The Mage is a mysterious and guarded figure. Though there are certainly young apprentices who enjoy dazzling younger Elves, most Mages are quite serious and quiet. Perhaps such is because of their ability to perceive the reality from a higher perspective, or perhaps such is because of the discipline that the magical training requires of them. The role of the Mage centers around arcane protection and prophecy. Though at times called upon to open gates for travelers, the Mage rarely partakes in mundane tasks of parlor tricks and needless illusions. Instead, they reserve their magic to gather knowledge and protect the Elves from harm.
There is great variety in the personality of the followers of Malle' En' Templa, and yet the Mage may fall into four types. Through mystical works of the energies that bind us, that give us existence and give us meaning, the Elders of the Malle' En' Templa discovered four essential elements: fire, water, earth and air. The Mage most oft', then, fits in one of the four essential elements. Those of fire are courageous and bold, found hunting creatures of malice. Those of water are quiet and kind, found performing small healings and helping others with magical arts. Those of earth are reliable and loyal, found supporting parties in hunts and rescuing others from perilous locations. And finally, those of air are teachers and pursuers of knowledge, found studying ancient artifacts and teaching magic to younger Elves. More oft' than not, however, the Mage is a master of all elements, performing the functions of each with ease and confidence.
An excerpt from the Chronicles of the Path :
Hyrthoniel narrowed his eyes at the demon he was facing. The wretched creature's eyes flared and it began growling. Rubbing the dried herbs from his pouch with his fingers, Hyrthoniel chanted "In Nox!" in a low and melodious voice. He felt a flow of pure and tingling energy rush through his body and gather in his fingertips. Smoothly, he curled his fingers and released a cloud of green smoke which engulfed the creature. The demon staggered, yet its eyes still flared with pure hatred.
Smirking, Hyrthoniel reached inside his reagents bag again and called forth deep burning fire "Vas Ort Flam!" For a moment, he stood still, as if he was taunting the demon. Unbearable heat traveled through his entire being, his body twisted and his very spirit engulfed in the fires of passion and power. With eyes burning, he coldly glanced at the demon, then poured all of the fire into the space before him. The air sizzled and shimmered, then a ball of fire appeared. The demon's eyes narrowed and it backed toward the exit. With a wink, Hyrthoniel sent the flames at the demon and watched as its body erupted in flames. When all was quiet once again, he walked towards the charred carcass and retrieved a ring. He then disappeared into the shadows, letting his magic guide him back home.
The young Elf shook her head - "But how did you find it?" Hyrthoniel looked past her and into the Elven forests. "It was lying on the ground near the temple. I picked it up and saw your name on it." The Elf stared at him with a frown - "But a demon took it! You ... you defeated the demon?" Hyrthoniel saw the hope and awe in the her eyes and shrugged. "What would a demon want with a ring?" - he replied. The Elf nodded slowly and looked back at her ring. When she lifted her head, questions burning on her lips, Hyrthoniel was gone.
The ranks of the Malle' en' Templa
Taurn'Istar (High Mage): Rank V: Having gone beyond mastering the magical arts and overcoming many of the risks as well as dangers that are
allotted with such a path, the Taurn’Istar has achieved a level of understanding in the magical arts that
surpasses most others, and are considered to be skilled teachers of younger mages and the community. The
Taurn’Istar understands every detail about spells and words of power and can usually be found using such
knowledge to help younger elves master their skills. The Taurn’Istar has an adept understanding of
how his/her magical abilities affect the world around them. They have a deep respect for their arcane
powers that exist in the lands and never abuse the power that has been privileged to them. Those that acquire
such an honorable title are well known as some of the most powerful mages in the realm.Promotional Guidelines: Must have hosted three events which place emphasis on the use of magic or teaching others the art of magery. Time in guild requirement is 1 year.
Turr'Istar (Master Mage): Rank IV : Riveted with dangers and challenges, the Turr’Istar has climbed half the mountain that is the Arcane Arts.
The Elf who bears the honor of holding this title has mastered the art of magic and has begun understanding
the universal effects magic has on their environment. The Turr’Istar is familiar with all herbs and spells, and
can often be found aiding younger Elves with controlling their magical talents. Through their gift of Foresight,
the Elf with this title has explored most of Sosaria in spirit, and as such, can often be a valuable asset to any
hunting party or rescue party. The awareness and connection of the Turr’Istar to the magical world around them is finely tuned, allowing for incredible magical feats.Promotional Guidelines: Host small guild events on a regular basis, host a large guild event with smoothness, inspiring younger members master the arts of magic and spell craft, to aiding the younger members with their events, be active and involved in the guild-related activities.
Ista'Turri (Spell Master): Rank III : The Ista'Turri is comfortable with the magical arts, and can be called upon for small feats of magic. Though there are still components of herbology and spell craft to be learned, the Elf with this title has mastered basic spells and can perform them with ease. Eru has blessed the Ista'Turri with the gift of prophecy. However, the Ista'Turri may not always be able to interpret their visions with precision and ease. Guided by the Elders of this path, the Ista'Turri can learn to harness their power and understand more of the world that surrounds them. Of a higher awareness, the Elf with this title is beginning to understand the causes and effects of magic, thus gaining the advantage of a better grasp of magical reality. The Ista'Turri may now begin teaching younger Elves about basic spells, and can often be found helping Turr'Istar with ceremonies and rituals.
Promotional Guidelines: Successful holding of small guild events, aiding in holding of larger events, beginning understanding and teaching of magical arts, active in attending and helping with events.
Ista'Vairar (Spell Weaver): Rank II:
Though the progress may seem slow, the Ista'Vairar has already gained much from the Malle' en' Templa.
The Elf with this title is constantly improving the control they have over their magical talents.
Introduced to the basics of the theory behind herbology and spell craft, the Ista'Vairar is now pursuing the
academics in these areas with consistent efforts. Much of the Ista'Vairar's time is spent developing their skills
in basic magic. Often found in quiet meditation, the Elf with this title is beginning to reflect upon the magical
theories and uses. Through meditation, the awareness of the Ista'Vairar is increasing, allowing for the beginnings of
second sight and visions. Called upon by the Elves to aid in more mundane tasks, the Ista'Vairar is finding and
understanding their place as a Mage in the Elven family.Promotional Guidelines: Aiding in small guild events, actively learning magical arts by listening, asking questions and practicing their skills, active in attending events.
Ista'Hirao (Spell Student): Rank I:
The Ista'Hirao has began their journey on the path of magic. The Elf with this title has incredible magical talent and
has the potential to be a great Mage of the Elven family. However, the Ista'Hirao is not always in control of their
talent, often failing to perform even the most basic spells they need. The path that is unraveling before them will aid
them in learning discipline, persistence and patience necessary to master their talents, as well as teach them the
theory behind the arcane arts. The Ista'Hirao has many questions and often goes to elder Mages for advice and
guidance. Through diligent practice, the Elf with this title learns about harnessing their power, and is
introduced to the basics of meditation and self-exploration. The exciting universe of Templa lies before them, and
the Ista'Hirao is embarking on a mysterious journey.Path Medals
Hard working Mages are eligible for certain class medals
during the course of their studies.
Korda a' Templa Turri (Altar of Magical Mastery)
(Given when Rank II is achieved)
Parma a Vaern Nomin (Book of Mage Wisdom)
(Given when Rank IV is achieved)
