The Master Mage

**The Master Mage**, also known as the **Divine Mortal**, the **Holy Seeker**, the **Bishop of the Pantheon**, or historically, the **God of Realm**, is the leader of the **Mage Order** and the chosen vessel of **the pantheon** to communicate with the **mortal realm** while they were otherwise occupied. The position occasionally coincides with the Head of state of the **Blu States**. The current Master Mage is Master **Elira Oitra**, who serves as the 258th vessel of the **Goddess Zindu**.

## History

### Title and Etymology

The term "Master Mage" derives from the traditions of the Mage Order, which referred to their most skilled and trained mages as "master." In place of their first name, normal mage masters will be referred to as master, while the Master Mage will be referred to as Mage Master. Historically, all temple leaders were given the title of master mage, but when the first god chosen vessel united the Mage Order, the mages replaced the term with "temple cleric" and bestowed the title of Master Mage on the current vessel.

### Position with the Mage Order

According to the teachings of the Order of Mages, the gods bestowed magic upon mortal men as a means of uniting the mortal races' warring clans. According to the prophecies, the Master Mage is the only person or thing capable of bringing all magic users together under the banner of Zindu.

the position of the Master Mage within the Order of Mages is one of great importance and responsibility. The Master Mage serves as the leader of the entire Mage Order, with the duty of guiding and overseeing the Order's operations and ensuring that its goals are achieved.

The Master Mage is responsible for maintaining the Order's traditions, teachings, and practices and ensuring that they are upheld by all members of the Order. They are also responsible for interpreting and enforcing the laws and regulations that govern the use of magic and ensuring that mages use their powers responsibly and for the greater good.

The Master Mage is also the primary representative of the Mage Order in matters of diplomacy and politics. They maintain relationships with other magical organizations and governments, negotiate treaties and agreements, and work to promote cooperation and understanding among different magical communities.

In addition to their duties within the Order of Mages, the Master Mage is also considered to be the chosen vessel of the pantheon to communicate with the mortal realm while the gods are otherwise occupied. As such, they have a spiritual connection to the divine and are seen as a figure of great importance and reverence in the eyes of many mortals.

### Early Mage Order (~28,000 BHE - ~16,000 BHE)

The Mage Order has a long and storied history, dating back to the very beginnings of recorded time. In its early days, the Order was a loosely organized group of magic users who sought to share their knowledge and skills with one another. The first Master Mages were chosen during this time, and they played a critical role in establishing the foundations of the Mage Order as we know it today.

Under the guidance of the early Master Mages, the Order grew and flourished, becoming an organized institution dedicated to the study and practice of magic. The early Master Mages established the basic principles of magical theory and developed many of the techniques and spells that are still in use today.

Among the accomplishments of the early Master Mages was the creation of the first magical academy, which served as a center for magical learning and research. They also established the first magical libraries, which were filled with the accumulated knowledge of generations of mages. These libraries became the heart of the Order, and the Master Mages took great care to ensure that their contents were protected and preserved for future generations.

In addition to their contributions to magical knowledge and scholarship, the early Master Mages were also influential in the political and social spheres. They advised kings and queens, mediated disputes between warring factions, and even helped to establish new nations. The early Master Mages were seen as wise and powerful figures, and their influence extended far beyond the walls of their magical academies.

#### First Wizard Schism

The **First Wizard Schism** was a major event in the history of magic. It began when a group of **Acolytes**, who had learned magic over time rather than being born with it like mages, began to demand equal status with mages within the Mage Order. Many mages felt threatened by this demand and refused to recognize the legitimacy of the Acolytes' claims.

Tensions between the two groups quickly escalated, and it soon became clear that the situation was on the verge of exploding into full-blown magical civil war. It was not long before it did, the civil war was short lived, yet it took the lives of many acolytes, as the mages outclassed them in almost every way. the conflict lasted three years and devastated the acolyte population. During the war, the 36th Master Mage, **Master Erin Vortmer**, was assassinated by a group of defecting mages. This led to the selection of a new Master Mage.

The new Master Mage, **Master Alric Torm**, recognized the seriousness of the situation and took decisive action to try and prevent it from spiraling further out of control. Master Torm convened a council of the most influential mages and acolytes in the Mage Order and brought them together to try and find a peaceful resolution to the conflict. For weeks, they met and negotiated, but progress was slow, and it seemed that the situation was only getting worse. Eventually, Master Torm proposed a solution that would satisfy both mages and acolytes. He suggested that the acolytes be given equal status within the Mage Order but that they would have to prove their magical abilities in a series of rigorous tests, or they can join the newly established acolyte corp. If they passed, they would be granted full membership in the Order, with all the rights and privileges that came with being a fully trained mage, whereas if they join the acolyte corps, they will spend their lives assisting average people by doing easier tasks, such as stopping a thief, or doing menial tasks for the mages such as preparing the temple grounds for daily activities. The acolytes agreed to this proposal, and the crisis was averted. However, not all acolytes were satisfied with the compromise and chose to exile themselves to the Ivory Forest. From that point on, the Master Mage became the head of the Mage Order, and the newly established commonwealth of the wizards were allowed to govern themselves in their new home.

The First Wizard Schism was a pivotal moment in the history of magic, and it highlighted the importance of the Master Mage in resolving conflicts within the Mage Order. Master Torm's decisive action ended a short yet costly magical civil war and helped to maintain the delicate balance between mages and acolytes within the Order.

#### Establishment of the Blu States

The idea of establishing a nation for mages was not a new one. In fact, mages had been seeking a place where they could practice their craft freely for centuries. Many attempts had been made in the past to establish such a nation, but they had all failed due to lack of support from neighboring countries or lack of unity among mages themselves.

However, the situation for mages became dire in the early years of the First Wizard Schism. Wizards, had become increasingly hostile towards mages, whom they saw as privileged and elitist. This led to a full magical civil war between the two factions, which threatened to destroy the entire magic community. In response, the Master Mages recognized the need for a safe haven for mages where they could govern themselves and practice their craft without interference from non-magical interests. **Master Darien Valtor** proposed the idea of establishing the Blu States, and the Mage Order quickly rallied behind him. The Master Mage at the time, **Master Lirien Reya**, took charge of the project and oversaw the creation of the Blu States. The first step in establishing the Blu States was to negotiate with neighboring countries for their recognition and support. The Mage Order sent delegations to each neighboring country, explaining their vision for the new nation and seeking their support. While some countries were initially hesitant, most eventually came around to the idea once they realized the potential benefits of having a stable and prosperous magic nation as a neighbor. Once the neighboring countries were on board, the Mage Order began designing a new system of government that would allow mages to fully govern themselves without being influenced by non-magical interests. The government was designed to be a democratic republic, with representatives from each major school of magic and various other magical communities. The Master Mage was the head of state and the ultimate authority on magical matters, but their power was balanced by the legislature and the judiciary, which were both composed of mages elected by their peers.

The establishment of the Blu States was not without its challenges. The nation faced opposition from non-magical interests who saw it as a threat to their power and influence. There were also internal struggles within the mage community, with some mages questioning the authority of the Master Mage and the legitimacy of the new government. Despite these challenges, the Blu States was officially established, and it quickly became a beacon of hope for mages around the world who were seeking a safe haven where they could practice their craft freely. The nation's economy grew rapidly, fueled by the abundance of magic and the innovative use of magical technology. The government was stable and democratic, with mages from all walks of life participating in the political process.

#### Necronian Crisis

The Necronian Crisis was a tumultuous time in the history of the Mage Order, which occurred during the reign of **Master Mage Athanasius**. It started when a group of mages, seeking to experiment with the limits of magic, created a new form of magic that they called **necromancy**. This new magic involved the manipulation of life and death, and it was highly controversial from the start.

The use of necromancy was seen as dangerous and unethical by many within the Mage Order, and there were several incidents where necromancers had used their powers for personal gain or to harm others. This led to increasing tension within the Mage Order and the wider magical community. Master Mage Athanasius recognized the danger posed by the use of necromancy and took swift action to prevent another magical civil war. He declared that necromancy and all its practitioners were to be banished from all magical affairs and barred from ever joining the Mage Order. The edict was controversial and highly criticized by some, but it ultimately prevented a full-scale conflict from breaking out. As a result of the banishment, necromancers were forced to form their own separate communities outside of the Mage Order. Many of them retreated to the remote corners of the world, where they could practice their magic in peace without fear of persecution. Others continued to use their powers in secret, leading to rumors and legends of dark magic and necromancers lurking in the shadows.

The banishment of necromancy remains in effect to this day, and the use of necromancy is strictly forbidden within the Mage Order. However, there are still those who seek to harness its power, and rumors persist of hidden cults and underground communities where necromancers practice their dark art in secret.

#### First Magical Purge

During the First Necromantic Uprising, the Master Mage at the time, **Master Althea Grey**, faced the greatest challenge in the history of the Mage Order. The Necromancers had launched a surprise attack on the Order, infiltrating their ranks and killing many of their members. In response, Master Althea Grey ordered a full-scale purge of the Order, eliminating any member suspected of being involved in the Necromancers' schemes.

The First Magical Purge, as it came to be known, was a brutal but necessary action to save the Mage Order from certain destruction. Master Althea Grey spared no one, even her closest friends and allies, if they were suspected of being involved in the Necromancers' plot. She justified her actions by stating that the survival of the Mage Order was more important than any individual's life. The purge was met with mostly negative reactions from the mage community, with some supporting Master Althea Grey's actions, while most criticized her for being too harsh. However, the Mage Order survived the Necromantic Uprising, and many mages credit Master Althea Grey's cruelty for their survival.

In the aftermath of the First Magical Purge, the Mage Order underwent significant changes. The membership was drastically reduced, and the selection process for new members became more rigorous. The Master Mage's role as the leader of the Order was strengthened, and their decisions became less democratic, as a means of ensuring the Order's survival.

### The Middle Mage Era (~16,000 BHE - 550 BHE)

The Middle Mage Era refers to a period in history where the Mage Order experienced a golden age under the guidance of the Master Mages. During this time, the Mage Order flourished, and magic was used for the benefit of all people.

The Master Mages during this period played a crucial role in guiding the Mage Order, ensuring that it stayed true to its principles of using magic for the betterment of society. They oversaw the education and training of young mages, ensuring that they were properly trained and that their powers were used responsibly. They also helped establish new branches of the Mage Order in different regions of the world, which helped spread knowledge and magic to more people.

The Master Mage during this period, Master Mage **Calista Luminis**, who served as the leader of the Mage Order for over two decades. She is credited with starting this golden age. Under her leadership, the Mage Order experienced a period of unprecedented growth and prosperity. She was known for her wisdom and her ability to bring together even the most fractious groups of mages.

During the Middle Mage Era, the Mage Order was widely respected and admired for its role in protecting society from dangerous magical threats. The Master Mages played a key role in ensuring that the Mage Order remained true to its principles, and that magic was used for the greater good. It was a time of great achievement and prosperity for the Mage Order, and the Master Mages who guided it.

#### Birth of Constructeering

During the Middle Mage Era, a new form of magic known as **Constructeering** emerged. It was discovered that there were some individuals who were born with the innate ability to perform magic, and possessed a unique gift to create magical enchantments that could enhance various materials and tools. These individuals were shunned by the magical community and deemed inferior to mages. However, the Master Mage at the time, **Master Valtorius**, saw the potential in the Constructeers and recognized their abilities as a form of magic that could be used for the betterment of society. He provided them with a place within the Mage Order, where they were able to hone their skills and create new types of magical constructs. Under the guidance of the Master Mage, Constructeering became a respected and valuable field within the Mage Order. It opened up new opportunities for non-mages to contribute to the magical community and allowed for the creation of magical devices that were previously impossible. The Master Mage also recognized the social and political implications of the emergence of Constructeering. He worked to integrate the Constructeers into magical society and advocated for their rights, ensuring that they were not discriminated against or marginalized. Thanks to the efforts of Master Valtorius and subsequent Master Mages, Constructeering became a prominent and integral part of the magical world. It allowed for new advancements in technology and paved the way for a more inclusive and diverse magical community.

#### Necromantic Wars

The **Necromantic Wars** were two full global scale wars that engulfed almost every state and society on the planet.

##### The First Necromantic War

During the late Middle Mage Era, the **Grand Necromantic Empire**, led by the powerful **Necron, god of Necromancy**, emerged as a major threat to the mage order and the rest of the mortal realm. The empire's armies of undead and necromancers posed a significant danger to all who opposed them. **The global alliance of nations** banded together to fight against the Grand Necromantic Empire, but their efforts proved ineffective against Necron's powerful necromancy.

The Master Mage at the time, **Master Adriel Deneith**, recognized the gravity of the situation and took it upon himself to lead the mage order into the fray. With his unmatched magical prowess and his ability to communicate with the pantheon, Master Deneith forged an alliance with Zindu and other gods to bolster the alliance's forces. He also worked tirelessly to develop new magical spells and tactics that could turn the tide of the battle. The Grand Necromantic Empire was eventually defeated in a massive battle known as the **Battle of the Grand Cemetary**. Master Deneith's leadership and the mage order's magical prowess played a critical role in the alliance's victory. The defeat of Necron and the destruction of his empire marked a turning point in the history of the mortal realm, and the Master Mage's contribution was widely celebrated. In recognition of his heroic efforts, Master Deneith was granted the title of Divine Mortal by Zindu and was revered as one of the greatest Master Mages in the history of the mage order.

##### The Second Necromantic War

The Master Mage at the time, known as **Master Fidelia Solari**, played a critical role in assisting the **Grand Morsea Alliance** in defeating the **Pheonix Empire**, led by Necron, the god of Necromancy. This conflict, known as the **Second Necromantic War**, was sparked by Necron's desire for revenge after his defeat in the First Necromantic War.

Master Solari worked tirelessly with the other leaders of the Alliance to develop a strategy to defeat Necron and his armies. She also personally led a **group of elite mages** into battle against the Pheonix Empire's strongest necromancers including **Acererak**, dealing devastating blows to their forces. Additionally, Master Solari used her diplomatic skills to rally support from other magic orders and kingdoms to join the Grand Morsea Alliance, creating a united front against Necron and his followers. The Master Mage's efforts were crucial in securing the ultimate victory for the Grand Morsea Alliance. After the Pheonix Empire's defeat, Master Solari worked to ensure that the remaining necromancers were brought to justice and that the magic of necromancy was banned from use in all magical affairs.

Master Solari's leadership during the Second Necromantic War was widely celebrated, and she is still revered as one of the greatest Master Mages in history. Her efforts paved the way for a new era of peace and cooperation among the magic orders and kingdoms, which lasted for centuries to come.

### The High Magical Era (550 BHE - 0 HE)

The **High Magical Era** was a period of relative peace and prosperity for both the Mage Order and the world at large, lasting for several centuries. During this time, the Master Mages played a crucial role in maintaining order and stability within the Mage Order, as well as promoting peace and cooperation between different nations and peoples. Under the guidance of the Master Mages, the Mage Order became a highly respected institution, known for its wisdom, knowledge, and magical power. The Master Mages were seen as figures of authority and leadership, and their guidance was sought after by rulers and governments across the world.

One of the most significant achievements of the Master Mages during this era was the establishment of the **Council of Magical Beings**. This council brought together representatives from all magical Factions, Including the Mages, Wizards, Constructeers, **Alchemists**, **Druids** and more, to promote cooperation and understanding between different magical communities. The council was instrumental in resolving disputes between different magical factions and preventing conflicts from escalating.

The Master Mages also played a critical role in the development of magical technology during this era, working closely with Constructeers to create new and innovative magical devices. These devices helped to improve the lives of people across the world, making travel, communication, and many other aspects of life much easier and more efficient.

The High Magical Era was a time of great progress and achievement for the Mage Order and the world as a whole, and the Master Mages played a crucial role in guiding the world into this prosperous and peaceful age.

#### Independence of the Constructeers

During the High Magical Era, a faction of Mages known as Constructeers began to fully develop their unique type of magic based on their ability to manipulate magical crystals to enchant items and tools. These Mages were initially welcomed into the Order of Mages, and their talents were put to use in the development of new magical technologies. However, as time went on, the Constructeers began to feel increasingly isolated from the rest of the Order of Mages. They believed that their unique skills and abilities were not fully appreciated or understood by the other Mages, and that they deserved more recognition and respect. In response to these concerns, the Master Mage at the time, whose name has been lost to history, worked to help the Constructeers form their own separate faction within the magical community. This faction would be known as the **Order of Constructeers**, and it would focus exclusively on the development and use of mechanical constructs in magic. The separation was not without its challenges, however. Some members of the Order of Mages were initially resistant to the idea of allowing a separate faction to form, fearing that it would lead to division and conflict within the magical community. But the Master Mage was able to persuade them that allowing the Constructeers to pursue their own path would ultimately be in the best interest of the entire magical community. With the support of the Master Mage and other prominent members of the Order of Mages, the Order of Constructeers was officially established as a separate faction. Over time, it would go on to become a major force in the development of new magical technologies and the advancement of magical knowledge.

Today, the Order of Constructeers remains a separate faction within the magical community, with its own unique traditions, practices, and beliefs. While there have been occasional tensions between the Order of Constructeers and the Order of Mages over the years, both factions continue to work together for the betterment of the magical community as a whole.

#### Death of the Last Necromancer

During the High Magical Era, the world enjoyed a long period of peace and prosperity. However, one dark stain still remained: the existence of necromancy, its existence had caused much death and destruction in the past. While the Mage Order had long since banished necromancy and its practitioners from their affairs, rumors persisted of isolated pockets of necromancers still practicing their dark art.

It wasn't until the reign of Master Mage **Isadora** that the last known necromancer was finally discovered. This individual had been hiding in a remote corner of the world, carefully avoiding detection by the Mage Order and any other magical authorities. However, Isadora was not one to let such a threat to the world go unchecked.

Gathering a team of skilled mages, Isadora tracked down the necromancer's hiding place and engaged in a fierce magical battle. The necromancer proved to be a formidable opponent, but Isadora was determined to end their reign of terror once and for all. In the end, it was Isadora's mastery of the elements that proved too much for the necromancer to handle, and they were defeated.

With the death of the last known necromancer, necromancy was officially declared extinct. The Mage Order and other magical authorities were finally able to breathe a sigh of relief, knowing that this dangerous form of magic would no longer threaten the world. Isadora was celebrated as a hero for her role in bringing an end to necromancy, and her legacy would continue to inspire generations of mages to come.

## Selection as the Vessel

The Goddess Zindu of Majiks chooses a 'worthy' mage who is skilled in the art of magic and possesses great power. The vessel has historically been a mage for their entire life. The selection appears to be predetermined, as a replacement vessel is appointed the instant the old one dies.

The selection process is shrouded in mystery, and no mortal knows what Zindu considers eligible. Zindu will personally select a mage she deems worthy, and this person will become the Master Mage. The Master Mage is the only mortal capable of communicating with the pantheon while they are otherwise occupied. The Master Mage serves as a liaison between the mortal realm and the divine realm.

## Notable Former Master Mages

The position of Master Mage has been held by numerous mages over the centuries. Here is a list of the most notable Master Mages:

* Master Mage **Arthus Caelum**: Arthus Caelum was the first known Master Mage and served as the vessel of Zindu for 84 years. During his tenure, he laid the foundation for the Mage Order and codified its teachings. He knew everything about magic at the time, and started documenting everything in a single book that would be continued and added upon by every master mage that succeeds him.
* Master Mage **Isadora Valtieri**: Isadora Valtieri served as the Master Mage for 43 years and is remembered for her efforts to promote peace and unity between magic users and non-magic users.
* Master Mage **Valentin Aloysius**: Valentin Aloysius was the longest-serving Master Mage, holding the position for 883 years. He is known for his contributions to the field of magical research and his efforts to expand the Mage Order's influence.
* Master Mage **Xander Icarus**: Xander Icarus served as the Master Mage for 426 years and is remembered for his innovative approach to magic and his advocacy for the rights of magical creatures.
* Master Mage **Lilith Nightshade**: Lilith Nightshade served as the Master Mage for 267 years and is remembered for her fierce commitment to protecting the Mage Order and her efforts to combat dark magic.
* Master Mage **Elenore Darksong**: Elenore Darksong served as the Master Mage for 35 years and is remembered for her contributions to the development of defensive magic and her advocacy for the education of young mages.
* Master Mage **Galen Windrider**: Galen Windrider served as the Master Mage for 56 years and is known for his efforts to strengthen the ties between the Mage Order and other magical organizations around the world.
* Master Mage **Tiberius Blackwood**: Tiberius Blackwood served as the Master Mage for 42 years and is remembered for his work in developing the Mage Order's system of governance and his advocacy for the rights of non-human magical beings.
* Master Mage **Kiera Silvermist**: Kiera Silvermist served as the Master Mage for 61 years and is known for her contributions to the development of healing magic and her advocacy for the integration of magic into mainstream society.
* Master Mage **Rowan Nightshade**: Rowan Nightshade served as the Master Mage for 639 years and is remembered for his efforts to expand the Mage Order's reach beyond the borders of the Blu States and his contributions to the development of magical transportation.
* Master Mage **Aurelia Stardust**: Aurelia Stardust served as the Master Mage for 44 years and is remembered for her contributions to the field of enchantment magic and her efforts to promote equality among mages of different backgrounds.
* Master Mage **Magnus Frostfire**: Magnus Frostfire served as the Master Mage for 54 years and is known for his efforts to combat the spread of dark magic and his work in developing new defensive spells.
* Master Mage **Seraphina Pormian**: Seraphina Pormian served as the Master Mage for 58 years and is remembered for her contributions to the field of elemental magic and her advocacy for the preservation of the natural world.
* Master Mage **Alistair Blackthorn:** Alistair Blackthorn served as the Master Mage for 32 years and is known for his efforts to strengthen the Mage Order's ties with the Blu States government and his work in developing magical infrastructure.
* Master Mage **Lyra Moonstone**: Lyra Moonstone served as the Master Mage for 49 years and is remembered for her contributions to the field of divination magic and her advocacy for the rights of magical creatures.
* Master Mage **Orion Nightingale**: Orion Nightingale served as the Master Mage for 62 years and is known for his contributions to the field of necromancy and his efforts to combat the stigma associated with this type of magic.
* Master Mage **Rhiannon Frelan**: Rhiannon Frelan served as the Master Mage for 41 years and is remembered for her work in developing magical communication methods and her advocacy for the education of young mages.
* Master Mage **Gabriel Silverblade**: Gabriel Silverblade served as the Master Mage for 53 years and is known for his efforts to promote cooperation and understanding among different magical communities and his work in developing magical treaties between nations.
* Master Mage **Astrid Stormbord**: Astrid Stormbord served as the Master Mage for 45 years and is remembered for her contributions to the field of transmutation magic and her efforts to promote international cooperation among magical organizations.
* Master Mage **Dariana Moonstone**: Dariana Moonstone served as the Master Mage for 78 years and is known for her efforts to expand the Mage Order's influence throughout the world and her contributions to the development of magical diplomacy.
* Master Mage **Alric Torm**: Alric Torm served as the Master Mage for 62 years and is known for ending the First Wizard Schism and his efforts to bring peace throughout the entire magical community and his contributions to the great libraries of the Wizards.
* Master Mage **Lirien Reya**: Lirien Reya served as the Master Mage for 28 years and is remembered for her push for the foundation of the Blu States and a place where all Mages can seek refuge and saftey, and for her great strides in making the Order open to more people from all types of backgrounds.
* Master Mage **Althea Grey**: Althea Grey served as the Master Mage for 75 years and is known for her aggressive stance on necromancy and her no tolerance policy for the dark arts, and for her creation of a more dictatorial Mage Order.
* Master Mage **Calista Luminis**: Calista Luminis served as the Master Mage and is known for her contributions to the start of the Middle Mage Era and for her enlightened and wise decision making that guided the mages into a golden era.
* Master Mage **Valtorius**: Valtorius served as the Master Mage for 102 years and is known for his immense support of the emerging Magical art of Constructeering, and for his open-minded policies that assisted in advancements that helped the world in many ways.
* Master Mage **Adriel Deneith**: Adriel Deneith served as the Master Mage for 91 years and is known for his criticle role in helping defeat the Grand Necromantic Empire in the First Necromantic War, and for his creation of many energy spells.
* Master Mage **Fidelia Solari**: Fidelia Solari served as Master Mage for 57 years and is known for bringing the Order of Mages into the Second Necromantic War and being on the battle field at the Battle of the Grand Cemetary, and for her vast studies into aquatic magic.
* Master Mage **Isadora**: Isadora served as the Master Mage for 804 years and is known for being the mage to have killed the last known Necromancer in all of Morsea, she is also known for being the only Master Mage not born directly in the Order of Mages.