I am often asked about "magic", The Nexus, The Multiverse and how it all works, as it is recognized that I have dwelled for considerable time in The Red Dragon Inn and the land surrounding it known as RhyDin. Being an experienced and learned Mage, and with my unique relationship with The Nexus, I am afforded greater insights into the way of things arcane.
Traditions differ from world to world. The Arcane is expressed in a myriad of ways. This is why we see so many varying magical disciples here.
Magical beings are attracted to RhyDin as it is one of the most powerful Nexus Points in the Multiverse but in the face of such raw Arcane power, many Mages are surprised that their magic and power does not work as they expect or their mis-spells are greater in number.
Non-mages are overwhelmed by the amount of power flung about and find themselves at a lost or in the sway of those more magically proficient. They are often at risk by forces they cannot see, understand or ward against.
In this column, I will endeavor to clarify the Mysteries of the Arcane and to answer your questions. I will not "teach" you how to use magic in this column. There are plenty of schools that will take your gold or your oaths of service to teach you the rudiments. I will expand you understanding and deepen your insights of Arcane matters.
Let us start with the nature of the Multiverse…
From Chaos all things come.
It is from Chaos that Order is formed and it is to Chaos that Order returns.
There are those that only see the destructive power of Chaos. They deny its constructive properties. This is not surprising as those that ponder the mysteries of the Multiverse are, by their own natures, controlling, organized, and willful in their desire for Ordered Systems. Uncontrolled power is an anathema to them. To such pundits, the Multiverse is a symphony of Order and Control. All parts working in harmonious wonder; complimenting, supporting well tuned and crafted parts of a mystical "machine."
A place for everything and nothing out of its place.
Idiots.
They are as limited in their imaginations as they are in intellect.
Order imposed upon Chaos is short-lived, lasting only until the Chaotic forces outside and within the "ordered system" wear at it until it can take no more.
As Chaos churns random alignments occur; spontaneously creating Order from Chaos once again.
Order always tries to replicate itself and will continually try new combinations until some viable ordered alignment can be found.
Chaos is the engine that drives continual recreation. Order is just the random form that chaotic churn takes.
This concept is challenging for many as they look about the world around them and do not see such dramatic changes or the raw power of chaos, brilliant and overwhelming, in their lives. It is there but in more subtle forms. Take for example the coupling of a man and a woman. Vigorous in its energy, outrageous in the forms it takes, wild and untamed; a mirror of the chaotic forces of nature. From that chaotic coupling, life is formed. A childe is created from the random alignment of the essence of its mother and father. The tiny babe grows and matures and becomes more settled in Its personality and Its ways of interacting with the rest of creation. It impacts the reality around It and perhaps spawns more Order in Its own way, in Its own coupling. In time, Chaos claims It as Its body begins to fail and It dies, returning Its spirit returns back to the Multiverse and to the Chaos of it all.
When we look at the Multiverse; creation, as we recognize it, the formation of worlds and places, flows from The Nexus.
The Nexus is Chaos refined.
The Nexus is the heart's blood of "reality." The Nexus powers creation and is the source of the energies that flow through the realities we know.
Nexus Points are fonts of creation; the rare places where Chaos kisses Order, birthing nascent worlds. These worlds, now created in the most basic of forms, continue to propagate Order as it flows further and further from the Nexus Point that spawned it until it is a wholly formed world.
Nexus Points are unstable geysers of pure undiluted Power. They burst forth, spew their creative forces and often collapse and disappear. There are few Nexus Points that are more "stable", if such a word can be used, like the one at what has come to be called "RhyDin." However, the world "RhyDin" is not truly a world. It is a platform of Order. But that is a discussion for another day.
Each world birthed from a Nexus Point is unique and as such, Its creatures and Its form is Its own as is the shape and form Arcane Power takes.
For the purposes of this treatise, we will focus on the Arcane.
The Arcane is not a monolithic entity that is the same from world to world. The Nexus is the source of such power and as such, it is the purest and most primal of all "magical energies." Being Chaos Refined, it is the utmost of untamable, wild and unpredictable Arcana. Touching such, even for experienced Mages, can scramble the mind and overwhelm the Mage in such ways as to make viable living a dream forgotten. Primal gods and their ilk are best able to directly tap Raw Arcana. It is how they can power their great efforts but even then, it is not without mis-spell risks.
Most "magic" is shaped and filtered through the world it flows from. The gods and mages born of those worlds are best adapted to use the local Arcana. It flows more easily through them, they draw it unto themselves as like they draw breath. They shape it according to the natural flow in the world and the magical traditions mages before them have learned best to master the Arcane.
On some worlds, a medium like blood or wine is needed to tap the Power; on others specific places must be accessed or different items that contain uniquely formed stores of Power are needed for specific spells must be gathered and yet, on other world, no such gyrations are required. Under it all, however, the working of Arcane arts remains the same. It is through the Mage's force of will that arcane energies are gathered, shaped and expressed in what is called "magic."
These variations in creation are why we see so many, seemingly unrelated, types of Magic here on RhyDin.
Though, at the most basic of levels, the underpinnings of the Arcane are the same, not every Mage is as skilled or powerful enough to learn new disciplines or to taste and shape arcane energies not from their home world. There are those that can but there should be no expectation that it can happen or that it should be easy to do.
In the next column we will explore the nature of Mages.
If you have specific questions about the arcane or wish to suggest a topic for future articles, send me a note. Attaching a gift is highly recommended.
Becky's Place: An Interview with Keir Harding
From THE DOCKSIDE NEWS REPORT
It's located quite far down the shore, towards quieter sections of town. The place literally appeared like Dorothy's house in Wizard of Oz. There was just suddenly a Victorian house set onto the beach front. It's renovated, turned into a cafe. There's a white-pillared front porch that leads to a small green lawn in the front. A glossy, dark-green, wrought iron fence separates the property from the street. Small, wrought iron cafe tables and chairs dot the wraparound porch and front yard. There's two floors, the main floor mostly kitchen in the back and the front counter… a few tables, but most of the cozy seating is upstairs. Huge floor-to-ceiling windows that overlook the sea line the walls. Those two areas — plus the foyer, where there are coffee machines, a beverage steamer, and a glass-cased counter for baked goods — comprise the little cafe, simply named Becky's Place.
The Dockside News Report had the opportunity to sit down with the owner, Keir Harding. Originally hailing from Winfield, Wisconsin, in Sauk County, he gives the impression of someone possessing both American midwestern charm and keen business instincts.
Sauk County, WI; Keir's old stomping ground.
Marlin: Handsome looking place you've got here. Couldn't help but notice you're in a quiet spot, though… get much business? Or is it slow?
Harding: We usually get a fair amount of business, but we certainly have our slow days. We have a lot of regulars who stop by for their favorite dish or drink and like to sit in the same place everyday. It's those kinds of customers I like to serve — the ones I can build a relationship with.
Marlin: What seems to be your most popular attraction, food-wise? What would you recommend to customers who haven't been here yet?
Harding: I'd have to say Miss Elisha's hot cherry cobbler. She makes it fresh everyday and always serves it with a smile. A lot of folks don't like to eat the food they serve on a daily basis, but I can say that if all I had to eat everyday for the rest of my life was Miss Elisha's hot cobbler, I'd end up dying a happy man when my time came.
Marlin: I'll have to try that after we're finished here. Now, how did you come to open Becky's Place? Any interesting tale to tell there, or was it just a spur-of-the-moment decision?
Harding: Well, it's funny you should ask. About a year and a half ago, there was this big storm in Safe Harbor, Wisconsin and before my crew could get out of the building and to safety, our cafe was snatched right from it's foundation and ended up here. Don't ask me how that happened, but it sure took us all a long time to get used to this. When we found a way to get back, a few people went home, but most of us stayed and decided to continue running the place. It's been a hell of a ride, but I like this place.
Marlin: That's… one of the more colorful ways people land in Rhy'Din, I'll give you that. Have you had any trouble hit outside of just adjusting to a new place? Or has it been peaceful?
Harding: No, for the most part, it's been peaceful. A lot more peaceful than back home. It's why I don't mind staying.
Marlin: Any plans on expanding the business, or are you happy with the size it is now? And do you do catering, or is it strictly walk-in business?
Harding: We at Becky's Place really like the size of our establishment, so expanding isn't exactly on our to-do list. It's a personal business; we like to maintain a close relationship with our customers, and expanding would only hinder this.
Yes, we do catering, but we do need notice at least 48 hours in advance, that way we can make sure to prepare everything needed. We haven't gotten too many catering orders, but each of our recipes is "secret" (handed down from family members) and it's what makes our food so unique. It keeps people coming back.
Marlin: Well, we've covered your origins, covered the favorite dish, and your plans. Is there anything else you'd like to tell the realm about Becky's Place?
Harding: We're a very friendly sort of people. Even if all you want is a cup of coffee, don't feel like you need to rush out. We love to chat and get to know our customers.
Marlin: Sounds good! And now, I think I'd like to try a piece of that cherry cobbler.
According to a report released by RhyDin University's School of Lifestyle Management, 100 million leisure hours were lost to work in 2006. "The majority of RhyDin residents find work cutting into the middle of their days — exactly when leisure is most effective," said Gus Greenwald, the sociology professor who headed the study. "The hours between 9 a.m. and 6 p.m. are ideally suited to browsing stores, dozing in front of the television, hanging out and drinking suds at the local inns. Daytime hours are also the warmest and sunniest, making them perfect for outdoor activities and avoiding vampires. Unfortunately, most RhyDinians can't enjoy leisure during this time; for the simple reason that they're at work."
Week after week potential relaxation time is squandered to jobs, with millions of would-be leisurers prohibited from sleeping in, fighting, and getting drunk. An average employed person's ability to stroll aimlessly around town and 'do whatever' is basically nonexistent 49 weeks of the year.
The report reveals that full-time workers are hit the hardest, with part-time workers coming in a close second, and freelancers marking a distant third. Ironically, the unemployed fared the best in this report.
Eating Entire Box of Donuts Not Originally Part of Evening's Plan
Moments after consuming the twelfth and final powdered-sugar donut from Rosie O'Dell's deli, a local red-haired beauty admitted that eating an entire box of donuts was not originally part of her plan for the evening. "I figured I'd kick back in front of the TV in my RDI boarding room, watch King of Queens and Yes, Dear, and maybe enjoy a donut or two,' the sated, powder-faced bombshell said. "But before you know it, the whole box was gone." She added, "Hey, you gotta stay flexible; take what the night brings you."
Missing Park Ranger Found In Better-Paying Job
RhyDin Park, RD— Forest Service ranger Larry Livermore, missing from his fire-warning post in the forest on the outskirts of our fair city since early July, was found alive and well-off in the manager's office of the RhyDin Home Depot this past Sunday. "We announce with a sense of relief that Larry is safe and financially secure," said an SPI agent. Livermore described his years as a ranger as "an ordeal," recounting how he was sometimes forced to subsist on root beer and prepackaged bologna-and-cheese sandwiches from the park gift shop for weeks at a time.
Perfection Magazine Declares August 'Let Yourself Go' Month
Perfection, the RhyDin's woman's fitness magazine, has officially declared August 'Let Yourself Go' Month. "You've toned those abs and burned the flab in time for bikini season… Now it's time for a meatball sandwich," wrote Perfection editor-in-chief Gloria Pounder. "Come on, live a little. Don't be a tight-ass with a tight ass. Eat, lounge, and slouch your way to a happier, more satisfied you." Featured articles include "Girth Equals Mirth: Six Sure-Fire Techniques for Broadening that Belly," "Wrinkles: the More you Have, The More You've Lived," and "Reduce Unwanted Stress By Not Giving a Damn."
Cozy Little Out-Of-The-Way Place Thriving
Would you eat a Vampire's muffin? Evidently there are many guys in RhyDin who are salivating for Jadey's muffin. Jade Rogue has made a thriving business out of nothing by giving her muffins away in a very smart business plan. Of course, the great taste keeps them coming back. Gotta love her muffins.
Arthur S. Doowhipple, famed philologist, pundit and sometime Dragon slayer, passed away in his sleep last night at the verneable age of 94. He is survived by his wife, Ophelia Doowhipple, age 26. The cause of death is presumably the dirk that was found lodged between his 4th and 5th ribs, and the coroner contends that it's likely he woke up when that happened. But his wife was very adamant that "No, he was definitely asleep."
Many of the community will mourn his passing. He was always generous with the wealth he had earned during his time slaying dragons. The local book lender, of which he was particulary fond and to which he often made donations, has already spoken about changing their name from "Borrow Our Books, Damnit!" to "The Arthur S. Doowhipple Memorial Book Lender, Damnit!"
When asked if she would continue her husband's philanthropic ways, Ophelia replied "As if!"
Arthur will be missed by all.
Official Tera Starfare Disclaimer: This is not to say that they are dead and gone forever however. This is to say that they are dead, buried, and have gravestones at the time of this printing of The Oracle.
All Creatures Big and Small
Classifieds
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES: The Prestigious Bonny Corporation is currently seeking a new Spiritual Advisor, and a Staff Necromancer. Due to potential conflicts of interest these roles will not be filled by the same person. To send resumes or schedule employment interviews, please contact Mary Read. Part-time or contract work may be negotiated.
HELP WANTED: Ravensheart School is contemplating the expansion of its curriculum to include not only lessons of various magical natures, but also a more normal choice of subjects:
Math, Literature, Science, Health, Cooking, Wilderness survival, horsemanship and more.
We are in need of competent and caring teachers and professors to come and teach the children, all children, of RhyDin here. All those interested, please contact either Sha'uri Arrowny or Briarius Ravensheart at the Ravensheart School for the Gifted.
Cargo Hauling, cheeeeeeap! — Courier for hire, I can take anything anywhere you want it to go. Contact box in the Red Dragon Inn, room five. Fees negotiable. Misty
JOB OPPORTUNITY Seeking a competent and caring Groomsman to care for and help in the process of breeding Firebrand horses here in RhyDin. Experience in the care of horses a must, experience with Firebrand horses is preferred. Will train the right candidate. Room and board can be arranged. Only the serious may inquire at the Ravensheart School for the Gifted. Go to the main Administration building. Ask for Sha'uri.
Starfare Wedding Boutique — We here at Starfare Wedding Boutique offer several different plans to make that once in a lifetime occasion something that you and the love of your life can look back on with fond memories as your paths become one forevermore. For more information contact Gavilean or Tera Starfare either at their home or their mail boxes at the Red Dragon Inn.
Hellballs Leather Goods — "When you need more than skin, Hellballs Leather Goods. After all, it's your hide you are protecting." — To place your order or for more information contact Woody Sprite. You can leave a message for him at the Red Dragon Inn.
Scathachian Sanctuary — Negotiation-irradication services for victims of injustice. For consultation interview (including fees), one may contact the Sanctuary directly, or Isuelt DeRomiano at the Red Dragon Inn.
Guthorm Othinsson is looking for work as a "Gar Bag Collector!" He says he is willing to "rub out your gar bag" for you anytime, anywhere, in RhyDin and surrounding areas. This Norseman comes with a sterling reputation for always getting the job done no matter how small or how large it may be you can count on Guthorm Othinsson to see to it that the work is done and done right the first time!
Only serious inquiries please. Messages may be left at the Red Dragon Inn in care of Guthorm Othinsson.
To submit your classified send a ((private)) message to the Editor.
