic of debate at the council.
After a brief recess, Jari was able to locate something of a will within Hypatia’s sanctum. The simple instruction “All to Eleanor” struck me as a precarious case upon which to bestow such artefacts – especially as she is currently the apprentice to a wizard not sworn to our council. My experience of the Rome Tribunal certainly influenced my fears; it was not uncommon for lengthy legal battles and even Wizards’ War to be fought over the estate of a magus. In the end, we determined to seek the judgement of Senior Quaesitor Romanus – in the hope that we will receive a strong ruling to support our ability to dispense these artefacts as the council chooses.
Following this discussion, more ordinary matters of seasonal activities were discussed. Branwyn and Jari will make an assay of the forest as covenant service – to help us better understand the nature and extent of the awakened forest and the new threats emerging from Jack of the Green’s influence. Terentius – who had initially planned to travel north to assist investigation into reports of unnamed house activity near Roxburgh – will instead perform a service crafting potions imbued with the enchantment ‘Leap of Homecoming’. Given so many of Eurus Aquilae are currently in Windsor guarding the king, it seems uncovering whatever mischief our enemy has planned in Loch Leglean will have to wait.
Pyrrhus requested the use of the ship to travel to Hibernia. It appears there is some politics afoot within House Flambeau. The Primus of that House – Guido – is apparently preoccupied with assisting Primus Praesulis of Bonisagus’ efforts to persuade the ‘Order of the East’ to rejoin the Order of Hermes. In his absence, it appears a rival - Magus Aloisius of Cliffeheart covenant - has laid claim to the title of Primus Flambeau and called a House meeting. Permission to use the ship was granted. I hope our sodalis has no cause to regret attending this meeting – as doing so might signal his affiliation with this rival claim to the leadership of his house.
Within the covenant, the season passed peacefully.
Autumn
Our third formal council of the year began with news of events from summer.
Branwyn and Jari related the outcomes of their covenant service last season. It seems they encountered the strange faerie bard, Rhys, within Chepstow. Jari apparently happened upon him in an inn within the town but, despite trying to reassure the faerie, his presence appeared to cause Rhys to offer apologies for any trespass and swiftly take his leave. Whether this reaction was due to Jari’s status as a magus, or a fellow musician, or his faerie heritage, was not known. However, it appears this character remains in the vicinity of the Dean and his motivations and intentions are still poorly understood. Close to Chepstow lie the Trellech stones – where the covenant harvests Intellego vis each year. Upon visiting the site however, there appeared to be a curious, ethereal light about the place – a phenomenon not witnessed before according to our journal. Upon touching the stone, Branwyn was granted a vision of some kind – a warning regarding the hostility of the forest against those mundanes who dare enter it. Recognising a potential threat, but not fully understanding the message of the stone, the two magi continued to Monmouth and beyond to the settlements of Coleford and Clearwell.
The village of Coleford appeared hail enough. Its inhabitants concerned by the sudden encroachment of the wood – but the road to Monmouth remains open and the people appear to be surviving despite the reduction in the farmland around the settlement. The situation in Clearwell was significantly more troubling. It appears that the forest has swallowed up the village and its people. Jari suspected that the denizens of the village had been transformed into trees – as has been the dark fate of several of our grogs at the hands of the Green King. Searching more widely, the two magi also discovered that many of the small settlements of free miners in the region had also disappeared.
In conjunction with Branwyn’s vision, this raised the prospect that Monmouth would make investigation into the disappearances. If the omens proved true, any such attempt would lead to the deaths of the noble and his men – and almost certainly escalate the likelihood that the mundanes would respond with axe and flame against the trees.
Returning to the covenant, Jari enlisted the aid of Terentius. Between them they hatched a plan involving both magic and subterfuge which might dissuade Monmouth from instigating an inquiry. The plan involved convincing the locals that there had been an outbreak of disease – scarlet fever – at a nearby freeminer settlement. To this end, Jari took on the guise of a miner and staggered, apparently ravaged by the disease, into Coleford. His ruse certainly raised the alarm – and at first it appeared unclear whether they would let him leave the village again. However, he was eventually able to travel out of the village and beyond their sight to meet up with Terentius. Here, Terentius conjured up a corpse bearing the likeness of the sick miner – and they left it for the locals to discover for themselves.
By the end of summer, the influence of this ruse – and the many rumours sown within Monmouth – appeared to have the desired effect. There are now plague fires on the road to Coleford and it appears the Baron’s men have set aside any plans to investigate the woods. In the short term, this provides a sufficiently plausible explanation for the disappearance of the freeminers and the people of Clearwell. However, longer term this does not solve our problems. Mining in the region provided iron ore for the Barony of Monmouth – and with its loss it seems likely the Baron will order the forest to be cut back to encourage mining to resume. It is possible we might divert some of our mining activity (and profits thereof) through Monmouth to offset the urgency with which this will happen. Yet even this sacrifice would make up only a small portion of the iron Monmouth needs – and, perhaps within a year, it seems inevitable that the Baron would act.
Over the late part of the season, Branwyn remained in the Dean to examine the boundary of the wild magic influencing the forest. By her assessment, it seems that the border of the most dangerous part of the woods is extensive – but that there is no sign that this influence is expanding any further within the Dean.
There was also some news from Pyrrhus regarding his House meeting last season. From his report, it was attended only by the magi Ladislau, Nemerius and Ricardus of Cliffeheart along with Emerius and his filius Plutus from Stonehenge. The meeting mainly appears to have involved feasting and hunting. However, Aloisius has declared himself Primus and named Cliffeheart as the Domus Magnus of House Flambeau. It was clear from the warmth of Pyrrhus’ words that he wholeheartedly approves of his new ‘Primus’. With no Grand Tribunal and given the reputation of the house, I fear this may yet lead to more violent means to resolve these rival claims. I hope my sodalis does not come to regret his decision to cast his support with one of these factions so eagerly.
After briefly discussing other plans for the season – Jari and Terentius plan to travel abroad to seek ideas or a method of resolution to the situation in Monmouth – the council was called to an end.
Early in the season, Jari travelled beyond the Dean to seek insight from our sodales within Cad Gadu. Given that their forest also appears influenced by a wild, hostile presence, there was hope they might possess insights into how our own problems might be managed or resolved. Upon return, he shared what he had learned from his visit to the Domus Magnus Ex-Miscellanea.
He spoke to Maga Sertoria – a Merinitan apparently touched by the faerie court of the wood. Her advice was to approach to Nynniaw, the Lord of Oaks who has been recently encountered within the faerie regio within our wood. She believed it might be possible to persuade that faerie lord to intercede – perhaps even contest the hold of the Green King on the heart of the wood. However, what the price for such aid might be was unknown.
Jari also approached the new Prima of House Ex-Miscellanea, Lluddwyn. She also did not know a simple way to resolve our problems within the forest but suggested that it might be possible to persuade or strike a bargain with the spirits of the forest. There is an old – barely Hermetic – ritual called ‘Council of the Trees’ which might be cast to bring about a gathering of these tree spirits.
I must confess deep unease at both these suggested plans – things appear difficult now, but there is the prospect that we can make them worse through unwise dealings with powerful faeries and spirits whose motivations we don’t fully understand. I dare say there will be further debate at council on this topic!
Terentius was also abroad at the start of the season, and informally reported his visit to King Aeddan upon his return. Hypatia’s nephew was genuinely sympathetic to our concerns and appeared to believe our strange warnings about the forest. However, it seems that – despite being King of England – his hands are tied by the Great Charter and Parliament. Whilst the bounds of the royal forest have long been under the protection of the crown, the forest has expanded into regions traditionally held by the Baron of Monmouth. Were the King seek to extend the boundary of the royal forest to match the new extent of the woods, he would quickly find himself accused of seeking to rob the Baron of his landholdings. It seems the law prohibits him taking land from the barons so easily, and that parliament would swiftly contest such a decree. Given the recent death of his father and the tension created by the loss of lands upon the continent, Aiden expressed serious concern that seeking to challenge parliament over such an issue could potentially weaken his position on the throne. Therefore, we can expect no solution from the crown on this matter.
Towards the end of the season, the covenant was visited by Senior Quaesitor Romanus. He had received our message regarding Hypatia’s will and agreed to provide us with a ruling after undertaking a brief investigation of the matter and considering the various and many rulings of the peripheral code. After a few days, he announced his intention to make a ruling and we assembled as a council. Romanus ruled that, given Eleanor’s status as an apprentice at the time of Hypatia’s death, that her belongings would pass into possession of the council of Severn Temple. The council thanked the Senior Quaesitor for his considered judgement – should this matter one day be contested at Tribunal, we have a firm ruling to support our claim over Hypatia’s goods and chattels.
It is worth noting that the Senior Quaesitor advised us to re-examine our charter with a view to ensuring that there were clear rules for the inheritance of a magus’ belongings in future. A suggestion I think it would be most wise for our council to act upon.
With this matter resolved and Romanus’ departure, the season came to an end with no further events of note to report.
Winter
Our last formal council of the year began with a discussion regarding the problems on the western edge of the forest.
Terentius began by reminding us that the new king would provide limited aid in the matter of Monmouth, should the Baron seek to cut back the forest. King Aeddan believed he could delay such action by as much as a year, but (as previously discussed) had limited powers to directly intervene.
We began to review the various options apparently open to us. However, Pyrrhus interjected with lengthy speculation regarding the cause of these events. He noted that the faerie part of the forest occasionally appeared to shift between seasons, having recently been in winter and now returned to summer following Nynniaw’s recapture of the Silver Gate. He suggested what was happening in the heart of the forest might be a similar change in ‘season’. This did not ring true to any other, and we were sidetracked into a discussion of the variety of entities which had held power over the ancient grove. It was difficult to see how he had arrived at such a conclusion and, even if true, it did not appear to present any additional course of action for the council to consider. We eventually managed to get back to the main topic of discussion.
One option was to approach Nynniaw – who might have the power to intervene with the Green King. Jari warned that there was a danger that this might expand the influence of the faerie to the heart of the forest – and thereby influence the character of the whole wood. This was not something any on the council appeared keen to facilitate.
Another option was to call a ‘Council of the Trees’ using the Hermetic translation of an old ritual which summons awakened trees to a specific spot where matters might be negotiated. I must confess, despite this being a Hermetic spell, the uncertainty regarding the outcomes of this ‘council’ disturbed me. It seems that the caster would have a voice at this meeting, but there were no guarantees that the deliberations would settle upon actions which we wanted. Even were the council keen on such a move, it would take Jari the majority of a year to learn to cast such a ritual.
A further option was that one of us learn from the extensive library of pagan lore and ritual to discover a non-Hermetic method to contest Jack’s power – for example, by summoning a pagan spirit called the ‘Anu’ back to the grove. Again, relying on one ancient spirit to contest the power of another struck me as something of a gamble. However, given that this ‘option’ might take many years of study, even assuming such a ritual exists within the tomes, it was not really an option available to us.
A range of options which did not involve calling upon faeries or spirits were also considered. We might seek to dissuade or kill any mundanes who threatened to bring axe and flame to the new expanse of forest. There was brief discussion of whether illusions might deter the Baron and his followers, and what likely consequences we might expect if we took more drastic action. The opposite proposition, that we do nothing, was also mooted; simply letting the mundanes encounter Jack and lose their lives in the process. However, Jari believed that this would lead to an escalation of confrontation eventually leading to the mundanes attacking the covenant. Pressed as to the logic of this threat, Jari claimed that most folk within the Dean are aware there are wizards who live in the forest and might blame them for deaths and disappearances. There was also a question regarding what consequences Jari and Terentius might suffer if the forest were to be harmed by axe or flame, given their mystical status as ‘Guardians’.
Terentius offered an achievable – if time intensive – alternative. He estimated that it would take around 8 seasons of work to use the spell ‘Free the Striding Tree’ to move the forest away from the free mining camps – allowing mundanes to resume the extraction of ore. Jari knows the spell, and Terentius could easily learn it, it appeared as if we would therefore be capable of such a task. However, it would require both magi to give up all time next year to accomplish it; something the council could not require them to do as service. This investment of time would also mean that Jari would be unable to learn the arts required to cast ‘Council of the Trees’, removing that option if this plan were followed.
As we were discussing this proposal, Jari’s familiar ‘Races with Winds’ suggested there was another option we hadn’t considered. It was clear from the interaction that this was something supposedly known to Jari though, despite his familiar’s knowing tone and guarded hints about maga Branwyn, he appeared to have no idea what his familiar might be referring to. We agreed to a recess so that Jari could talk to his familiar in private.
Upon return, it was revealed that Races with Winds had experienced a vision involving the maga Branwyn. As I consider such to be private matters, I will not record what was revealed to her. Suffice to say, it did not present an immediate solution to our problems.
Naevius’ Private Journal
It appears that when Branwyn disappeared during the visit to Halls of the Forest, she came upon – quite how was not revealed – a magical wand of some kind. I must confess I was most curious to learn more, but she claimed the powers and capabilities of this artefact to be unknown to her. When she produced it in council, it had the form of bleached wood with a strange, blood-red core running through the middle. Her possession of this item featured in Races with Winds’ vision about her contesting the power of the Green King, which implies it has potentially very significant power. She plans to investigate it this season but regrettably, given her somewhat secretive nature, I doubt whether she will reveal any insights she gains. Still … a magnificent find, and demonstrates that these old ruins of former covenants may yet hold some valuable secrets.
However, the recess perhaps freshened minds and Terentius returned with an additional suggestion. Despite the large extension of the forest bounds, it appears there are some areas where it may still be possible to access potentially iron-rich hills around the Dean. The option was to survey these areas to see whether new sources of iron could be found and then find a way to encourage free miners to them. Whilst it was unlikely that these new sources would come close to matching the previous supply of iron the Baron enjoyed, it might further delay attempts to cut back the forest.
Despite these long deliberations, we failed to conclusively settle on a plan of action. Instead, Terentius committed to learning the spell ‘Free the Striding Tree’ and Jari to furthering his understanding of Herbam so that he could eventually learn the ‘Council of the Trees’ ritual.
Following Romanus’ suggestion to the council, Pyrrhus had drafted an amendment to the charter relating to the inheritance of personal goods. Whilst there was some debate regarding the wording, a simplified form of the amendment was unanimously accepted.
Given the disruption to mining in the region and our decision, earlier in the year, to divert some of our ore and profits through Monmouth, our finances were briefly discussed. We will lose a significant sum this year, but still maintain a small profit. Losing the stipend which Hypathia donated to the council meant that our finances would be further diminished. However, there was no appetite for lengthy arguments regarding ways to further improve our financial position and the matter was left for another council meeting.
Lastly, Pyrrhus wanted to discuss Hypathia’s belongings which had been left to the council following Romanus’ ruling last season. However, there was no specific actions proposed to the council regarding what should become of the crown, sword or chalice – therefore their status remained unchanged.
As covenant service, Pyrrhus will extract vis from the aura to provide resources for the re-casting of the Aegis next year.