Guilds/Lumina Arcanum

# Lumina Arcanum

## Lumina Arcanum

**Lumina Arcanum**, often referred to as just *Lumina* or *Fires,* - is one of eleven and the oldest among the guilds present and active on Fayers Cove.

The guild counts approximately 105 core members, including the Archmage Selene Thorn - its current leader, Arcane Council, Masters, Scholars, and Guardians, and possibly hundreds of initiates that mainly reside at the Arcane Academia - a separate educational institution. This makes Lumina Arcanum the most populated guild on the island.

## About

Founded in the midst of the first exiles era, Lumina Arcanum has been a stalwart institution of arcane knowledge and practice for over three centuries. Established in 987 A.C., this venerable institution emerged as a haven for those seeking to harness the mysteries of magic in Fayers Cove. Lumina Arcanum's dedication to the study, preservation, and responsible use of arcane arts has made it a respected cornerstone of the community. With its impressive library of tomes and scrolls holding invaluable knowledge and secrets, its venerable council, and its commitment to nurturing gifted students, the guild stands as a beacon of enlightenment and magical mastery. Lumina Arcanum's influence extends not only within the Cove but also across the realms, as it continuously contributes to the understanding and responsible application of the arcane in an ever-evolving world.

### Location

The guild occupies Arcane Hall as its main hub, while also maintaining ownership over Arcane Academia and Crystal Arena, all of which are located in or in close proximity to the Academic Precinct in the center of the township.

### Goals

Lumina Arcanum, as a prominent guild of arcane scholars and spellcasters, is driven by a set of clear goals and objectives that reflect its dedication to the pursuit of magical knowledge and the betterment of the township of Fayers Cove. These aspirations are firmly ingrained in the guild's mission and guide its activities:

1. **Unravel the Mysteries of Magic**: At the core of Lumina Arcanum's mission is the relentless pursuit of understanding the intricacies of magic. The guild seeks to uncover the hidden secrets of arcane arts, delving into forgotten tomes, conducting extensive research, and encouraging experimentation to advance the collective understanding of magical phenomena.
2. **Mastery of Magical Disciplines**: Lumina Arcanum fosters an environment where spellcasters can hone their magical talents. Its members strive for mastery within their chosen schools of magic, aiming to become experts in their respective fields. This goal not only enhances their individual abilities but also contributes to the broader body of magical knowledge.
3. **Academic Collaboration**: Lumina Arcanum actively promotes collaboration with other guilds and organizations within Fayers Cove, such as Chronicle Conservatory and Aetherforge. By sharing expertise and resources, the guild aims to strengthen the town's magical capabilities, fostering innovation and ensuring the welfare of its citizens.
4. **Protection of Magical Artifacts**: The guild recognizes the importance of safeguarding magical artifacts, manuscripts, and relics of historical significance. Lumina Arcanum endeavors to preserve and protect these items, maintaining a vast archive of knowledge that can benefit both the guild's members and the town as a whole.
5. **Teaching and Mentorship**: Lumina Arcanum places a strong emphasis on education and mentorship. The guild's members actively engage in teaching and guiding aspiring spellcasters, passing down their expertise to the next generation. This commitment to education ensures that the town continues to produce skilled and responsible magic practitioners.
6. **Contributions to Town Prosperity**: Lumina Arcanum recognizes its role in enhancing the overall prosperity and well-being of Fayers Cove. By leveraging magical insights, the guild aims to address various town challenges, from bolstering security to enhancing economic growth through the development of magical innovations, such as its collaboration with Aetherforge in the creation and maintenance of power stones and machinery using magical conduits as source of power.
7. **Ethical Use of Magic**: While pursuing magical knowledge, Lumina Arcanum is unwavering in its commitment to the ethical and responsible use of magic. The guild instills a code of conduct in its members, emphasizing the importance of using their magical abilities for the betterment of society and the prevention of misuse. While the guild members do not actively police the township, they are most often called to aid the Grey Cloaks or Golden Swords patrols in case of magics misuse.

## Guild's structure and leadership

Lumina Arcanum boasts a well-organized hierarchical structure that is known for its transparency and inclusivity. At the pinnacle of the guild's leadership stands the revered Archmage, a position currently held by Selene Thorn. Beneath the Archmage, the guild is divided into distinct councils, each dedicated to one of the eight major schools of magic. These councils are led by accomplished Masters who have attained mastery in their respective schools. Scholars and Guardians, serving under the Masters, contribute to the guild's operations through their dedicated research, protection, and support roles. This tiered system fosters a sense of collaboration and cooperation within Lumina Arcanum and facilitates the guild's active engagement with both the township's populace and other affiliated guilds. This transparent and integrated structure is a defining characteristic of Lumina Arcanum's unique organizational approach.

### Structure

The organizational framework of Lumina Arcanum stands out for its notable transparency, open academy admissions, and a spirit of collaboration with both fellow guilds and the township as a whole. This commitment to openness distinguishes Lumina Arcanum from certain other guilds, which tend to operate covertly with concealed structures.

### Leadership

At the guild's helm stands Archmage Selene Thorn, the guild's respected and revered leader. Her primary role is to provide guidance, set the guild's strategic direction, and oversee its overall operations. Below the Archmage, the guild is divided into eight distinct councils, each representing one of the major schools of magic. These councils are responsible for overseeing research, experimentation, and magical practices within their respective schools

#### Vote system and veto

In the governance structure of Lumina Arcanum, significant decisions and major changes are subject to a deliberative process that involves Archmage Selene Thorn and the eight council members, each representing their respective school of magic. The outcome of these decisions hinges on a majority vote among the nine. This collective approach ensures that the guild's leadership takes into account diverse viewpoints and expert opinions from the various magical disciplines within the council.

Importantly, the guild acknowledges the necessity for unanimity among the council members for such votes to proceed. This means that even if one council member is absent during a vote, the decision cannot be ratified. While this requirement may present logistical challenges at times, it stands as a safeguard to ensure that the wisdom and perspectives of all council members are considered, given their expertise in their respective magical schools.

Archmage Selene Thorn, as the guild's leader, possesses a unique authority within this decision-making framework. She retains the privilege of a veto, which allows her to override council decisions if she deems it necessary. However, it's crucial to note that her position remains secure from being overthrown by the council. Instead, her influence extends to the appointment of a successor, who will assume leadership responsibilities only in the event of her passing, thereby preserving the guild's continuity and leadership stability.

#### Appointing a new councilor

In the event of a vacancy within the council of Lumina Arcanum, a structured process exists for the appointment of a new council member. Any prospective candidate may be nominated, provided that they are capable of representing a school of magic that is presently unrepresented on the council.

While the current council members are afforded the opportunity to offer their insights and recommendations regarding the suitability of the candidate, the ultimate decision rests with Archmage Selene Thorn. She possesses the authority to determine whether the proposed individual aligns with the guild's values and objectives, ensuring that the council remains a balanced and comprehensive assembly of diverse magical disciplines.

## History

*\* This section mirrors Selene Thorn's page segment "Lumina Arcanum".*

### Years of creation

   In the early days of Fayers Cove's existence, knowledge was a rare and precious commodity. The island was a desolate place, far removed from the civilized world, and the exiles were left to fend for themselves in this unforgiving environment. Among the first exiles to set foot on the island was Selene Thorn, a young and talented mage who had been unjustly accused of a crime she did not commit. Despite her exile, Selene was determined to use her magical abilities for the betterment of her fellow exiles.

With limited resources and a growing community of exiles, Selene established what would later become known as Lumina Arcanum. She started by gathering a small group of like-minded individuals who shared her passion for magic and knowledge. Together, they built a modest school and research center in the heart of Fayers Cove. At first, Lumina Arcanum was a humble institution, focused on teaching basic magical principles to the curious and the gifted. Selene and her colleagues scoured the island for any hidden tomes, ancient relics, or remnants of magical knowledge that could be salvaged.

### Arcane Hall construction

As Lumina Arcanum continued to thrive and expand its horizons, one of the most significant developments was the establishment of an iconic tower that would come to symbolize its commitment to magic and knowledge. However, the tower's creation was a project that unfolded over several decades.

The guild began as a modest school and research center within the heart of Fayers Cove. Selene Thorn and her dedicated colleagues focused primarily on the academic aspects of magic, teaching, and preserving knowledge for the growing community of mages on the island. While the academic part of Lumina Arcanum remained firmly rooted in its original location, the need for additional space became evident as the institution continued to attract talented wizards, scholars, and magical practitioners. The school's library swelled with ancient scrolls, arcane tomes, and mystical artifacts, creating a pressing demand for more storage and research facilities.

After decades of growth and careful planning, Lumina Arcanum embarked on an ambitious endeavor to build a towering structure that would serve as a beacon of magical learning and a repository of mystical wisdom. The construction of the tower was a testament to the guild's dedication to the pursuit of magic, innovation, and enlightenment.

The tower, known as the "Arcane Hall," was designed to house the most precious and powerful artifacts, scrolls, and research laboratories. Its architecture was a marvel in itself, adorned with intricate celestial patterns that seemed to shimmer and shift as if enchanted. The Arcane Hall became a symbol of Lumina Arcanum's commitment to the magical arts and a place where mages from all corners of the world gathered to push the boundaries of magical knowledge.