Traditions

In addition to personal experience, you could expect to know the information on this page if you have any of the following lores:

  • GL-Pathi/3

The Seven Traditions

The citizens of Pathi must accept certain responsibilities for the privileges of security (superiority) and knowledge. This security is maintained only when the mages within behave in a proper manner, one dictated by a near-universal set of rules. These rules are known by the gentle-sounding names of the Seven Traditions, although they are hardly polite suggestions. For mages of Pathi, they are the law. A mage may be assured that wherever s/he travels, the Traditions will be in force. They may be interpreted differently, but they remain. It is through the enforcement of these laws, and through the laws themselves, that Pathian mages receive much of their power.

In addition to the Seven, each Academy may have its own specific Traditions.

The Tradition of Magic
Magic is the opaque glass which separates Pathi from the rest of the shadows. While the youth may prattle about their superior powers, the elders know the importance of secrecy. No one is permitted to inform or teach Pathian secrets to an outsider. A breach of the first tradition is the most serious crime a mage can commit.
The Tradition of the Sanctuary
Honor the Sanctuary. Just as the Archons govern the three academies, the Sibyls preside over the lives of each citizen. To disobey the triumvirate is to turn back on one’s teaching, to the deny the Sibyls is to disown one’s identity.
The Tradition of Progeny
The average Pathian citizen does not venture out of the realm (everything they ever need or want can be acquired without stepping out of the island). The occasional Testers sometimes acquire offspring during an excursion into the shadows. Unless the children pass the test and join the Academy, they are not permitted on the grounds of Pathi. As a rule, no outsiders may enter Pathi without the consent of the Archons. Curiously, only the ones who break this tradition is punished severely, the uninvited guests are usually treated well but rarely allowed to depart for their homes.
The Tradition of Destruction
Murder of another mage by one who is not granted the Right of Destruction is not tolerated. If the mage is caught in the act, it usually means the destruction of the murderer herself. Investigation of such murder is usually swift and thorough. Only the Archons of the Academies and the Mistress of the Sanctuary may issue the Right, and such Rights usually only apply for one specific kill.
The Tradition of Hospitality
The Tradition of “politeness”. Refreshments are always offered during informal, personal meetings. If s/he does not want the guest to over stay, or if the nature of the appointment is official business, then no refreshment will be offered without request.
The Tradition of Gift
The Exchange of Gifts is a time honoured ritual in Pathi. It can represent an exchange of oath (during formal events) or merely an affectionate gesture between lovers. The giver offers a gift to the recipient and name a “return” present. If the recipient accepts the term, s/he can then accept the gift and offer the present in return. Between lovers, one often offer a token of feelings and ask for nothing but love in return. During state business, a token gift to represent trust can be given in return for cooperation.
The Tradition of Name
Names are for private use between friends and family. It is an insult to have one’s name announced in full public hearing. Titles are often employed during conversations, and Pathi has its own model of Address.

The Iron Traditions

The Academy of Iron has its own additional Traditions.

The Tradition of Secrecy
The duty of a Custos requires them to remain close to their Ward at all times, and is thus privy to all their personal and professional details. Nothing they learn is ever to be discussed or divulged. While the Archons have the authority to waive this Tradition, it is only done so when the Ward is under investigation for a serious offense.
The Tradition of Isolation
The Duty of a Custos to their Ward precludes anything but a purely professional relationship. Friendship, and not to mention, love, between them can compromise this Duty.