Day 1:
I begin my preparations this season with some amount of trepidation. I
have decided that I must cast Clio's Remembrances the day after the moon
begins to wane; I cannot wait any longer for inspiration which simply has
not reached me - I shall either fail in my casting and suffer the
consequences or I shall reap the rewards of Tiphys's connections with the
Nine. I must understand this mountain more fully if I am to fulfill the
oath I swore before Themis: one cannot defend that of which one knows
little.
I have decided that the vis source, as the center of the covenant, both geographically and spiritually, shall be the site of my ritual. I shall begin my visions where the power flows most clearly. What transpires thereafter shall be - in part - out of my control: the Enigma, and perhaps Clio herself, shall guide me through the halls of this mountain.
Day 4:
My preparations are almost complete. I have spent the better part of each
day praying in the ruined temple of Hermes on the shores of the caldera
lake. Evenings are upon the island, praying to the Nine that this be
considered a worthy spell which they shall bless. Clio and Polyhymnia, of
course, are the two who receive my most fervent pleas, and I feel that
they will hear me in the center of this caldera, of all places beyond
Pernassus. Tomorrow night I shall cast the spell.
Day 5:
My preparations are complete, and the night is clear. A cool wind has
risen across the lake as I have finished setting up my accoutrements. The
vis, appropriately enough, is the sweat of my brow, and it lies about me
in flasks at the points of the pentagram, which I have drawn with great
care. I have calculated the most appropriate time for the ritual, and I
am pleased with my choice. Libra and Pisces shall be in favorable
positions, which is precisely what I was hoping for. To Themis shall I
beg the strength and wisdom to fulfill my oath, as well as the judgement
to clearly interpret the signs I shall receive. To Nereus I shall ask for
aid in my divination, for the Old Man of the Sea has long been known for
his strength there.
I visited the chambers to both of these Old Ones before coming here for the final preparations, and in both I carved and placed a token of my sincere devotion. May their favor shine upon this undertaking. I shall have need of it in this coming month, and especially in the coming hour and a half.
The time has almost come, and I must away. May the Aerie stand to the fall of the Order and beyond.
Day 6:
I am most ... interested in the results of last night's ritual. As I
progressed through the course of it, I was calmer than I had been in
months. So much so that I found it unnecessary to incant many of the
words of the ritual. Even though I know it not to be a requisite of my
magic, I often have found that speaking aloud settled my nerves, yet last
night my steps were sure, my being focussed, and my mind clear. I felt
the power flow from the flasks of water, wrap about my form, and bend at
my will. The tendrils of incense flowed along the course suggested by the
magic, moving along their path and filling my nostrils with a heady scent.
Perditus had said that I would one day understand the thrill of a
well-executed vision ritual, and I now know this to be the case.
Even Polyhymnia's beautiful visage did not distract me, surprisingly enough. She looked over my ceremony passively, not deigning to recognize it. I stepped through the decans of the locus I'd used to memorize the spell as I invoked the powers, drew strength from the half rook of vis, and completed the ritual just as Pisces and Libra were leaving their alignment. I sat in the center of the pentagram and closed my eyes to the world of today even as I opened myself to yesterday.
I dreamt an odd dream before I awoke this morning: Tiphus was upon the island, consulting with the statue of Clio, which was animate. They were writing a book: she speaking words I could not hear as Tiphys wrote quickly and diligently. As the dream progressed, I noted the stars in the sky changing in their alignment, back to the night scene I glimpsed upon the mountain of Earth where we found Him. As it approached that to-be-begun time, Clio slowly took the stance which she has had for these past two years, and Tiphys closed the book. He approached me, handed me the tome, and disappeared. As I began to open the book, I awoke, and everything about me had changed.
I stand now at a crossroads of Time. Tiphys's understanding of the Enigma is certainly reflected here, for it is only with the greatest difficulty that I am able to know when I am seeing, or where I might stand tomorrow. Stepping off the island usually means that one no longer sees the buildings on the shore as they were, but rather as they are. It is not the case with me now; indeed, I see what stood before those buildings at times. My senses are nearly overwhelmed. It has taken two hours to write this much of my journal, but still, I know that it shall aid me in forming a locus with which to recall the events which have transpired since it began and the mountain was first founded.
The cart that passed me just now and the man's cloak. The ritual enacted on the shores next to the temple, before it was consecrated to Hermes. The strange language of the pair who passed to that passage, long since sealed. I shall recall it, in part due to this entry.
I have managed to communicate to the grogs that they should have one of their number accompany me at all times, for I am not myself, and I do not wish to step onto a bridge that fell many years ago. I warned them of this before, and Milosh assured me that he would see to it. I am certain he will.
But the past is before me, and I can touch it....
[the following entries are a selection of those which were entered during the ritual's effect]
Day ??:
...I am in the Chamber of Themis, and I have seen its maker finish
crafting the statue. I have seen his eyes and his pride, as well as the
finished form. He, blessed, has fashioned beauty, and he knows Their
touch. Yet I cannot begrudge him this. If I could but speak to him, I
could know it's use, and the meaning of the symbols upon the wall at her
back....
Day ??:
...someone opened the door to the Chamber of Saturn. Both pairs parted at
his touch, the previous a mighty set fashioned in an age long past, in a
style which is familiar, yet slightly foreign. The rituals being enacted
at the base of the statue are complex, and I can see but a fraction of
them before the vision shifts again. Madness in the eyes of the one who
just read the third face many hundreds of years ago....
Day ??:
...Sophrosyne and Thais walked past me, preparing for the journey east.
Thais was concerned, claiming that they might not defeat the Serpent.
Sophrosyne just smiled. "You should have more faith in them, for they
have not failed us yet, and they cannot fail our forebearers." They then
opened the text to the page marked by the ribbon. If only I had seen
more....
Day ??:
...Tiphys, Mithras, Corax, and Demetrios just arrived. The covenfolk are
generally very excited. It is amazing how young Corax and Tiphus seem....
Day ??:
...Fire washing over the rooms: so much flame... so much, and so much
obscured. How did this happen? And what it could have been....
Day ??:
...Passages I have never visited, leading along a path at first dimly lit,
then brightly. A hall opened up before his touch, and there on the wall:
Polyhymnia, standing beside her sisters. Her mother in the center of the
room, before a fountain. The man, drinking from the fountain, old and
withered, yet a brightness in his eyes....
Day 35:
I awoke in this chamber, and I know the spell to have finished. So much
to consider, and so appropriate that I would find myself here, of all
places. Michael is with me, and he claims that I was asleep for many
hours. He has been watching over me and gazing at the mosaics which cover
the walls to this chamber. He claimed that I opened the doors to the
chamber, yet I know it to have been the old man who I followed down here.
He traced the patterns on the door, not I. It was at his touch that the
door opened, not mine. As altered as I know my perceptions to have been,
this is the truth, and Michael is incorrect, even though he traces for me
the pattern which the man traced.
In any case, I stand now within the Chamber of Mnemnosyne. It, unlike so much of the covenant, is pristine. I shall attempt to describe it as I saw Constantine note his discovery of the Sun Chamber:
The Chamber of Mnemosyne is a circular room perhaps thirty paces across which is flattened slightly at one end to accommodate the large, bronze double door which serves as the sole entrance. Evenly spaced along the rest of the wall are nine niches, each about a pace across. In each niche is a detailed mosaic depicting one of the nine Muses in their appropriate role, aiding Mnemosyne in her role as goddess of Memory. Along the rest of the wall are a series of mosaics which begin with the birth of all the Titans. The next mosaic depicts Zeus and Mnemosyne conceiving the Muses over the course of nine nights at Pieria at the base of Olympus and Mnemosyne giving birth a year later. Several others depict other scenes in mythology, and in each, Mnemosyne either looks on or advises various oracles. Last is a mosaic which depicts her statue in Athens and her throne and fountain at Lebadeia near the oracle of Trophonius. The ceiling is high (perhaps twenty feet in the center) and domed, with complex patterns carved across the entirety of the dome. The floor is tiled in black and white marble in a patterns of similar intricacy to those on the dome. The room is lit by an ambient light which seems focussed on the center of the room.
In the center of the room is a beautifully carved marble statue of Mnemosyne herself, dressed in long, flowing robes; her hair extends down her back, in curls, practically to the ground . The statue seems to be looking over the small fountain at its feet, which fills a small granite basin. Although the basin seems to have no way to drain, it never overflows.
I have divined magic in the statue, the water at its feet, and the doors which Michael claimed I opened. Although the doors seem as they were in my vision, there are scorch-marks all about them, as if something attempted to melt through, into this chamber. I am glad that it failed.
As I have just found this place, I shall spend some time here, for it seems an appropriate place to contemplate my experiences. Perhaps Mnemosyne shall give me some strength to recall these events.
Day 42:
I have written many notes on my experiences, although I was less than
thrilled at the condition which Michael brought my writing materials. I
suspect that he was side-tracked along the way. I was stern with him, but
I have never been able to stay angry at Michael for long; he is such
pleasant company, and so bright....
I was amazed at how many of my varied experiences I was able to recall, although some of the less vivid details have begun to fade somewhat; I cannot recall the color of Sophrosyne's robes, for instance, or the specific words of many of those whom I passed in my travels, but much has been noted, carefully reconstructed, and I have used this room as a secondary locus for the overall course of my experiences, as I only thought it proper.
Some time, when I have the opportunity, and I am not bound to more pressing business, I shall return here for an extended time and explore this chamber's secrets more thoroughly.
Day 45:
Now in my sanctum, I begin on the first of my statues this season. I have
decided that this shall be Iardanus, for he is the patron of our covenant.
If any of the statues are to receive more attention than the others, it
shall be his, for it would be impolite and impolitic for me to do
otherwise. I shall make certain the statue is grand, yet not so
ostentatious as to cast the rest of Domus Trismegistus in a poor light.
This shall be a challenge indeed.
Day 47:
I have decided upon a form for the statue and begun the rough work on a
block of marble. Marble is my choice for all of the council, for to use
different stone for each would embroil me in politicking too subtle for my
current experience. Iardanus shall be standing next to a stone I recall
quite vividly from the acropolis in Athens. Perditus made use of that
stone as a tool for teaching me the merits of my studies in Terram, and
with the exception of the minor inscription, it is unidentifiable by all
but a few. I think it appropriate for Iardanus, who is without a doubt
one of the staunchest Hellenes, to pose upon a stone from the city founded
upon philosophy.
Iardanus shall have his right foot atop the stone, and he shall be as if in thought, his right hand resting upon his chin as the elbow finds purchase on his knee. The other hand, naturally, shall be balled into a fist at his left hip. Robed, I should think. Yes. I shall create the form I want with Chisel, then I shall memorize it once it is as well-formed as I can make it. My locus shall be my master's sanctum, as in many ways, Iardanus is the master I must now learn from if I am to thrive in my endeavors. I have made my political leanings clear, for better or worse, and the Latins shall frown on my actions regardless. May it be that I only find enemies in that quarter; I cannot afford to make enemies among the Seekers or the Hellenes....
Day 52:
Perdo Terram magics and judicious use of a swift and accurate chisel have
made the form almost complete. I shall spend perhaps another day on the
general form, then I must begin the detail work.
Day 55:
I am almost done with Iardanus. It is stunning how much more quickly I
work when I do not confine myself to the mundane methods of sculpting.
Magic is a blessing indeed; praise to Hermes!
The face is all that needs finishing. I shall be done within a day at the most.
Day 57:
Iardanus is complete, and although I know others shall praise the
craftmanship, I find fault with the stance; he leans to heavily upon his
raised leg, and the rock is not exactly as I recall it. No time to fix my
mistakes, however; they would take too long. Manuel shall be next, I
think. The pater of our second most senior magus and one of the
Tribunal's most recent archmagi shall stand firm, arms akimbo, challenging
all comers to a battle of wills and wits. I shall make certain of my
plans with Constantine before I put them into action.
Day 59:
Constantine approves of my plans, although he suggested some slight
modifications. I shall take his advice. I begin this afternoon.
Day 64:
Manuel is almost complete. His stance was the most difficult part, as I
needed to make certain that the statue was stable. I have increased the
heft of the base behind his feet, that the statue cannot be easily knocked
over. I shall finish this soon, I think.
Day 68:
I have finally completed Manuel's statue. It was most difficult, but I
think that I captured his expression of quiet distain and mockery quite
well. I think his build is off, however, and I am dissatisfied with the
form of his footwear; for the life of me, I cannot recall his typical mode
of dress. Every memory of it I have seems different... then again, what
can I expect from Constantine's pater and Etria's filius?
Janus shall be next. He may be presumed dead, but he is a full member of the Council, and I cannot neglect the pater of one from the Aerie. I must spend some time in recollection, to make certain the statue is as he was when last I met him. Six years it has been, and memory fades some in such time....
Day 74:
I have settled on a form for Janus, and the rough work is complete. He
shall stand with his right arm outstretched ever so slightly and his eyes
to the heavens. I have incorporated in his form various suggestions that
his eyes and hand point to the East, and I am rather proud of the
subtlety. Alexius shall approve, I think. I have decided that I shall
also go back over all these statues and engrave the name of each in the
base, along with their immediate lineage. The letters shall also have to
be gilt. Trvial with magics and some more funds. I must dip into the
gold stores.
Day 78:
Completed the statue of Janus more quickly than I had anticipated. The
subtle indications of direction did not make their way into the statue as
well as I would like, as the swirls created by the Knife obscure them. I
am distressed at this, but I cannot slow. I will not spend more than a
season on these statues, and if I continue at my present rate, I shall not
finish at my appointed time. The neccessity of this gift galls me, but I
know it shall be my due when the Aeire climbs to preeminence; may that day
be before I step free of the last of the chains which bind me to this
world....
Feronia shall be the last this season, I think. I wish to take care with the initial ones, as I know I shall become impatient at the last. I have plans already in mind, and I think that this shall be commentary on my first letter, if I am able to fashion the stone with facility.
Day 82:
Rough done; I now begin on the details, which shall be my most difficult
project yet, as I know Feronia shall read deeply into my symbolism. I
have chosen to obscure the Christian motifs, for I do not know them as
well as I might; instead I shall concentrate on the nature of Twilight,
the center of an Eternal plain, the true echoes of the Gift, and the
shadows of the Enigma. Of course, I will be showing but a fraction of the
Truth, but she will understand, and it shall be a pleasant reminder of my
early ignorance.
Day 86:
The most trivial details: those of the veil which shall drape free from
her face, her expression, and her pose, are complete. Now my difficult
work begins. I shall try to incorporate at least part of the pattern in
the swirls brought forth by the Knife. The secrets I hope to reflect will
be for her eyes only, and my work shall not yield them easily.
Day 89:
Almost complete, although it has been quite difficult controlling the
side-effects of the Knife. It has proven taxing to my control of the
intricate energies I have crafted. Damn Her and her meddling. I shall
find my work complete and worthy with Her aid or without it.
Day 90:
I must stop my work, and I am upset that my extensive use of the Knife
caused Feronia to shift. Her stance indicates a degree of understanding
of her positions which I have only lately come to know. It is not as I
have envisioned it, but I cannot spend the time to fix my mistakes. I
promised myself that I would read Iphigenus's text on Perdo this next
season, and I shall have to place my further labors at the end of the
season, when I have completed my readings.
Left for me to begin are Etria, Macros, Marcianus, Meander, Epateus, and Synesius. I shall work on them as time permits, but they shall be complete before I leave for Constantinople. I cannot carve at sea. That is beyond my skills for now.
I am glad that I spent this time carving these statues, however imperfect they may be. It has allowed me time to think and absorb my experiences of earlier this season, drawing them forth from their loci, pondering their significance at my leisure, and cataloguing those recollections which might prove useful in the future.
I am eagerly awaiting the morrow, for then I shall begin with the work of Iphigenus. I think that it might offer me better insight on how he might direct the flow of correspondence.
Enough has been written, and I must sleep. The morning shall bring with it a new dawn, new riddles, and a fresh start.
Day 1:
I have taken the copy of "All Things to Dust Return" from the library, and
have skimmed it quickly. It seems as if Iphigenus, although not the most
accomplished in the written word, has made a significant attempt to convey
his extensive knowledge of Perdo to whomever might read this tome. Our
other text on Perdo seemed larger and better written, but I think that I
shall have my hands full exploring the basics of the Technique. Much of
the opening section is a loose collection of applicable theurgical
examples, which I am certain he will discuss at great length later in the
text. Interesting that he should pick Eris's creation of the apple as an
example, as it is more reasonably applied to Muto. Still, he emphasizes
it to the point that the reader must assume he will later use it to great
effect. We shall see.
Day 13:
I understand his general trend. Iphigenus will introduce an example, draw
the reader into the assumption that it can best represent a different
viewpoint, then draw extensive arguments to the contrary, illustrating
several of his secondary and tertiary points thereby. An interesting
device which I noticed him using to some lesser extent during our
conversations at the Tribunal. His introduction to Aristotlean corruption
leaves some points lacking, but I assume that this is simply because those
finer arguments are secondary. Knowing Iphigenus, however, those points
simply come up later in the text. I find no fault with his descriptions
of real-world examples, however. Dead-on accurate, if I may say....
Day 27:
Iphigenus is growing on me. His explanations, although somewhat
incomplete, offer much room for him to maneuver later in his text. I
shall have to read ahead some to determine if he ever clearly delineates
his position or if he simply glosses over those points that are unclear or
beyond the scope of his knowledge or current interest.
All in all, however, the examples from myth are quite helpful. Although he doesn't introduce any legends with which I am unfamiliar, they serve as useful allegorical vehicles which allow for broad strokes of knowledge in few lines. The finer points which conflict with the intuitive gestalt are often far removed from the example - several pages in many cases - but I appreciate the overarching themes being presented initially, rather than later, as an afterthought.
The preponderance of references to the moon, Venus, and Hecete is somewhat unsettling. It is obvious that his more esoteric interests lie in those directions; a piece of the puzzle which I shall recall for later days....
Day 41:
I have been practicing some of the less overt and dangerous manipulations
of the Art within the confines of my sanctum, and I have been impressed
with the progress I have made in these past six weeks. Iphigenus will be
happy to know that his words have offered me some modicum of insight into
the greater interactions of the forces within the Universe. I merely wish
that he would come out and explicitly describe some of the phenomena to
which he alludes for page after page before revealing - as if it were a
great revelation.
My... I'm getting jaded, aren't I?
Well, to be truthful, many of the implications on which Iphigenus lectures are quite informative and counter-intuitive. He has patience, if nothing else, and that is something which I could certainly learn. I have been attempting projects beyond my capabilities of late, and I am certain that if I but studied the wisdom of others more frequently, rather than relying on my own experiences to teach me, I would progress much faster in the Hermetic Arts than I have been over the past two years. Perditus mentioned once that it takes a century to make an archmagus and a day to make a blowhard. Perhaps he foresaw this frustration.
I shall press on deliberately, despite my inclination to speed through the less interesting expositions, for I know those to hold as much information on the Art as those which reveal aspects of Iphigenus and his interests. I find that I have no difficulty reading those sections, as they offer me some amount of understanding on what I might expect from Iphigenus in his correspondences. Damn him; when shall he send his next letter? I would dearly like to know his thoughts on the points I drew....
Day 53:
Progressing well; I am now forcing myself to take notes on the less
interesting monologues. They hold information I would dearly like to
have, but for the life of me, I cannot stay awake if only the book is
holding my attention. You'd think me an apprentice!
When reviewing these notes, however, I am often reminded of riddles Perditus would pose me regarding Perdo. Understandably, it was his favorite topic, and I suppose that I should have asked him more questions on the Art before my gauntlet; he never devoted a season to that topic, and everything that I know of the art was anecdotal. Were that I had the foresight, but alas.
I have actually taken to using several of these riddles as loci for applicable lessons drawn from Iphigenus's text. I certainly have a preponderance of basic teaching tools stored in the recesses of my mind; it is a good use for them, and they offer an interesting study in the differing teaching techniques between the Houses. Many of the insights of the opening pages of Iphigenus's text can be encapsulated into a single saying which resonates with the Enigma, opening doors of reason from here to Eternity. Alternatively, you could simply lecture ad infinitum....
Day 65:
I have absorbed nearly all of Iphigenus's text that I can stand. I know
not what rankles me so about his text, but I know that I could take up
myriad counterexamples to his points with little provocation. I shall
progress to the next book under great duress. It is entitled quite
simply, "Beyond the Gauntlet," and I shall read it only with the hope that
he addresses some of the most contentious points.
Day 67:
I was sorely mistaken. Iphigenus wrote the previous text on those
sections of theory in a completely different style than this section of
the text. There is little cosmetic difference, except that he bleeds
passion through his quill now. It is obvious that he geared those opening
lines for those who would like to hear the voice of an accomplished master
detail the most drab points of an Art. His prose, though not captivating,
at least now shows soul. I read the entirety of the remainder of the tome
over the last two days, and I am now exausted. I could not take my hands
from the stand, and it was often that I would savor the words that
Iphigenus wrote as if they were the freshest of grapes, plucked from a
Divine vine.
Over the next few days, I shall review those chapters which I can in detail. I am stunned, however. Words cannot express the relief I feel knowing that a Seeker such as Iphigenus has a depth greater than the common magus. He truly has a passion, and I shall divine its root. I must reevaluate my understanding of this man....
Day 74:
I have reviewed as much as I might. I have also revised my thoughts on
Iphigenus; he is going to be much more difficult to divine than I had
thought; of course, he has had more than a century to develop complexity.
When I have walked the path of Enlightenment as long as he, I shall
doubtless confound the striplings. Sculpting deserves my utmost attention
now, however; I have work that must be completed. Thus, I shall try to
finish two of the Council by the close of the season. With luck and my
newfound knowledge, I think I might. My next projects shall be my Etria
and Meander, I think. The former is only nominally still a member of the
Council, though he be the Praeco, and the latter is so wrapped up in his
studies that he will not notice minor imperfections, I should think.
This of course does not imply that I shall set forth any less effort on either project; I know simply that if I should flounder in my endeavors, neither would take much umbrage. Such is my hope, at least. Enough useless scribblings; to work!
Day 77:
Etria is a difficult figure to capture accurately. Unsurprising,
especially considering my difficulties with his filius. Expected,
actually.
I have decided that it would be most appropriate if I left some of Etria unfinished, or rather, in the process of shifting to another form. An Enigma such as he cannot be completed; rather, you must approximate.
To other subjects: my studies in Perdo have stood me in good stead so far. I have been able to trust myself to complete more of the rough work through finer destruction than I had in the past. Furthermore, I have been better able to spot potential weaknesses in the stone and shore them up with the Knife. Corruption on the brain has its advantages, to be certain.
Day 82:
Etria is finished, or rather, he is complete. His visage is quite similar
to the face which Etria has shown at the Tribunal, but it has hints of
subtle modifications; his cheeks seem rounder, and his hair slightly
shorter than he commonly wears it. Needless to say, I am not entirely
pleased that I was not able to completely capture the moment of transition
as well as I had hoped. I had thought that I had seen Constantine shift
enough times to duplicate the effect, but alas.
To Meander, then.
Day 85:
I have decided it appropriate that Meander, as a true follower of
Bonasagus, should carry what has been considered his seminal work between
presses at his feet. I recall quite vividly the expression on his face
two Tribunals ago, when he was trying to divine the meaning of the speech
which Zela had just completed. I shall mirror that, if I am granted the
ability. Rough work has already been completed.
Day 87:
Working swiftly. His expression is perfection. Were it more like
Meander, the Council would eject me for trying to create Connections
Arcane through the Laws of Similarity! The bookpress, however, seems
somewhat misshapen.
Day 89:
I think that I almost have it. If I can just have another day on this
project, it shall be perfect, I know. If I had but... Theristes calls;
something about the Lion Gate. I must away.
[to be written]
Day 1:
I am en route to Constantinople this day. We cast off from
Trebizond this morning, and I am well pleased with the care the
crew stowed my cargo. The statues take a significant portion of the
hold, but they are well padded, and they appear to be weathering
the journey well thus far. On my journey to Trebizond, I had much
time to think on what I might do at Constantinople beyond copying
those texts I find of interest.
Foremost amongst my priorities is some exposure to the wider world of Hermetic politics. I am yet a neophyte in such matters, and if I am to further the interests of the Theban Tribunal within the wider Order, I need to understand how my political opponents are to be manipulated. In all truth, there are few places short of Fudarus or Doissetep where I might learn more swiftly than Constantinople.
Thus, it is my plan to speak to Iardanus at whatever length I might be able to hold his attention. I doubt that the "favor" I asked of him in hastening the approval of the Council will be overly difficult for him: I am pleased enough with my statues, and the care with which they were fashioned speaks of the time and effort I expended, however flawed they might actually be. I doubt that he shall ask of me anything exceedingly pressing for his effort. In either case, I would dearly like to know the nature of the endeavors in which Iphigenus and his sodales are currently engaged. I suspect that the specifics - indeed, the actual substance of their activities - will be closely guarded, but then again, I might be able to divine some information.
I plan also to speak with Feronia when she is available. Helpful she has certainly been in our running discussions on the Enigma and its nature, but she has yet to address the original topics of my missives: that of the rabbis within the City and the Chariot Mysteries which they examine at some length. If possible, I shall ask for her to introduce me to those she might have contact with; perhaps I might also open a line of communication with those in the Jewish Quarter.
Further, I am woefully uninformed regarding the Church. I am hoping that Feronia might have some suggestions on texts which might familiarize me with major aspects of Christian thought and dogma. The New God is am important study for any aspiring theurgist in this Age. It would be quite interesting if I were able to find parallels between the practices of the clergy - both eastern and western - and those of the priesthoods of yesteryear. Indeed this would be a worthy pursuit.
My time in Constantinople is limited, but those texts which Feronia will likely suggest will almost certainly be generally available to those who are willing to pay the common scrivener's wage, so I shall note their locations and titles and ask Alexius to look into acquiring them. I doubt that he will be overly enthused, but I have seniority, and Theristes will certainly agree with my suggestion. Typhus will likely agree to expansion of topics more readily applicable to the present, and I'm certain Constantine will approve. The weight of the opinions of these three alone should force a consensus in my favor.
I am starting to feel like a descendant of Tytalus or Tremere already. Regardless, this is yet another long-term goal. I have found that texts are more easily acquired as the opportunity presents itself. Doubtless I will come back from Constantinople with far different texts than I had expected.
Day 7:
Sailing into the harbor at Constantinople is not a sight easily
forgotten. The sheer number of ships here, the flow of people, the
bittersweet sounds and smells of the city they evoke an excitement
and a worry within my soul which is born of both the suspicions of
the Mundanes and the opportunities offered in this, the center of
all that is civilized. I am grateful that I shall not be wandering
through the city most of the time, but I also know that I would
dearly love to see what I might find. What foreign lands have sent
their treasures to this port of call for sale? What books of
learning might be found? What gifted musicians might stroll the
streets? I have resolved that I must wander for a time. I will ask
Feronia how she manages interacting with her surroundings.
We have docked, and I have announced myself to those of the Domus. The crew assures me that they should have the statues unloaded and delivered to the covenant by tomorrow, and Iardanus has told me that the Council shall be convened the day after. In the meanwhile, I have asked for hospitality, and I have been given a small chamber which I will undoubtedly keep for my stay here. Until I am assured of this, I will refrain from declaring it my sanctum, but Constantine mentioned that it would be wise for me to declare my chambers such when I have settled. The games have begun, indeed.
In the meanwhile, I have asked to be offered provisional approval to access the library, which Marcianus, in his position as chief librarian, has granted me. I am using this afternoon and tomorrow morning to determine my direction this first season, and I have arranged for delivery of the parchment, ink, and quills from the covenant holdings here through the autocrat. He seemed mildly surprised that one whose lineage stretched through Phlebouros would actually think to ask him. Of course, this is Constantinople, and the Domus's secrecy is its lifeblood. Even our mother clutch understands this.
Day 9:
I have presented the statues as planned, and the response was
everything that I had hoped it would be and more. I am astounded
that magi so knowledgeable would regard my work as skillful, but
they seemed almost uniformly impressed with their likenesses. Only
Macros was reserved, and when it came to voting, he, with the rest
of the council, approved of my gift. I believe that Constantine's
suggestions were invaluable: I made certain to present the statues
of Janus and Manuel last, and I got the impression from Iardanus
that this was a good idea. A subset of the council seemed mildly
offended that I introduced the statues at all, although I believe
that they would have been more offended had I introduced them
before those present. Of course, I am well aware that it would have
been disrespectful to those who might still call the Domus their
home if I hadn't presented statues of my sodales's ancestors.
I am especially cheered by the fact that Feronia appeared to have caught the hidden meaning in her statue, despite the fact that it did not capture her image nearly as well as I had hoped. She said that it would be a focus of some study for a few days at the least; she even went so far as to say that she was flattered that I would incorporate aspects of our correspondence in the statue.
The council meeting itself was quite strange, to be certain. Half the time, the magi of the Domus appeared to be speaking in a completely different language, though I ostensibly understood what they were saying. To be truthful, I didn't realize that they had accepted my gift until Iardanus congratulated me on my political acumen and the others began to disperse. What little I was able to understand made only the most marginal sense. Of all the magi here, only Meander seemed at all blunt, and that was only because he seemed not to want to deal with the political intricacies. None who live here could be ignorant of such maneuverings.
At the very least, I managed to make it clear that I would very much like to sup with each of the magi of the covenant over my stay in the City, and they all said that they would be delighted. This, of course, makes me quite happy. I have much to say to all of them, although perhaps less to some than others. But even to Epateus, I have questions which I have been pondering since last Tribunal. Iphigenus brought up some very interesting arguments regarding the culpability of magi for the actions of those creatures they summoned which Corinna was not able - or willing - to completely refute. I suspect that he might have some definite ideas. The others, of course, have other attractions.
The past two days have been spent essentially familiarizing myself with the library and its organization. It is truly magnificent. After Phlerobous, I thought the Aerie's library to be incredible, even though I know that most of the tomes have been moved to the sancta of the various magi of the clutch. The Domus has redefined the meaning of library in my mind. Its holdings are indeed vast, and I am given to understand that there is a collection which is closely guarded which visitors are allowed access to only with the consent of a full council. Nonetheless, the sections I have examined are enormous; it seems that even the most obscure topic has a dozen tomes thereon. I am indeed in awe.
I have decided that I shall spend my first few days of reading on the Recap reports of the various tribunals, progressing in chronological order. I am most curious what I may find regarding the Gauntlet.
Day 12:
Time slips away from me, and so do the facts I seek. Precious
little clue has survived the ravages of time regarding the fall of
the Gauntlet, although I was able to compile a partial listing of
its members over the course of its history, as well as a partial
list of vis sources which they claimed. Reports of many of the most
interesting tribunals have been struck or moved to a secure
location within the library which Marcianus tells me is restricted.
Amazingly, he managed to seem more brusque than usual. A touchy
point, and one which I intend to investigate further, if ever I
have the time and the resources.
In any case, I have finally selected my subjects for the remainder of the season. I have long wished for the Ærie to have a copy of the Chaldean Oracles, and I am certain that Tiphys, at least, will agree that a copy of the Travels of Fedoso are of significant enough import to our future apprentices that our library should house one. I begin on the morrow.
Yesterday evening, I had dinner with Iardanus, whom I managed to convince to introduce me to his new apprentice. The young lad is quite quick, and I am certain that he - like Cleopatra - shall do the Order and his pater proud when he is gauntleted, though that is many years in the future. Of course, this was hardly the most important point discussed; it was merely the most striking, as it was when introducing his apprentice that I saw upon his face what I believe to be an unguarded emotion. It was fleeting, but I thought for a moment that I caught pride in his eyes when he thought me not to be looking upon him. Indeed, it is only with the truly naove that we can let down our masks, even with those hardened by the rigors of the Order's politics.
The other topics discussed, of course, ranged from the theories of Bonasagus to the happenings of other magi, to our personal investigations and beyond. His knowledge of all things seems compendious, and his manner most gracious. I envy the ease with which he seems to balance his researches with his political aspirations; it is unsurprising that the Bonasagi have such a reputation within the Order for their skill and prowess.
Iardanus mentioned offhandedly that he has a copy of Psellos's Histories which he glossed and might be willing to provide me for a small fee. He indicated that it was a version intended for Hermetic circulation, thus detailing the activities of various members of the Order within the Empire during his life. After virtually no bargaining at all (which I though never to do with any), I settled on providing him with nearly a rook and a half for his time and trouble.
Ah enough of this journal. I must begin my copying.
Day 34:
Sleep was once something I knew well. Many a night, I would lie
awake in bed for hours on end, pondering a problem of philosophy,
but now, it is all that I can do reach my chamber before I
collapse. Certainly, it is not merely the long hours of scribing;
these I know well. I think it mostly that I have made it clear to
all the Domus that I am interested in the political arena. Such is
all that is needed here. During what breaks I allot myself (and
what meals I remember to take), I am confronted with one who would
demand my attention, and not just those who reside here.
Half the time, it is a minor functionary or an administrative figure who accosts me, and the other half, it is a magus, either of the Domus or passing through and paying his respects to those who reside here. Nowhere else have I known such a constant flow of people who all attempt - with varying degrees of success - to play a role in the politics of the Order. I have no doubt that I shall meet more magi from outside our tribunal in my short time here than I will have since my birth.
It has become quite a strain, and with each passing day, I respect Constantine and Iardanus all the more. Each moment not spent detailing a new page is either devoted to gossip or considering the gossip about me. Thankfully, I am a young mage, thus not a target for the more pointed interrogations. Nonetheless, it takes a great deal of effort to keep my secrets and those of my sodales whilst attempting to draw a crumb of information from those about me.
I was not born to this life, and I see the necessity of the skills I am acquiring. Nonetheless, I dearly wish I could avoid conversational pitfalls with the practiced ease of Constantine, or command the attention of a room as Iardanus.
Yesterday eve, I had dinner with Feronia and Meander, which was actually a rather welcome break from the constant stream of political maneuverings (which, by the by, Meander assures me will wax again with the coucil meeting a few days hence). Both magi are quite perceptive, and it was a joy to speak on matters of philosophy and magic with the living, rather than hearing the words of the dead on such matters or the words of the living on terrestrial matters. Meander was quite intrigued with my description of my correspondence with Feronia on the Enigma, and likewise, Feronia offered some suggestions to Meander regarding our burgeoning correspondence. I took several mental notes on our conversation, and I believe that I shall add them as an appendix to the compilation I plan on my correspondences with these two.
Feronia mentioned further that she would be delighted to speak with me at greater length on other occasions, and after our conversation, I managed to secure her promise to provide me with a bible of her choosing upon leaving the Domus. I am somewhat surprised that she would request only four pawns for her trouble, but I shall not argue when I am given a good deal.
Tomorrow is another day, however, and my eyelids protest further writing.
Day 68:
I begin to understand some of the underlying pomp and circumstance
which laces the Domus's council meetings. It has taken three such
meetings, two months of thought, and uncounted conversations with
the turb and covenfolk, but I have managed to collect some of my
wits.
I am convinced of this by what happened this afternoon; the meeting convened, and the bustle of bodies heralded its coming. I hurriedly finished some of my notes on future illuminations and made my way to the great hall, which was already abuzz with the conversations of gathered magi. Again, I was confused by the formality and arcane procedure, but there were aspects which I was able to discern clearly. It was nearly the end of the meeting (at which I counted at least two score veiled references to topics which were apparently not for my ears) when I saw my chance. Macros had addressed me directly - absentmindedly, I think - and I managed an approximation of the pleasantries I had heard form Iardanus a moon ago. The look which flashed across Macros's face of pure astonishment was worth every tedious conversation with a minor administrator I had been dragged into since my arrival. Needless to say, I was quickly out of my depth when the rest of the magi gently probed to see how much I knew, but the initial surprise, intermixed with the knowledge that I had divined the proper response according to the Domus's etiquette was fulfilling in the extreme.
Macros's invitation to dinner tomorrow night was, likewise, not entirely unexpected, but certainly quite satisfying.
In other news, I am almost finished with the copy of the Chaldean Oracles. My notes on the illuminations of the source text are almost complete, so that they can be later contracted for. I think it would be appropriate, and I will attempt to convince my sodales of this when I return to the Aerie. Likewise, the Travels of Fedoso should have illuminations, but I know not if I can convince them on that point.
The Chaldean Oracles have occupied much of my free thought of late, which is only to be expected, I suppose. The implications of what I have been able to gather upon cursory investigation are enormous, should they fit soundly into Hermetic theory.
Day 71:
Finished with the Oracles. My meeting with Macros, although
pleasant, was not nearly as productive as I had hoped. He was terse
as always, probing me constantly for information, and although I
would like to think that I gave him little for his effort, his
smile would seem to contradict me.
It has been quite a long time since I have written in Latin, however. It's a refreshing change of pace, even though it is, of course, my firm opinion that it is an inferior tongue in which to scribe Hermetic topics. All the same, the copy in Constantinople is beautifully scriven, as the Order's primer on the written word should be. It shall take a great deal of skill to successfully duplicate it. I sincerely hope that I am up to the task, especially considering the time I have left this season.
Ah well . . . to work.
Day 86:
An unexpected invitation to dinner from Manuel . . . and just as I
was beginning to catch up on the Travels. Well, it cannot be
helped, and I will not go unprepared to this meeting. It is two
days hence, and I feel that I should properly arrange my thoughts,
so as to not reveal too much to the man. His skills at conversation
are only hinted at in his filius, and I have never been able to
keep much from Constantine for very long. Of course, I consider
myself his friend, but what is lacking in friendship, Manuel will
doubtless make up for in guile.
I will continue scribing, but I shall not allow myself to be caught flat-footed.
Day 88:
As expected, Manuel did the unexpected; he cancelled, meaning that
my careful mental preparation was completely wasted. I had dinner
with Meander instead, which was quite interesting, yet something of
a letdown. How is a magus supposed to rise in the political ranks
if he does not match wits against those who occupy the highest
seats? At least he sent his apologies and a promise of a
rescheduling. He claimed that he was "unavoidably detained." How
convenient.
Travels, although progressing more rapidly than I had thought a day ago, will take me at least another half week to complete, which exceeds my self-imposed deadline by several days. I must get better if I am to finish my work here in time.
I find myself thinking, however, that it is unsurprising that Constantine became the magus he is. With an environment like this about him throughout his apprenticeship, he could not help but become the politically-minded magus he is today. Nor could he help but to be the survivor he is.
To the library again, then. . . .