AG0298 • ISBN 1-58978-123-6 Nights, You Still Would Not Exhaust Their Wonders!

Home , Great Mosque of Kufa, Mosque of the Jinn, Qareen

Travelers tell of lands to the east, beyond the shattered Byzantine Empire and the Crusader kingdoms of Outremer, where sorcerers ride carpets and whirlwinds, where jinn worship and trade openly in the great cities, and where ﬁ re is the sign of God.

Those travelers speak the truth.

Take your saga to the east, with details of the Islamic lands of the Mythic Middle East — Arabia, Persia, and the lands beyond. Zoroastrian priests still call on Divine power, although their days of glory are long over, and scholars rejoice in libraries and schools that dwarf the young universities of Europe. Jinn haunt the deserts and mountains, and live and trade in the cities. But this is not a land ready for Hermetic magi to seize, for the Order of Suleiman is no myth, and its sahirs are everywhere.

Were you to tell of these lands for a thousand AG0298 • ISBN 1-58978-123-6 nights, you still would not exhaust their wonders!

AG0298 • ISBN 1-58978-123-6 • $32.95 53295

Authors: Niall Christie (Intro & Saga, History, Arabia, Mesopotamia, ture references that they don’t get. Niall would like to thank his co-au- Appendix), Erik Dahl (Order of Suleiman), Lachie Hayes (Intro & thors and the line editor for all their help, and in particular for picking Saga, Jinn, Arabia, Silk Road), Mark Shirley (Mesopotamia, Persia, up the magic lamp that he dropped; and also Guy Le Strange and Mu- Appendix), Alex White (Zoroastrians) hammad ibn Jubayr, invaluable guides through the desert. He would like Development, Editing, & Project Management: David Chart to dedicate his portion of this book to three people: to Matt Ryan, for Layout & Art Direction: Michelle Nephew setting this genie free; to Angus MacDonald, for much sheik, rattle, and Proofreading & Art Direction Assistance: Jessica Banks roll; and to Steph van Willigenburg, for being his Water of Life. Publisher: John Nephew Erik Dahl lives in a strange, far-off land with its own rules of magic Cover Illustration: Grey Thornberry and its own order of exotic wizards who are surely secretly plotting to Cartography: Sean Macdonald, Jesse Mohn, Michelle Nephew, take over Mythic Europe. His contributions to this book were inspired by Andrew Smith and dedicated to the participants of Grand Tribunal America 2008, which Interior Art: Jason Cole, Kelley Hensing, Jeff Menges, Grey Thornberry took place August 15–17 in Berkeley, California, and included: Jerry Additional Art: John Leighton, 1,100 Designs and Motifs from Historic Braverman, Paul Briscoe, Toshi Casey, Niall Christie, Mark Faulkner, Sal- Sources; Ernst and Johanna Lehner, Astrology and Astronomy; Gustave ly Hutchinson, Kurt Konegen, Angus MacDonald, Mark Pascual, John Doré, The Doré Bible Illustrations, Doré’s Illustrations of the Crusades, Doré’s Post, Thomas Scott, Chris Van Horn, Eric Vesbit, and Debbi Winslow. Dragons Demons and Monsters, The Doré Gallery; Jean Lêon Gêrôme, Many thanks to all of you, for your help in establishing such a memorable Great Men & Famous Women III; Matthäus Merian, 1300 Real and Fanciful and enjoyable magical tradition! ARS MAGICA AWESOME EST. Animals; Julius Schnorr von Carolsfeld, Treasury of Bible Illustrations The jinni known as Jarkman (Lachie Hayes) hails from far beyond Ars Magica Fifth Edition Trade Dress: J. Scott Reeves the Mountains of Qaf, in a city where it always rains and seasons change Publisher’s Special Thanks: Jerry Corrick & the gang at the Source. within a day. Perhaps one day he’ll master the Travel magic to attend a First Round Playtesters: Pelle Kofod, Christian Rosenkjaer Andersen; Grand Tribunal, but until then he’ll stick to Storytelling. Lachie thanks Jason Brennan, Justin Brennan, Elisha Campbell, Robert Major; Niall for summoning him into this circle, then letting him loose to make Donna Giltrap, Malcolm Harbrow, Aaron Hicks, Richard Love; mischief. He also thanks his other co-authors Alex, Erik, and Mark for Angus MacDonald, Brian Watson, Quetta Watson, Sarah MacDonald, their help and support along the way. Special thanks to Timothy Fer- Wendell “BSP” Joyner; Paul Briscoe, Bryan Jacques, Erik Johnson, Kurt guson for inspiring Lachie to start writing seriously and helping him Konegen, John Post; Matt Ryan, Alexis Kristan Heinz, Daniel Ilut, understanding faeries, which was invaluable for the Jinn and Silk Road Robert W.B. Llwyd; Christoph Safferling, Jan Sprenger; Sean Winslow chapters. Apologies to Marko and the Light of Andorra crowd for disap- Second Round Playtesters: Pelle Kofod, Christian Rosenkjaer pearing without explanation just as the saga got going — now you know Andersen; Mark Barltrop, Alex Coyne-Turner, Mark Lawford, why. Lachie would most like to thank his wife, for putting up with Mid- David Staveley, Simon Turner; Jason Brennan, Justin Brennan, Elisha dle Eastern medieval madness. This is his first book forArs Magica. Campbell, Robert Major; Leon Bullock, Peter Ryan, Chris Barrett; Mark Shirley is the descendent of Robert Shirley who, with his Paul Briscoe, Bryan Jacques, Erik Johnson, Kurt Konegen, John Post brothers, sold cannons to Shah Abbas of Persia on behalf of Queen Third Round Playtesters: Jason Brennan, Justin Brennan, Elisha Elizabeth I. Robert married the Shah’s ward, Teresia, a Circassian prin- Campbell, Robert Major; Leon Bullock, Peter Ryan, Chris Barrett; cess, and became the shah’s ambassador to Christendom. Mark feels Christoph Safferling, Jan Sprenger his Persian bloodline, though many generations diluted, enhanced his enjoyment of writing for this project. Author Biographies Alexander White has an Honours degree in medieval and classical history, and a Master of Public Policy and Management from the Uni- Niall Christie is (still) a medieval Islam historian who lives in Van- versity of Melbourne. In between occasionally publishing Sub Rosa (an couver, Canada. He likes books, history (no surprise there), roleplaying, Ars Magica fan magazine), Alex works as the campaigns coordinator tyranids, singing, and tormenting his students with antiquated pop-cul- for the National Tertiary Education Union in Melbourne, Australia.

Ars Magica players participate in a thriving fan community by subscribing to email discussion lists (like the Berke- ley list), compiling archives of game material (such as Project Redcap), maintaining fan-created web sites, and running demos through Atlas Games’ Special Ops program. To learn more, visit www.atlas-games.com/ArM5. You can also participate in discussions of Ars Magica at the official Atlas Games forums located at forum.atlas-games.com. Copyright © 2011-2013 Trident, Inc. d/b/a Atlas Games. All rights reserved. Reproduction of this work by any means without written permission from the publisher, except short excerpts for the purpose of reviews, is expressly prohibited. Ars Magica, Mythic Europe, and Charting New Realms of Imagination are trademarks of Trident, Inc. Order of Hermes, Tremere, and Doissetep are trademarks of White Wolf, Inc. and are used with permission.

Digital Version 1.0

2 The Cradle & The Crescent Contents

ChapterI: The Formation of the Suhhar.... 20 Al-Iksir (The Elixir of Life)...... 41 A Golden Age...... 23 Initiating the Arts...... 42 Introduction & Sagas 8 The Crusading Suhhar...... 23 Experimentation...... 43 How to Use This Book...... 8 Culture...... 25 Warping and Corruption...... 43 On the Setting...... 8 Organization...... 26 Integration...... 44 Strangers in Foreign Lands...... 8 How Sahirs Live...... 29 Hermetic True Names...... 44 Social Structure...... 9 Characters...... 29 Scientates Suleimanis...... 45 Islam & Islamic Law...... 11 Sahir Virtues and Flaws...... 30 Hermetic Realm Initiation...... 45 Crime and Punishment...... 11 New and Modified irtuesV ...... 30 Solomonic Devices...... 45 The Pillars of Islam...... 11 Invocation of Spontaneous Solomonic Spells...... 45 Mosques...... 12 Names of Power...... 30 Independent Solomonic Magic...... 45 Building Sagas...... 12 Sahir...... 30 Solomonic Arts...... 45 Founding a Covenant Sihr...... 30 Sihr...... 46 in the Mythic Middle East...... 12 Solomonic Alchemy...... 30 Discerning Jinn...... 46 Founding a Chapter House...... 13 Solomonic Astrology...... 30 Summoning Jinn...... 46 Itinerant Covenants...... 13 Solomonic Physic...... 30 Bargaining with the Jinni...... 46 Joining a House of Wisdom...... 13 Solomonic Storytelling...... 30 Solomonic Alchemy...... 48 Tales of Two Orders...... 13 Solomonic Travel...... 30 Solomonic Alchemy The Hermetic Crusades...... 14 Vizier...... 30 Spell Formulas...... 49 The Followers of Yatu Magic...... 30 Sanctuary in the sand...... 49 the Circle Return...... 14 New and Modified Flaws...... 31 [Spirit]’s oasis...... 49 An Hermetic Embassy?...... 14 Bound Spells...... 31 Cracks in the earth, Magi of a Different Order...... 14 Patron...... 31 [Spirit] weakens the ground....49 Thus spoke Zarathustra ...... 14 (Realm) Spirit Companion...... 31 Summon forth the purest Holy Knives of Alamut...... 15 Sahir Character Creation...... 31 flame, to set alight those Characters...... 15 Virtues and Flaws...... 32 who oppose us...... 49 Virtues...... 15 Experience...... 32 The wind is my armor, Educated (Islamic)...... 15 Spirits...... 33 my armor is the wind...... 49 Flaws...... 15 Laboratory Activities...... 33 Bear me upon Dhimmi...... 15 Aging and Warping...... 33 breath of stone...... 50 New Abilities...... 15 Solomonic Magic...... 33 What Jabir found Islamic Law*...... 15 Solomonic Spells (Naranjs)...... 34 inside the rock...... 50 Theology: Islam*...... 15 Summoning Spells...... 34 Rain of heavenly fire...... 50 Formulaic and Ritual Spells...... 35 The vigilant guardian...... 50 Chapter 2: History 16 Vis (Taqa)...... 37 The wondrous box Seasonal Summoning...... 37 of Al-Fazari...... 50 The Ancient Empires...... 16 A Solomonic Laboratory...... 38 The Rise of Islam...... 16 Solomonic Astrology...... 50 The Caliphates...... 17 Vis Manipulation...... 38 Solomonic Astrology The Mongol Invasion...... 18 Arcane Connections...... 39 Spell Formulas...... 51 Naranjs...... 39 The blessed day, Bindings...... 39 the apt day...... 51 Chapter 3: Order of Suleiman 19 Seeking and Scouring...... 40 The picture of [Target]...... 52 History...... 19 Warding...... 41 What is the state of The Umayyad Summoners...... 19 Servant Spirits (Khuddam)...... 41 [Target]’s health?...... 52

3 The Cradle & The Crescent Is [Target] a spirit?...... 52 Close the red To the highest Where is [Target] at wounds of war...... 55 mountains of Qaf...... 59 this moment?...... 52 Jabril’s blessing...... 55 Warm as the life of day...... 59 What are the words Solomonic Storytelling...... 55 We will meet again that surround [Target]?...... 52 Solomonic Storytelling as the seasons turn...... 59 Hearing the Spell Formulas...... 56 Sight of many lifetimes...... 59 heart’s speech...... 52 The tongue has no bone, The magical minaret...... 59 What do [Target]’s yet it crushes...... 56 By the light of enemies intend?...... 52 Wrathful breath of the ominous moon...... 60 When and where the desert wind...... 56 The oubliette al-wazir...... 60 was [Target] born?...... 52 Move along, move along...... 56 Will [Target] survive [Spirit], his arms wide...... 56 Chapter 4: The Jinn 61 tomorrow’s battle?...... 53 Make their eyelids heavy Solomonic Physic...... 53 and their heads to fall...... 57 Terminology of Jinn...... 62 Solomonic Physic Peal of familiar voices...... 57 Jinn Defined Mechanically ...... 62 Spell Formulas...... 54 A light distraction...... 57 Common Jinn Traits...... 63 Balm of the barmakids...... 54 You will not remember Jinn and Free Will...... 63 Strings of the me when I am gone...... 57 Pious and Impious Jinn...... 65 sanguine heart...... 54 Sow the seeds for Pre-Islamic Jinn...... 67 Rend his flesh and tear a crop of betrayers...... 57 Pagan Jinn...... 67 his organs...... 54 [Spirit]’s cave...... 57 Creating Magic Jinn by Example: [Spirit] sits on the Solomonic Travel...... 57 Baghl and Ighraq al-Siq...... 68 fever’s edge...... 54 Solomonic Travel Learning from Jinn...... 71 Insight of the ancient jinn...... 54 Spell Formulas...... 58 Corrupt Jinn...... 71 The hollowing curse...... 54 [Spirit] brings The Dangers of Distinction: Siphoning the the curse of Bayna...... 58 Dark Faerie or Infernal?...... 71 warrior’s bile...... 54 The hush of solitude...... 58 Ghula, Faerie...... 71 [Spirit], let me Through the gray haze...... 59 Ghul, Infernal ...... 72 lean upon you...... 55 Qareen...... 74

List of Inserts

Muslim Views of Europeans...... 9 Other Middle Eastern Spirits: Zoroastrian Magi...... 93 The Mythic Middle East Non-Jinn...... 61 Supernatural Abilities Taught in Ars Magica...... 10 Jinni Names...... 63 by the Mobeds...... 94 The Unholy Trinity...... 11 Jumayl, A Jinni Guide...... 64 New Ability: Mobed Lore...... 94 Soft Places: Tales into the Supernatural....13 Bali’ al-Ard, a Bedouin racehorse...... 65 Adjuration Guidelines...... 95 War on Two Fronts?...... 14 Bottles of Suleiman, True Names...... 95 The Sacred Vessels...... 16 Slaves of the King...... 66 Using Vis...... 95 Story Seed: The Mongol Threat...... 18 Variants on the Genie Wonders Guidelines...... 96 Story Seed: Disputes over the Caliphate.... 18 of the Lamp Motif...... 68 New Wonders Guidelines...... 97 Legends of the First Council...... 22 Baghl, an Earth Jinni...... 69 Mobed Beliefs on Astrology...... 98 The Families of Solomon’s Seal...... 24 The Buran of Yenghissar...... 70 Saoshyant’s Elixir...... 99 Majlis Story Seeds...... 27 Ghula, Faerie...... 72 New Durations, Ranges, and Targets...... 99 Majlis in Baghdad...... 28 Ghul, Infernal...... 73 Long-Lived Mobeds...... 100 Other Summoning Arts...... 31 A Typical Demonic Qareen...... 74 Zawba’a, Whirlwind of the Desert...... 103 Sample Sahir: ‘Arkhaman Story Seed: A Pious Companion?...... 75 Arabian Steeds...... 104 Laqy al-Hayz al-Nahr...... 34 Story Seed: An Unwanted Guest, Saluqi...... 104 Kharrat the Braggart, an Infernal Jinni....35 and an Unexpected Invitation...... 75 Pagan Deities of Arabia...... 105 Spells with Arcane Connections...... 36 A Note on Historical Accuracy...... 82 Falconry in Arabia...... 106 New Hermetic Virtues...... 44 Story Seed: The Accursed Turanians...... 83 Kohl...... 107 New Solomonic Virtues...... 44 Story Seed: The Demon-Blooded Story Seeds for the Najd and Yamama, Non-Magic Sihr...... 47 Paladins of Manochir...... 83 Bahrayn, and the Empty Quarter.....108 Typical Duties for Sahirs...... 47 The Mazdean “World Year”...... 84 Story Seeds for the Holy Cities...... 111 Magical Defenses...... 48 Saints and Relics...... 85 The Hajj...... 112 Solomonic Alchemy Guidelines...... 49 The Staff of Yoisht Frayana...... 85 Arab Poetry...... 114 Solomonic Astrology Guidelines...... 51 Story Seed: A Heretical Revival...... 87 Suleiman and the Queen of Sheba...... 115 Solomonic Physic Guidelines...... 53 The Sacred Cord...... 88 Story Seed: Farida’s Fears...... 115 Solomonic Storytelling Guidelines...... 56 The Mazdean Calendar in Detail...... 90 Story Seed: The Food of Sana’a...... 115 Solomonic Travel Guidelines...... 58 Haoma...... 91 The Nisnas...... 116

4 The Cradle & The Crescent Wizards and Qareen...... 75 Chapter 5: Bareshnum...... 88 Jinni Weaknesses...... 75 Padyab...... 88 Other Folk Traditions Mythic Zoroastrianism 81 Nahn...... 88 That Ward Against Jinn ...... 76 A Mythic History...... 81 Riman...... 89 Jinn and Other Zoroastrians under Islam...... 82 Daily Rites...... 89 Expressions of the Divine...... 76 The Mazdean Church...... 82 The Yasna...... 89 Lands of the Jinn...... 76 Mazdean Faith...... 82 Birth, Initiation, Marriage, Jinnistan...... 76 Ohrmazd...... 83 and Burial...... 89 The Mountains of Qaf...... 77 Mazdean Divine Beings...... 83 Birth...... 89 Al-Khadar...... 77 Ameshaspand...... 83 Initiation...... 89 Mortal Scions of the Jinn...... 77 The Yazdan...... 84 Marriage...... 89 ‘Afrit Blood...... 77 Frohar...... 85 Burial...... 91 Ghula Blood...... 77 Heaven...... 85 The Mazdean Calendar...... 91 Jann Blood...... 78 Reaching Heaven...... 85 Mazdean Scriptures...... 92 Mythic Scions of the Jinn...... 78 Limbo...... 85 Avesta...... 92 Virtues and Flaws...... 79 Resurrection and The Yasna...... 92 New and Modified Virtues...... 79 Judgement...... 85 The Visparad...... 92 External Vis...... 79 Fire...... 86 The Videvdat...... 92 Faerie Sight...... 79 Mazdean Dominions...... 86 The Khordeh Avesta...... 92 Faerie Speech...... 79 Ahriman...... 86 The Yasht...... 92 Reputation as Confidence...... 79 Mazdean Devils...... 87 Mazdean Characters...... 92 New and Modified Flaws...... 80 The Daevas...... 87 Virtues and Abilities...... 92 Intangible Flesh...... 80 Demons...... 87 New Ability: Dead Traditional Ward...... 80 Hell...... 87 Language (Avestan)...... 92 Monstrous Appearance...... 80 Mazdean Heresies...... 87 New Virtue: Sovereign Ward...... 80 Rites and Practices...... 88 Magian Lineage...... 92 Vulnerable to Folk Prayers...... 88 New Virtue: Tradition (Islamic)...... 80 Videvdat...... 88 Mazdean Priest...... 93 Purity Rites...... 88

List of Inserts (cont’d)

Flying Serpent (Iaculus)...... 117 The Demon Azi Dahak...... 143 ‘Umar Khayyam...... 161 Hadramawt and ‘Uman Story Seeds.....118 Story Seed: The Zahhak...... 143 The Cypress of Kishmar...... 161 Giant of ‘Ad...... 119 Ghuzz Characters...... 144 The Shansabani...... 161 Aladlammu and Apsasu...... 120 Story Seed: The Well of Hindijan...... 145 An Assassin by Another Name...... 163 Demons of Mesopotamia...... 121 Salt of Seven Colors...... 145 New Nizari Virtues...... 164 Girtablullu...... 122 The Kajarani Worms...... 145 Initiation Scripts of the Nizaris...... 164 Mushhushshu...... 123 King Jamshid...... 146 Story Seeds for The Great Rivers...... 167 The Courtship of Shirin...... 124 The Imamzadihs of Shiraz...... 147 Genghis Khan and the Fall Story Seeds for Samarra and Baghdad... 124 The Black Man...... 147 of Transoxiana...... 168 Story Seeds for Al-Mada’in Persian Rugs...... 148 Bactria Story Seeds...... 169 and Dayr al-Aqual...... 126 The Alchemist of Ahwaz...... 150 Ship of the Desert...... 170 The Epic of Gilgamesh...... 127 The Balu Tribesmen...... 151 Story Seed: Caravans...... 171 Story Seeds for the Great Swamp...... 129 Story Seed: The Lion-Shah...... 151 Story Seeds for Bukhara and Otrar...... 172 Ighraq al-Siq...... 130 & 131 Hyrcanian Vis...... 152 Elephants in Persia...... 173 Story Seeds for Kufa and the Jazira...... 132 Hyrcanian Tiger...... 153 The Heavenly Horse of Farghana...... 174 Mount Judi and Mount Ararat...... 133 The Caspian Gates...... 153 Badakhshan Story Seeds...... 175 More Story Seeds for the Jazira...... 135 Story Seed: Sealing the Breach...... 154 The Gutluk-Temir Minaret...... 175 Playing an Arzanjani Brass-Smith...... 136 The Simurgh...... 154 Blue Stones of Mythic Europe...... 176 Story Seeds for Azarbayjan and Gilan....137 Gazelle, Persian...... 155 Ruq...... 176 & 177 Khidr and the Water of Life...... 137 The Rig-i Jinn...... 156 Ruq Story Seeds...... 178 The Fate of Baylaqan...... 138 Why Go to Hell?...... 156 Story Seed: The Black and the Blue...... 178 Moses and Khidr...... 138 Rostam...... 157 Horse, Steppe Pony (Turpanus)...... 179 Story Seed: Sorcery, Treason, and Plot...139 The Idol of Zur...... 157 Story Seed: The Endless A Greater Armenian Covenant...... 139 Lake Zarah and Mount Khajeh...... 158 Nomad Cycle...... 179 The Shahnameh...... 141 Story Seed: The Riddles...... 158 Mongol Trooper...... 180 Peri Faeries...... 141 Rishtah...... 159 Mongol Spirit Shaman...... 181 Pairika Demons...... 141 Story Seed: Save the Books...... 160 Mythic Mongols Story Seeds..... 182 & 183 Nasu Spirit...... 142 The Footsteps of Imam Reza...... 160 Steppe Spirit Story Seeds...... 183

5 The Cradle & The Crescent New Virtue: Knowledge Chapter 6: Mythic Arabia 102 Kutha...... 128 of True Names...... 93 Karbala’...... 129 Landscape and Society...... 102 The Mobeds: Princes of Magic...... 93 Hilla...... 129 Hazards of the Deserts...... 103 Mobeds in Western Eyes...... 94 Najaf...... 130 The Bedouin...... 104 Mobeds and the Kufa...... 131 Bedouin Wizards...... 105 Suhhar Sulayman...... 94 The Jazira...... 132 The Magic of the Mobeds...... 94 Brothers of the Tribe...... 105 Mosul...... 132 The Najd and Yamama...... 107 Mazdean Hedge Magic...... 94 Barqa’id...... 133 Tayma’ and Khaybar...... 108 Holy Powers...... 94 Nasibin...... 133 Bahrayn...... 108 Invocation...... 95 The Astrologers Hajar...... 109 Adjuration...... 95 of Nasibin...... 133 The Empty Quarter...... 109 Wonders...... 96 Mount Judi...... 133 The Hijaz...... 109 Holy Virtues...... 96 Non-Muslims and Amid...... 133 Adjuration...... 96 the Holy Cities...... 109 Raqqa and the Dream Interpretation...... 96 Medina...... 110 Battlefield of Siffin...... 134 Invocation...... 96 Mecca...... 111 Harran...... 134 Wonders...... 97 The Haram Mosque Edessa...... 134 Holy Abilities...... 97 and the Ka’ba...... 112 The Sanjah Bridge...... 136 Adjuration*...... 97 Al-Ma’la Cemetery Arzanjan...... 136 Dream Interpretation*...... 97 and the Mosque of the Jinn...... 112 Azarbayjan...... 136 Invocation*...... 97 Ta’if...... 113 Lake Urmiya...... 136 Wonders*...... 98 The Cult of the Maragha...... 136 Gilan...... 137 Group Magic...... 98 Daughters of Allah...... 113 Barvan...... 137 Holy Mobed Mysteries...... 98 ‘Asir & Yemen...... 114 Mukan...... 137 Blessing of [Ameshaspand] Sana’a...... 114 Bajarvan...... 137 (Minor Mystery Virtue)...... 98 The Valley of ‘Abqar...... 115 Arran...... 138 Mazdean Alchemy Ma’rib...... 115 Baylaqan...... 138 (Minor Mystery Virtue)...... 98 Hadramawt...... 116 Shirvan...... 138 Mazdean Astrology Frankincense and Myrrh...... 116 Shamakhi...... 138 (Major Mystery Virtue)...... 98 Iram, City of a Georgia...... 139 Celestial Durations...... 98 Thousand Pillars...... 118 Tiflis...... 139 Celestial Blessing for ‘Uman...... 118 Greater Armenia...... 139 Holy Spell Casting...... 99 Muscat...... 119 Righteousness of the Wise Nizwa...... 119 (Minor Mystery Virtue)...... 99 Chapter 8: Mythic Persia 140 Saoshyant’s Elixir Chapter 7: Recent History...... 141 (Major Mystery Virtue)...... 99 Persian Supernatural Factions..... 141 Gifts of Gayomart Mythic Mesopotamia 120 The Yatus...... 141 (Major Mystery Virtue)...... 100 The Starving Gods...... 121 The Mobeds...... 142 Asha (Truth): True Faith 1.... 100 Tiamat’s Creatures...... 122 The Nizari Isma’ilis...... 142 Vohu Manah (Good Mind): Iraq...... 123 Zahhak...... 143 True Faith 4...... 100 Qasr Shirin...... 123 The Ghuzz...... 144 Hauvatat (Wholeness): Samarra...... 124 Fars...... 145 True Faith 6...... 100 Baghdad...... 124 Arranjan...... 145 Ameratat (Immortality): The Dar al-Hikma...... 125 Darabgerd...... 145 True Faith 8...... 100 Golden Baghdad...... 125 Kajaran...... 145 Mobed Initiations...... 100 Al-Mada’in...... 126 Istakhr...... 146 Mobed Initiation Scripts...... 100 The Christian Monasteries...... 126 Kish...... 146 Initiation into Dayr al-’Aqul...... 126 Abarkavan...... 146 Mythic Alchemy...... 100 Dayr Qunna...... 126 Mount Kavarvand...... 146 Initiation into Dayr Hizqil...... 127 Shiraz...... 147 Mythic Herbalism...... 100 The Ruins of Babylon...... 127 Shapur...... 147 Initiation into The Great Swamp...... 128 Yazd...... 147 Dream Interpretation...... 101 The Ruins of Uruk...... 128 Jibal...... 148 The Whirlpool at Ubulla...... 128 Isfahan...... 148 Basra...... 128 Kargas Kuh and Siyah Kuh..... 148

6 The Cradle & The Crescent Kirmanshah...... 148 Bamiyan...... 162 The Mines of Lahzvard...... 177 Kanguvar...... 149 Firuzkuh...... 162 The Roof of the World...... 177 Qum...... 149 The Minaret...... 162 Turris Lapidae, Rayy...... 149 Ghazni...... 162 the Stone Tower...... 178 Savah...... 149 Kabul...... 162 Beyond the Roof Takht-i-Suleiman...... 150 The Nizari Isma’ili State...... 162 of the World...... 178 Khuzistan...... 150 History...... 162 Khashgar...... 178 Ahwaz...... 150 A Sect of Assassins...... 163 The Taklimakan...... 179 Gundeshapur...... 150 The Da’wa...... 163 The Mythic Steppe...... 179 Ramhurmuz...... 150 The Nizaris Today...... 163 The Great Steppe...... 179 District of the Zutt...... 151 Alamut...... 165 Tashkent...... 179 Kirman...... 151 Nizari Characters...... 165 Talas...... 179 Bardasir...... 151 Mundane Mongols...... 180 Jiruft...... 151 Chapter 9: Great Tengri...... 180 Mazandaran...... 151 Lesser Steppe Spirits...... 181 Daylam...... 152 The Silk Road & Beyond 166 Mythic Mongols...... 183 Qumis...... 152 Transoxiana...... 166 Magus-level Shamans?...... 184 The Great Wall of Gurgan...... 153 The Great Rivers ...... 166 Mount Damavand...... 154 The Oxus...... 167 The Great Desert...... 154 The Jaxartes...... 167 Appendix A: Dasht-i Kavir...... 155 The Sea of Khazar...... 167 Languages and Names 185 Garmah...... 155 The Aral Sea...... 168 Muslim Names...... 185 Naband...... 155 Kyzylkum Desert...... 168 Persian Names...... 186 Dasht-i Lut...... 156 Bactria...... 169 Seljuk Names...... 186 Gandom Beriyan...... 156 Balkh...... 169 Sample Names...... 186 Sanij...... 156 The Ruins at Ai Khanoum...... 169 Sample Muslim Isms...... 186 Makran...... 156 Sogdian Rock...... 169 Sample Persian Isms...... 186 The Gedrosian Desert...... 156 Sogdiana...... 169 Sample Seljuk Isms...... 186 Seistan...... 157 Samarkand...... 170 Sample Laqabs...... 186 Dartal...... 157 Bukhara...... 170 Sample Nisbas...... 187 Zaranj...... 158 Kasri Orifon...... 172 Khurasan...... 158 Otrar...... 172 Appendix B: Timeline 188 Herat...... 158 Khwarazm...... 173 Karakum Desert...... 158 Gurganj...... 174 Merv...... 158 Kath...... 174 Appendix C: Bibliography 190 Mashhad...... 160 Farghana...... 174 Nishapur...... 160 General Reference...... 190 Khojend...... 175 History and Geography...... 190 Mihr...... 161 Osh...... 175 Religion...... 190 Quhistan...... 161 Badakhshan...... 175 Myths and Legends...... 191 Ghur...... 161 Wakhan ...... 175 Other...... 191

7 Chapter One Introduction & Sagas

Ahlan wa sahlan! Welcome to The Cradle here to develop exotic characters to sup- of great wonders for those who are brave and the Crescent, the guide to the Mythic plement your covenant’s membership, be enough to seek them out. This book re- Middle East for Ars Magica Fifth Edition. they spirit-summoning sahirs, impetuous flects this perception by heightening the This book explores a part of the Mythic jinn, or mysterious Zoroastrian mobeds level of supernatural activity in the region. world beyond the control of the Order of (see Chapters 3, 4, and 5, respectively). Most people of the Mythic Middle East Hermes, including the lands known in the Second, this book provides tools for have no less respect for the supernatural modern day as the “cradle of civilization,” you to build an exotic story arc, or excit- than do their counterparts in the West, from which our earliest records of human ing adventures set in the region or the su- but they are also much more used to en- civilization stem — the lands to the east of pernatural realms it contacts, as a diversion countering such elements. By adopting the Hermetic Tribunal of the Levant, lands from a conventional Europe-based saga. this vision of the region we will frequently known in Europe only through occasional You may also choose to use the information be doing violence to the historical reali- accounts of pilgrims and other travelers, on Middle Eastern magic and the Order of ties of the period, though many of the su- supplemented by a multitude of (at times Suleiman to develop powerful non-Her- pernatural elements that we mention are wild) rumors and speculations. metic antagonists or allies for your saga. based on beliefs and ideas expressed in In this book we present this region as a Alternatively, you may wish to set your historical sources from the time. However, setting for Ars Magica sagas. We describe entire saga in the region, in the form of a it is important to remember that this is the geography and history of the area, in- new covenant of Hermetic magi striking not a book on Middle Eastern history; it cluding in particular many of its mystical out into lands previously unexplored by is instead a supplement for the Ars Magica sites and supernatural denizens. W e also the Order, encountering the various chal- roleplaying game that merely draws inspi- give particular attention to Mythic Middle lenges and magical traditions of the area. ration from the historical texts. Eastern magic, the jinn, Mythic Zoroastri- Finally, and most adventurously, you anism, and the Suhhar Sulayman that is also can cast Hermetic magi aside entirely, known as the Order of Suleiman. playing a group of Middle Eastern mages Strangers in and their companions seeking to make a name for themselves, and immersing your Foreign Lands troupe entirely in the region. We have not given full details on every Broadly speaking, characters who are How to Use place, creature, or supernatural item found members of other faiths living under Islam within this book. We have given suggested follow the usual guidelines for character statistics for some of these, but in many creation, although very few are members of This Book cases the precise statistics will depend on the nobility, and none may be members of This book is intended as a full-blown the power level of your saga. Thus our main the religious classes. Many Christians living setting for sagas and adventures, with the emphasis has been on providing the legends under Islam are involved in the civil admin- expectation that it will be a source for sto- and stories that may be used as inspiration. istration, while many Jews are merchants. ries set within the region. The text assumes The Jews are, for the most part, ortho- that there is no existing Hermetic presence dox Rabbinites, though some Karaites do in the area but, throughout the book, you still live in the region. The Exilarch — the will find story seeds that are intended to spiritual head of the Jewish community — draw Hermetic magi and their followers On the Setting lives in Baghdad, making it an important away from their covenants and lead them to city for the Jews, at least in theory. the lands of the Middle East. The following In the minds of the people of Mythic The situation with regard to the Chris- are just some of the possibilities that this Europe, the Middle East is a distant and tians is rather more complex, as there are a book offers to players of Ars Magica sagas. strange place, home to all manner of mon- large number of different Christian groups First, you may simply use the rules sters, spirits, sorcerers, and kings — full living in the region covered by this book.

8 The Cradle & The Crescent

sultans, and viziers are three main classes Muslim Views of Europeans involved in running society: the military elite, the civil elite, and the religious elite Muslim relations with the Europe- contact with the European states, and (also called the ‘ulama’ (‘u-la-MEH’), “the ans, whom they call ifranj (i-FRANJ) one even occasionally finds Muslim and erudite,” sing.‘alim (‘EH-lim)). Each class or Franks, regardless of country of ori- European rulers allying with one an- is arranged in an approximate hierarchy, gin, are best described as mixed. Some other against other Muslim or European though not in such a rigid fashion as in Muslims are openly hostile towards if- rulers. Those Muslims who have had Europe. There are several other groups in ranj, particularly during periods of con- closer contact with Europeans tell tales Islamic society. The peasants, or fallahun flict, but others have established more of strange and unfathomable customs (fal-leh-HOON), work the land, much friendly relations. Some rulers find they and practices that make little sense to like European peasants. They are free sub- benefit from diplomatic and mercantile the Muslim mind. jects of the ruler, not bound to the land in the way that some European peasants are. Merchants ply their trade in cities. Melkites (Greek Orthodox) are most of- cally) are the governors of various territo- The Muslim world is home to many ten found in Byzantine territory and the ries known as sultans (sul-TAWNZ). Both who follow a number of other faiths, in- Levant, but there are some scattered com- the caliph and these rulers are served by cluding Christians and Jews. These people munities further east, left over from the viziers, who run their civil and military ad- are designated in Islamic law as ahl al-kitab days when the Byzantines controlled terri- ministration for them. Beneath the caliph, (AHL-ul-ki-TEHB), “the people of the tories in the northern Jazira, Armenia, and Georgia. Jacobites (Syrian Orthodox) are most often found in Syria and the Holy Land, but some Jacobites may be found in Arabia. Ethiopian Christianity has made some inroads into southwestern Arabia. The Church of the East (Nestorian Chris- tianity) is most significantly represented in Iraq and Persia, outside of the former Ro- man and Byzantine empires. Tensions among these various branches of Christianity and Judaism, and indeed among different groups of Muslim and Zoroastrian believers as well, could lead to stories as members of different factions attempt to employ the characters in order to gain an advantage over their rivals. Schisms over points of doctrine can easily flare up into violence, especially if supernatural forces become involved. Almost all non-Muslim characters living under Muslim rule must also take the Minor General Flaw Dhimmi (DHIM- me), described at the end of ths chapter. Exceptions tend to be those outside the social order, and hence beyond or beneath the notice of the Muslim authorities. Her- metic magi are the most obvious examples of such exceptions.

Social Structure

The nominal head of the Muslim world, at least for Sunnis, is the caliph in Baghdad. Serving him (at least theoreti-

9 The Cradle & The Crescent The Mythic Middle East in Ars Magica

This is not the first supplement to ing some commentary on these creatures tion of Islamic magi, also includes infor- deal with topics Middle Eastern, and (pages 106-107 in particular). mation on the Jinn, including a sample players may find it helpful to consult character, Wahhab (pages 133-136). other Ars Magica supplements when running sagas that make use of the mate- Realms of Power: Faerie rial contained herein. This section lists Ancient Magic the supplements that contain significant This book contains information that content pertaining to the Middle East. may be used to create Faerie Jinn and This book describes some of the mag- those who deal with them. It also conical secrets that might be found in the retains examples of Middle Eastern faeries, gion covered by this book, including the Realms of Power: The Divine Lamashtu (page 64-65) and the Ghula language of Adam, ancient Babylon, the (page 72); describes how to create char- Garden of Eden and Cain (pages 10-29); This is the most important supple- acters with Ghula Blood (page 106); and a source of Grigori magic on Mount Ara- ment in this regard, containing informa- provides various suggestions for incor- rat (pages 70-73) and the Altars of Alex- tion on both the mundane and super- porating elements from Middle Eastern ander the Great (page 125). Information natural characteristics of the three major folk tales into Ars Magica sagas. on some of the naming conventions used monotheistic faiths, all of which have in the Middle East may also be found their origins in the greater Middle East- (page 46). On more on names, see also ern region, either the Holy Land, within The Mysteries Revised Edition Appendix A in this book. the Tribunal of the Levant, or Arabia, far beyond its borders, and all of which have This book includes a number of mys- members who live in the area covered by teries that draw on the magical tradi- Hedge Magic Revised Edition this supplement. The rules presented on tions of the Middle East. These include character creation are also of particular Hermetic Alchemy (pages 39-46) and This book describes two traditions of use, especially for generating Muslim and Hermetic Astrology (pages 47-57), and Islamic elementalists, the Ikhwan al-Safa’ Jewish characters from the Middle East. a journey to the east could form an ap- and the Tulab ibn Sina (pages 28-32). Mid- propriate part of an Initiation Script for dle Eastern counterparts to Folk Witches both the Order of the Green Cockerel (pages 33-53), Learned Magicians (see Realms of Power: The Infernal and the Magoi of the Star. By the same pages 79-99) and Mythic Alchemists token, the Legion of Mithras (pages 118- (page 100) are possible with only minor This book also provides much in- 22), should it ever decide to explore its modifications to fit an Islamic setting. formation that will be useful for Middle possible links to ancient Zoroastrianism, Characters descended from nomadic Eastern sagas. In addition, it contains could require Initiates to travel to Persia shamans of the northern steppe tribes or some background information on the to investigate as an Initiation Quest. deep deserts of Arabia may be represent- Jinn (page 26) and includes rules that ed by the rules for Nightwalkers (pages may be used to create infernally cor- 102-118). rupted Jinn. It also gives information on Houses of Hermes: the Mazzikim, a group of demons that Mystery Cults include some infernal Jinn in their ranks Rival Magic (page 73), and describes a demoness This book includes brief information who masquerades as a jinniyya (Aqrab on the Keepers of Tales, a Merinita sub- This book gives details about Soqo- the Conjuror, pages 58-59). A Zoroas- tradition originating in the Middle East tra, an island in the Gulf of Aden south trian demon, Naonhaithya, is also de- (pages 81-82). It also presents the Cri- of Yemen ruled by non-Hermetic sorcer- tailed (pages 73-74). In addition, it de- amon Path of Walking Backwards, which ers and their magical tree spirit compan- tails a Middle Eastern Infernal tradition, was inspired by Sufi mysticism, along ions. This book also details the Amazons the Mulhidun (pages 136-137), who are with information on its founder, the Pri- and their magical tradition descended found principally in the Jazira. mus Abdkypris (pages 56 and 70-73). from Trianoma’s sister Veia — the warrior women are based on an island in the Sea of Khazars (the Caspian Sea) but ouses of ermes ocietates Realms of Power: Magic H H : S hunting parties may have ranged into Khwarazm or further. Both groups may This book contains rules that may The description of the Hermetic be potential allies or enemies in sagas set be used to create Magical Jinn, includ- sahirs in Houses of Hermes: Societates, while in the Mythic Middle East. concerning itself with an Iberian tradi-

10 The Cradle & The Crescent

book,” and are permitted to live in Muslim • Deliberate killing or wounding, giv- ticular, an accusation of use of evil magic is lands as long as they accept the status of ing the victim or their family the right likely to be subject to the same legal pro- dhimmis. The subject peoples are required to exact vengeance, under the control cesses as any other alleged crime. to pay a special poll tax, the jizya (JIZ-ya), of the authorities. In some cases, ven- and to abide by a number of restrictions in geance can be replaced by a ransom. society, including refraining from bearing • Accidental killing or wounding, dealt The Pillars of Islam arms, riding animals with saddles, building with by financial settlement. new places of worship, or attempting to • Five major crimes, dealt with using The Muslim life is encapsulated in convert others to their faith. Their abil- canonical penalties called hudud (hu- five basic duties, known asarkan al-islam ity to testify in court is restricted, and the DOOD). They include theft (pun- (ar-KEHN-ul-is-LEHM), or the pillars of value of their testimony is less than that ished by cutting off the right hand), Islam. These are as follows: of Muslim men. Sometimes they are also brigandage (death, if a murder in- required to wear distinctive dress. How volved; otherwise as theft), adultery • Shahada (sha-HEH-da), or testimony: strictly these restrictions are actually en- (stoning or flogging), false accusation Muslims witness to their faith through forced varies from ruler to ruler. of adultery (flogging), and use of alco- two statements, which signify conver- hol (flogging). sion to the faith. These are “la ilaha illa Allah” (there is no god except God) Islam & Islamic Law Some other crimes also incur severe and “Muhammadun rasul Allah” (Muham- penalties. For example, apostasy is pun- mad is the messenger of God). These ished by death. Less serious offenses are are repeated regularly as part of the Islam is both a religion and a social punished with a verbal reprimand. Islamic ritual prayers. contract, and so the law humans should law often requires a number of witnesses to • Salat (sa-LAWT), or prayer: Muslims use to regulate their lives is contained in a crime, making it difficult to impose pen- must perform ritual prayer five times its teachings. There are a number of sourc- alties without adequate proof and moderat- every day, at fixed times. es Muslims use for this law, which is called ing the more severe penalties somewhat. • Zakat (za-KEHT), or alms-tax: All in Arabic al-shari’a (ash-sha-REE-‘a). Magic is permitted in Islam, as long as it Muslims who are able are required to is used for good purposes. Use of magic for give a portion of their wealth as chari- evil purposes, on the other hand, is punish- ty. Exactly where it is actually directed Crime and Punishment able by beheading. Thus, while Dominion varies, depending on the political and auras generated by Muslims affect magic as social situations in any given place. The shari’a divides crimes into three normal, the attitude of the Muslim inhabit- • Sawm (SOWM), or fasting: All able- main categories: ants of these auras toward practitioners of bodied Muslims are required to fast magic is likely to be more nuanced. In par- during Ramadan (ra-ma-DAWN), the

The Unholy Trinity

Medieval European Christians had • The demon Mahound takes the form dressed only in an oversized, ill-fit- many misconceptions about Islam, per- of a grotesque parody of a monothe- ting golden cloak. The cloak drips haps the most common of which was istic prophet, clothing itself in fine with acid and the lyre produces jan- that Muslims worshiped an unholy trin- robes of green silk and gold, and gling dissonances that set teeth on ity composed of three deities known as leering at those around it. It has im- edge and paralyze the senses. Mahound, Termagant, and Apollyon. In mense ears, intended to mock the Ars Magica these three figures are de- fact that such prophets heard the This unholy trinity might form a mons of the Order of False Gods (see divine revelation. suitable arch-enemy in a saga, particular- Realms of Power: The Infernal, page 37), who • Termagant takes the form of a hag ly one that draws characters from west- seek to foment hostility between Chris- with an incredibly wrinkled face and ern Mythic Europe into the lands of the tians and Muslims. They may be found bulging eyes, literally spitting venom Mythic Middle East and involves char- operating anywhere within Europe or at any who oppose it. It has sharp, acters with both Christian and Muslim the Middle East, whispering their vicious jagged fingernails with which it claws friends and allies. Characters are likely lies into the ears of any who might listen. at its opponents’ eyes. to spend much of their time promoting Like most False Gods, the demons usu- • Apollyon appears on first glance to friendly relations between these groups ally take forms that will appeal to their be a twisted parody of the Greco- while seeking to track down and combat listeners. In their original forms, though, Roman Apollo, a hunchbacked, hid- those who are nurturing discord. they appear as follows: eously ugly blond man with a lyre,

11 The Cradle & The Crescent

quently in the form of a fountain or pool in the courtyard. Mosques have a Dominion aura that varies in power according to their size and importance. Most mosques have a Domin- ion aura of 4, while major, famous mosques will usually have auras of 5, though this may increase by a point or two if relics are kept in them. The auras of mosques increase if prayer is performed in them or if those inside are performing the Ramadan fast.

Building Sagas The Mythic Middle East is a settting that’s ripe for long-running Ars Magica sagas. Encourage your player characters to build a new Hermetic covenant in these lands, explore conflict and alliances between the wizards in a mixed group of Hermetic magi and sahirs, or make all your characters members of the Order of Suleiman and their servants. The Mythic Middle East awaits you!

Founding a Covenant in the Mythic Middle East

Founding a Hermetic covenant in the potentially hostile lands of the Mythic Middle East creates a challenging starting scenario. While perhaps better suited ninth month of the Muslim year and Mosques for more experienced troupes, this option the month when Muhammad first be- adds the elements of direct potential magi- gan to receive the revelation. Fasting is Mosques serve several purposes, for in cal confrontation, isolation from the wider undertaken from sunrise to sunset, and addition to prayer one finds other activi- Order, and the tantalizing option of non- includes abstention from food, drink ties taking place in them, including public Hermetic integration and discovery into a and sexual activity. orations, readings of the Qur’an, Sufi ritu- conventional beginning. Combining great • Hajj (HADJ), or pilgrimage: All Mus- als, and religious festivals. freedom with great danger, such Sagas lims who are able are required to make A mosque generally takes the form of would rely heavily on cooperation among the major pilgrimage to Mecca at least an open central space, usually a courtyard individual magi to survive and prosper. A once during their lives. Further details or hall, surrounded on three sides by a pil- group of Seeker magi from various back- on the hajj are given in the section on lared arcade and on the fourth side, which grounds looking to delve into the ancient the Hijaz in the Mecca section (See is the one closest to Mecca, by an open, non-Hermetic mysteries of the cradle of Chapter 6: Mythic Arabia). pillared hall. In the wall closest to Mecca civilization would be an example of this. there is a mihrab (MIH-rahb), or prayer An isolated area, such as the deeper des- Each pillar has associated mechanical niche, which indicates the way which erts (see Chapter 6: Mythic Arabia and effects, detailed further in Realms of Power: worshipers should face when praying, and Chapter 7: Mythic Mesopotamia) or the The Divine, pages 106-108. a minbar (MIN-bar), or pulpit, from which less-settled eastern provinces (see Chap- sermons are preached. A mosque also of- ter 9: On the Silk Road), may be the most ten has a water source for ablutions, fre- suitable location for a Hermetic colony.

12 The Cradle & The Crescent

Founding a Chapter House East. The Itineris Serica covenant (see erable external pressures and initial differ- sidebar in Chapter 9: On the Silk Road) ences. Magical techniques may be com- Similar to founding a new covenant, details a suggestion for a Seeker covenant pared and traded, although teaching the but relying on the tradition begun in the dedicated to discovering the mythical Parma Magica to an outsider would spark Greater Alps and prevalent in the Rhine, land of Serica, at the end of the fabled a violent Wizard’s War and March against this option is perhaps more attainable for Silk Route. the traitors unless the sahirs agreed to join a starting troupe. Sponsorship by one of one of the Societates or Mystery Cults of the established Greater Alps covenants, the Order first. one of the domus magna, or perhaps Joining a House of Wisdom the highly resourced and expansionistic Fengheld covenant of the Rhine would Perhaps the most complex and pro- Tales of Two Orders be a prerequisite. This scenario trades vocative of Hermetic-based scenarios, off some of the danger and isolation by in this option a small group of magi join sacrificing freedom — having the young an existing bayt al-hikma (“House of Wis- There are several scenarios that could magi beholden to the politics and agen- dom,” pl. buyut) of agreeable sahirs. As the potentially involve Hermetic magi with das of senior magi and the wider Order in Houses of Wisdom are places of teaching their Order of Suleiman counterparts in what is an unstable and charged region. as well as gathering places for unGifted the Mythic Middle East, ranging from The chapter house may act as an offen- sahirs, Gifted magi may be welcome as overt conflict or guerilla warfare, to un- sive bridgehead, an embassy to the Order fellow scholars if they agree to respect easy standoff, through to diplomatic of Suleiman, a trading post, an original their culture and laws of their hosts. Such overtures and peaceful cooperation and research base, a translation school or a an inter-Order community creates numer- alliance. See Chapter 3: The Order of combination of these ideas. For an exist- ous tensions and conflicts, although it is Suleiman for further details on sahirs and ing European saga, this option provides possible that the group may be able to their culture. an introduction to the Mythic Middle cooperate and prosper despite the consid- East and the potential for long-term play without requiring too much initial com- mitment or research on the part of the Soft Places: Tales into the Supernatural storyguide or players. This scenario is dependent on some form of constant link The Thousand and One Nights tells of swarming with characters from the tales between the Hermetic colony and the Baluqiya, son of the once-Jewish king of and folklore of the region. Merchants ply motherhouse such as a Mercere Portal, Cairo, who traveled far beyond the mor- trade routes that cross supernatural bor- although such a gateway creates a large tal world. Led by the mythical jinniyya ders and return with fabulous treasures security liability should the covenant’s known as the Queen of Serpents, the from fantastic and mysterious lands. defenses be breached. prince walked across seas, over moun- Rumors abound of portals into Faer- tains, and through deserts to magical ie or the Magic Realm contained within lands and kingdoms ruled by giants and the books containing the various tales Itinerant Covenants jinn alike. Criamon magi believe that — whether this represents a non-Her- this oral legend, like their own Travels of metic ritual effect instilled by the sor- This choice reflects a group of mo- Fedoso, is an allegorical description of a cerers among the jinn or if the books are bile magi and provides almost unlimited journey into the Magic Realm to outside actually an unusual form of faery acting choice of adventures and the opportunity the Circle of Time. Merinita magi of the as Threshold Guardians is unclear. to fully explore the material contained in Keepers of Tales cult disagree, claiming In the Mythic Middle East, the this book. The lack of a permanent settle- that the White Lands, Mountains of Qaf, characters of the Arabian Nights are not ment may create issues for Hermetic magi and other countries alluded to in the just stories — they are woven into the heavily interested in laboratory work, and myth lie within the Faerie realm, border- everyday landscape. The player charac- both mundane and supernatural security ing on or being part of Jinnistan. Jinn of ters in turn are the threads that weave issues come to the fore. This scenario all Realms act as guardians, guides, and themselves into the fabric of the exist- may work best for a more low-magic style sponsors of such stories and are integral ing tales adding highlights and accents. saga where the stories are predominantly to journeys into these mystical locales. This book is the loom on which you, companion-based or require magi with Whatever the truth behind such the storyguide, can create a tapestry of more diplomacy than magical firepower. tales, the Mythic Middle East abounds adventure to rival the greatest adven- The covenant may be posing as simple with portals both physical and meta- tures of Haroun al-Raschid, Sinbad and merchants, acting as an advanced recon- phorical into the supernatural Realms of Mar’auf the Cobbler. naissance party for the Order, or pursu- Faerie and Magic. Golden Baghdad lies See Chapter 4: The Jinn for more ing another explicit magical goal that re- as a Faerie reflection of the mundane city, details on the jinn and their lands. quires travel through the Mythic Middle

13 The Cradle & The Crescent

forms the equivalent of a chapter house. War on Two Fronts? Baghdad alone has several hundred sahirs who congregate and meet in at least half The requirements on a member of may find sponsorship into House Ex a dozen buyut, although only a few hun- the Order of Suleiman are less strict Miscellanea, they will face opposition dred live within the actual city limits. The than those of the Order of Hermes, re- from hostile Hermetic elements such “covenfolk” can include both the mundane quiring only the demonstration of some as House Flambeau and even their lost and magical servants of the sahirs, as well form of summoning power. However, cousins, the Hermetic sahirs of Iberia. as associated Middle Eastern hedge magi- although the Code may permit join- Thus despite being able to achieve in- cians visiting or studying at the site, adapt- ing the Order of Suleiman, any Her- ternal harmony, such a group of mixed ing the rules in Covenants. As a collective of metic magi undertaking a second oath magi may find itself ostracized by both powerful individual wizards with different may be viewed with extreme suspicion. Orders, facing powerful enemies on two magic and personalities, the members of a Likewise, although non-Hermetic sahirs separate fronts. bayt al-hikma can engage in all the potential activities, challenges, squabbles, and adventures that would be encountered in The Hermetic Crusades two Orders, potentially precluding any at- a conventional Hermetic saga. tempts at peace for decades to come. As the majority of sahirs lack The Gift The conflict between medieval Chris- and are less interested in laboratory activi- tendom and Islam is not completely con- ties, such a saga might involve a greater fined to the Levant and Egypt. Hermetic An Hermetic Embassy? degree of interaction with the mundane magi have become aware of the Order of world and more high fantasy, adventure- Suleiman through the supernatural actions In 1220, a new danger breaks in the based story arcs. Opponents and challeng- of individual Syrian sahirs in battles between east — the latest in a wave of nomadic es to such a group of non-Hermetic magi the invading Franks and the local forces of hordes from the mysterious steppes. Led could be based around local threats, in- Salah al-Din. Seeking to trace back this by the mysterious figure known as Geng- cluding the splinter Nizari assassins, devi- threat to its source, more aggressive Her- his Khan, the Mongols first begin their as- ous jinn, the Mongol hordes, or the politi- metic magi may seek to penetrate behind sault on eastern Islam but reports of their cal machinations of the feuding dynasties the battle lines to combat their perceived savagery begin to filter back to western of the region. Alternatively, the sahirs may enemies on their home turf. Others may Mythic Europe. Despite their differences, venture further afield into western Mythic seek out the legendary armies of Prester the Order of Hermes and the Solomonic Europe and participate in stories where John said to dwell far to the east, or search magi may see the threat of the encroaching they interact with Hermetic magi, Euro- for allies among the encroaching Mongol Mongols as great enough to force an alli- pean Faeries, and the Christian church. horde. Even now, a major war against the ance, at least temporarily. Such enforced See “The Middle East in Ars Magica” Order of Hermes may be brewing. cooperation and intermingling may have insert later and Chapter 3: The Order of profound effects on the culture, magic and Suleiman for further resources for playing future of the two great supernatural orga- a fully non-Hermetic Saga. The Followers of nizations of Mythic Europe. Will such an the Circle Return uneasy truce last long enough to stave off the nomad threat? Thus spoke Zarathustra ... Although isolated from their eastern brethren since the early tenth century, the The descendants of the Zoroastrian Hermetic sahirs of Iberia have not forgot- Magi of a priests that once dominated Persian poli- ten their origins, even if their knowledge tics and magic are now a scattered handful of Solomonic Magic has long since faded Different Order of wizards in danger of extinction. Zoro- beneath the protection of the Code of astrian magi form a small mystery cult of Hermes. Younger Iberian sahirs opposed Although the majority of material in holy magi within the Order of Hermes to the reconquest of their lands by the this book is designed for use with Her- and a handful of sahirs still quietly follow northern Christian principalities may seek metic magi as the protagonists, the various the ancient Mazdean faith. Isolated villag- out their lost eastern brethren for support resources can all be used to support a saga es of faithful cling to their customs amidst or magical weapons to use in the war to where the magi are sahirs of the Order of persecution and distrust within the wider defend Andalusia from the vengeful sci- Suleiman detailed in Chapter 3. The de- medieval Caliphate. A disparate collec- ons of Alfonso the Battler and Flambeau fault option for this is a group of sahirs us- tive of Zoroastrian wizards from different the Founder. The successful involvement ing a common bayt al-hikma as the equiv- backgrounds and across Mythic Europe of the Order of Suleiman in the Iberian alent of a “covenant” and meeting place, may attempt to unite their shattered faith conflict would have wide-reaching conse- although Gifted sahirs may live apart from by establishing a community under their quences for the relationship between the their fellows in a separate location that combined protective magic (see Chapter

14 The Cradle & The Crescent

5: Mythic Zoroastrianism for details on must abide by certain social restrictions non-Hermetic mobed wizards and their Characters (described earlier), in return for which they faith). Will they establish a new homeland receive tolerance and protection from the for their people to shelter from the forces Mythic Middle Eastern characters, be Muslim authorities. The Judged Unfairly of Ahriman or be tempted to establish a they rural or urban in origin, are generated or Outsider flaws are more appropriate base from which to re-carve the former in the same way as other characters but for European-born characters who travel greatness of their pre-Islamic empire? some Virtues and Flaws require renaming through Muslim lands or permanently or minor alterations. They have access to settle in the Mythic Middle East. some additional Virtues and Flaws, as well. Holy Knives of Alamut Finally, two new Academic Knowledges are also described: Theology: Islam and New Abilities The Nizari sect of assassins has one Islamic Law. goal in mind: the institution of an Isma’ili state through the elimination of the Shi’a and Sunni rulers. They show remarkable Virtues Islamic Law* adaptability in the pursuit of this goal, employing whatever tools come to hand: Academic religious zealots willing to die for their This is the Muslim version of Civil & masters, their own peculiar brand of mag- Educated (Islamic) Canon Law. The major sources of Islamic ic, diplomacy at the point of a knife, and Law are the Qur’an and the Sunna. Spe- perhaps even the Order of Hermes. To Minor, General cialties: any one of the sources of Islamic the Nizaris, the Order of Suleiman is part The character has been educated in a Law, particular topics, customs of a par- of the problem and, much as they have mosque or Qur’an school. The 50 experi- ticular area. helped the Crusaders against the occupy- ence points should be spent on some or all ing forces of Jerusalem, they might be pre- of Arabic, Persian, Greek, Latin, Theolo- pared to help Hermetic magi against their gy: Islam, Islamic Law and Artes Liberales, Theology: Islam* sahir enemies. If this means that the Niz- due to a different education “system.” aris first have to convince the Order that Academic it has sahir enemies, the sect is not beyond This is the Islamic equivalent of Chris- manufacturing situations to persuade them Flaws tian Theology. The major sources for of this. If the Order still seems reluctant, Islamic theology are the Qur’an and the the Nizaris might attempt to directly co- Sunna. Specialties: the Qur’an, debates, erce individuals by kidnapping and extor- history, prophets. tion; of course, this might drive the Order Dhimmi towards allying with the sahirs against a Nizari threat. One thing is sure: with the Minor, General Nizaris involved, blood will be spilled (see The character is a non-Muslim born Chapter 8: Mythic Persia for more details under Muslim rule. If he is adult and male, on the medieval Nizari assassins). he must pay the jizya, and all dhimmis

15 Chapter Two History

And the Lord God planted a garden in the region. At its center, on the crescent ing an instrument of the Lord’s wrath in Eden, in the east; and there he put the man of land known as Mesopotamia, between the face of this profanation. whom he had formed. the Tigris and Euphrates rivers, the an- Cyrus and his successors ruled the — The Bible, Genesis 2:8 cient peoples developed the earliest form Middle East until the late fourth century of writing, and there appeared city-states BC, when they were overthrown by the In Mythic Europe, scholars trace the that traded or warred with one another as Greeks under Alexander the Great. After origins of humanity to the Middle East the inclination suited them. Dynasties of Alexander’s death in 323 BC, the Middle and to the final acts of creation undertaken rulers rose and fell, including various Bab- East came under the control of one of his by God, when Adam and Eve were created ylonian and Assyrian kings, some of whom generals, who founded the Seleucid dy- to tend the Garden of Eden at the junction ruled empires that stretched as far west as nasty that ruled in the region until its con- of the Pison, Gihon, Euphrates, and Hid- the Holy Land and Syria. Meanwhile, the quest by the Romans from the west and dekkel (or Tigris) rivers. They ate of the lands to the east of Mesopotamia were the Persian Parthians from the east in the forbidden Tree of Knowledge and were home to a variety of peoples living either second century BC. Thereafter, the Middle driven from the garden. Worse was to fol- as nomads or in urban centers. East became divided between the Romans low, with the casting-down of the Tower The ancient Mesopotamians were pa- and, later, the Byzantines, on the one side, of Babel and eventually the Great Flood, gans, worshiping a variety of deities, most against whom stood the Persian dynasties which destroyed almost all of humanity. of whom were powerful faerie creatures of the Parthians and their successors, the that demanded worship from mortals. Sassanids, on the other. The situation re- These pagan practices were to be their mained thus until the seventh century AD, downfall, however. In 539 BC, the Baby- when a new force entered the scene. lonian king Belshazzar provoked the ire of The Ancient God by drinking from the sacred vessels of the temple of Jerusalem, which had been taken by his forefather Nebuchadnezzar Empires when he led the Jews of the Holy Land The Rise into captivity. Three days after this act, his In the wake of the flood, the earth was empire was overthrown by the armies of repopulated, and the Middle East became Cyrus the Great, who had united the Per- of Islam home to a series of empires that dominated sians and adopted Zoroastrianism, becom- Read: In the name of thy Lord Who createth, Createth man from a clot. The Sacred Vessels Read: And thy Lord is the Most Bounteous, Who teacheth by the pen, What became of the sacred vessels East, where they still remain. Perhaps Teacheth man that which he knew not. from the temple after Belshazzar’s feast? the profanation has transformed them — The Qur’an 96: 1-5 Cyrus restored the Jewish community into Infernal objects, which even now in the Holy Land, and undoubtedly are being passed from one owner to the In 610, an Arab merchant named Mu- many of the Temple treasures were also next, bringing ruin upon each. Or per- hammad began to receive the divine reve- taken back there. However, the profana- haps the priests were mistaken, and they lation. However, his message was not well tion of the vessels could have rendered are in fact holy relics that may bring received by the authorities of his home them unusable in the eyes of the Jewish great benefits to those who are judged city of Mecca, which was a major trading priests. In this case, they may have been worthy enough to find their resting center that included a major pagan shrine, left behind, somewhere in the Middle place in the ruins of Babylon. the Ka’ba (KA’-ba), which brought in pilgrims and trade from all over Arabia. He

16 The Cradle & The Crescent

and his followers were forced to emigrate groups collectively known as the Shi‘a to be made in science, literature, and the- to Medina in 622, from which he fought ((SHEE-’ah), sing/adj. Shi‘i), a process that ology, while the caliphs sent embassies to and defeated the Meccans in a war lasting would continue in the centuries that fol- the corners of the world. It was the time eight years. In 630 Mecca submitted to lowed (for more on Shi‘ism, see Realms of of caliphs such as the legendary Harun al- Muhammad’s authority, and he confirmed Power: The Divine, pages 112-113). A num- Rashid (r. 786-809), who periodically ven- the Ka’ba’s importance to Islam as a shrine ber of these Shi‘i groups were sources of tured out by night into the streets of Bagh- originally constructed by the angels, then rebellions against the Umayyads, and the dad in disguise to mingle with his subjects, rebuilt by Adam and later by Abraham with latter also faced opposition from others rewarding the good and punishing the bad, the help of his son Ishmael, the ancestor of who felt that they were impious and ille- and is also known for having exchanged the Arabs. Meanwhile, Islam was spreading gitimate rulers. The culmination of this op- embassies with Charlemagne himself. In across the Arabian Peninsula, and by Mu- position came in 750, when the Umayyads the meantime, increasing numbers of the hammad’s death in 632 most of the inhabi- were displaced by a family descended from caliph’s subjects were converting to Islam, tants of the region were Muslims. an uncle of the Prophet, known as the ‘Ab- though it would take another three or four basids ((‘ab-BEH-sidz), r. 750-the present). hundred years before Muslims would form The ‘Abbasids built a new capital in the overall majority in their lands. Iraq, called Baghdad, which became a The golden age could not last, and prosperous center of a flourishing Muslim from the mid-ninth century ‘Abbasid The Caliphates world. This was the golden age of the Is- power began to decline. The caliphs faced lamic world, when great advances began increasing rebellions by Shi‘a and others, Muhammad was succeeded as leader of the Muslim community by a sequence of rulers known as khalifas (kha-LEE-faz), or caliphs, “successors to the Prophet” who were both the religious and secular leaders of the Muslim state, though none claimed to be prophets themselves. The first four caliphs were chosen by general consensus of the community, but the last of these, ‘Ali ibn Abi Talib (r. 656-661), spent his entire reign fighting against enemies within the Muslim community, eventually losing his life to a political opponent with a poisoned blade. He was succeeded as caliph by the leader of his enemies, Mu’awiya ibn Abi Su- fyan (r. 661-680), who set up a dynastic caliphate, known as the Umayyad (um-MY- yad) caliphate, with its capital at Damascus. The Umayyads ruled from Damascus for nearly a century, and during this period the Muslim world expanded through a mixture of force and diplomacy to its greatest extent, stretching from North Af- rica and Spain in the west to the borderlands of Central Asia and India in the east. The Umayyads also set up many of the administrative, cultural, and social structures of the Muslim world. Arabic became the language of the administration, a uniform coinage was established, and scholars began to debate issues of law and theology. However, the Umayyads were not un- opposed. The supporters of ‘Ali continued to assert the claims of his descendants to the caliphate, through ‘Ali’s bloodline as cousin and son-in-law of Muhammad. They gradually divided into a number of

17 The Cradle & The Crescent Story Seed: The Mongol Threat The Mongol

The large-scale death and destruc- The Tenens of the East is greatly trou- tion in Transoxiana may cause mysti- bled by the chaos emerging from be- Invasion cal ripples throughout Mythic Europe yond the Levant. Even the normally that reach various magi of the Order aloof Merinita report an increased tur- If your saga follows the course of his- of Hermes. Like the rumored Order of bulence in Arcadia and the discovery of tory, by the end of the reign of al-Nasir Odin in the north, information on the new lands and stories emerging within the eastern Muslim world has already nomads is conflicting and incomplete. the Faerie realm. A strange apparition been attacked by the Mongol hordes of The Primus of Ex Miscellanea is trou- appears during the Great Tribunal at Genghis Khan (r. 1206-1227), who have bled by strange dreams. Dire prophe- Durenmar despite the usual mystical occupied the region east of the Jaxartes cies are uttered by the seers, astrolo- defenses prepared for such a momen- River. By Genghis Khan’s death they have gers and other diviners across various tous meeting. occupied territory as far west as eastern Houses. The Tremere learn secondhand Details on the Mongol devastation Persia. Subsequently they take western through their network of this potential of the eastern Islamic lands and rules for Persia, Georgia, Armenia, northern Iraq, threat to the Order and mobilize their Mongol shamans are given in the side- and Asia Minor. In 1258 they take Bagh- intelligence network and resources. bars of Chapter 9: On the Silk Road. dad, where they roll the caliph up in a carpet and trample him to death, following a Mongol custom that forbids the shedding of royal blood onto the ground. They are Story Seed: Disputes over the Caliphate only turned back in 1260, when their advance is checked in Syria by a Mamluk When the ‘Abbasids overthrew the the characters could be approached by army from Egypt. Umayyads, they attempted to wipe Shi’i claimants to the caliphate for the out as many members of the family as same reason. Some of these claimants possible. They missed at least one who may have inherited holy relics or other went on to found a new ruling dynasty powerful supernatural items from their in Spain. It may be that they missed forbearers, which may tempt the char- others, and their descendants may ap- acters to help them, or they may have proach the characters seeking aid in supernatural powers that make their “regaining the caliphal throne. Likewise, quests” difficult to refuse.

financial problems, and greater difficulty The decline in fortunes of the Seljuks in controlling their subordinates. Over was accelerated by the rebellion of the the next hundred years, the Muslim world Shansabani in 1149, and the uprising of fragmented, with the various provinces the Ghuzz in 1151 in Persia’s eastern prov- becoming largely autonomous states that inces. Ala ad-Din Tekish, the leader of Kh- coexisted or warred with one another as warazm province, capitalized on the col- suited their ambitions. In 945 the caliphs lapse of the Seljuk Empire after the death came firmly under the control of their of Sultan Ahmed Sanjar, and eventually immediate deputies, a situation that re- defeated his successor Togrul III in 1194. mained broadly the same until the mid- His son Ala ad-Din Mohammed defeated twelfth century. The Seljuk Turks, lead the Shansabani in 1206, and is now the by Togrul Beg, invaded from the Great ruler of a vast empire that stretches from Steppe in 1037, and had gained control of the River Jaxartes to the Persian Gulf. the Mythic Middle East by the mid-11th While he has declared himself shah (Parsi century, relegating the caliph to a figure- “king”), the caliph in Baghdad has yet to head while the Seljuk Turks commanded recognize this claim. the ‘Abbasid armies and provinces. By The current caliph, al-Nasir (r. 1180- 1157 the caliph had regained enough 1225), is a vigorous ruler, but his realm is power to drive the Seljuk sultan out of much reduced, encompassing in reality Baghdad, and an uneasy truce between the little more than Iraq, though his rule is religious and secular rulers was instituted nominally recognized by most of the Sun- that remains to this day. ni (SUN-nee) Muslim provincial rulers.

18 Chapter Three Order of Suleiman

Throughout the years since the found- prophet, and builder of the first temple in on pilgrimage, and who joined his court ing of the Order of Hermes, magi have Jerusalem. It is said he commanded hosts when he became caliph, sworn to support spoken of the danger that Arabian wizards of jinn and other spirits, could speak with his rule and devout in their adherence to present, calling them “The Order of Sulei- animals and the elements, and possessed the teachings of the Prophet. Many of the man” and whispering how they seek to bring magical devices that focused his power followers of Solomon tell variations on about the ruin of Hermetic magi. Some over the supernatural world. Among sahirs, this tale to justify their belief that there is speculate that these stories were started by tradition holds that the great king learned nothing sinful or worldly about the prac- followers of Flambeau the Founder, or per- many of these secrets from a mysteri- tice of magic. As Ali trusted his advisers, haps by others opposed to the introduction ous sage known as Al-Khidr (“The Green so too may his holy successors trust the of similar wizards in Iberia and elsewhere in Man”), a legendary figure who, according wise magicians that succeeded them. Europe into House Ex Miscellanea. In any to the Qur’an, taught Moses, traveled with case, the idea that an organized group of Alexander the Great, and attained immor- Middle Eastern sorcerers exists and plots tality by drinking from the Water of Life. The Umayyad against them is very common among magi. In the years after Solomon many They are right. claimed to possess his powers, and some Summoners Of course, this “Order of Suleiman” is could indeed summon up spirits and speak not exactly what magi fear it is, though it with beasts as he was said to have done. Some years later, during the Umayyad does pose a grave threat to those who they The Art of Solomon did not die out but, dynasty, another trio of summoners swore consider their enemies. It is composed of as the years passed, groups of sorcerers lifelong service to the caliph; many hold sahirs, usually unGifted Muslim summon- began to practice dark and corrupted ver- that the legend of Ali’s magical advisers ers who wield magic spells and devices sions of his power — some say this Infer- derives from this event instead. They were similar to their Hermetic counterparts, nal version was initially spread by a pair each given an official title,wazir (“vizier”), and who command jinn or other spirits in of angels named Harut and Marut tasked which at that time meant “bearer of magic battle. Their animosity toward the Order with this as a test of mankind’s faith — that in service to the caliph.” At first they were of Hermes is fairly recent, as for most of allowed sorcerers to summon and enslave trusted no more than any other men un- their existence they have been an intro- spirits to their will. Other traditions de- der his command, and possibly less so by verted group, generally devoted to the veloped educated and more refined forms those who fought beside them. As the ca- growth of Islamic culture. Since the start of summoning that allowed them to com- liphate began to expand its influence into of the Crusades, however, these powerful mand the elements, animals, and nature as Persia, Africa, and Europe, however, the sorcerers have become more dangerous, Solomon was said to have done. In Persia warriors began to encounter other magi- and have turned their eyes upon Europe. especially, this latter version of the Art cians — wizards who could rain fire upon Sahirs are designed primarily as adver- flourished under the influence of Zoroas- the armies of Islam, or cause the seas to saries for magi exploring the Mythic Mid- trian priests, who perceived its practice as rise up and drown them, or cause the men dle East, though it is also possible to play learned and wise. to forget everything they were doing — them as player characters in a saga with a The birth of Islam changed the Mythic and suddenly the wazirs became especially Middle Eastern focus. Middle East dramatically. Some sahirs be- valuable, for the spirits they summoned lieve that the great caliph Ali ibn Abi Talib, could resist this magic. The foreign wiz- friend and son-in-law of Mohammed, also ards served the armies that opposed the received guidance from Al-Khidr. He was caliph, and so it became essential for the History said to be friendly to magicians and knowl- caliph’s wizards to train others who could edgeable about the natural sciences associ- assist them in the same way. 13th-century sahirs believe their pow- ated with the Art of Solomon. Some tales Soon the three wazirs became thirty ers originated in the marvels wielded describe three wise men who served him, wazirs, as they sought out and trained by Solomon (Suleiman), King of Israel, travelers from far-off lands whom he met promising students in their Art, and those

19 The Cradle & The Crescent

events, but they did not blame their wazirs; instead, they blamed their people. Some of the Umayyads’ opponents took these attacks as indications that the nation of Islam was not rightly guided, and that the Umayyads were not true caliphs. A few even began to declare rival caliphs. To make matters worse, when wrathful spirits abused by the wazirs attacked, they focused upon the summoners themselves, not the common people, forcing the caliphate to defend them. For example, in 746, while Abbasid opponents of the Umayyads were mobilizing their forces in Khurasan, it is said that more than a hundred jinn laid siege to Damascus, demanding that the city turn over two wazirs who they knew hid within. After many such retribu- tive acts, the population of summoners in the Mythic Middle East was dramatically reduced, and the term wazir ceased to be associated with wizards. Their ruthless tradition of summoning mostly died out everywhere but on the fringes of the empire.

The Formation of the Suhhar

As a result of these and other events, the Umayyad caliphate broke apart, and a new line was established in the Abbasids, with their new political center in Baghdad. One of the greatest Abbasid leaders was Harun al-Rashid, who came to power in 786. His mother, named Al-Khayzuran, thirty became more than a hundred. Their The downfall of the wazirs came from was originally from Yemen and skilled in powers developed further as Islam spread, their callous dealings with the beings they the magic of enchanting music and stories. so that, in addition to the spirits of the fall- summoned. Their powers essentially al- At her urging, the new caliph agreed to as- en, they learned to summon and control lowed them to enslave the jinn who served semble a council of wizards to advise him other spirits such as jinn (see Chapter 4: them, even though many of these beings on mystical matters and help him secure The Jinn), and led waves of them into bat- also followed the teaching of the Prophet, his rule. He was convinced that having tle. With their help, the Umayyad caliphs which forbids such treatment. These prac- magical viziers devoted to the empire was were able to overcome the other wizards tices tainted and ultimately undid their a necessary thing, though he preferred to who opposed them and ensure the safety holy war, and turned many denizens of the recruit great thinkers over great warriors. of their troops. Meanwhile, the Umayyad supernatural realms against them. By about The head of this council was his grand armies conquered their foes, and the ca- 720 AD the wazirs became desperately vizier, Yahya ibn Khalid, also known as liphs came to rule an enormous empire, preoccupied defending against attacks Yahya the Barmakid, an unGifted scholar including all of the Middle East and Per- from within their homelands, fighting a who had dabbled in magical potions and sia, Northern Africa, Iberia, and even parts magical war waged upon them from other elixirs in the court of the previous ca- of France. It is most likely stories of these worlds. This prevented them from lending liph, and who served as tutor to Harun summoners, from before the time of the their support to the invading armies, and al-Rashid from a young age. On the new Founding, that magi and other European was one of the leading factors that slowed caliph’s behalf he wrote to invite the fin- wizards equate with the members of the and eventually halted the expansion. est minds in Islam to join this “Solomonic” “Order of Suleiman.” The caliphs were furious at this turn of council, explaining Harun’s vision of a

20 The Cradle & The Crescent

magical brotherhood that would make his poet and mathematician who wrote of He ceased consulting with Ja’far in private, caliphate paramount in learning and cul- his strange visions. He claimed to have but often did so with his new counselors. ture. This dream was realized by five great studied from Al-Khidr, and to have Vicious rumors began to spread about men, who with Yahya and Al-Khayzuran traveled into the Magic Realm to drink Ja’far: that he was a wicked sorcerer who formed the original “wise council” of Ha- from the Water of Life. He appeared consorted with evil spirits, and that he run. These famous sahirs were: perpetually as a young man of about craved the caliph’s seat for himself. Ja’far 25, and no one could ever determine begged Harun’s sister, whom he loved, to • Jabir ibn Hayyan, an alchemist, sum- exactly when he was born. speak with her brother on his behalf, in moner, and scholar blessed with The the hope that her voice would soften his Gentle Gift and a voracious thirst for Together, these seven wise people de- heart — but when she did, the easterner knowledge. He was a master of the veloped a common language among their Dawud accused Ja’far of beguiling the lady art called Sihr, first learning at the feet different styles of summoning-based magic, with his magic, and as punishment the ca- of one of the few surviving Umayyad and invented the five Solomonic arts (see liph had Ja’far executed and the rest of his summoners, and later studying every- Solomonic Magic, later). They answered family imprisoned or killed. thing the others knew. He was respon- directly to the caliph, and as part of their Another version of these events is less sible for the discovery that allowed duties each of them spent time instructing sympathetic to Ja’far: as one of the first the First Council to incorporate their the others or assisting with their magic to students of the new Art of Solomon, Ja’far different styles of magic into a single ensure that they all knew as much as pos- was incredibly skilled and powerful, but tradition. sible about their different powers. Each of too ambitious to be worthy of the title of • Muhammad al-Fazari, philosopher them excelled at a particular aspect of the grand vizier. He was not happy merely and astrologer, collector and author of Art of Solomon, but they combined these advising the caliph, and tried to force Ha- many magical tomes. He constructed specialties so well that their tradition be- run to adopt him as his heir. The caliph the first armillary sphere to aid him in came a unified system, rather than several proved surprisingly resistant to Ja’far’s en- his seasonal calculations. His father different abilities. chantments, and so the crafty sahir took Ibrahim is said to have transformed Al-Khayzuran died suddenly in 789 control of the caliph’s sister instead, plot- himself into a spirit to watch over and under very mysterious circumstances. After ting to gain his seat by marriage. Yahya assist his son with his magic and, as complaining of a headache, she collapsed suspected his son, but did not realize how al-Fazari’s guardian spirit, Ibrahim first in her sitting room and was escorted, ap- far he would go, and it was only because of showed al-Fazari how to initiate him- parently unconscious, back to her cham- the fortuitous intervention of Harun’s oth- self and the other unGifted sahirs into bers. There, under the watchful eyes of her er advisers that Ja’far’s designs were foiled. their magical secrets. son and many of his advisers, her body and Because of this sudden turn of events, • Bakhtyshu, a Persian physician and possessions simply vanished. Her passing the five remaining leaders of Solomonic Nestorian Christian. His father, Jurjis was mourned by the caliph and the entire magic became very frightened, and un- ibn Bakhtyshu, had served the previ- council. Soon afterward, Yahya retired sure of what to do. It seemed their council ous caliph, but being non-Muslim the from court to devote himself more fully to ties to court and caliph had been severed. son was invited to join the council only his studies, and his Gifted son Ja’far became Months passed and there was no word of provisionally and at Yahya’s insistence. Harun’s grand vizier and head of the coun- a new grand vizier being appointed, and He later proved his worth by exorcis- cil. Harun moved his palace further north, they worried that their alliance would fall ing a powerful shaitan (“demon”) that putting more distance between his court apart, their great achievements lost. They plagued the caliph. It is said he knew and the sahirs, and from then on Ja’far was decided to travel in secret to the prison the True Names of hundreds of spirits, the only point of contact between the wiz- where Yahya (who had been mercifully and taught many of them to the First ard council and the caliph. spared by the caliph) was held captive, and Council. As Harun’s reputation increased, the met with him to discuss how they could • Al-Zill Habib, “the beloved shadow,” a stories tell that he became more introverted keep the wise council from collapsing. popular and inspirational highwayman and mistrustful of Ja’far and the sahirs he At Yahya’s urging, they decided that who led revolts against the Umayyads represented. He sought out the advice of they must form their own organization, and earned the unswerving respect other so-called wise men, including a young one independent of the caliph. They real- of many followers, including a loyal Hermetic magus sent (supposedly) by the ized how dangerously vulnerable to court band of jinn and several yatus (faerie court of Charlemagne called Christopher intrigue and political maneuvering they wizards from Persia, see Chapter 8). Coronus, a famous Sufi teacher and holy were as a group of wizards who served He was believed to be a relative of Al- man named Fozail-e Iyaz, and a strange Harun and the court directly, and instead Khayzuran, and constantly remained miracle-worker and representative from the chose to divorce themselves from magical cloaked and covered to hide his face, far east who they called Dawud al-Kharita. service to the worldly authority, and be- even when alone. Under their influence, it is said, Harun become a self-governing and somewhat in- • Al-Hajjaj (or Al-Majnun, “the mad- gan to resent the independence and power formal alliance of sahirs. They called this man,” as he was sometimes called), a wielded by the grand vizier and his family. the Suhhar Sulayman (“Summoners of Solo-

21 The Cradle & The Crescent mon”), and over the course of several sea- When they had finished their found- that they were not plotting against him, sons they developed a plan for how they ing document, the former viziers humbly the caliph gave this independent council could function and ultimately prosper. presented it to Harun, and begged him for his blessing, provided that the sahirs who (See Organization, later in this chapter.) his permission. Once he was convinced belonged to it continued to serve him as

Legends of the First Council

Many sahirs have attempted to learn tails about him survive. Christopher cor- the court, setting him up as Ja’far’s as- what became of the members of the First responded extensively with Tremere the sistant. Jabril weathered the fall of the Council, for completeness or inspiration. Founder, he was especially interested in Barmakids from the caliph’s grace (some Most of what survives them is stories and using magic to produce visual art, and he say by betraying his master’s plans to his legends. once threatened to slay Jabir in a duel but enemies), but the stories also tell that later said this had been a misunderstand- Jabril ensured the other members of the ing. It is probable from their conversations First Council were praised and admired Al-Khayzuran that early magi and sahirs heard the first by the caliph, perhaps saving them accounts of each others’ organizations. from intrigues that would otherwise Al-Khayzuran died, but her memo- Legends say that Jabir had a crisis of faith have doomed the Suhhar. Jabril had a ry haunted the building that had once later in life, and that he sacrificed all of his large family and many children, and his been Harun’s palace. A strong feminine magic just before he died for the right to descendants carried the magic of Solo- presence is often recognized by sahirs walk in paradise. This story is controver- mon to the famous House of Healing sensitive to spirits in her chamber, and sial, as it suggests that Jabir believed he in Gundeshapur. Some have even sug- many claim to have been visited by her could not both be a faithful Muslim and gested that one of Jabril’s sons returned in dreams. Some speculate that the many practice magic, an idea that has been hot- with Dawud al-Kharita to the far east, tales about her brought a powerful faerie ly debated among sahirs ever since. and there established a line of Christian to live in her place, a queen who visits magician-kings who would eventually sleeping travelers and grants them power produce the legendary figure known as in exchange for stories. Muhammad al-Fazari Prester John. Muhammad stayed on as the court ahya ibn halid Y K astrologer for the rest of his life, and also Al-Zill Habib and Al-Hajjaj wrote several exceptional books con- Yahya the Barmakid was forever cerning his fields of expertise. He is said Both Al-Zill and Al-Hajjaj remained disgraced by his son’s actions at court, to have drawn a series of prophetic pic- in Baghdad for many years of teaching, though he lived long enough to see the tures before he died that predicted many but sometime in the mid-800s they sud- foundation of the Suhhar. It is said he future events, including the separation denly left without warning, instructing had a collection of permanent Arcane of the Iberian sahirs and Baghdad’s inva- their followers not to come after them. Connections to the other members of sion by Mongols. He had no children, This came just after a visit from one the First Council, though no one knows though he taught many followers, in- of the caliph’s advisers, the Sufi mys- what became of it when he died. It may cluding the great Muhammad ibn Musa tic Fozail-e Iyaz, and sahirs have often have been on his person and buried with al-Khwarizmi, who is generally regarded wondered what passed between them, him in Baghdad, or he may have hidden as one of the most talented astrologers and if their departure was due to his it in his house or even his cell. The pris- that the Suhhar has ever produced. interference. It was said the two sahirs on still stands in the city, though it has While many believe that al-Fazari did traveled the length of the entire world long since been abandoned and has an not die and instead transformed himself together, from the Pillars of Hercules evil reputation. into a spirit like his father, no one has yet to the mountains of the Far East, and demonstrated publicly that they are able there are many stories of those who Jabir ibn Hayyan to summon him. came upon them and shared a meal with them, always a young man dressed all in Jabir went to Kufa, where he wrote white and his companion hooded and Bakhtyshu many books on the Solomonic arts. He wrapped in black. It is even said that the two of them still live, and that they ap- was said to have become friends with Bakhtyshu was the caliph’s personal Christopher Coronus, magus and ambas- pear no different in the year 1220 than physician, and also helped his son Jabril they must have looked four hundred sador from the Order of Hermes and the ibn Bakhtyshu establish himself with court of Charlemagne, though few de- years ago.

22 The Cradle & The Crescent

loyal subjects. Several of the first council ral beings still angry at the treatment they zation of sahirs that has continued to ha- members retained positions at court; per- received from the Umayyads prowled the rass and trouble the Suhhar ever since (see haps this is why they continued to call edges of their settlements and vindictively The Nizari Isma’ili State, Chapter 8, for themselves “viziers,” and their leader the struck at any victims they could catch. more about their history and practices). “grand vizier,” at their meetings. Those sahirs willing to live in magical au- There was some occasional contact ras outside of the Dominion had to be pre- with other magical traditions during this pared to summon powerful guardians to time — since the First Council, sahirs had A Golden Age protect themselves, or create great magi- been aware of the European organization of cal wards against such spirits that would wizards who called themselves the Order keep them safe, and so generally did not of Hermes, and after the Cordoba sahirs In the years that followed, the Suh- set up in such places permanently. joined this organization there were many har Sulayman flourished, teaching many Perhaps they became fearful of the who sought to know even more about students the secrets of Solomonic magic long journey across such hostile lands, but them, particularly how their magic differed and welcoming other summoners into the Iberian sahirs began hosting their own from that of the Suhhar. They also knew their fold. The house in Baghdad where gatherings in Cordoba in 912. The Bagh- about a few Zoroastrian priests still living the former council had studied and taught dad sahirs tried to reconcile with them for in Persia, a few of whom had become sa- magic grew into a grand academy of Solo- several years, sending emissaries to dis- hirs, though relations between them were monic learning, called Bayt al-Hikma, and suade them, but by 919 they abandoned always strained. On the other hand, after old and new sahirs joined them there and these attempts and expelled them from driving most of the sahirs out of Northern began to share their knowledge. A golden the Suhhar Sulayman. Their Iberian coun- Africa, the Berber wizards did not encroach age of magic was born, and sahirs trained cil continued to meet on its own until 925 further into the Middle East. in the Art of Solomon began to spread when the majority decided to join the Or- By the end of the 11th century, the across Muslim lands, bringing their magic der of Hermes. There has been little con- sahirs had turned completely upon them- to every corner of the empire. The Suhhar’s tact between the two groups since then. selves, their focus entirely inward, and the separation from the caliph’s court ensured Also during the mid-900s, the rise of magical Middle East had become like a that when the caliphate began to fracture, the Fatimid caliphate drove many sahirs out city in a bottle. the Suhhar itself remained strong. Large of Northern Africa and east into Egypt, as communities of sahirs were organized rumor spread that the caliphs fought with around houses for teaching and studying the aid of strange Berber wizards that the The Crusading Suhhar magic in Damascus, Gundeshapur, Cairo, sahirs’ spirits could not defeat. The sahirs and Cordoba, and every year the viziers who had preferred to live on the frontier from those communities would travel to a either fled back to more populated lands The situation changed entirely with grand gathering to represent their people. or disappeared and were never heard from the Crusades. So many sahirs lived in these great cit- again. Combined with the defection of the When foreign knights laid siege to ies that one vizier could not adequately Iberian sahirs, this reduced the lands occu- Antioch and Jerusalem, the Muslim sahirs represent them; Cairo, for example, sent pied and represented by the Suhhar Sulay- were surprised, shocked, and enraged. A 12 viziers to the gathering of 868, one for man to just Egypt, Arabia, and Persia. few acted to help prevent Tyre’s fall, but each house where more than two sahirs The Suhhar during this period was for the most part the Suhhar was wildly lived. In an important decision of 889, the powerful, though introspective, and con- unprepared for the attack. They then grand vizier declared that the viziers elect- tinued to develop so that by the middle overreacted by electing to take a firmer ed by each community also represented of the 11th century, it had become the ad- hand over the supernatural politics of the the sahirs who lived alone or in pairs clos- vanced magical tradition it is in 1220. For region. They sent representatives to meet est to them, and that it was the responsi- the most part, expansionist ideals had been with and spy on the European wizards bility of the viziers to seek out their more subdued and deprecated among the mem- who had come over, and were surprised to solitary brethren and speak with them be- bers of the Suhhar, and most sahirs simply learn that most of them were immune to fore every gathering as part of their service wanted to study their magic in peace. their Solomonic magic, much in the same to the Suhhar. Before then, most viziers This peaceful time was interrupted way that spirits, caliphs, and holy men had simply avoided those members of the when a prominent sahir named Hasan-i had always been able to resist them. Oth- Suhhar who chose to live far from civili- Sabbah murdered the grand vizier. This ers attacked the invaders, fighting with the zation, many of whom had The Gift and assassin belonged to a ruthless religious Muslim armies against the magi, but those were thus especially unpleasant to visit. sect called the Nizari Isma’ili, and man- sahirs who met magi directly in battle Cities were the primary centers of aged to escape punishment for his crime were quickly defeated, and many of them magical growth and learning for sahirs, as by fleeing to a Persian mountain strong- were slain. the lands of Africa and central Arabia and hold. There, Hasan proceeded to teach The reluctant verdict among the major- the borders of Islam remained very danger- others of his faith the secrets of Solomon’s ity of surviving sahirs was that the invaders ous for summoners. Groups of supernatu- Art and essentially created a rival organi- fought with the Divine on their side, that

23 The Cradle & The Crescent The Families of Solomon’s Seal

The five great families of Solomonic it is important for them to encourage the in this family; the sahira-to-sahir ratio is sahirs descend from the five members of majestic reputation of magicians, even almost one-to-one. the First Council who formed the Suh- while using magic to serve others, lest har Sulayman, some by blood but most the people cease to value it. by association. Each has become special- Ashab al-Nahr ized in one type of magic, and tends to “Followers of the River” come from a particular region. Ashab al-Yad “Followers of the Hand” Solomonic Travel was often margin- alized as a lesser art by early sahirs, as Ashab al-Sakhr The first sahirs who specialized in few of them understood the power of “Followers of the Stone” Solomonic Physic were all members of other realms and worlds: not just Faerie the Bakhtyshu family, and took their and the Magic Realm, but also places of Ashab al-Sakhr (ass-HAWB us- magic with them to Gundeshapur, in Divine and Infernal power, and even the SAKHR) is a family of specialists in Solo- Persia. There they established a famous realms of dreams and death. Two genera- monic Alchemy who descend from Jabir academy known as the House of Heal- tions after Al-Hajjaj, a Nabatean traveler ibn Hayyan, the only Gifted member of ing. Most of the first physician sahirs named Ibn Wahshiyya deciphered many the First Council. They are affiliated with were Nestorian Christians, though Mus- secrets about these places from the writ- the city of Damascus, the former capital lims, Jews, and pagans have also joined ings of the ancient Egyptians, and single- city of the Umayyad wazirs and now their family, and their reputation has handedly revitalized the Art. There is a the center of the sahirs’ counter-Crusade always been somewhat poor because of great academy in Cairo devoted to the against the invading magi and soldiers. their ready acceptance of outsiders. This study of these mysteries, and it is still Besides being very unfriendly to Euro- means the Ashab al-Yad (ass-HAWB ul- considered the locus of the Ashab al-Nahr peans, it is common for Followers of the YAD) family is seen to have something (ass-HAWB ul-NAHR) family’s magic. Stone to be especially pious, and non- of a sinister aspect within the Suhhar — Ibn Wahshiyya and Al-Hajjaj both had Muslims are almost unheard of among they are perceived as sahirs who heal but reputations for intense passion and, ulti- them. It is perhaps the most “noble” sa- who also harm — and so no one is ever mately, madness, and their followers are hir family; its members value personal quite sure exactly how a Follower of the usually eccentric as well. honor very highly, and especially favor Hand will respond to a given situation. arms and armor. Many of them choose to fight with steel instead of magic — or Ashab al-Halqa with steel augmented with magic. Ashab al-Qalb “Followers of the Circle” “Followers of the Heart” There are also many sahirs who Ashab al-Najm Though the Ashab al-Qalb (ass- consider themselves specialized in no “Followers of the Star” HAWB ul-QALB) family was technically particular art, or who focus on their sum- established by Al-Zill Habib, his follow- moning art rather than the Solomonic In the early days of the Suhhar, Solo- ers generally regard Al-Khayzuran as arts. Before they left the Suhhar, many of monic Astrology was especially favored the family’s matriarch and role model, the sahirs of Cordoba called themselves by a small group of Zoroastrians who especially since so little is known about Ashab al-Halqa (ass-HAWB ul-HAL-qa), converted to Islam and came to Baghdad the “beloved shadow” who taught them. referring to the outside edge of the pen- to study magic from Al-Khwarizmi, the Since Al-Zill disappeared, the civic focus tacle that forms the Seal of Solomon. famous student of Al-Fazari. They later of Solomonic Storytelling has remained This term is still used to describe un- established a small academy in Nasibin in Baghdad, still known as the city of aligned sahirs, or those who claim to be- in the north, and other houses entirely a thousand tales, and the grand vizier long to none of the great families. Most devoted to their art in many Persian cit- elected to lead the Suhhar has most of- Gifted sahirs and self-taught summoners ies as well. Ashab al-Najm (ass-HAWB ten been a Follower of the Heart. They meet these criteria, preferring to remain un-NAJM) is perhaps the most wide- are usually very political sahirs, interact- apart from the yearly gatherings, where spread family of sahirs, and also the most ing with supernatural creatures like faer- they must be represented by viziers from arcane; they tend to dress and look like ies and magical beings more often than the other families. wizards or, at the very least, wise schol- other sahirs, and only rarely have The ars. A common belief in the family is that Gift. Women are much more common

24 The Cradle & The Crescent

Jerusalem was rightfully theirs, and that there was nothing they could do. Howev- er, the leader of one of the five great Solo- monic families, the Asala al-Sakhr, asserted that the invaders had been aided by Infer- nal powers. A strong anti-crusader presence developed under his direction, especially among Syrian viziers and those who studied Solomonic Alchemy. The Suhhar remained publicly uninvolved, but many sahirs began acting against the European invaders, signing onto armies to fight them directly or teaching other soldiers to summon and wield Solomonic magic against their foes, much like the Umayyad wazirs. The Suhhar soon relaxed most of their strictures concerning fair treatment of non-Muslim supernatural beings, and agreed that crusading magi of the Order of Hermes were enemies of the Muslim people, authorizing sahirs to retaliate however they felt was just. In the aftermath of the First Crusade, sahirs acted mostly in secret, uncertain what would happen if they were to confront the Hermetic wizards directly. They taught magic to important leaders, helping them understand how the Art of Solomon could assist their cause; they manipulated real-world events by taking advantage of the geography of the Magic ad-Din had no wish to join the Suhhar, where they can be found more quickly Realm, circumventing the enemy to ambush revealing to the ambassador that he had when the time comes to attack. They now them from behind or ransack their camps; already been taught magic by Al-Khidr study their enemy in earnest, for they are they interpreted astrological indicators to himself. In fact, there was a brief exchange still at war and do not intend to lose. predict unfavorable circumstances for their of wisdom between the two men, docu- enemies, so that they knew precisely when mented in a famous text now kept safely to strike; and generally they confused and in Baghdad. Saladin refused the guide, no harried the opposing armies and leaders explanation given, and the sahirs of the re- wherever possible. Their involvement en- gion were forced to try to aid him without Culture sured the recapture of Edessa, and also the his consent. downfall of the Second Crusade against In 1220, the Suhhar Sulayman is still at Most of what defines a sahir of the the Muslim states. war with the crusaders occupying the Holy Suhhar Sulayman was decided by the There is a tradition among the Suhhar Land, including members of the Order members of the First Council, codified at whereby an appointed vizier adopts the of Hermes. They still observe the yearly the meeting in 805 when they first be- guise of a nameless old wise man, much gathering at Baghdad, but the conflict is came an independent organization, and as Al-Khidr is described as doing in the rarely discussed. Plans are in motion for a this has been reinforced at the gathering Qu’ran, and approaches promising Muslim retaliatory attack against the Levant, what every year since (see Organization, later, leaders or scholars with an offer to teach might be considered a Solomonic counter- for details of how these gatherings func- them magic or assist their causes in other crusade, and sahirs have been gathering tion). As they envisioned it, a person must ways. This is seen as an honorable way intelligence about the Order of Hermes simply appear before the assembly accom- for sahirs to involve themselves directly so they may strike at them where they are panied by a sponsor to join, and need only in the politics of the region without com- weakest and — they hope — drive the in- demonstrate to the assembled sahirs that mitting the Suhhar to their cause, and is vading magi from their lands entirely. he can summon a spirit. No other criteria often called “sending a guide.” When two To this end, the sahirs have made it or restrictions were considered necessary, men rose to prominence in the late 1100s, clear that all Hermetic magi are welcome since all of their magic depended on this Nur ad-Din and Saladin, both were sent in their lands, where they can be watched power more than anything else. a guide with an offer of magical aid. Nur more easily without their knowledge, and In deference to Al-Khayzuran and

25 The Cradle & The Crescent

Bakhtyshu, no restrictions against women sents, but the matter is often easily settled the vizier may enter with him but may not or non-Muslims were written into the by the volume of cheers as each candidate be summoned while inside without special founding document. They required that, comes forward, or by a show of hands. A dispensation from the grand vizier. All in addition to the pious practice of zakat, strict count of votes is rarely necessary. three sorts of guest are expected to be un- every sahir must share one-quarter of his Once elected, the grand vizier ad- obtrusive, and do not vote. Any attention wealth with the Suhhar, which would ap- dresses all issues that are brought to him, they attract reflects positively or negative- ply these resources towards the spread of though these are typically issues that are ly upon the vizier who they accompany, knowledge in their communities. Also, purely internal to the Suhhar. All the Ma- and if they disturb the proceedings the because of the many jinn uprisings from jlis ultimately oversees is membership in grand vizier typically orders that vizier to the century before, they established rules the Suhhar, and thus the worst sentence leave, taking them with him. governing how sahirs could summon and that the grand vizier can pronounce at Issues commonly brought to the Majlis interact with spirits. No thinking, feeling Majlis is expulsion. In this, the grand vi- include: disputes over rights to contested being would be bound in thrall to a sahir, zier has absolute authority for the whole resources such as vis or spirits; accusations they wrote, or held captive by a sahir who year, though he is also expected to follow that a sahir is not devoting himself to the himself remained free; those who did this precedent and heed the will and advice of spread of knowledge as he has promised to would no longer be part of the Suhhar. his fellow viziers. Most issues that come do; initiating new members into the Suh- These were the only laws they envisioned up between gatherings are deferred until har; declaring former members officially the sahirs needing to enforce; all other Majlis, since the first thing the new grand removed from the Suhhar; and matters matters would be decided by Islamic law, vizier must do is ratify any judgments that of policy or complaints regarding sahirs’ to which they were all clearly subject. have been made since the previous year. dealings with other wizards or supernatu- In 1220 there are approximately 5,000 The Suhhar has five distinct “families” ral beings. There are often discussions, members of the Suhhar living in the lands of sahirs, magical lineages that trace back such as what should be done in hypotheti- of the Mythic Middle East. They are most to five of the members of the First Coun- cal situations, or the sharing of knowledge numerous in Iraq and Jazira, least common cil. Each family represents one particular or intelligence regarding what is happen- in Transoxania, and while a small commu- branch of the Solomonic art, and the five ing within the borders of Islam. nity might support only five or six sahirs heads of these families are collectively re- Established practice at Majlis is for the at most, large cities like Al-Mada’in or ferred to as the Asalat ((a-sa-LEHT), sing. grand vizier to hear all who wish to speak Basra can easily support 50, often divided Asala (a-sa-LAH)), which means “points” to each issue, and these speeches usually up among different districts. Beyond the and refers to the five points on the Seal of address how similar matters have been de- boundaries of this book’s focus, in Syria Solomon. Each family has its own method cided previously, or else they are pleas or Egypt for example, might be found an- of choosing their Asala, but they are usu- for mercy or special consideration due to other two or three thousand sahirs who ally the most powerful followers of their unusual circumstances. The standard pun- also belong to the Suhhar and who send art. All five must be present for the Majlis ishment for every crime is expulsion from representation each year. Of this total, to be valid; if any of them are missing the the Suhhar, though the grand vizier can al- about two-thirds are men, three-quarters family must agree upon another Asala be- ways declare a less severe punishment if he are Muslims, and only about 500 have The fore the grand vizier is chosen. feels it is merited — for example, he can Gift. In total, sahirs outnumber Hermetic The five Asalat have the authority to lessen a sentence by requiring the offender magi by about five to one. remove the grand vizier, and any of them pay a fine of vis (due by the next Majlis) may call for a private vote at any time if or perform a service for the Suhhar in lieu they believe he is unable to guide the Suh- of expulsion. Of course, the grand vizier Organization har with wisdom. They can also choose risks upsetting the rule of law and being another grand vizier between gatherings, removed from his position if he demon- if the previous grand vizier is removed strates obvious favoritism. The Suhhar Sulayman is governed by a or something happens to him, and this Since the days of the First Council, consultative council, the Majlis al-Sulayman appointment is valid until the next time most of the decisions of the Majlis have ((MAJ-liss al-SUE-lem-un), “Solomonic the Majlis meets. This is a rare event, not been justice between individuals, and only Council,” pl. Majalis). Every community least because it requires all five of them to rarely those that would affect the entire of three or more sahirs living within the gather and discuss it. For this reason, none Suhhar. Those few decisions of precedence borders of Islam chooses one of its number of the Asalat may be elected grand vizier, have mostly governed how representa- to represent it as a vizier at the Majlis, and though they each have a vote. tives speak for the sahirs they represent, this representative travels to Baghdad every Only viziers are supposed to attend and what constitutes a community (“three summer to speak on behalf of the commu- Majlis, though there are three exceptions. or more who live together” is the general nity. All these assembled viziers then elect Sahirs applying to join the Suhhar may at- rule). Other verdicts established the many one of their own to lead them as grand vi- tend in the company of a vizier, servants ways that sahirs may fulfill their obligation zier. Each vizier has one vote in this deci- of a vizier may attend to see to his needs, to the spread of knowledge. Sahirs must sion, no matter how many sahirs he repre- and spirits that have been summoned by not trouble the Majlis with matters that

26 The Cradle & The Crescent can be addressed by the mundane court subject to their laws, and could do what- from being used against the Suhhar, and unless there are supernatural factors that ever he wished to the other as recompense also to keep rival groups from forming in only sahirs would recognize, and then it is for being annoyed by him and his friends. the Middle East by limiting their access usually better that other sahirs speak with Since then, the Suhhar has treated all spir- to vis. Offering vis to spirits that sahirs the court on their behalf. its and other supernatural creatures as in- have summoned is perfectly acceptable, The fact that only viziers may attend eligible for membership. but sahirs are not supposed to trade away and speak at the Majlis, and that sahirs The Suhhar requires that sahirs only extracted vis to magi or other wizards in are usually not inclined to choose trouble- give or sell “magic things” that they have the region (trading naturally-occurring vis makers as their representatives, means that made to other sahirs. This was originally is still a gray area, and of course sahirs can it is common for a sahir accused at the Ma- agreed to ensure that sahirs did not anger buy vis with impunity). Also, sahirs are jlis to be unable to even attend, much less the caliph by supplying magical devices to required to retain control of any magical speak in his own defense. This is accepted his enemies, but is now used to help pre- devices that they make for non-sahirs to as normal, and a sahir’s vizier provides vent bound spirits and Solomonic magic use. This restriction includes mundane ob- such defense as he feels appropriate. Ob- viously, things often go badly for sahirs on bad terms with their vizier, but this is an- Majlis Story Seeds other reason for using the mundane courts to resolve most problems. There are many stories centered ceive representation among the Asalat, It is not uncommon for two aggrieved around the Majlis al-Sulayman, for sagas and demand a sixth Asala. Sahirs who parties, or the viziers representing them, focused on sahirs or magi. belong to this movement might use a to duel rather than rely on the judgment of six-pointed star as their symbol. the grand vizier. There are many kinds of trials acceptable to the Majlis, from boast- A New Grand Vizier ing contests and competitive storytelling The Sahir-Magus to spirit champions wrestling each other Kha’trazh appears to be in his fifties, for dominance — even duels to the death though he has lived almost a hundred A magus who can summon spirits using magic, steel, or both. For this to serve years. Many think he is likely to die could easily gain membership in the justice, both parties must agree to abide by soon, which will cause great delibera- Suhhar Sulayman, and perhaps speak the results of the duel (although if a sahir tion at the next Majlis as the assembled on behalf of his sodales in the Order of is obviously more powerful than his chal- sahirs try to choose an appropriate re- Hermes. This might make Kha’trazh’s lenger, it is considered cowardly not to ac- placement. When this happens between policy of avoiding immediate conflict cept), and the terms must be acceptable to gatherings, the Asalat usually choose the with the Order of Hermes unfeasible, both parties and the grand vizier. Gener- vizier who represents the original bayt and to resolve the situation he might ally, seconds decide the specifics, based on al-hikma (now called the Dar al-Hikma, quietly encourage other sahirs to chal- what they know of the competitors, and see Chapter 7: Mesopotamia, Baghdad) lenge this sahir-magus to a duel. these events are often seen as a form of en- to serve in the interim, but the sahir who tertainment for the assembled viziers. currently holds that position is very The Sahirs of Iberia An important issue settled by the Ma- controversial and unlikely to retain the position after the vote. Campaigning for jlis concerns sahirs who become super- An Iberian sahir comes to Majlis, natural beings (who, in mechanical terms, the position will likely proceed in earnest as soon as Kha’trazh dies. representing a community of sahirs that gain a Might Score). In the 10th century, a do not belong to the Order of Hermes. sahir complained that another had learned He reminds them that another Crusade to summon him with his magic, and had A Test of Arms threatens the followers of Islam — the shared this formula with several of his co- Reconquista — and begs them to con- horts, who would all constantly interrupt The Followers of the Stone typi- sider restoring their alliance. his studies by summoning him and pro- cally decide their Asala with a test of posing absurd bargains. The second sahir, arms, and a vengeful sahir who opposes who had guessed this was coming and got Kha’trazh might challenge his family’s The Vizier’s Opposition his companions to elect him their vizier, leader to try to take the position. argued that there was no law forbidding Kha’trazh expels a popular sahir ac- him from practicing the Art on any spirit cused of betraying the Suhhar. This is a he could summon. After much discussion, The Sixth Asalat rallying point for the leader of the grand the grand vizier ruled that since the first vizier’s opposition, who promises to re- sahir could be summoned by the second, A group of sahirs who do not be- store the disgraced sahir if his support- he was no longer a sahir. As a supernatu- long to the five families insist they re- ers will vote for him. ral being, the (former) sahir was no longer

27 The Cradle & The Crescent Majlis in Baghdad

Every summer, many of the streets ens beyond. The six descending steps vizier who wishes to speak. The contem- and much of the open land on the south of comfort where the viziers assemble porary Majlis is usually a quiet buzz of side of the Round City in Baghdad (see by family surround a central stage with many different voices speaking together, Chapter 7) fill with stalls and tents in an a gold-inlaid pentacle, where the grand surrounding the louder and more formal enormous fair. This is attended by mer- vizier sits on a jeweled throne. speeches in the central circle. Another chants from all over the Mythic Middle The official dates of the Majlis al- grand vizier might organize the event East, and lasts most of the season. All Sulayman are always carefully calcu- differently, as others have in the past. manner of goods and services may be lated by the astrologers of the Suhhar to Many sahirs come to this event to found at this event, including unique match the dates of the First Council. It trade vis with each other outside in the items and entertainments brought by is supposed to begin at dusk on the day market. Some types of vis are particu- strange men from fantastic lands. Visitors when the sun passes from the constella- larly valuable to them (what magi would are cautioned to maintain a clear idea of tion of Leo into the sign of Virgo, and identify as Rego vis), and some are not what they seek before they explore, for it continues through the following night, (they generally have little use for Animal there are many vendors who appear only typically breaking up before dusk on the and Herbam vis). Magi who come upon when their wares are especially desired, third day. (In 1220 AD, this is August 15- the bazaar may be surprised at the num- or who lure unwary travelers into their 17.) In unusual circumstances the Majlis ber of supernatural curiosities available tents where they disappear forever. can continue beyond these dates, but the for barter. The Suhhar Sulayman meets here majority of the viziers will likely depart, Once the Majlis is over and summer every year in a great six-sided hall lo- their obligation having been fulfilled. has turned to autumn, the south side of cated at the center of the bazaar and If re-elected, the current grand vi- the old city of Baghdad empties and the hidden from outsiders with powerful zier Kha’trazh holds formal council the collection of paths, lots and stalls soon magic, so that it appears as a collection first evening and late into the night, and looks like a jumble of ruins again. The lo- of brightly-colored tents always in the all the next day as well, though he does cal sahirs maintain this illusion of dilapi- distance. It is usually guarded by several not expect the other viziers to endure dated abandonment, to prevent passersby powerful spirits summoned by the Asalat his strict regimen, and does not appear from stumbling upon their buildings or to keep outsiders from intruding. Inside to notice if anyone naps through the other evidence of the yearly gathering. A the hall is a series of luxurious tiers sev- proceedings. He usually reserves more few of the vendors do remain throughout eral levels deep, outfitted with sumptu- controversial matters for the second eve- the year, though they tend to be “in the ous pillows, lamps, fans, and magically- ning after dinner. Viziers are encouraged know” since the district does not have a conjured servants that bring food and to mingle, for once the grand vizier has good reputation with the rest of Baghdad drink, all of this beneath a transparent been elected their official role is done, and most of its people look to other mar- ceiling that shows the sky and the heav- though Kha’trazh listens patiently to any kets for their needs. jects that have been improved with Solo- vote, the Asalat settle the matter. Once His chief virtues are that he is thought to monic magic, like weapons or animals, and when there was a tie for grand vizier, the be easily guided by the voices of his as- has recently been applied to books writ- Asalat voted to determine the winner. An- sembled viziers, that he listens to every- ten about Solomonic magic. Sahirs caught other time when the former grand vizier one who wishes to speak, and that he is on letting enhanced items loose must forfeit was delayed until past dusk and the as- relatively good terms with all five Asalat. whatever payment they received, and are sembled viziers had proceeded to choose The Majlis has always been a festive usually tasked by the grand vizier with re- another grand vizier without him, the occasion, but in the years since the start covering the enhanced items for the Suh- Asalat decided to reverse the decision and of the Crusades, the tone of the gathering har in lieu of expulsion. vote again. has become more solemn. Sahirs know Another issue that has been settled For nearly 30 years, the Majlis has that a powerful enemy has invaded, one by precedent is who may participate in chosen Kha’trazh al-Wazir al-Dall Ariq al- who can probably infiltrate their gather- the vote for grand vizier, and who settles Qalb to lead them, a calm and quiet man ings and divine their movements. Thus, disputes regarding the outcome. In order from Basra who always chooses his words they are careful not to wage war overtly, to attend the Majlis, every sahir must be carefully. He is not considered especially and their plans are not discussed in public. vouched for by an Asala, who introduces clever or powerful — he does not have The official word is that the Majlis has no him to the assembly and names the com- The Gift — and he is said to have cho- authority over non-Solomonic wizards, munity he represents. If no Asala will sen his laqab name al-Wazir al-Dall (“the and so matters dealing with them are off speak for him, he may not enter. If there dignified vizier”) to suggest that he would the table. Those sahirs who have encoun- is a dispute regarding the outcome of the not abuse his position or give himself airs. tered the enemy are usually invited to

28 The Cradle & The Crescent

meet privately with the grand vizier in a themselves instructing young students subsidize the bayt or fund special projects magical fortress on an island hidden deep alongside master sahirs. requested by the grand vizier. within the Magic Realm, where such mat- Many sahirs may live within buyut Most new sahirs learn magic from oth- ters can be discussed more openly. al-hikma, while others merely live nearby er sahirs, though a few are discovered with and visit them regularly. A few sahirs, es- summoning powers and invited to initiate pecially those with The Gift, live on their the Solomonic arts with aid from their How Sahirs Live own far from large groups of people, and mentors. When brought before the Majlis communicate with other sahirs through and recognized as a new member, a sahir written messages or other means. Every typically takes a new name by which he Sahirs are typically organized around sahir must maintain ties with his bayt, be- will be known from then on. This is often buyut al-hikma, which are run by the vi- cause it is his only connection to the Suh- a unique collection of sounds that the sa- ziers of the Suhhar. Their primary purpose har as a whole. If a vizier has been unable hir likes, or perhaps a name taken to honor is teaching the Art of Solomon to other sa- to make contact with a sahir for five years, someone he admires, similar to the Mus- hirs and initiating promising students into he is considered lost. Others may be sent lim ism. He typically adds a nisba to the end their secrets. Their secondary purpose is to try to find him, or may not, depending of his name as well, to represent his Solo- educating their community and providing on the opinion his vizier has of him, but if monic family: al-Sakhr, al-Najm, al-Yad, a center for higher learning and culture. a lost sahir returns, he may always go to al-Qalb, al-Nahr, or very rarely al-Halqa Most cities in the Middle East have a bayt Majlis with his vizier and ask to rejoin. (see The Families of Solomon’s Seal). If a al-hikma located somewhere within their Like most scholars in the Mythic sahir is chosen by his community to speak walls, and some (like Baghdad or Najaf) Middle East, sahirs must support them- for them, he typically takes another name, have several. selves, typically by working two seasons a laqab that describes how he intends to Buyut al-hikma typically have a li- out of every year. If a sahir lives at a bayt represent them. This nickname is only brary (made up of books donated in ex- al-hikma, these two seasons include the used as long as he fulfills this role; if he change for access), Solomonic laborato- season of service required by the Suhhar. steps down or his community appoints an- ries, and vis stores. They are similar to Many sahirs teach, instructing other sahirs other, the laqab is dropped. Hermetic covenants, and can be designed or students in the Solomonic arts or other in much the same way. Unlike Hermetic subjects as directed by the community’s covenants, however, buyut do not typi- leaders. Others are scribes, apothecaries, cally have an income that can support or physicians, though other professions more than the sahirs who live and work are possible too. Characters there, since they must also provide service For those sahirs who are uncomfort- to their community. Buyut are generally able working among others, or unable This section includes rules for design- welcoming to strangers, since sahirs are, to do so, the donation of one-quarter of ing sahir characters to play in a saga, ei- at least in theory, obliged to share their their wealth is considered an acceptable ther as an unusual character in a Hermetic knowledge with anyone who has an inter- substitute for service. Each sahir gives his magi saga, or as a standard character in a est. Teachers at buyut occasionally find contribution to his vizier, who uses it to saga set in the Mythic Middle East.

29 The Cradle & The Crescent Sahir Virtues and Flaws For example, Jasmin knows the Name of Pow- Solomonic Alchemy er: Ishtar at Level 20, granting her +4 to healing Major, Supernatural effects. She utters this formula in the round before a The character gains an Accelerated Some of these Virtues refer to Accelerat- Solomonic Physic formula designed to speed recov- Supernatural Ability, Solomonic Alchemy, ed Supernatural Abilities. These are like oth- ery, and receives a +4 bonus to her Casting Total. with an initial score of 0. er Supernatural Abilities, but they increase Jasmin also knows a Level 15 Name of Power: Ni- on the same accelerated scale as Hermetic nhursag that gives +3 to earth-related effects, and Arts, and are described in more detail under a Level 15 Name of Power: Nergal that gives +3 to Solomonic Astrology The Solomonic Arts, later in this chapter. destruction-related effects. She wants to summon an Major, Supernatural There are many Hermetic Virtues and earthquake spirit, so takes two rounds to utter both; Taking this Virtue gives the character Flaws that might be appropriate for sahirs however, since her Finesse is 5, she receives only +5 the Accelerated Supernatural Ability of to take as Supernatural Virtues or Flaws, as to her roll to summon the spirit, rather than +6. Solomonic Astrology with an initial score long as they improve or limit Solomonic Botching a Name of Power roll, or a of 0. magic to the same degree. Storyguides are spell affected by a Name of Power, usu- encouraged to adapt these as they see fit. ally attracts the negative attention of the Named being. This Virtue is similar to Solomonic Physic (and possibly the ancestor of) the Invoca- Major, Supernatural New and Modified Virtues tion Magic Virtue (The Mysteries Revised Edi- Taking this Virtue gives the character tion, page 78). the Accelerated Supernatural Ability of Sol- The following Virtues are appropriate The yatus (see Persia, Chapter 8) in- omonic Physic with an initial score of 0. to sahir characters. troduced this Virtue into the Suhhar Su- layman, and they usually call upon the names of the ancient Mesopotamian gods Solomonic Storytelling Invocation of Names of Power (see Mythic Mesopotamia, Chapter 7). Major, Supernatural Major, Supernatural Taking this Virtue gives the character the The sahir is capable of casting a unique Accelerated Supernatural Ability Solomonic type of spell called a Name of Power, which Sahir Storytelling with an initial score of 0. is invented like a summoning spell (see Sea- Free, Social Status sonal Summoning, later in this chapter) By demonstrating to the Majlis that but grants a bonus to a subsequently cast he can summon a spirit, the character has Solomonic Travel spell, similar in scope to those found on the been accepted into the Suhhar and is af- Major, Supernatural Shape and Material Bonus table. The spell filiated with a magical academy known as The character gains an initial score of level is equal to five times the bonus; some a bayt al-hikma, or “house of wisdom.” He 0 in the Accelerated Supernatural Ability example Names of Power are given in the is obliged to further the Suhhar’s causes for of Solomonic Travel. nearby insert. If the sahir knows a Name one season every year, but is supported by of Power that governs the area of another them and benefits from increased access to spell he wishes to cast, he may “utter” (cast) its teachers, books, and vis sources. During Vizier the Name of Power first, and the subse- character creation, the character may take Minor, Social Status quent spell’s Casting Total receives a bonus appropriate Academic or Arcane Abilities. The character has been elected as equal to that of the Name of Power. Thus, a If the character does not actually pos- representative for a community of sahirs. Name of Power: Shamash can give a bonus sess the power to summon a spirit, he This gives him several political advan- to any formula involving light or justice. A should take the Dark Secret Story Flaw, as tages, such as the ability to attend Majlis sahir may utter any number of applicable he will be immediately expelled from the and speak before the grand vizier, as well Names of Power before casting a spell, but Suhhar when this fact is discovered. as additional responsibilities at his bayt al- the total bonus cannot exceed his Finesse This Virtue should be taken along hikma. The character has a Reputation of score. Names of Power can also be used in with another Social Status Virtue or Flaw, level 3 among the Suhhar, which can be conjunction with summoning; the Names to describe the character’s status among positive or negative. invoked must match the type of spirit being non-sahirs. Only characters with the Sahir Virtue summoned. Some examples are: may take this Virtue.

Name type Sihr Adad storms, divination Dumuzi livestock, crops Major, Supernatural Yatu Magic Ishtar healing, love This Virtue gives the character an ini- Minor, Supernatural Nergal destruction, disease tial score of 0 in the Accelerated Super- The sahir’s heritage comes from the Ninhursag earth natural Ability of (Solomonic) Sihr. yatus of Persia (see Mazandaran, Chap- Shamash light, justice ter 8). He is attuned to both Magic and

30 The Cradle & The Crescent

Faerie auras, and his magical effects can companion’s Might Score, the more inde- as other sahirs will assume that the sahir be treated as either Magic or Faerie pow- pendent it is. A grog-level spirit (Might has it under control, though they might be ers, depending upon which gives him the Score of about 5 or less) is nearly an exten- more wary in its presence. most favorable (or least unfavorable) aura sion of the character’s will, while a com- bonus. He does not gain Warping Points panion-level spirit (Might Score of about from living in either type of aura. 10) will follow instructions but often do Sahir Character Creation what it thinks is best, and a magus-level character (Might Score of 15 or more) is New and Modified Flaws condescending or wild, and rarely acts ex- Designing sahirs is slightly different cept on its own initiative. from making magi, as the majority of sa- These Flaws are also designed espe- The spirit may belong to any realm. If hirs do not have The Gift and are more cially for sahir characters. it is infernal, this is a Major Story Flaw in- like companions in terms of power. Sahirs stead, as the demon regularly attempts to do not have an established apprentice- corrupt the sahir. An infernal Spirit Com- ship period, so their seasonal experience Bound Spells panion in the Mythic Middle East is not gained during character creation is stream- Major, Supernatural as bad as it would be in Mythic Europe, lined, and since sahirs manage their own All of the sahir’s spells are bound to a specific spirit when they are invented, the spirit that was present in the laboratory to Other Summoning Arts power the effect. Unlike other sahirs, the character cannot cast his spells through There are four summoning powers come from any realm, and is typically any spirit he summons, but must use the published in other Ars Magica supple- held within a container until released. spirit to which the spell is bound. The ments that may be used with Solomonic The power is most commonly Magic, sahir may easily reinvent a spell in one magic, since all can target spirits and though other realms are possible. It is season that he has learned to cast with an- originate from the Art of Solomon. relatively common in Persia and Asia other spirit, since he effectively possesses These are listed in order of rarity in the Minor. (Hedge Magic Revised Edition, pages a lab text for that spell. Middle East, from most to least, with 23-24) their variations are summarized as follows. To help distinguish them, differ- Patron ent versions of Summoning often have a (Exotic) Sihr, Minor or Major, Story parenthetical in front of the name, sug- or (Jinni) Summoning The character serves an important fig- gesting their particular focus. Like Solomonic Sihr, this Iberian ure in the Mythic Middle East, such as the version of the Art can summon and caliph, a wealthy emir, an ancient jinni, or bind a jinni, if the sahir can overpower a powerful sahir. This person will periodi- (Spirit) Summoning it with his Summoning Total. It is not cally instruct the character to act on his This Art summons any incorporeal very common in the Mythic Middle behalf — the more powerful the patron, spirit, generally one associated with the East, since its Solomonic counterpart is the more onerous or frequent the duties same realm as this Art, though Infernal so widespread. (Houses of Hermes: Societates, that will be required of the character. As a spirits are also common. If the summon- pages 135-136) Minor Flaw, the character has the patron’s ing is successful, the spirit is bound un- ear, and may influence him and his requests. til released by the summoner. (Spirit) Also, the patron will generally grant a fa- Summoning is always tainted with the (Realm) Summoning, vor or boon to the character whenever he Infernal, and thus Infernal versions are or (Faerie) Summoning does something that is asked of him. As a most common, but there are also Faerie Major Flaw, the character has little choice and Magic versions. (Realms of Power: The This is a rare Summoning vari- in the matter and must do whatever his Infernal, pages 114-115) ant targeting creatures from a single patron asks, or suffer grave consequences. realm, and so can potentially summon Rewards are not to be expected. Divine, Faerie, Magic, or Infernal spir- (Theurgical) Summoning, its. Currently the only known version or (Elemental) Summoning summons faeries (Realms of Power: Faerie, (Realm) Spirit Companion pages 131-132), and is found among the Minor, Story Some of this magical tradition’s yatus of Persia and occasional travelers The character is accompanied by an followers summon spirits associated from Europe, though there are also ru- intelligent magical spirit companion, one with the elemental forms (Aquam, Au- mors of a far eastern version aligned to that is smart enough to follow orders, and ram, Ignem, or Terram). The spirit can the Divine. also to disobey them. The greater the

31 The Cradle & The Crescent

ing Virtue or Virtues may begin play after having been initiated into the tradition by another Gifted sahir, with all five of his Solomonic arts opened at 0. He also receives a Minor Virtue at no cost to represent his teacher’s influence: usually Puis- sant (Ability) in the Solomonic art associated with the master’s family. Many sahirs are Educated (see Intro- duction, Chapter 1) or have Arcane Lore or the Student of Magic Virtue to represent their studies with their mentors. A few sahirs learn their magic from spirits directly, and the Ghostly Warder Virtue is one way to represent this advantage. Like other characters unaffiliated with a Hermetic covenant, sahirs must spend time every year working to support themselves (this includes their yearly obligation to the Suhhar). For most sahirs, this takes two seasons every year. Characters with the Wealthy Virtue lose only one season a year, and those with the Poor Flaw are free only one season each year. The difference between these two extremes is especially noticeable during character creation; a rich sahir will be many magnitudes more powerful than a poor sahir — nearly all of the greatest sahirs in the history of the Suhhar Sulayman have been wealthy and privileged. Some sahirs have a long-term mutually beneficial arrangement with a minor spirit, which is best represented by the (Realm) Spirit Companion Flaw. It is not uncommon for young sahirs to have abused or angered spirits before they joined the Suh- incomes rather than depending on a cov- Secret Flaw, he should have the Sihr Vir- har, giving them the Plagued by Spirit or enant, the Wealthy Virtue and Poor Flaw tue or another Virtue or Virtues that al- Supernatural Nuisance Flaws. have a much greater impact. low him to summon spirits. For example, Gifted sahirs should occupy the same a Kurdish group of sorcerers called the status as magi. With the troupe’s approval, Mulhidun in northern Persia (see Realms Experience unGifted sahirs may be Mythic Compan- of Power: The Infernal, pages 136-137) ions, with twice as many points of Virtues have (Spirit) Summoning, and many of Sahirs receive starting experience like as Flaws and a free Minor Virtue, and tak- them have joined the Suhhar. There are normal companions. They begin character ing the place of a magus character. Un- also two societies of elemental wizards creation with Native Language at 5 and 45 Gifted sahirs can also be played as regular found throughout the region, called the experience points to spend on their first companions with the normal amount of Brethren of Purity and the Students of five years. Then, in later life, most sahirs Virtues and Flaws. Avicenna (see Hedge Magic Revised Edition, receive 15 experience points per year of pages 28–32), and a few of them might their starting age (those with the Wealthy have a special elementalist summoning Virtue receive 20 and those with the Poor Virtues and Flaws art (Theurgical Summoning) and one or Flaw receive 10). more Elementalist Abilities (e.g., Elemen- Once the sahir has joined the Suhhar, Every sahir accepted into the Suh- talist Fire) that can be used in conjunction he receives 25 experience points per year har Sulayman takes the Free Sahir Social to summon an elemental spirit. (30 if he is Wealthy, 15 if he is Poor). This Status Virtue. Unless he takes the Dark A sahir with The Gift and a summon- represents his improved access to study

32 The Cradle & The Crescent

sources and magical resources. ter, and on the Solomonic arts and other out being paid for their services or being Players should consider spending the Supernatural Abilities that they have avail- compelled by his magic. character’s experience on the following able to them during character creation be- Abilities: cause of Virtues, or because they have had The Gift opened by a teacher. A starting Laboratory Activities • To cast spells, a sahir must have a sahir should be able to summon a spirit score of 4 in one of the languages sa- with a Might Score of 10 using his sum- Players can trade 10 experience points hirs use (Arabic, Parsi, or Greek). To moning art, and should have a score of at during character creation to have their read and write books, he needs this least 5 in one of the five Solomonic arts. sahirs spend a season in the laboratory in- language score at 5 and Artes Libera- Sahirs can also purchase Solomonic stead of studying, but only as many times les 1. (Most of the Suhhar’s books are spells during character creation, recorded per year as the character has free seasons. written in Arabic.) like Hermetic spells and with a maximum In this season, the character may perform • Sahirs can often locate new spirits with level of (Intelligence + summoning art + any seasonal summoning activity described Area Lore. Solomonic art + related Ability). Assuming under Solomonic Magic. Assume that the • Bargain is essential when sahirs want that every sahir studies from appropriate character has access to half the maximum to convince spirits to aid them. lab texts, each spell costs a number of start- amount of vis as he can spend on the activi- • Many magical effects require Concen- ing experience points equal to its level. For ty, and that he is working in an aura with no tration to cast and maintain. example, a Level 15 spell costs 15 experi- bonus or penalty. For activities that affect a • Finesse is often used to manipulate ac- ence points. Sahirs can start with any spells spirit during character creation, such as the tive magic. that their players would like to design. khadim bond or a greater binding, the sa- • Leadership allows sahirs to lead Spells are extremely valuable to sahirs, hir must have an appropriate Virtue or Flaw groups of spirits, or other sahirs in the and a starting character should always in- that gives him a willing spirit companion. laboratory. vest in a minimum of 120 spell levels, or • A sahir is able to summon spirits more his magic will be severely limited. effectively with Penetration. Aging and Warping • Sahirs must somehow make a living. Often this is represented with scores Spirits Characters 35 years or older need to in Profession: Apothecary, Profes- make an Aging roll for each year. Note sion: Scribe or Teaching, as these Spirits are essential for a sahir — with- that knowledge of Solomonic Alchemy trades are typically practiced at buyut out them he cannot cast any spells — and and Solomonic Physic can influence the al-hikma. Other Abilities can be justi- so a good sahir will collect Arcane Con- character’s Aging rolls (see The Solomonic fied; the character’s total in the related nections to appropriate spirits, or learn Art, Magical Defenses, later in this chap- Characteristic + Ability should at least summoning spells he can use for the same ter). A typical sahir also gains 2 Warping equal 6. purpose. Also, since the sahir’s magic is Points each year after he starts studying • Realm Lore describes spirits and su- basically channeled through the spirit he and practicing Solomonic magic. pernatural places, useful for finding summons, the spirit’s nature and personal- and identifying them. ity alters the sahir’s magic in subtle ways • Knowledge of the Suhhar is governed (in much the same way that spells cast by by Organization Lore: Suhhar Sulay- a Hermetic magus show evidence of his man. Their legal code and belief systems casting sigil). Thus, the unique qualities Solomonic are covered by Islamic Law and Theol- of the spirit a sahir calls have significant ogy: Islam; the latter combined with influence on his magic. an Arabic score of 6 or more can help A starting sahir should choose one Magic protect sahirs against jinn (see Chapter spirit that he can summon to be the focus 4: The Jinn, Jinni Weaknesses). of most of his magic, and assume that he The sahirs’ magic comes from their • Sahirs should not neglect the Abilities has an Arcane Connection to it. He should ability to summon spirits and direct them associated with their Solomonic arts also note something about its personality in limited ways. Over the many years they (Area Lore, Artes Liberales, Medi- and powers in order to describe a cosmetic have been practicing this, sahirs have de- cine, Philosophiae, and Realm Lore), effect that accompanies his magic when- veloped ways to modify their summoning as these scores increase their lab totals ever he involves that spirit. If he has spent powers so that instead of causing a spirit and add to their casting totals when any of his experience points on summon- to manifest within a circle or other mystic they cast spells without magical words ing spells, he may choose a spirit for each container, they can draw upon its power or gestures. one. Unless he has a Virtue like Ghostly to create other magical effects. These su- Warder or a Flaw like Magical Spirit Com- pernatural means of affecting a target with Sahirs will likely spend experience on panion, he cannot assume that any of Solomonic magic are collectively called other Abilities appropriate to the charac- these spirits will do him any favors with- “the Solomonic Art,” but each power is

33 The Cradle & The Crescent also a “Solomonic art.” These arts (not Solomonic Spells Summoning Spells technically Arts but rather Accelerated Su- pernatural Abilities) are described in more (Naranjs) The most basic form of naranj avail- detail later in this chapter. able to sahirs uses their summoning art, The Solomonic Art can be used in two A sahir’s spells are a recipe for draw- and summons a spirit to a prepared place ways: to quickly cast memorized spells, ing upon a summoned spirit’s power in within a few paces of the caster. This is or for long-term magical projects over a a way that creates a magical effect. This called a summoning spell. Unlike using season or more. The former is called for- formula is called a naranj (“spell”). Sahirs their summoning art, this naranj only mulaic summoning, and the latter is called generally know many naranjs, which takes a moment and does not cost any seasonal summoning. Every sahir has (or they cast much as Hermetic magi cast fatigue or vis. The sahir is still warded should have) a summoning power, such their spells — by concentrating for a against the spirit, and as usual the spirit as Sihr, that is used to summon a spirit or moment and speaking an incantation likely wants something in return for other sort of being and negotiate with it. while gesturing at the target. Learning whatever service the sahir asks. To cast a Sahirs refer to this power as their summon- to cast a naranj takes a season of work summoning spell, the player rolls a stress ing art, but Sihr is sometimes considered a in a special laboratory (described under die and adds Presence plus his score in Solomonic art in its own right, and part Seasonal Summoning, in the next part of his summoning art, as well as his modifier of the Solomonic art as a whole (see The this section). for the aura. Solomonic Arts, Sihr).

Sample Sahir: ‘Arkhaman Laqy al-Hayz al-Nahr

Characteristics: Int +2, Per +1, Pre +2, lab texts), Stealth 2 (sneaking) secret, the child was raised at the acad- Com +1, Str –1, Sta 0, Dex 0, Qik 0 Sihr: 10, Alchemy: 0, Astrology: 5, Phys- emy and desired only to serve the sahirs, Size: 0 ic: 0, Storytelling: 5, Travel: 10+2 but as he grew older, his resemblance to Age: 25 (25) Spells Known: the important family became more pro- Warping Score: 2 (2) Kharrat, the braggart (Infernal Might nounced. They decided to bring him Confidence Score: 1 (3) 10/+12) into the Suhhar, and initiated him into Virtues and Flaws: The Gift; Sahir, Vi- What are the words that surround [Target]? Sihr. The first spirit he summoned was zier, Wise One; Gentle Gift, Sihr (Astrology 15 Ritual/+7) the being he believes to be his father: an (Magic); Arcane Lore, Puissant [Spirit], his arms wide (Storytelling 10/+7) Infernal jinni named Kharrat. Solomonic Travel (free); Magic Ad- Make their eyelids heavy and their heads to fall Kharrat is a pompous and arrogant diction, Infernal Spirit Companion; (Storytelling 15/+7) spirit who believes that ‘Arkhaman’s desire Reckless, Sheltered Upbringing, Through the gray haze (Travel 20/+14) to please his father will lead him to evil, Tainted with Evil [Spirit] brings the curse of Bayna (Travel and thinks he has him completely tamed. Personality Traits: Optimistic +3, Reck- 25/+14) ‘Arkhaman is naive, but has been warned less +3, Friendly +2, Brave –1 We will meet again as the seasons turn (Travel by the older sahirs not to let Kharrat take Combat: 25 Ritual/+14) advantage of him. So far, he has been able Dodge: Init 0, Attack n/a, Defense 0, Appearance: ‘Arkhaman is a pale man to control the jinni with vis, but as soon Damage –1 with black hair, thin eyebrows and as possible Kharrat will get him to accept Soak: +0 a curled moustache. He has an inno- a duty and agree to seek out his mother. Fatigue Levels: OK, 0, –1, –3, –5, cent twinkle in his eye and a confi- The shame that his presence will bring to Unconscious dent smile. He wears a hooded robe her delights the wicked spirit. Wound Penalties: –1 (1–5), –3 (6–10), that has seen very little travel, baggy ‘Arkhaman only recently manifested –5 (11–15), Incapacitated (16–20), clothes, and he is likely sitting down. The Gift, and the power he now wields Dead (21+) The suggestion of a demonic spirit has made him a bit wild. When he casts Abilities: Arabic 5 (Solomonic usage), might hover over his left shoulder a spell, he often cannot resist casting an- Area Lore: Sana’a 3 (people), Artes (see Kharrat, later). other (because of his Magic Addiction Liberales 2 (lab work), Awareness 2 Flaw), and his presence generally makes (alertness), Bargain 3 (with Kharrat), The boy Laqy was born at the bayt those without The Gift uncomfortable Concentration 2 (regaining control), al-hikma of Sana’a to a woman who (Tainted with Evil). His masters believe Finesse 2 (casting multiple effects), desperately wished to keep him hidden he needs to meet other Gifted sahirs or Infernal Lore 5 (spirits), Magic Lore from the imam, her uncle. His father he will go mad; thus they have elected 2 (spirits), Penetration 2 (Infernal was a spirit of flame, she said, a beauti- him their vizier and are sending him to spirits), Profession Scribe 5 (copying ful jinni with black eyes. Delivered in Baghdad this summer to represent them.

34 The Cradle & The Crescent Kharrat the Braggart, an Infernal Jinni

Order: Tempter (Shaitan) mother. The victim may be as angry nicates with its chosen companion. Infernal Might: 10 (Ignem) as they like with the demon, but ac- Coagulation, 2 points, Init –1, Corpus: See Characteristics: Int 0, Per +1, Pre +3, Com tually physically opposing it requires Realms of Power: The Infernal, page 31. 0, Str +2, Sta +2, Dex +2, Qik +1 a huge effort of will, which must be Obsession, 1 to 3 points, Init –5, Vim: Size: 0 repeated every time the victim wants Overconfident. SeeRealms of Power: Confidence Score: 1 (3) to renew his attacks. The Infernal, page 31. Virtues and Flaws: Jinni; Greater Male- Control Human, 2 points, Init equal to Qik, Weakness: Protected Group (A victim diction (bound by bargains); Weak- Mentem. If this power penetrates, who willingly and totally rejects him, Willed Kharrat exerts direct control over its fueled with a Confidence Point), Personality Traits: Selfish +5, Proud +3, companion. It can issue commands Protected Group (individuals that in- Cruel +3 that the target carries out to the best voke the Bismallah invocation) Reputations: none of his abilities; however, the target Vis: 2 pawns of Ignem in its eyes Hierarchy: 1 (Shaitan) can attempt to break the control of Appearance: Kharrat looks like a nor- Combat: the jinni every time he is asked to do mal man with pale skin and com- Fist: Init +1, Attack +9, Defense +8, something contrary to the tenets of pletely black eyes that give off Damage +2 his faith. smoke like smoldering coals. He is Soak: +10 Envisioning, 1 or 2 points, Init +2, Men- generally in spirit form, where no Fatigue Levels: OK, 0, –1, –3, –5, tem. This Power allows Kharrat to one can see him. Unconscious appear in the dreams of its sleeping Wound Penalties: –1 (1–5), –3 (6–10), companion (in which case it costs 1 Kharrat is a pompous and arrogant –5 (11–15), Incapacitated (16–20), point), or make the target experience jinni (see Chapter 4: The Jinn). He de- Dead (21+) a waking dream or vision (in which sires nothing more than to corrupt and Abilities: Arabic 5 (threats), Brawl 6 case it costs 5 points). The shaitan control the sahir named ‘Arkhaman, who (fist), Charm 6 (bragging), Concen- cannot instantly make substantial believes him to be his father. At every tration 2 (maintaining spells), Folk changes to a dream, but instead grad- opportunity, he encourages ‘Arkhaman Ken 3 (temptation), Penetration 3 ually twists it to take on darker and to behave recklessly and with sinful pride (Vim), Theology: Islam 1 (jinn) more frightening tone, and can speak by goading him through his dreams, Powers: through any figure from the victim’s or by affecting him with his Obsession Apparition, 1 point, Init 0, Imaginem: subconscious. A waking dream is power. His plan is to help ‘Arkhaman to Kharrat may assume an illusory form more obvious; the victim suffers an become a powerful sahir under his con- that only his chosen victim, ‘Arkha- immediate and powerful hallucina- trol, and then force him to help Kharrat man, can perceive. To ‘Arkhaman, tion of whatever the demon desires. rise in the infernal hierarchy by fighting the form appears to be a real person This may be so frightening that the other demons. in all respects. victim is stunned for a round, and When used to channel Solomonic Protection of the Close Friend, 0 points, Init must make a Brave Personality roll magic, Kharrat is strongly associated +3, Mentem: The chosen victim of against an ease Factor of 9 or have an with a sickly shade of yellow, like tar- Kharrat cannot act directly against extreme reaction, such as retching, nished brass or sandy mud. This colors it without extreme provocation; it convulsions, or abject terror. This is ‘Arkhaman’s magic much like a wizard’s would be akin to attacking one’s own the preferred way a qareen commu- sigil affects Hermetic spells.

Summoning Total: monic summoning spells are designed to Penetration Total: stress die + Presence affect specific spirits, each summoning spell Summoning Total + sahir’s Penetration + summoning art + aura incorporates the spirit’s True Name, which bonus – spirit’s Might Score is a permanent Arcane Connection to that Ease Factor: spirit. This allows the player to add 5 to the sahir’s Penetration score multiplier when spirit’s Might Score Formulaic and Ritual Spells casting that particular summoning spell or To succeed, the sahir must penetrate using other Supernatural Abilities that must the summoned spirit’s Magic Resistance. penetrate that spirit’s Magic Resistance to The most common type of naranj that Just as magi often do, sahirs can use Arcane have an effect. (This usually means that the sahirs learn are formulaic spells, which re- Connections and sympathetic magic to sahir multiplies his Penetration score by 6, quire that the sahir has already summoned boost their penetration — and since Solo- since his multiplier starts at 1.) a spirit and convinced it to serve him. (For

35 The Cradle & The Crescent

greater control over the effect (described Spells with Arcane Connections in the guidelines later in this chapter). There are also many special guidelines for Solomonic magic allows sahirs to Connections can be taught to other effects that are only ritual spells. invent summoning spells that incorpo- sahirs and described in texts like any To maintain a ritual spell, the spirit rate a permanent Arcane Connection. other spell. must concentrate. If it is distracted, make This is very similar to a True Name, a Solomonic magic has not yet incor- a Stamina + Concentration stress roll for supernatural formula similar to a spell porated Arcane Connections into other it, with the Ease Factor varying on the that mystically identifies the target. Like types of spells — perhaps because sahirs severity of distraction. Failure means the any Arcane Connection, summoning have few uses for an Arcane Connection effect ends. spells do not stack with other Arcane once they have summoned a spirit — Whenever a sahir casts a naranj Connections for increased Penetration, though this may be something that they through a spirit that is already maintain- but may be combined with sympathetic are working on. Also, such a discovery ing one or more ritual spells, the sahir’s connections such as the spirit’s horo- would be a great benefit to magi, and an player makes a Perception + Finesse roll scope or a symbolic representation of it excellent subject for original Hermetic with Ease Factor equal to (6 x (the number for additional bonuses. These summon- research (see Integration, Hermetic True of active ritual spells)). If he fails, he can- ing spells and their associated Arcane Names, later in this chapter). not complete the spell and it has no effect. Most ritual spells allow the sahir to cancel them at will, and he may choose to do this a sahir with a spirit companion, this means has drawn from the spirit during the sum- before he rolls. that he must still formally summon the moning, and applies to every naranj cast Ritual spells cannot be disguised with spirit using a summoning spell or his sum- through that particular spirit (and typical- an Ability, although the sahir may still moning art before it can channel his magic ly improves his position when bargaining draw upon his knowledge to increase his for him.) They use the sahir’s knowledge with it as well). Casting Total. This adds fifteen minutes of the Art to direct his summoned spirit’s Some summoning arts allow the sahir per magnitude of the spell to the casting power into a magical effect. to summon a spirit even if his total does time. Note that unlike Hermetic ritual When casting formulaic spells, the not exceed the target’s Might Score; a neg- spells, Solomonic ritual spells cast without sahir must have summoned the spirit that ative Summoning Strength means the sa- incorporating an Ability only take a mo- powers the effect himself, he must be close hir is less able to direct his magic through ment to cast, just like a formulaic spell. enough to the spirit that it can see him and that particular spirit, and thus gives him a hear his voice, and he must either speak penalty to his casting total. Ritual Spell Casting Total: in a firm voice with bold gestures or per- spend vis, stress die + Presence form a mundane activity associated with Summoning Strength: + Solomonic art + Summoning Strength the effect. For example, when casting a Summoning Total – spirit’s Might Score + aura (+ appropriate Ability, if used) formulaic spell associated with Solomonic Physic, the sahir may choose to administer Casting a formulaic spell requires With both types of naranj, if the sa- to the patient as a physician rather than that the sahir’s player make a stress roll, hir’s Casting Total is less than the level, his obviously performing sorcery. to which is added his Presence, his score Summoning Strength with that spirit is re- Using an Ability in this way generally in the Solomonic art associated with the duced by the difference, and he loses one adds about 15 minutes per magnitude of effect, his Summoning Strength, and his Fatigue level for every 5 levels by which the spell to the casting time, but becomes aura modifier. If the sahir performs the ef- he missed. If this fatigue causes him to fall more difficult to recognize as a magical effect using an Ability, add his Ability score unconscious, the spell fails; otherwise, the fect. For example, to see through the cover to the total. effect manifests. activity, a suspicious character might roll If the target is protected by Magic his Perception + the Ability against the sa- Formulaic Spell Casting Total: Resistance, the effect must penetrate. To hir’s Presence + the Ability. Success would stress die + Presence + Solomonic art determine success, players use the spirit’s suggest to the suspicious character that the + Summoning Strength Penetration Total instead of the sahir’s, ap- sahir is doing something unusual, though + aura (+ appropriate Ability, if used) plying its realm interaction modifiers to he still might not know what that is. determine if the target is affected. (This Whenever a sahir summons a spirit, Ritual spells are more powerful formu- often means that it is advantageous for the either using a summoning spell or his sum- laic spells. They cost vis — one pawn of sahir to summon an Infernal spirit when moning art, note the difference between an appropriate type for each magnitude of casting in an Infernal aura, for example.) his Summoning Total and the spirit’s Might the effect — and have ongoing durations Because the sahir is using the spirit’s Score. This is called the sahir’s Summon- that are maintained by the spirit and can power to penetrate, he cannot use Ar- ing Strength. It describes the amount of last indefinitely. Any formulaic spell can cane Connections or sympathetic magic extra supernatural power that the sahir be cast as a ritual spell, allowing the sahir to boost the Penetration Total for his for-

36 The Cradle & The Crescent

mulaic or ritual spells, and the calculation other type gives him a +1 bonus. He can- takes place over the course of a season. always uses the spirit’s Penetration score, not spend more on a single naranj than his At the beginning of the process the sahir not the sahir’s. score in the associated art, however. summons a spirit to him, and draws upon that spirit’s supernatural power over the Formulaic or Ritual Spell Vis Limit: course of the season to enable more in- Penetration Total: score in summoning art tensive magical activities. It is essentially spirit’s Might Score + spirit’s (summoning spell) or Solomonic art the sahir’s equivalent to Hermetic labora- Penetration bonus + spirit’s aura (formulaic or ritual spell) tory magic. modifier – spell level The sahir performing a seasonal activ- When casting ritual spells, the vis re- ity must have summoned a spirit at the be- Finally, unless the sahir has The Gift, quired for the effect counts toward this ginning of the project, which must remain the highest level of formulaic or ritual spell limit. This means that to cast a ritual spell, present for the entire season or his effort he can cast is limited by the summoned the sahir’s score in the associated art must is wasted. It must maintain the effects as spirit’s Might Score. For example, to cast always at least equal its magnitude. it does for ritual spells, essentially concen- a Level 35 formulaic spell, an unGifted sa- trating on what the sahir is doing, and so it hir must summon a spirit with 35 Might or cannot activate its powers or perform any more. The Gift allows a sahir to make up Seasonal Summoning other activities that require its attention the difference between his spirit’s Might that season. and the effect level with his own inherent Most seasonal activities use a standard- magical power, but unGifted sahirs do not The other sort of Solomonic magic ized total — called a “lab total” for conve- have this advantage. is called seasonal summoning, because it nience — this is the sahir’s Intelligence, his

Spell Level Limit (unGifted): Might Score of summoned spirit

When sahirs botch their casting rolls, they receive one Warping Point for each 0 on the botch dice. If this gives them two or more Warping Points, they must check for additional bad effects (see Warping and Corruption, later in this chapter).

Vis (Taqa)

Sahirs use a great deal of vis, and they tend to describe it in unique terms, such as “the claw from the black beast Ashmael” or “magic incense made by Istvaan al-Makki.” The general term they use is taqa (TAW- qa), which is also a unit of measurement. For example, a sahir might say he has four taqa in a red stone, warm to the touch; or a single taqa in the pelt of a holy lamb, innocent and pure. One taqa is functionally equivalent to one Hermetic pawn. By activating vis, a sahir can increase his Casting Total when casting formulaic or ritual spells. Each vis of a type appropriate to the effect gives him a +2 bonus. He can also increase his Summoning Total when casting a summoning spell using vis (this improves both his penetration and his Summoning Strength). Each vis that matches the form of the summoned spirit’s Might gives him a +2 bonus, and any

37 The Cradle & The Crescent score in the Solomonic art associated with texts (ArM5, pages 101–102). or exceed the sum of all effect levels, any the effect, his score in the mundane Abil- Sahirs can also assist each other in the number of activities may be performed ity associated with the lab activity, and his laboratory, and this practice is much more at once. For those activities where prog- Summoning Strength with the spirit that is common in the Suhhar than in the Order ress is measured by how much the sahir’s assisting him that season. He also receives of Hermes — so much so that their pro- lab total exceeds the effect level, divide his aura modifier for performing magic. cess is more efficient and effective than the excess among all activities, rounding the Hermetic version. All participants down any fractions. Lab Total: must have the required Solomonic arts, Intelligence + appropriate and one of the sahirs working on the proj- Solomonic art + appropriate Ability ect must have a Leadership score equal Vis Manipulation + Summoning Strength + aura to (the number of participants – 1). Each sahir who participates in the project adds A sahir with Solomonic Alchemy can This is shortened later as a “(Solo- his Intelligence to the lab total, plus his extract vis from a supernatural aura as a sea- monic art) + (Ability) Lab Total,” speci- score in the Ability related to the effect, sonal activity, concentrating the power of fying the art and Ability associated with and the final result uses the highest value the realm into a specific object. This pro- each activity. among the participants in the appropri- duces a number of pawns of what magi call As with spells, unless the sahir has ate Solomonic art. Only the sahir with Vim vis, equal to one-tenth his Solomonic The Gift, all of his effects are limited by the highest Solomonic art must summon Alchemy + Philosophiae Lab Total. the spirit’s Might Score — for example, a a spirit to assist them that season. This sahir who has summoned a spirit with 15 means that it is common to involve a com- Vis Extraction: Might cannot invent spells greater than petent manager in a Solomonic lab activ- pawns equal to (Solomonic Alchemy Level 15. ity, even one with a negative Intelligence, + Philosophiae Lab Total) / 10 because it increases the number of sahirs Lab Effect Level Limit (unGifted): who can work together. Sahirs can also forcefully remove vis spirit’s Might Score Not counting time spent away from from supernatural beings or enchanted the lab for sleep and weekly religious ob- objects. This is an excruciating process servances, sahirs may miss up to ten days for creatures that feel pain, which must be of a seasonal activity with no penalty. restrained for the season, and is consid- A Solomonic Laboratory Beyond this, the sahir’s lab total receives ered a grave offense by the Suhhar when a –10 penalty, and –2 for each work day practiced on unwilling jinn or other intel- Like Hermetic labs, a sahir’s work missed. If multiple sahirs are working to- ligent spirits. space must be a room protected from the gether, the number of person-days that A maximum number of vis equal to elements with at least 500 cubic paces of may be missed with no penalty is multi- one-fifth of the sahir’s Solomonic Alchemy space. It requires equipment appropriate to plied by the number of participants, and + Philosophiae Lab Total can be removed the sahir’s fields of expertise and proper or- any penalty is divided by this same num- in one season. For each pawn removed, ei- ganization of materials; this takes a person ber, rounding up. For example, three sahirs ther the supernatural being’s Might Score with an academic and arcane background a may miss up to 10 days each with no pen- is reduced by 1, one invested effect is re- single season to set up, after which it may alty, or only one of them may miss up to moved from an enchanted device, or one be used with a –3 penalty to all activities. 30 days. If together they miss a total of 34 pawn’s worth of space is cleared from an If a Solomonic laboratory is estab- days (perhaps because two were absent 10 invested object with no invested effects. If lished or reorganized by a person with a days and the third was gone for 14 days), the sahir’s (lab total / 5) is greater than the score of 3 in one of the five Abilities asso- their lab total would receive a –6 penalty pawns this would yield, no additional vis ciated with the Art (Area Lore, Artes Libe- (–10 for more than 30 days, –2 for each is produced. Removed vis is affiliated with rales, Medicine, Philosophiae, or Realm of four days over 30, yielding a penalty of the realm of the being or the power that Lore), then the penalty to that activity is –18, divided by 3 for –6). Players should created the enchanted object, and is of a eliminated. For example, a sahir with Artes not include the scores for any sahirs who type appropriate to the effect or Might of Liberales 3 and Philosophiae 3 could es- fail to contribute at least 10 days of work, the being. tablish a laboratory with no penalty for and if any individual sahir’s penalty before alchemical (Philosophiae) or astrological dividing exceeds the overall lab total, the Vis Removal: activities (Artes Liberales), but would still entire project simply fails. pawns equal to (Solomonic Alchemy have a –3 penalty to other lab activities. Sahirs can perform more than one lab + Philosophiae Lab Total) / 5 Literate sahirs working in laboratories activity in a season. Add together the ef- take notes, usually in Arabic, which can fect levels required for all of the activities, A sahir can also transfer vis from one produce lab texts that other sahirs may and use the lowest lab total among them. object into another, a number of pawns study. These work just like Hermetic lab As long as this is great enough to equal equal to half his Solomonic Alchemy

38 The Cradle & The Crescent

+ Philosophiae Lab Total. This is com- Naranjs bindings. They can be given to others to monly used to separate large chunks of vis use, even others who do not understand into more manageable units, and does not Sahirs learn their spells using the same Solomonic magic. It is said the Umayyad work on vis that is part of a living creature mechanics as magi. They can invent a wazirs and other early summoners who or has been invested into an enchanted number of formulaic or ritual spells with knew this process created many such device. The process usually destroys the total level equal to their teacher’s high- devices, some of which still exist in hid- original vessel, and if an object contains est applicable lab total, substituting the den caches in the desert or within musty more vis than the sahir can transfer, the teacher’s score in Teaching for the asso- dwellings used by ancient sorcerers. Jabir, excess is lost. ciated Ability; or by the sahir collecting one of the members of the First Council, enough points above the spell level in the is said to have possessed a binding created Vis Transfer: associated art + Ability lab total over the by Solomon himself. pawns equal to (Solomonic Alchemy course of one or more seasons to equal it. The first type of binding is known as + Philosophiae Lab Total) / 2 Sahirs often make use of laboratory texts a lesser binding. This superficially ties the to speed this process. spirit to an object, creating a mystical con- Sahirs have a limit on the number of nection between the two, and includes a pawns of vis they can use on any seasonal Learning Spells: trigger activity that releases the effect in activity, equal to their score in the associ- spell levels equal to teacher’s highest a momentary burst of power. Lesser bind- ated Solomonic art. For example, a sahir applicable Teaching Lab Total ings take a season to make, and can hold with Solomonic Alchemy 10 can only any effect the sahir can invent, with level extract 10 pawns of vis from an aura in a Inventing Formulaic or Ritual Spells: of up to half the sahir’s Philosophiae Lab single season. (appropriate art + appropriate Ability Total. When binding ritual spell effects, Lab Total – effect level) points the sahir spends the necessary vis as part Vis Limit: towards spell level of making the enchantment, and once ac- score in associated Solomonic art tivated the effect lasts for as long as the Summoning spells use the teacher’s spirit maintains it. Solomonic Astrology + Teaching Lab Total or the sahir’s Solomonic Astrology esser indings Arcane Connections L B : + Artes Liberales Lab Total (though sum- effect level equal to (appropriate art moning spells are so widespread that the + Philosophiae Lab Total) / 2 Like Hermetic magi, sahirs can fix Ar- sahir does not need to know Solomonic cane Connections, making them perma- Astrology to do this). The spell level is Sahirs can also create a greater bind- nent. This costs them a pawn of Vim vis, the spirit’s Might Score, and unless the ing. This is where the spirit is held cap- and requires a score of at least 1 in Solo- sahir has a Laboratory Text he must pos- tive by an object to power an effect. The monic Astrology (because of the vis limit). sess an Arcane Connection to the spirit, effects invested into this object continue When performing multiple activities in or else it must be present in the lab for indefinitely, and may activate repeatedly: one season, this activity is considered a part of the season. each time someone performs a trigger ac- Level 5 effect. If a sahir knows the True Name of a tion associated with an effect, that effect spirit (see Realms of Power: The Infernal, pages ends and is immediately cast again on an- Fix Arcane Connections: 34-35), he can reinvent it as a summoning other target chosen by the wielder. If the Solomonic Astrology spell as if it were a Level 5 effect. object is damaged or destroyed, all active + Artes Liberales Lab Total effects cease and the associated spirits are Inventing Summoning Spells: freed. While bound, the spirit may be sum- Sahirs can also transfer an Arcane (Solomonic Astrology + Artes Liberales moned, but it cannot use any of its pow- Connection from one object to another. Lab Total – effect level) points ers, regenerate its Might Pool, move from This requires a pawn of Vim vis and an towards spell level where it is summoned, communicate more appropriate object to become the new than short sentences, power Solomonic connection. I t does not affect the original naranjs, or maintain other ritual spells. connection, and so creates a new Arcane The Suhhar forbids sahirs from binding an Bindings Connection. When performing multiple intelligent spirit in this way, but there are activities in one season, this is considered many types of unintelligent spirits that are a Level 5 effect. Sahirs can attach their summoned ideal for this sort of application (elemental spirits to inanimate objects, essentially spirits, for example). Transfer Arcane Connections: creating magical devices that produce a To make a greater binding, the sahir Solomonic Astrology magical effect designed especially for the must first enchant the object by which the + Artes Liberales Lab Total object when activated. These are called spirit will be held captive. This enchant-

39 The Cradle & The Crescent ment binds the spirit and any invested ef- Binding Enchantments: ject that has been opened by another. fects with Vim vis, which must be trans- (Solomonic Alchemy + Philosophiae The sahir can place additional effects ferred into the object over the course of a Lab Total – pawns of vis to be invested) into the object in later seasons, as long season, “opening” it for the binding. Every points towards the number of pawns as there is still space available, either by object has a maximum number of pawns of vis to be invested binding more spirits to the object or by of vis it can hold, found by calculating binding the effect to a spirit that is already the number of Base Points for the object’s To bind a spirit and effect to an en- imprisoned in it. A bound spirit can only size and material on the Material and Size chanted device, design the effect as a spell maintain one effect at a time. Table (ArM5, page 97). There is no ben- using the sahir’s Philosophiae Lab Total When the wielder activates a greater efit to sahirs for using an object of any with the associated art. Each magnitude of binding with a ritual effect, the bound particular shape or material except one: a the spirit’s Might Score and each magni- spirit must spend a Might Point for each literal container (a bowl, jar, bottle, lamp, tude of the effect takes up “space” in the magnitude of the effect, which the spirit or even a skull) can hold twice as many object equal to one pawn from the initial does not recover for as long as it is bound. pawns of vis, and the sahir receives a +5 enchantment. As long as there is enough If the spirit runs out of Might Points, its bonus to his Lab Total whenever he binds space in the enchantment to accommo- Might Score is reduced by 1 and its Might an effect to it. date both the effect level and the Might of Pool is replenished. Once its Might Score The maximum number of pawns of vis the spirit, the sahir can perform the bind- is reduced to 0, it can do nothing but the sahir can transfer into an enchantment ing. He can even bind the spirit and effect maintain the last effect it triggered. Spirits in one season is equal to his Solomonic Al- in one season if his Philosophiae Lab Total do usually regain their lost Might Scores chemy score, but he may add vis to an en- is at least double the effect level; otherwise eventually, though this typically takes a chantment in subsequent seasons as long it takes multiple seasons to accumulate very long time, at least a year per Point as the maximum has not been reached. enough points to complete it. lost, and often longer. Enchanting an object for a greater binding A binding is an Arcane Connection to is a Solomonic Alchemy + Philosophiae Greater Bindings: the bound spirit, and the spirit knows the activity with level equal to the number of (appropriate art + Philosophiae Lab triggering actions to activate the device. pawns invested. It is possible to open an Total – effect level) points towards For sahirs, investigating enchantments is object for enchantment and bind a spirit effect level often as simple as summoning the spirit and effect to it in one season, as long as and asking what it can do. the character’s Lab Total is great enough A sahir without Solomonic Alchemy to accommodate both activities. may still bind spirits and effects to an ob- Seeking and Scouring

A sahir can locate new spirits to summon as a seasonal lab activity. This requires knowledge of Solomonic Story- telling, an applicable Area Lore Ability, an Arcane Connection to the area he is searching, and a pawn of form-appropriate vis. The sahir casts a kind of magical net over the area that finds and holds an appropriate spirit. Then, he may either invite the spirit to visit him in his laboratory, which is called seeking, or force the spirit to come to him, which is called scouring. The maximum value of the spirit’s Might Score is equal to the sahir’s Solomonic Storytelling + Area Lore Lab Total when seeking, or half the that total when scouring.

Maximum Might Score (Seeking): Solomonic Storytelling + appropriate Area Lore Lab Total

40 The Cradle & The Crescent

Maximum Might Score (Scouring): side of it. They also cannot affect the en- Safety: Subtract 1 botch die from the (Solomonic Storytelling chanted circle or the object itself. These sahir’s summoning, casting, and Fatra + appropriate Area Lore Lab Total) / 2 effects last until the object is damaged or Bayna Avoidance rolls (see Warping destroyed, or the circle is broken, either and Corruption, later in this section). Either activity brings a spirit applica- deliberately or by the deteriorating forces Casting: Add 2 to the sahir’s Casting Total. ble to the sahir’s summoning art by the end of age or climate. Finesse: Add 3 to the sahir’s Finesse rolls. of the season, causing it to appear within Creating a ward is a Solomonic Travel Concentration: Add 2 to both the spirit’s a magic summoning circle that prevents + (Realm) Lore activity, of the realm af- and the sahir’s Concentration rolls. it from affecting anyone or anything out- filiated with the sahir’s summoning art, Penetration: Add 5 to the spirit’s Penetra- side the ring for as long as it remains un- and his lab total determines the maximum tion Total. broken. When summoned by seeking, the Might Score the ward can affect. spirit may return to where it came from From then on, whenever the sahir sum- at any time; when summoned by scouring Maximum Might Score Warded: mons and casts spells through that spirit, the spirit is held captive. In either case, Solomonic Travel he receives the benefits of all Bond Points the sahir can return it by simply looking + (Realm) Lore Lab Total he has invested into it. These benefits are at it and concentrating. purchased on a pyramid scale, so that 3 The sahir cannot decide what spirit Solomonic wards must penetrate the Bond Points spent on Safety subtracts 2 comes, as the magic targets the area, not Magic Resistance of any spirits affected by botch dice, and 10 Bond Points spent on individual spirits. This means that the spirit them. Calculate the sahir’s Penetration To- Penetration yields a +20 bonus. A sahir summoned by this activity is essentially up tal based on the Might of the spirit power- may perform the lab activity more than to the storyguide to describe. See the vari- ing the effect, minus the level of the ward. once with the same spirit, but this only al- ous Realms of Power books for powers a sum- As with spells, the sahir cannot improve lows him to reallocate his Bond Points; the moned spirit might have, and what spirits the spirit’s Penetration bonus with Arcane benefits are not cumulative. A sahir can with different Might Scores look like. In Connections, though a supernatural aura create bonds with multiple spirits, though the Mythic Middle East, jinn are common, at the site of the ward can modify the ef- the same spirit cannot have a bond with as are elemental spirits. Infernal spirits are fect’s Penetration Total. more than one sahir. also especially likely (though since it is a form of magical detection, they are never Enchanting a Khadim: forced to answer a scouring), and Divine Servant Spirits (Khuddam) highest Solomonic art + (Realm) Lore spirits are generally unlikely. Ultimately, Lab Total, equal to spirit’s Might Score the storyguide should choose a spirit for An intelligent spirit that agrees the sahir that will enhance the story the to serve a sahir and assist him with his players are telling. magic may be enchanted with special Al-Iksir (The Elixir of Life) properties that help the sahir whenever he casts spells through that spirit. This Warding spirit is called a khadim (fem., khadima; pl., The secret of Al-Iksir was said to have khuddam), meaning “servant,” and the en- been brought to the original council by A sahir can enchant an area or object chantment is called “the khadim bond.” Al-Hajjaj, who received it from Al-Khidr. with the power to repel spirits appropriate These terms are thought to derive from The sahir summons a spirit into a liquid to his summoning art. The sahir devotes the name Al-Khidr, the spirit who served concocted from vis and other materials a season to preparing the effect, and then Al-Hajjaj of the First Council among oth- and then consumes it, taking properties of draws a mystic circle on the ground or on ers, and thus “servant” does not have a the spirit into himself. This frees the spirit an object and ceremonially imbues it with derogatory or submissive connotation in and purifies the sahir, giving him a taste of magic by spending a pawn of Vim vis. this context. immortality in exchange for experiencing (The vis and the formula for the ward may To establish the khadim bond, the sa- Warping and other effects. The process is be taken from the laboratory and used hir generates a Realm Lore Lab Total no intensely personal, and while a sahir can once to enchant a circle drawn in an out- less than the spirit’s Might Score, using invent his own formula based on another side location, as long as both the sahir and the Realm Lore associated with the spirit sahir’s laboratory text, he cannot make one the spirit through which he casts it partici- and his highest Solomonic art. He must for anyone but himself. pated in the lab activity.) also spend a number of form-appropriate Al-Iksir is a Medicine activity, using Any spirits normally targeted by the pawns of vis equal to the magnitude of the any of the traditional Solomonic arts: sahir’s summoning art cannot touch the spirit’s Might Score. This gives the sahir Solomonic Alchemy purifies the body, person carrying the object or affect him the same number of Bond Points (equal to Solomonic Astrology aligns the sahir with with their powers, or cannot cross the the magnitude of the spirit’s Might Score) beneficial influences, Solomonic Physic circle or affect anything on the other to spend on the following benefits: promotes overall health, Solomonic Story-

41 The Cradle & The Crescent telling nourishes the soul, and Solomonic yet 35 years of age. For this reason, most dents who have already been opened to Travel exposes the sahir to favorable oth- sahirs wait until they reach old age before another tradition, and for sahirs without erworldly environments. concocting Al-Iksir, preferring to experi- a summoning art or who come to the tra- ence its dramatic changes much later in dition from another one, this is typically Al-Iksir: life. Note also that sahirs have no way to their best method of entry. highest Solomonic art remove Decrepitude Points, which will The process involves the teacher + Medicine Lab Total continue to accumulate as they gain Aging summoning a willing spirit to carry the Points, and which will still eventually lead student, in spirit form, into the Magic The process takes a season of effort, them to aging crises and death. Realm. During the season, the student and costs a number of form-appropriate undergoes a sort of dream journey ap- pawns of vis equal to the sahir’s (Lab Total propriate to the spirit, while his physical / 5). This gives him the same number of Initiating the Arts body remains in the lab in a deep sleep. Al-Iksir Points to spend on the following The experience is very similar to what beneficial effects: It is a relatively simple process for a happens to Hermetic magi when they Gifted teacher to pass on the Solomonic experience Twilight — he might find Al-Iksir Points: 1 arts to another student with The Gift. The himself in the physical world, but in a Beneficial Effects: Remove an Aging Point; teacher, a spirit summoned by the teacher, ghostly form that is unable to affect his Reduce Age and Apparent Age by 2; and the student with a summoning art surroundings; or in a surreal environment Reduce Apparent Age by 10 spend a season together in a Solomonic surrounded by other spirits interrogating lab, and the teacher performs a powerful him, urging him to prove his worth; or Al-Iksir Points: Points equal to the abso- ritual that opens all five Solomonic arts. reliving events of his past as if they were lute value of the Characteristic. This is a Magic Lore activity that is also as- happening to him again. Beneficial Effects: Improve a decreased sociated with Solomonic Travel, but since While the student is in this state, his Characteristic by 1, though not above it has been fully integrated into Solomonic teacher performs the opening ritual and the character’s starting score. magic, it does not require that the teacher calculates his Opening Total. If this is 30 possess that art. or more, the student gains a Major Virtue After the potion is consumed, the sahir Any art in which the teacher does not associated with the Art of Solomon that must also spend the same number of Al-Ik- have at least a score of 5 gives the stu- is also possessed by the teacher, usually sir Points on the following negative effects: dent the Deficient Technique Flaw. If the a Solomonic or a summoning art. With a student has any non-Solomonic Super- total of 25, he gains the Major Virtue but Al-Iksir Points: 1 natural Abilities or Arts, add their scores also receives a Minor Flaw. With only 15, Negative Effects: Gain two Warping together and double the result, adding he gains the Major Virtue and a Major Points and check for Fatra Bayna (see 10 if The Gift has already been opened. Flaw. These Flaws should be tied to the Warping and Corruption); Compare this to the teacher’s Opening student’s travels in the Magic Realm. Lose memories and associated knowl- Total, which is half his Solomonic Travel Before the process is complete, the edge, removing a simple die’s worth + Magic Lore Lab Total; if this Opening teacher spends form-appropriate vis equal of experience points, usually starting Total is less than the sum of the charac- to half the necessary Opening Total (7, 12, with childhood. ter’s scores in his powers, the teacher can- or 15 pawns of vis), and the spirit’s Might not initiate the student. Score is reduced by the same amount. This Al-Iksir Points: 2 reduction is not permanent, but it gener- Negative Effects: Gain an eccentric Opening Total: ally takes at least a year for the spirit to Personality Trait at +3, or increase (Solomonic Travel recover each point. The student also gains this Trait by 1 if the sahir already has + Magic Lore Lab Total) / 2 two Warping Points, though no check for one, which becomes an obsession at Fatra Bayna (see Warping and Corruption, +6 and madness at +10. In order to pass on the magical se- later in this section) is required. crets associated with the Art of Solomon To initiate an unGifted student in a Al-Iksir Points: 3 to those who did not have The Gift, summoning art and all five Solomonic arts Negative Effects: Gain a Minor Flaw ap- Muhammad al-Fazari — one of the six using this method is time-consuming, vis- propriate to the spirit’s influence. unGifted members of the First Council consuming, and Might-consuming, and — discovered how to use his guardian tends to produce sahirs with a weak grasp The spirit’s Might Score is also tempo- spirit to initiate them through the power on reality due to accumulated Warping rarily reduced by the number of Al-Iksir of the Magic Realm. Many of his line be- and Flaws. This is why unGifted sahirs Points spent; this lost Might generally relieve that this discovery, more than any tend to group in families, and generally turns at the rate of one point per year. other, led to the golden age of sahirs and teach their summoning art and Solomonic Once a sahir takes the potion, he be- the formation of the Suhhar Sulayman. specialty only. gins to age as an adult, even if he is not This process also works on Gifted stu-

42 The Cradle & The Crescent

Experimentation Unique discoveries from an experiment During Fatra Bayna, all of the sahir’s can be used to improve Solomonic magic summoned spirits are released from his While it is nothing so grand as Her- in much the same way that magi improve control, dispelled whether they want to de- metic arcane experimentation, sahirs have Hermetic theory. If the sahir achieves a part or not, and all his active ritual effects a means of producing unexpected results discovery and spends a subsequent season end. What happens to his body varies; for in their laboratories, and by sharing these duplicating his efforts, and gets no 0s on some, it remains in stasis or transforms into discoveries they can improve their tradi- the experimentation rolls, he stabilizes it a spirit form, while for others it continues tion’s magic in slow and incremental steps. and generates a number of Breakthrough to react and respond as if controlled by Because it requires that the sahir have more Points equal to the effect’s magnitude. (He one of his summoned spirits. Some sahirs than one Solomonic art or power, Gifted also gains this many Warping Points minus describe the experience as similar to what sahirs tend to be the most inventive. a simple die.) These Breakthrough Points they imagine it is like for intelligent spirits, When designing a new effect, either accumulate to produce Minor, Major, or like jinn, when they are bound to an object inventing a formula or binding a spirit, the Solomonic Breakthroughs that can change or person against their will. The character sahir may declare that he is experimenting how sahirs practice magic. (See Houses of continues to age while he is away, though by incorporating a second art or another Hermes: True Lineages, pages 26-30.) he does not starve, asphyxiate, or suffer power into the effect. His lab total then from exposure in the meantime. uses the lower of these two Abilities or Fatra Bayna lasts approximately two Arts, and the player adds a simple die to the Warping and Corruption minutes at minimum, to approximately one sahir’s lab total. The player should give the year maximum. This duration is determined storyguide some idea of what he is hoping by a secret simple die roll according to the to achieve, based on the two powers. When a sahir receives two or more following chart. The sahir’s player does After the project is completed, the sa- Warping Points as a result of a magical have some influence over the results, even hir makes an experimental stress roll. On botch, there is the chance that he will lose though he does not see the roll; he may a 0, check for botches to see if there is control. Instead of channeling the spirit’s add or subtract 3 by spending a Confidence a disaster; otherwise the result is a story power as he desires, the spirit’s power Point, and if the sahir possesses Solomonic event determined by the storyguide. If the overtakes him. He typically blacks out and Travel, the player may also add or subtract die result is 12 or more, the sahir makes awakens in another place: lost in an other- his Magical Defense Bonus. (Players should a unique discovery related to one or both worldly desert with nine moons and sand add to the roll if they want a better chance of the powers included, which replaces of every color; or perhaps held as a prisoner of positive effects, or subtract from it for the original effect. For all other rolls, the in the castle of his enemy, locked in a dark fewer Warping Points and less time spent results include a side effect related to the dungeon; or perhaps even bound in the away from the physical world.) secondary power. For example, a Story- position of his summoned spirit, watching telling/Astrology spell to put people to as the spirit performs magic while drawing Die roll Duration effects sleep might also tell the sahir the sleeping upon the sahir’s own life energy. Sahirs call 1 or less Diameter +3 Corruption Pts characters’ names. this place (which many believe is separate 2–4 Sun +2 Corruption Pts Sahirs with Solomonic Astrology may from the Magic Realm) Bayna ((BEY-na), 5–7 Moon +1 Corruption Pt apply one-fifth of their Solomonic Astrol- “Between”), and the experience Fatra Bayna 8–9 Season +1 Spirit Pt ogy score to these rolls (see The Solomon- ((FA-tra BEY-na), “Time Between”). 10+ Year +3 Spirit Pts ic Art, Magical Defense Bonuses, later in Upon gaining the Warping Points, this chapter). This does not prevent them the sahir’s player may make a Stamina + When he returns, the sahir receives from botching if they roll a 0, but makes a Concentration roll (Solomonic Travel a number of Warping Points equal to the discovery more likely. Sahirs with the In- gives a Magical Defense Bonus to this modified roll, and a number of Spirit or Cor- ventive Genius Virtue may similarly add 3 roll, as described later). The Ease Factor ruption Points, as indicated on the chart. to these rolls. is a stress die (no botch possible), plus the These are similar to experience points in If multiple sahirs are working together sahir’s Warping Score, plus the number of that they must be spent immediately; Spirit on an experimental project, the players Warping Points he received, plus his aura Points provide beneficial effects and Cor- make a die roll for each participant, modi- modifier. If he rolls a 0, roll a botch die ruption Points negative effects. Sahirs are fied by appropriate Virtues and Solomonic for each Warping Point gained. Success more likely to gain Corruption Points than Astrology scores, but also subtracting the means there is no other effect. If he fails, Spirit Points, and for this reason Fatra Bay- number of participants from all of their to- he experiences Fatra Bayna. na is generally regarded as a phenomenon tals. For example, if there are three sahirs that punishes careless sahirs. Those who working together, each of them receives a Fatra Bayna Avoidance: benefit from it are admired (or envied) for –3 to their result. If no one botches and at stress die + Stamina + Concentration their wisdom and endurance. least one character achieves a total of 12 or + Solomonic Travel bonus vs. Also, whenever a sahir’s Warping Score more, they make a unique discovery. Oth- stress die (no botch) + Warping Score increases, he automatically receives an ad- erwise, there is an appropriate side effect. + Warping Points received + aura ditional Corruption Point, which must be

43 The Cradle & The Crescent spent next time he experiences Fatra Bayna. Gain a +1 cumulative bonus to all Corruption Points: 1 The storyguide may spend Spirit social interactions (leading, teaching Effects: Make an immediate Aging roll, Points as follows: and bargaining, but not summoning adding the sahir’s Warping Score to or casting). While the effects of The the total; Spirit Points: 1 Gift or similar Flaws are unchanged, Suffer a Heavy wound; Effects: Gain (Warping Score x 5) the sahir becomes better at talking Gain a bad Reputation among spirits experience points in a summoning or his way around them. The bonus from the appropriate realm at 2, or Solomonic art; does offset simple penalties to social increase this Reputation by 1 if the The sahir invents a new naranj with rolls imposed by The Gift or Flaws, sahir already has one. a level no greater than the sahir’s however. For example, a Gifted sahir (Warping Score x 5); with the normal Gift who takes this Corruption Points: 3 The sahir returns with (Warping effect once has a –2 penalty to social Effects: Gain a –1 penalty to all social in- Score x 5) vis of a type appropriate to rolls, but still suffers from the distrust teractions, which is cumulative with the the experience, collected within his and dislike inspired by The Gift; effects of The Gift and similar Flaws; person or his belongings; Gain a Minor Virtue appropriate to the Gain a Minor Flaw appropriate to the Gain 3 Confidence Points. experience, or remove a Minor Flaw. experience, or lose a Minor Virtue.

Spirit Points: 3 Corruption Points have the following Other sahirs and spirits who are famil- Effects: Increase the sahir’s Confidence effects, also chosen by the storyguide: iar with the sahir can usually tell, upon the Score by 1; character’s return, whether the experience was positive or negative, though this otherworldly aspect fades quickly. New Hermetic Virtues

Scientates Suleimanis Hermetic Realm Initiation Integration

Major, Hermetic (Hermetic Breakthrough) Major, Hermetic (Hermetic Breakthrough) This breakthrough Virtue allows a The magus may initiate students There is always the possibility that magus to invent and cast spells that use into Virtues in the same way sahirs do, peaceful voices will prevail, and that magi any of the non-Ritual Solomonic guide- by convincing a spirit to accompany the and sahirs will work together to combine lines, using Rego with a Form appropriate student into the Magic Realm. This uses their magic into a unified tradition. Or to the target. This is similar to craft magic, the character’s Rego Vim Lab Total in- perhaps one of them will learn enough where magi produce goods through mag- stead of Solomonic Travel, and substi- about the other to steal their magical se- ic labor. For example, a magus with this tutes Magic Theory for Magic Lore, but crets and gain the upper hand. Here are Virtue could use ReTe to duplicate the otherwise works the same way: costing some examples of discoveries that might alchemical process by which a gem’s qual- vis, reducing the spirit’s Might Score, be achieved in either case. ity is enhanced, or ReCo to encourage the and Warping the student. body to recover fatigue more quickly. Hermetic True Names

Minor Breakthrough New Solomonic Virtues Experimenting with True Names and Solomonic summoning spells has led the Spontaneous Independent magus to the discovery of means to in- Solomonic Spells Solomonic Magic corporate an Arcane Connection into a formulaic spell, making it a permanent Major, Supernatural (Major Breakthrough) Major, Supernatural (Solomonic Breakthrough) component of that spell. From then on, The sahir possessing this Break- The sahir can cast and maintain the magus no longer needs the physi- through Virtue can cast formulaic spells Solomonic spells without channeling cal object to affect that target or loca- spontaneously, the same way as magi them through a spirit. This does not add tion or to invent new spells that target do. To do this he must either lose a Fa- his Summoning Strength to his Casting it through an Arcane Connection, and tigue level and divide his Casting Total Total, and uses his Penetration Total in- gains the bonus for a permanent Arcane by 2, or not roll the stress die and divide stead of the spirit’s. If he is unGifted, his Connection to his Penetration multiplier his Casting Total by 5. independent spells and effects cast this whenever he casts it. The new spell and way have no maximum level. associated Arcane Connection can then

44 The Cradle & The Crescent

be taught or written into a lab text for others to invent.

Scientates Suleimanis

Hermetic Breakthrough By studying the Solomonic arts and the Abilities associated with them, the magus gains Insight into the way Solo- monic magic allows sahirs to duplicate natural effects associated with science, emotions, and the supernatural realms. The magus then invents experimental Rego spells that produce similar effects. Once the breakthrough is achieved and the associated Virtue distributed, magi will be able to duplicate any Solomonic formulaic spell, including those overcoming the Limit of Energy.

Hermetic Realm Initiation

Hermetic Breakthrough After undergoing the initiation himself, instead of gaining a Solomonic art, the magus gains Insight into the Solomonic initiation process. This might produce a spell to warp another person with magic, or a Spontaneous Solomonic Spells spirit’s power. This requires him to initi- ritual to open him to a Virtue possessed by ate at least one Hermetic Technique and the caster. This research eventually leads Major Breakthrough one Hermetic Form and study Magic to a breakthrough with which the magus Sahirs would greatly benefit from the Theory, but the Insights produced from may initiate others into new Supernatural ability to cast spells they have not memo- these sources lead to spells that could be or Hermetic Virtues without the secrecy rized. Studying Magic Theory provides cast independently of a summoned spirit, and lore of a Mystery Cult. Soon power- Insight into this practice, perhaps yielding with the sahir maintaining the effects and ful magi may even learn to teach Hermetic formulaic spells for which the sahir can using the sahir’s Penetration Total. This magic to the unGifted, by initiating them change the parameters as he casts them. would be especially valuable for unGift- into each Art. The Major Virtue this project produces ed sahirs, as their spirits’ Might Scores would allow sahirs to cast spontaneous would no longer limit their magic with spells in the same way as magi, dividing these spells. Solomonic Devices their Casting Total by 2 or by 5. Because sahirs would need less time in their labora- Minor Breakthrough tories inventing new spells, this discovery The sahir must study enchanted items could lessen the importance of buyut al- made with Hermetic magic, which gives him hikma throughout the Suhhar, as more sa- Solomonic Arts Insight towards bindings made with similar hirs might prefer seeking out more spirits effects. Through experimentation, he learns or other adventuring activities during their The Art of Solomon, through its com- to build devices that do not require a spirit, free seasons to learning new spells. ponent arts, has a wide range of effects but maintain concentration on their own. described by the guidelines in this section, This discovery likely leads to a great wealth Independent Solomonic Magic with sample spells to demonstrate how of invested items throughout the Mythic these effects might be used. Players may Middle East and beyond, as sahirs would be Solomonic Breakthrough safely assume that every listed guideline free to create items with lasting effects with- By studying Hermetic magic, a sa- has been developed into a naranj at one out having to bind spirits to them. hir could remove his need to channel a time or another.

45 The Cradle & The Crescent

Most of the guidelines use magic to mation about the spirit who dwells there; The sahir then generates a Summon- duplicate the natural results of practicing the player should make an Intelligence + ing Total based on his Sihr score. A suc- medieval science, and thus have a momen- (Area) Lore roll against an Ease Factor of cessful summons that also penetrates the tary and permanent duration. However, 6 to discover the Form that the jinni takes jinni’s Magic Resistance forces it to take a some effects require ritual spells because and its likely powers. It takes about an hour physical form before the sahir. Calculate their effects cannot be reproduced with for the sahir to make this assessment. the Summoning Strength, which is the mundane abilities and, like all rituals spells, Once this preliminary research has amount by which the sahir’s Casting To- have temporary effects that last only as been performed, the sahir can attempt tal exceeds the Ease Factor. A botched roll long as they are maintained. to discern the jinni’s approximate Might, results in an infuriated jinni, or perhaps a The sample spells sometimes reference based on its appearance (if seen), its spirit different than the one intended. a spirit by name (written as “[Spirit]”), but abode, and the sahir’s own knowledge. this is generally not exclusive. Unless the He must decide whether the jinni is Fa- Summoning Total: sahir has an appropriate Flaw, any spirit he erie, Magic or Infernal (based on its be- Presence + Sihr + aura + stress die summons may power any spell he casts. havior and attitude), and make an Intel- ligence roll modified by the appropriate Ease Factor: (Realm) Lore. Success reveals the mag- jinni’s Might Score Sihr nitude of the jinni’s Might. Failure indicates the sahir is unable to guess, making Summoning Penetration: summoning it more dangerous. The deci- Summoning Total + sahir’s Penetration Sahirs use Sihr to summon jinn, and sion as to which (Realm) Lore to use is Bonus – jinni’s Might Score to provide mystic force behind the bar- vital; if the player guesses wrongly, then gain that places a jinni into their service. this is a straight Intelligence roll. Since Summoning Strength: Strictly speaking, Sihr is not a Solomonic the player has no experience with jinn, Summoning Total – jinni’s Might Score art, but is so common among sahirs that the storyguide should make the distinc- many Ashab al-Halqa (“Followers of the tion clear. A failed summons has no effect, Circle,” the sixth sahir “family”) consider it though the sahir can try again at the cost the special power of their lineage. In some Discern Might: of a Fatigue level. texts the Seal of Solomon is drawn with Intelligence + (Realm) Lore The sahir can spend extra time on six points — this is seen as an attempt by + stress die against Ease Factor of 9 a summons; each additional 15 minutes these sahirs to spread the idea that Sihr is causes him to lose a long-term Fatigue lev- just as integral to Solomonic magic as the el and adds another botch die to the Sum- other families’ powers. moning roll, but provides a +5 bonus to Summoning Jinn Sihr is said to originate from the leg- his Penetration Total. He can also spend endary Art of Solomon, and is sometimes vis, each pawn of the appropriate form referred to as Solomonic Sihr, or (Solo- Once discerned, the sahir may sum- giving him a +2 bonus to his Summoning monic) Summoning. It is very similar to mon the jinni and attempt to bind it into Total, or a +1 bonus for each pawn of any the Sihr that is still practiced in Iberia, service. This summons requires the jinni to other type. though the two traditions split almost be within range of the sahir’s voice, or else two hundred years ago. Solomonic Sihr he needs an Arcane Connection. The sum- is slightly more compatible with Solo- mons takes at least 15 minutes to perform, Bargaining with the Jinni monic magic, though sahirs can use ei- during which the sahir chants words of ther version. command, makes prescribed gestures, and After the jinni arrives, the sahir must draws symbols on the ground. bargain with it to gain its services. The The summons generally includes an power of Sihr ensures that the jinni cannot offering of vis, one pawn of a type ap- depart or attack until a bargain is struck Discerning Jinn propriate to the jinni’s form for every or they have agreed no bargain can be magnitude of the jinni’s Might Score, achieved. A sahir who refuses to bargain Before a jinni is summoned, the sahir but the sahir can offer more (a maximum releases the jinni from making a pact. should study it to determine its strength. equal to the character’s Sihr score) or less “Bargain” may be misleading; a skilled sa- If the sahir can see spirits (with Second (none, even). The sahir only has his own hir can obtain the services of a weak jinni Sight, for example), then he can directly rough estimate of the jinni’s Might, so he without offering anything in return. The observe the jinni in its native habitat, and may unwittingly offer more or less than arrangement is magically enforced: the it takes him just a single round to make the standard amount. This offering does jinni cannot break the terms unless the sa- the necessary assessment. Without magi- not affect the Summoning Total, but it hir reneges first, and most jinn will obey cal help, the sahir must use his knowledge plays an important role in the bargaining the spirit of the agreement if treated well. of the local area to gather sufficient infor- which follows. A sahir can attempt to strike a bargain with

46 The Cradle & The Crescent

any jinn, not just those he has summoned — for example, renegotiation following Non-Magic Sihr the lapsing of a previous bargain — and Summoning Strength can give him an oft- The description of Solomonic Sihr Divine Sihr needed advantage. assumes that the power is aligned to the Magic realm, which is its most common Though the sahir has no foreign Bargaining Total: form. However, versions of Sihr aligned aura penalties to his Summoning Total, Communication + Bargain to other realms have the following me- he cannot offer vis, which always in- + Summoning Strength + stress die chanical changes: creases the Ease Factor of the Bargain- ing Total by twice the magnitude of the Ease Factor: jinni’s Might Score. 18 + bargaining modifiers Faerie Sihr The sahir adds the value of his Infernal Sihr Situation Modifier highest good Reputation to his Bar- Terms are general in scope +3 Failure on the Bargaining Total does gaining Total, subtracts his highest “Follow me around and do as I say.” not automatically permit the jinni to de- bad Reputation, and does not apply Terms are specific in scope +0 part, and the sahir can hold it prisoner any other negative Reputations to his “Help me locate the lost city of Babel.” and continue to try and coerce it for as Bargaining modifier. The storyguide Terms constitute a single task –3 long as he likes, though each subsequent rules whether a particular Reputation “Escort me safely to Damascus.” attempt costs him a Fatigue level. The is good or bad. (Sympathy Traits and Terms reduce Might Score +3/pt storyguide should lower the Bargaining Faerie Rank also apply to this roll, if Total Ease Factor the longer the jinni is you are using the rules from Realms of Service to last one day –3 held captive: –1 after a day, –2 after a Power: Faerie.) Service to last one week 0 season, and –3 after a year. Service to last one month +3 Service to last one season +6 Service to last one year +9 Typical Duties for Sahirs Sahir accepts a small duty –3/duty Sahir accepts a heavy duty –6/duty The supernatural realm to which a poem in praise of the jinn, providing the jinni is aligned can greatly influ- rare commodities such as frankincense Sahir offers less vis than is +2/pawn ence the duty that it sets the sahir. or rubies, or obtaining vis from a par- the standard under Infernal jinn typically demand sinful ticular source. Sahir offers more vis than is –2/pawn duties, while faerie jinn want human the standard above attention, and magic jinn desire power Sahir offers different type of vis +1/pawn and wealth. (See Chapter 4: Jinn, for Heavy Duties (modifier replaces +2 bonus) more details.) These include fighting wizards who seek to enslave jinn, freeing slaves from Sahir has a bad reputation Special* captivity, playing a jest on an important among the jinn Small Duties local figure, delivering the heart of an These include cleansing or protect- enemy, traveling to a supernatural realm * Add each applicable Reputation score. ing the jinni’s home, guarding a human where the jinni cannot go, or procuring family to which the jinni has become at- a unique item such as a book written in The Ease Factor has bargaining mod- tached, retrieving stolen wealth, writing Solomon’s own hand. ifiers, which depend on what the sahir is asking from the jinni and what he offers. Aiding the sahir with his magic for a day is a single task, which reduces the sance Flaw (for a weak jinni) or Plagued this includes disobeying the tenets of their Ease Factor by 6 (–3 for “Service to last by Jinni (for a moderate or powerful jinni), faith. The jinni cannot make any new one day” and –3 for “Terms constitute a which lasts for at least a month. oaths without the sahir’s permission while single task”). A successful bargain binds the jinni to bound in service. A failed Bargaining Total results in a the sahir for the duration. He can ask it to Any vis offered by the sahir during the failure to make a bargain, and the jinni is perform any task within its power, though summoning is part of the terms of the bar- not compelled to remain. A botch results the jinni cannot renege on any solemn gain and given to the jinni to use as it sees in the sahir offending the jinni and tempo- oaths it has sworn prior to the summons fit, and thus cannot be included in what- rarily acquiring either Supernatural Nui- and, for jinn who have adopted a religion, ever task the sahir sets the jinni. A sahir

47 The Cradle & The Crescent Solomonic Alchemy Magical Defenses

In the same way magi receive super- Solomonic Physic Solomonic Alchemy affects non-liv- natural bonuses from their Form scores, ing matter, simple (water, air, fire, earth) sahirs have an innate form of “magical The sahir with knowledge of Solo- or complex (i.e., metal, smoke, bone, defense” from their Solomonic arts. Di- monic Physic is generally healthier. wood). The sahir or the spirit must touch vide the sahir’s score in each art by 5 to Add his bonus to his Recovery rolls and the target, and can affect up to one cubic determine his Magical Defense Bonus, subtract it from Aging rolls (this is cu- pace of simple matter or 50 cubic inches and see later for the specific applications mulative with Solomonic Alchemy). In of complex matter. Each additional magni- of each art. addition, he becomes less noticeable: tude added to the spell level multiplies the add his bonus to rolls that involve being amount of matter he can target by 10. stealthy or unobtrusive, including his These effects have one parameter, Al- Solomonic Alchemy Defense when he is not attacking. teration, which determines the magnitude of natural change that the sahir can im- From regular exposure to magic, pose upon the matter. Thus, making dirt as the sahir’s body is rarefied, making him Solomonic Storytelling sticky as clay is less difficult than making it stronger, better able to endure hardship, as sticky as mercury. and more resistant to physical dangers. The sahir’s presence is enhanced, giv- Add his bonus to Soak, subtract it from ing him the bonus to rolls for non-magi- Slight: The matter undergoes a subtle Aging rolls (this is cumulative with Sol- cal social activities (cumulative with the change in appearance or property, with- omonic Physic), and add it to Strength bonus from Fatra Bayna) and increasing in the common range of examples for when calculating what he can carry his Leadership score when commanding that matter. For example, give water the without penalty. spirits or managing a laboratory. Also, scent of the sea, or change the color of a he is more resistant to powers that tar- standard gemstone. (+0 magnitudes) get emotions; add his bonus to any rolls Minor: The matter undergoes a notice- Solomonic Astrology involving his Personality Traits. able change in appearance or prop- Because of his heightened under- erty. The change must be commonly standing of the heavenly signs and Solomonic Travel found in nature, and of a general sort. what they predict about the future, For example, brighten moonlight to the sahir is more aware of events be- Exposure to the supernatural allows that of a torch, or condense air into a fore they happen, and thus he is less the sahir to add his bonus to otherworldly cloud. A Minor change can increase likely to be surprised. Add his bonus to navigation rolls, and add or subtract it or decrease Size by one category. all of his Initiative rolls, and to his Per- from his Fatra Bayna Avoidance rolls. He (+1 magnitude) ception rolls associated with alertness may also add this bonus to Stamina rolls Substantial: The matter undergoes a or with intuition. This also positively to avoid fatigue, and to his Concentra- significant change in appearance or influences his experimentation in the tion and Finesse rolls when controlling his property, uncommon in nature. For laboratory. magic or resisting supernatural influences. example, make water as caustic as acid, or iron as flexible as copper. A Substantial change can increase may offer vis of a different type than the A sahir can only bind a limited number or decrease Size by two categories. jinni’s form, but it is less compelling. For of jinn in service to him at a time, equal (+2 magnitudes) example, when summoning a jinni with 10 to his Leadership score plus one — even Major: The matter undergoes a total Might (Imaginem), a sahir who offers two a sahir with no Leadership score can com- change in appearance or property, pawns of vis will have his bargain modifier mand at least one jinni. but no more than the extremes found reduced by 4. If that vis is not Imaginem in nature. For example, call lightning vis, his bargain modifier is then increased Maximum Number of Bound Jinn: from a clear sky, or make stone as hard by 2. Leadership + 1 as diamond. A Major change can in- Note that sahirs with The Gift typi- crease or decrease Size by three cat- cally suffer a penalty to all social inter- Solomonic Sihr is the most common egories. (+3 magnitudes) actions, which affects this total. (Unlike summoning art in the Mythic Middle the Parma Magica, Magic Resistance does East. It is usually aligned with the Magic When performing Solomonic Al- not protect supernatural beings against realm, though there are Divine, Faerie, chemy through a mundane activity using the negative aura of those with The Gift, and Infernal versions, each with slight Philosophiae, the sahir must apply various though some magical beings are immune functional differences (see the Non-Mag- reagents, powders, tinctures, or other in- to the effects.) ic Sihr sidebar). gredients to the target. These are typically

48 The Cradle & The Crescent provided by an apothecary, and many sa- Summon forth the purest flame, the sahir casts this spell upon his mail hirs make their living collecting and sell- to set alight those who oppose us hauberk. This costs three pawns of vis ing such materials. Solomonic Alchemy Level 15 and transforms the heavy, worked metal See Art and Academe for more examples Alteration: Major into light, spun threads of cloth for the of alchemical effects. The sahir takes a barely inflammable duration of the effect. The sahir typically object like a damp cloth or a piece of instructs his spirit to drop the effect just wood coated with pitch, and lights the before he goes into battle, which also frees Solomonic Alchemy end of it. This spell changes the fire into the spirit to focus on other spells while the Spell Formulas a bright blue flame that burns hotter than sahir is fighting. even molten iron. This flame lasts until it Since the Alteration parameter is The spells given here are specially de- runs out of fuel, can ignite things like flesh Slight, the cloth that this spell produces signed for Solomonic Alchemy. or wet thatch that are otherwise extremely is somewhat fragile and looks like woven resistant to fire, and causes +20 Damage chain links, but can be worn beneath a to anyone that comes into direct contact traveling cloak or gown. Increasing Al- Sanctuary in the sand with it. teration to Minor lets the sahir change the Solomonic Alchemy Level 5 (Base 4, +3 Major) cut and look of the armor into something Alteration: Minor more fashionable, and Substantial allows This spell instantly purifies the area im- him to change it into a completely dif- mediately surrounding the sahir (10 cubic The wind is my armor, ferent sort of garment. Another common paces), making stale air easier to breathe my armor is the wind variation is to add a magnitude of size to and removing choking dust or smoke. Solomonic Alchemy Level 15 affect the barding on his horse. (Base 3, +1 Minor, +1 size) Alteration: Slight, Ritual Magos al-Laqis al-Abyad al-Sakhr uses When preparing for a long journey, this spell in an interesting way: before he

[Spirit]’s oasis Solomonic Alchemy Level 5 Solomonic Alchemy Guidelines Alteration: Slight, Ritual The sahir mixes a pawn of vis and a These guidelines distinguish be- Level 3: Enhance or diminish a second- cubic pace of sand, and changes it into a tween changes to principle qualities ary quality of simple matter. pool of clear spring water, enough to fill (hot, cold, dry, or moist) and second- Purify simple matter. several large barrels. This transformation ary qualities (things like acidity, density, Level 4: Enhance or diminish a prin- only lasts as long as the spirit maintains weight, or color) of matter. ciple quality of simple matter. the effect, though the ritual nature of Ritual alchemy effects can be held Level 5: Enhance or diminish a second- the spell ensures that the water will still dormant until the sahir or the spirit trig- ary quality of complex matter. quench thirst if drunk before it changes gers them by concentrating upon them, Purify complex matter. back. Note, however, that characters for as long as the spirit maintains the ef- Transform simple matter into an- with Magic Resistance cannot swallow fect, and may be transferred from one other kind of simple matter for the this water unless the effect penetrates appropriate target to another as long duration of the effect. (Ritual) their defenses. as the effect is still active and the new Increase or decrease the size of mat- (This is a Slight change, because the target is touching the former target, ter for the duration of the effect. water produced is perfectly natural, and the sahir, or the spirit (Finesse rolls are (Ritual) quite commonly found in this form.) required if the new target is not clearly Level 10: Enhance or diminish a prin- (Base 5) part of the original target). Animated ciple quality of complex matter. objects will move under the sahir’s con- Animate simple matter for the dura- trol if he concentrates upon them, but tion of the effect. (Ritual) Cracks in the earth, he must make Finesse rolls for more fo- Transform simple or complex matter [Spirit] weakens the ground cused manipulation. into another kind of simple or com- Solomonic Alchemy Level 10 Unlike basic Alchemy spells that plex matter for the duration of the Alteration: Substantial bring about natural changes to the sub- effect. (Ritual) With this spell, the sahir diminishes stance of the target, spells that use ritual Level 15: Animate complex matter for the cold, cohesive property of earth, caus- guidelines produce a magical substance the duration of the effect. (Ritual) ing a single rock or a circle of stone three that for the duration cannot directly af- Transform matter for the duration of feet in diameter to crumble into chunks of fect anyone with Magic Resistance un- the effect, adding or removing prop- dirt and dust. less the spell Penetrates. erties like weight or temperature with (Base 4, +2 Substantial) the Alteration parameter. (Ritual)

49 The Cradle & The Crescent enters battle, he sends forth his guardian Ashab al-Qalb who use it do so sparingly The wondrous box of Al-Fazari angel to touch the armor of one of his enough that it has not come to the atten- Solomonic Alchemy Level 35 unsuspecting opponents, and then (with tion of the viziers, or perhaps it is because Alteration: Minor, Ritual a successful Finesse roll) he transfers the enchantment bonus does not benefit the The sahir touches an object that is effect to his armor instead, restoring his sahirs’ magic in any way, and thus they about 50,000 cubic inches in size, such as own protection and leaving his enemy do not realize why magi especially value a large chest or basket, and spends seven suddenly vulnerable. these stones. pawns of vis. The object and everything it (Base 10, +1 size) (Base 5, +3 Major) contains grows or shrinks by a factor of ten (the equivalent of three Size categories), and remains that size for as long as the spir- Bear me upon breath of stone Rain of heavenly fire it maintains the effect. An animal of Size 0 Solomonic Alchemy Level 20 Solomonic Alchemy Level 30 placed inside the box could grow to Size +3 Alteration: Minor, Ritual Alteration: Substantial, Ritual (the size of a very large horse), or shrink to The sahir lights a bonfire that pro- The sahir casts the spell while his cast- become Size –3 (the size of a cat). duces a great deal of smoke, and after he ing spirit is close enough to see and hear (Base 5, +3 Major, +3 size) sacrifices the necessary pawns of vis, the him, and since it is a ritual he can then gray clouds become as solid as stone, able hold it dormant while the spirit flies into to support the weight of a man. The sahir a thunderstorm. Then, through the spirit, Solomonic Astrology may then step onto these unnatural floes he transforms the rain into searing bolts of and rise into the air, or perhaps climb flame that cause +10 Damage to anyone down them if he moves quickly, as long as caught beneath them without Magic Re- Astrological effects impart informa- the spirit maintains the spell and the fire sistance. This rain is hot enough to ignite tion directly to the sahir through his rec- continues to produce smoke. buildings, trees, and other things made of ognition of signs and portents, and can (This is a “noticeable” transformation, wood, and these new fires are not extin- thus target any individual the sahir can see altering the ability of the smoke to bear guished when the effect ends. The storm or to which he has an Arcane Connection. weight to correspond to that of stone. A will continue to rain fire for as long as the These effects have a single parameter, Substantial alteration might alter several spirit concentrates, or until the storm nat- Detail, which describes the quality of in- properties of the smoke at once, perhaps urally abates. formation gleaned from the spell, though making a cloud cohesive and enduring Members of the Suhhar can usually questions about the past or the distant enough to support a structure, or cause the recognize this spell by the way it leaves future add an additional magnitude, and smoke to become cold and slippery as well behind soaking wet rubble when the those about the near future (within a as solid.) flames transform back into rain. month) add two magnitudes. (Base 15, +1 Minor) (Base 5, +2 Substantial, +3 size) Some ritual spell effects give the sahir the ability to sense danger, similar to the Premonitions Supernatural Ability. When What Jabir found inside the rock The vigilant guardian this effect is active, the storyguide should Solomonic Alchemy Level 20 Solomonic Alchemy Level 30 apply a Premonition bonus to any roll Alteration: Major Alteration: Major, Ritual where the outcome would make the predic- This spell improves the quality of a With this spell, the sahir animates a tion false, and reduce the number of botch precious or semi-precious gem, dramati- stone statue of up to 10 cubic feet in size dice for these rolls by the same amount. The cally increasing its value. In addition, the (roughly the size of a very large man), base value of this bonus is noted next to the Shape and Material bonus that the stone which follows his directions whenever corresponding guideline, and increases with imparts when used with Hermetic magic he concentrates, for as long as the spirit the Detail parameter, as indicated later. increases by 3. For example, an emerald maintains the effect. The statue can purified by this spell would give a +10 bo- slowly move and bend its limbs as if Binary: A one-word answer between two nus to magic that affects snakes and drag- they were made of clay, though they re- choices. (+0 magnitudes) onkind, instead of a +7 bonus. Any given main as hard and impenetrable as stone. Basic: The equivalent of a three-word an- stone can only be affected once with this It can even change its shape, flowing swer. This adds a +1 bonus to premo- effect; it is impossible to naturally purify like mud or sand to spread out across a nition effects. (+1 magnitude) it further. surface, though it will naturally attempt Brief: A single sentence of information. Sahirs are not supposed to trade to return to its original form whenever This adds a +2 bonus to premonition “magic things” to people who do not be- the sahir releases control of it or when effects. (+2 magnitudes) long to the Suhhar, but the exchange of the spell ends. (These changes are Ma- Thorough: All relevant information as- gemstones that have been enhanced with jor alterations.) sociated with the target. This adds a this spell has so far gone unnoticed at Ma- (Base 10, +3 Major, +1 size) +3 bonus to premonition effects. (+3 jlis. Perhaps this is because those of the magnitudes)

50 The Cradle & The Crescent

Answers provided by Solomonic As- trology are not absolute, especially when they involve the future, though they do provide indicators that sahirs can interpret to receive clear answers to specific questions. For more guidance on the sorts of results that astrological calculations tend to provide, see Art & Academe, page 74. When used with Artes Liberales to disguise or augment his casting, the sahir must make up an astrological chart for the target. This requires knowledge of the date and place of its birth, and an Intel- ligence + Artes Liberales roll against an Ease Factor of 9. Art & Academe has more examples of astrological effects that sahirs can duplicate.

Solomonic Astrology The sahir consults the heavens regard- the appointed hour and day. This bonus Spell Formulas ing a particular course of action taken by increases with each additional magnitude, his target, and calculates a date and ap- so at Level 35 it is a +2 bonus, +3 at Level The spells given here are specially de- proximate time during the next month in 40, and so on. signed for Solomonic Astrology. which the endeavor will be most likely to Sahirs do not generally rely on this succeed, and the consequences least disas- spell for spellcasting, since it is expensive trous should he fail. At Level 30, this trans- in terms of vis and it is usually more cost-ef- The blessed day, the apt day lates to a +1 bonus (and one fewer botch fective to spend the vis on the spell directly. Solomonic Astrology General die) on any rolls associated with the activ- For many non-magical activities or circum- Detail: Basic, Ritual ity, so long as that activity is performed at stances expected to be particularly danger-

Solomonic Astrology Guidelines

All Solomonic Astrology ritual spells from close examination (e.g., state of Create a temporary Arcane Connec- increase the Penetration of the sahir’s consciousness, age). tion to the target, with connection magic by the effect level when casting Level 4: Perceive a specific piece of in- strength equal to (the magnitude of subsequent spells against that same tar- formation about a person or object the Detail parameter + 1). (Ritual) get, as long as the Solomonic Astrology that cannot normally be determined Level 10: Perceive a specific piece of in- ritual itself Penetrates. This bonus only without an appropriate Ability (e.g., formation about a person’s or object’s lasts while the spirit maintains the ef- emotional state, maker of an object). surroundings that cannot normally be fect, and requires the sahir to make a Fi- Perceive one obvious property of determined without an appropriate nesse roll if he is casting the second spell a person’s or object’s surroundings Ability (e.g., a companion’s health, a through the same spirit. (e.g., time of day, sounds). (Ritual) supernatural aura). (Ritual) Level 5: Sense complex information Receive a premonition regarding General: Receive a premonition regard- about a person or object that would danger to a person or object (+1 bo- ing auspicious influences for a par- normally require extended use of an nus). (Ritual) ticular action. The bonus the target Ability (e.g., the truth of a statement, Level 15: Perceive complex information receives is equal to (the magnitude of all mundane properties of an object). about a person’s or object’s surround- this effect – 3), and cannot be nega- Perceive one property of a person’s or ings that would normally require tive. (Ritual) object’s surroundings that can be de- extended use of an Ability (e.g., all Level 2: Perceive one obvious property termined from close examination (e.g., nearby animals, what others think of of a person or object (e.g., hair color, climate, prosperity level). (Ritual) that person) (Ritual) current activity). Receive a premonition regarding Receive a premonition regarding an Level 3: Perceive one property of a per- mortal peril to a person or object (+2 inconvenience to a person or object son or object that can be determined bonus). (Ritual) (+0 bonus). (Ritual)

51 The Cradle & The Crescent ous, however, the preparation of this spell is a spirit or not, and if so, what type of spirit pawns of vis, the duration can be extended considered to be exceptionally wise, and its and approximately how powerful it is (e.g., indefinitely, allowing the sahir to compre- judicious application is highly favored by “a weak faerie spirit, with less than 10 Fa- hend his target’s speech for as long as the the members of the Ashab al-Najm. erie Might” or “a powerful spirit with Magic spirit maintains the effect. If the target has (Base effect, +1 Basic, +2 immediate Might 30 or more”). Note that if the spirit Magic Resistance, the spell fails unless the future) is Infernal, this spell typically gives a false sahir Penetrates it. reading. Since an object with a spirit bound There is a fairly common version to it is an Arcane Connection to that spirit, of this spell invented by a sahir named The picture of [Target] this spell can effectively tell the sahir if a Dawud al-Malik al-Najm that, as a side Solomonic Astrology Level 5 given object is a Solomonic device. effect of experimentation, also includes Detail: Binary, Ritual (Base 4, +2 Brief) the target’s understanding of any words This spell creates a temporary Arcane spoken by the sahir. This variation can be Connection between an object held by found throughout the Suhhar but requires the caster and the target, which costs a Where is [Target] at least rudimentary knowledge of Solo- single pawn of vis and only lasts as long at this moment? monic Storytelling to learn. as the spirit maintains the effect. This Ar- Solomonic Astrology Level 10 (Base 5, +3 Thorough) cane Connection is equivalent in strength Detail: Brief to one that lasts hours or days (giving a +1 The sahir concentrates upon his ques- bonus to the Penetration multiplier), and tion (and perhaps draws a horoscope for What do [Target]’s as a side effect of casting a ritual spell, for the target, adding half an hour to the cast- enemies intend? the duration this naranj also gives the sa- ing time and his Artes Liberales to the Solomonic Astrology Level 25 hir a +5 bonus to his Penetration Total for Casting Total), and learns the target’s cur- Detail: Brief, Ritual subsequent spells cast at that target. rent location, within a describable region This ritual spell costs five pawns of vis When the duration of the effect ends, and in relation to a particular feature, such and gives the sahir a premonition about any the Arcane Connection immediately fades. as “south of the city of Baghdad, within an sort of social danger to his target, related to Until then, it is a normal and natural Ar- ancient stone structure.” This should be an immediate situation such as Majlis or a cane Connection, and thus it can be made information that a person familiar with the meeting with an important person. The sto- permanent in the laboratory with a season surrounding area could recognize based ryguide decides if and how the target will of effort and a pawn of vis. on landmarks, local legends, and the like. be inconvenienced at the event, and an- (Base 5) (Base 4, +2 Brief) swers with a short sentence to describe the circumstances. For example, “a rival intends to challenge you to a storytelling duel.” This What is the state What are the words also gives the player a +2 bonus towards all of [Target]’s health? that surround [Target]? actions that support the accuracy of the Solomonic Astrology Level 5 Solomonic Astrology Level 15 premonition; that is, those rolls to affect Detail: Brief Detail: Thorough, Ritual whether he is inconvenienced or not. In this This spell tells the sahir whether the tar- The sahir concentrates upon his tar- example, the sahir would likely gain the bo- get inclines more towards life or death, and get, and for as long as his spirit keeps the nus to rolls during the duel and actions lead- in what way, through a short sentence. For effect active, he can hear all sounds in the ing up to the duel, but not to rolls where he example, “He is alive, very badly burned, target’s presence. The sahir is not actu- attempts to avoid the duel or where he tries disfigured, unconscious, and incapacitated.” ally there, of course, so he is not affected to deal with his enemy in other ways. If the target has Magic Resistance, this by magic that targets those in the area, (Base 15, +2 Brief) effect must Penetrate to provide an an- which makes this effect ideal for intelli- swer. Many sahirs cast low-level Astrology gence gathering. naranjs like this one as ritual spells for the (Base 4, +3 Thorough) When and where bonus to their Penetration Total. For this was [Target] born? spell, this costs the sahir a pawn of vis and Solomonic Astrology Level 25 gives him a +5 bonus to subsequent spells Hearing the heart’s speech Detail: Thorough cast on that target. Solomonic Astrology Level 20 When the sahir does not know the (Base 3, +2 Brief) Detail: Thorough date or location of his target’s birth, he By reading all of the auspices surround- may use this spell to divine it — though ing his target’s circumstances, the sahir can not, of course, while using Artes Liberales Is [Target] a spirit? understand fully what his target is express- to boost the casting, since this is precisely Solomonic Astrology Level 10 ing, allowing him to make sense of words the information he needs to draw the tar- Detail: Brief that are otherwise unfamiliar for a single get’s horoscope. This spell tells the sahir if his target is exchange. If cast as a ritual spell with four (Base 5, +3 Thorough, +1 past)

52 The Cradle & The Crescent Will [Target] survive tomorrow’s battle? Solomonic Physic Guidelines Solomonic Astrology Level 30 Detail: Thorough, Ritual All active Solomonic Physic ritual Cause a wound if the target fails a This spell gives the sahir a premonition spells also either protect the patient Stamina roll against an Ease Factor concerning his target’s chances against mor- against the penalties for that particular of 0. tal peril in his near future. The storyguide type of wound, disease, or level of fa- Level 3: Modify the target’s next Wound considers the question, and then outlines tigue; or they prevent that wound, dis- Recovery roll by 3. the conditions for the sahir’s player in gen- ease or fatigue from healing, for as long Modify the target’s next Disease Re- eral terms. For example, “He is not a skilled as the spirit maintains the effect. covery roll against diseases of a cer- warrior but he wears good armor, so he is Also, for the duration, ritual spells tain humor by 3. likely to prevail,” or “He is too reckless, may be delayed like with Solomonic Al- Cause a wound if the patient fails a and if he charges into battle as he is usually chemy: they can be held dormant until Stamina roll against an Ease Factor wont to do, he will surely be killed.” the sahir or the spirit releases them by of 3. Mechanically, this translates to a +5 touching the target. Reduce or increase the potency of bonus (+3 for Thorough, +2 for “mortal poison by one step. peril”) to all rolls that would gainsay this General: Modify the target’s next Level 4: Modify the target’s next Wound outcome were they to fail (such as the Wound Recovery roll by (3 x (the Recovery roll by 6. target’s Defense rolls in the first case, or effect’s magnitude + 2)). Use this Modify the target’s next Disease Re- his enemies’ Attack rolls if he charges into general guideline for effects Base covery roll against diseases of a cer- battle in the second case). Level 5 or greater. tain humor by 6. (Base 5, +3 Thorough, +2 near future) Modify the target’s next Disease Re- Cause a wound if the patient fails a covery roll by (3 x (the effect’s magni- Stamina roll against an Ease Factor tude + 2)) against diseases of a certain of 6. humor. Use this general guideline for Level 5: Cure a specific disease in the Solomonic Physic effects Base Level 5 or greater. normal recovery interval. Cause a wound if the target fails a Restore a fatigue level. To affect a target with Solomonic Stamina roll against an Ease Factor Cause the loss of a fatigue level. Physic, the sahir or the spirit must touch of (3 x (the effect’s magnitude + 2)). Restore a long-term fatigue level. it during the round he casts the naranj. Use this general guideline for effects (Ritual) He can affect animals as easily as humans, Base Level 5 or greater. Cause the loss of a long-term fatigue though they do require separate spells, Increase or decrease a Personality level. (Ritual) and as long as a naranj targets an indi- Trait associated with one of the four Instantly cure a specific disease. vidual person or creature, its size does not humors by a number of points equal (Ritual) matter; a giant or dwarf can be affected as to (the magnitude of this effect + 1), Infect the target with a specific dis- easily as a normal man. up to the maximum established by ease. (Ritual) Physic effects have one parameter, Po- the Potency parameter. (Ritual) Transform a Personality Trait into tency, which determines the strength of Increase one of a person’s Charac- a different Trait for the duration. the effect. Many of these effects can injure teristics for the effect’s duration by (Ritual) as easily as heal. a number of points equal to (the Level 10: Heal a wound from a specific magnitude of this effect – 3), up to source (poison, crushing damage, Weak: Affect pain or other symptoms of the maximum established by the Po- piercing damage) over the course injury or disease, minor aging crises, tency parameter. (Ritual) of the wound’s normal recovery Winded Fatigue levels, or Characteris- Decrease one of a person’s Charac- interval. tics or Personality Traits with scores of teristics for the effect’s duration by Instantly heal a wound from a specif- up to +1 or –1. (+0 magnitudes) a number of points equal to (the ic source (piercing damage, crushing Mild: Affect Light Wounds, Minor Diseas- magnitude of this effect – 3), up to damage, poison). (Ritual) es, serious aging crises, Weary Fatigue the maximum established by the Po- Cause a wound. (Ritual) levels, or Characteristics or Personal- tency parameter. (Ritual) Instantly cure any disease. (Ritual) ity Traits with scores of up to +2 or –2. Level 2: Modify the target’s next Wound Level 15: Instantly heal a wound from (+1 magnitude) Recovery roll by 1. any source. (Ritual) Moderate: Affect Medium Wounds, Seri- Modify the target’s next Disease Re- Level 20: Resolve an aging crisis. (Ritual) ous Diseases, major aging crises, Tired covery roll against diseases of a cer- Cause an aging crisis. (Ritual) Fatigue levels, or Characteristics or tain humor by 1. Personality Traits with scores of up to +3 or –3. (+2 magnitudes)

53 The Cradle & The Crescent

Strong: Affect Heavy Wounds, Major duration of the effect, the target has his ily increases by a number of points equal Diseases, critical aging crises, Dazed Sanguine Personality Trait increased or de- to (the magnitude of this effect – 3), up Fatigue levels, or Characteristics or creased by the magnitude of this spell – 1, to a maximum score of +1, and he can- Personality Traits with scores of up to to a maximum value of +3 or –3. At Level not have his Perception reduced by other +4 or –4. (+3 magnitudes) 20, this is a change of three points. If the spells. This effect only lasts as long as Mighty: Affect Incapacitating Wounds, target does not have a Sanguine Trait or a the spirit maintains it. At Level 20, this Critical Diseases, terminal aging crises, similar Trait such as Carefree or Optimistic, increases Perception 0 to Perception +1, Unconscious Fatigue levels, or Charac- he gains one for the duration of the effect. and at Level 35 this increases Perception teristics or Personality Traits with scores When casting this spell while incor- –3 to +1. of up to +5 or –5. (+4 magnitudes) porating principles of Medicine, the sa- (Base effect) hir typically feeds the target red meat or For effects that grant either a bonus or strong wine fortified with animal blood a penalty, the choice is made during cast- before performing the ritual. The hollowing curse ing; the naranj as designed can do both. (Base effect, +2 Moderate) Solomonic Physic, General Since many of these effects involve a bo- Potency: Mighty, Ritual nus or penalty to the target’s next Recov- The target of this devastating spell ery roll, it may be possible to recognize Rend his flesh and tear his organs has his Stamina reduced by (its magnitude how the patient is doing before then. Solomonic Physic General – 7), to a minimum of –5, for the duration When disguising or supplementing his Potency: Moderate of the effect. For example, at Level 60, a magic with Medicine, the sahir must admin- The target is poisoned internally and target with Stamina +1 will be temporar- ister herbs and other ingredients typically suffers a medium wound unless he makes a ily reduced five points to Stamina –4. Fur- supplied by an apothecary, much like sahirs Stamina roll against an Ease Factor of 0 for thermore, the target cannot increase his performing Solomonic Alchemy. With no a Level 4 spell, or three times the magni- Stamina through any means during this access to these materials, the sahir must al- tude of the spell for Level 5 or more. For time, even through Al-Iksir potions or ways use arcane gestures and words. example, at Level 20, the Ease Factor is 12. other Solomonic Physic rituals, and gains Additional examples of medicinal ef- If cast as a ritual spell, the effect can a Warping Point every season it is active fects that sahirs can duplicate with magic be held dormant by the spirit and released plus an additional Warping Point when it may be found in Art and Academe. at an ideal time, and unless the target re- is cast. sists it, he cannot heal this wound natu- It is said that the Ashab al-Yad prefer rally for as long as the spirit maintains not to murder their enemies (all sahirs are Solomonic Physic concentration. still answerable to their earthly authori- Spell Formulas (Base effect, +2 Moderate) ties, after all), but instead punish them in other ways, such as with this spell, The spells given here are specially de- which makes the target especially vul- signed for Solomonic Physic. [Spirit] sits on the fever’s edge nerable to accidents and illnesses. Also, Solomonic Physic General unlike death, this effect can be undone, Potency: Strong if necessary. Balm of the barmakids This spell helps or hinders the target’s (Base effect, +4 Mighty) Solomonic Physic General recovery from a major disease or lesser Potency: Mild severity that affects the blood. It modifies The target receives a bonus (or pen- his Recovery roll by 1 for a Level 5 spell, 3 Siphoning the warrior’s bile alty) to his next Recovery roll for a Light for a Level 10 spell, or (3 x (the magnitude Solomonic Physic Level 15 Wound, which varies depending on the of the spell – 1)) for a spell Level 15 or Potency: Moderate, Ritual base level of this effect. At Level 5 this more. For example, a Level 15 spell would By touching his target and spending modifies the roll by 6, at Level 10 the add or subtract 6. three pawns of vis, the sahir casts a spell modifier is 9, and at Level 15 the bonus or Magos al-Laqis al-Abyad al-Sakhr that transforms the target’s Brave Trait penalty is 12. causes his patient to briefly feel complete- into a different Trait for the spell’s dura- (Base effect, +1 Mild) ly at peace whenever he casts this spell tion, chosen when this spell is cast. The through his guardian angel. spell can affect similar Traits like Coura- (Base effect, +3 Strong) geous, or opposing Traits like Cowardly, Strings of the sanguine heart but only Traits with scores of up to +3 Solomonic Physic General or –3 may be affected. The new Trait Potency: Moderate, Ritual Insight of the ancient jinn should be similarly positive or negative, This ritual affects the blood of the Solomonic Physic, General e.g., Brave to Loyal or Kind, Cowardly to target, altering the sanguine humors and Potency: Weak, Ritual Prideful or Envious. influencing the target’s behavior. For the The target’s Perception temporar- (Base 5, +2 Moderate)

54 The Cradle & The Crescent [Spirit], let me lean upon you ritual spells create illusions that can affect Supernatural: Only targets with supernat- Solomonic Physic Level 25 anyone who comes upon them after they ural perception, such as Second Sight Potency: Mighty have been cast. or Solomonic Travel ritual spells, may The sahir restores a Fatigue Level to Those who are targeted by Storytell- see through the effect. The Percep- his target, even when unconscious. If cast ing effects have a chance to see through tion + (Ability) roll has an Ease Factor as a ritual spell, the target suffers no pen- them, and so they have an Allure param- of 6. (+3 magnitudes) alty for lost fatigue for as long as the spirit eter that determines how difficult they maintains the effect, though the target can are to resist. Also, Solomonic Storytelling Storytelling effects are always sus- still fall unconscious from exhaustion. does not circumvent Magic Resistance, so ceptible to the parameters with higher Many sahirs cast this on themselves as when characters with Magic Resistance magnitude as well as the value they are a ritual spell, instructing the spirit to hold are targeted, the storyguide should check designed to use, so that a suspicious per- the effect dormant until they pass out, to for Penetration first. son with Second Sight would have three revive themselves as quickly as possible. chances to see through an effect with (Base 5, +4 Mighty) Simple: The target sees through the ef- Emotional Allure. While designing the fect with a Perception + Awareness spell, the sahir may also add a magnitude against an Ease Factor of 6, made when to the spell level to increase the Ease Fac- Close the red wounds of war the subject first encounters the effect. tor for any of these Perception checks by Solomonic Physic Level 30 (+0 magnitudes) 3. For example, three additional magni- Potency: Mighty, Ritual Emotional: The target resists the effect with tudes would increase all four Ease Factors This spell immediately heals any one a Perception die roll plus or minus a Per- from 6 to 15. Incapacitating, Heavy, Medium, or Light sonality Trait that suggests whether or When disguising or augmenting a Sto- Wound caused by damage that cuts or pierc- not he would question the effect, against rytelling spell using (Area) Lore, the sahir es the body. The spell takes about an hour an Ease Factor of 6. For example, Brave must have an audience, and must hold this and a half to cast, and requires six pawns of and Loyal would probably subtract from audience’s attention, making a Commu- vis. It also gives the target a Warping Point the die roll. (+1 magnitudes) nication + (Area) Lore roll. Here, (Area) for a powerful mystical effect unless it has Unsuspecting: An intelligent target may Lore represents the sahir’s ability to recall been specifically designed for him. see through the effect if his suspicions and relate an appropriate story. It also rep- Because it is a ritual spell, for as long as are raised. Once the target is skepti- resents his ability to conjure images and the spirit maintains the effect, the penalty cal, this is a Perception + Guile roll emotions that match the local culture and from all other wounds the patient sustains against an Ease Factor of 6 to resist. his surroundings. The difficulty of this roll is reduced by 7. (+2 magnitudes) varies depending upon the audience and (Base 10, +4 Mighty)

Jabril’s blessing Solomonic Physic Level 40 Potency: Mighty, Ritual This spell immediately resolves any illness caused by an aging crisis. The patient will fully recover after about a season, though for as long as the spirit maintains the effect, the patient suffers no ill effects from the crisis and may continue as normal. (Base 20, +4 Mighty)

Solomonic Storytelling

Solomonic Storytelling spells affect “an audience,” which is essentially any and all targets within range of the sahir’s voice. As with Hermetic magic, the sahir must be able to perceive everyone targeted by the naranj at the time of casting in order to affect them, though some

55 The Cradle & The Crescent the circumstances; Ease Factor 3 might be The tongue has no bone, fierce wind blowing from the mouth of the appropriate for a group relaxing around yet it crushes sahir pronouncing the curse, stripping the a fire, 15 for a hostile group blocking his Solomonic Storytelling Level 5 meat from the target’s frame. way. At the players’ discretion, Free Ex- Allure: Emotional (Base 5) pression or similar Virtues give the char- The sahir casts this naranj at his audi- acter a +3 bonus on this roll. ence, causing those affected to feel pro- Some Storytelling ritual spells profound embarrassment, as if they had just Move along, move along duce what might be called “mental spe- done something terribly improper. A hum- Solomonic Storytelling Level 10 cies.” These affect the mind directly, ble person has a greater chance of seeing Allure: Simple creating illusions of perception that are through this illusion, adding his Personal- With this naranj, the sahir convinces a solid and in all senses real for anyone ity Trait score to the roll. weak-minded audience to obey an innocu- who does not resist them. An illusion of (Base 4, +1 Emotional) ous suggestion, such as to allow him to flames is not actually hot, and an illusory pass by unmolested or to accept an unusu- ceiling does not actually keep out the al form of coin. The Perception + Aware- weather, but the illusion masks outward Wrathful breath ness roll to see through the command is signs so that those affected simply do of the desert wind Ease Factor 15. not perceive them. A guest in an illusory Solomonic Storytelling Level 5 (Base 3, +3 Ease Factor) house might become suspicious when he Allure: Simple, Ritual still has a chill after sitting by the fire, The target’s image is changed to appear or when he feels rain falling despite the as a skeleton, with all of his flesh removed, [Spirit], his arms wide thick roof above him. for as long as the spirit maintains the ef- Solomonic Storytelling Level 10 fect. This illusion may be pierced with a Allure: Simple Perception roll against an Ease Factor of The sahir speaks, and those who lis- Solomonic Storytelling 6. Some members of the Suhhar this spell ten understand a short message woven Spell Formulas to punish sahirs who offend them in some into his voice, even if they do not speak way, making it even more difficult for their the same language. This message should The spells given here are specially de- victims to interact with mundane society. be conveyed in a few words that describe signed for Solomonic Storytelling. It is common for the effect to manifest as a a general concept, such as “a dragon

Solomonic Storytelling Guidelines

All active Solomonic Storytelling Level 5: Alter an audience’s memories of Level 15: Convince an audience to fol- ritual spells allow the sahir to provide an event. low a suicidal course of action (“fall additional direction by concentrating Convince an audience to follow a upon your swords”). on the target, and selectively suppress or dangerous course of action (“wander Conjure an illusion of a room and restore the effects on anyone affected by into the desert”). its contents, or another image up to them, for as long as the spirit maintains Conjure an illusion of an individual about ten paces across. (Ritual) the spell. (with additional size magnitudes for Change the images in a room, or an- very large individuals). (Ritual) other location up to about ten paces Level 3: Change an audience’s dominant Change an individual’s image (with across. (Ritual) emotion into a similar emotion. additional magnitudes added for Level 20: Conjure an illusion of a struc- Convince an audience to follow an very large individuals, or for increas- ture and its contents, or another innocuous course of action (“drink ing the target’s size). (Ritual) image up to about a hundred paces and carouse”). Level 10: Place false memories of an across. (Ritual) Level 4: Inspire a specific emotion in an event in an audience’s minds. Change the images in a structure, or audience. Convince an audience to follow a another location up to about a hun- Convey a short message to an au- heinous course of action (“attack dred paces across. (Ritual) dience, no matter what language each other”). Level 25: Conjure an illusion of a bound- they speak. Conjure an illusion of a group of indi- ary and its contents, or another im- Change an audience’s current mental viduals (with additional magnitudes age up to about a thousand paces state (sleepy, confused, or awake). added for larger groups). (Ritual) across. (Ritual) Convince an audience to follow a Change the images of a group of in- Change the images in a boundary, or questionable course of action (“give dividuals (with additional magnitudes another location up to about a thou- me your money”). added for larger groups). (Ritual) sand paces across. (Ritual)

56 The Cradle & The Crescent is coming from the north” or “help, my A light distraction upon the mental state of the targets. Gen- daughter is lost” or “that man is an im- Solomonic Storytelling Level 20 erally, the targets recover from the effect poster.” Anyone affected may make a Per- Allure: Supernatural, Ritual at about the same time they would wake ception + Awareness roll against an Ease This spell causes the sahir’s image to if they fell asleep. If cast as a Ritual spell Factor of 12 to resist the effect, but suc- explode in a blinding flash of flame and and maintained by a spirit, however, the cess means they do not understand the then cease to be visible for the dura- effects endure and the sahir can suppress, underlying message. tion of the effect. Only those with some restore, or even change the command by If cast as a ritual spell, the sahir may form of supernatural perception can see concentrating on the target. continue to communicate short phrases through this illusion at Ease Factor 6, (Base 10, +2 Unsuspecting, +1 Ease in this way each subsequent round, for as though anyone in the sahir’s audience Factor) long as the spirit maintains the spell, and with Magic Resistance is unaffected un- may include newcomers into the effect by less the spell penetrates. concentrating upon them for a round. (Base 5, +3 Supernatural) [Spirit]’s cave Some of the Nizari Isma’ili are rumored Solomonic Storytelling Level 30 to plot assassinations using this spell, dis- Allure: Unsuspecting, Ritual cussing their intended crimes in this way You will not remember This ritual spell creates the illusion of so that they cannot possibly be overheard me when I am gone a tall, hollow hill or dune, large enough by others. Solomonic Storytelling Level 20 to contain about a hundred people, their (Base 4, +2 Ease Factor) Allure: Unsuspecting animals, and tents. This takes approxi- Through his performance, the sa- mately an hour and a half, and costs the hir causes his audience to remember a sahir six pawns of vis. Once the naranj is Make their eyelids heavy completely different event happening cast, the sahir and the people inside can and their heads to fall instead, the details of which are woven see through the image if they make a Per- Solomonic Storytelling Level 15 into the naranj. For example, he might ception + Guile roll against an Ease Factor Allure: Supernatural have them recall that they watched the of 6, or the sahir can selectively drop the All those within range of the sahir’s sun set, or listened to an imam give a illusion for any of them by concentrating voice are lulled to sleep unless they have moving speech about the merits of chil- on the effect. This allows the people in- supernatural perception, in which case dren obeying their parents. Once the side to watch others who approach with they may shake off the effect with a Per- spell is cast, the sahir’s audience might be ease, most of whom will have no reason to ception + (Ability) roll against an Ease briefly disoriented, as they try to remem- doubt the image and almost certainly will Factor of 6. They may easily wake again ber what it is that they are doing. If the travel around it, creating a perfect ambush if they are disturbed; they will sleep as facts of this story are called into ques- site or hiding place. The illusion lasts for long as they would if they had fallen tion, a successful Perception + Guile roll as long as the spirit maintains the effect, or asleep naturally. against an Ease Factor of 6 allows them until the sahir cancels it. To add his Area Lore to his total, the to remember the truth. (Base 20, +2 Unsuspecting) sahir usually tells a familiar story in a (Base 10, +2 Unsuspecting) soothing voice. It takes 45 minutes to cast in this way, but does not seem like magic Solomonic Travel to his audience. Sow the seeds for (Base 4, +3 Supernatural) a crop of betrayers Solomonic Storytelling Level 25 Solomonic Travel involves manipu- Allure: Unsuspecting lating the power of the four supernatu- Peal of familiar voices The sahir convinces his audience to ral realms. These spells open a passage Solomonic Storytelling Level 15 perform a heinous act, specified at the through an individual target, which the Allure: Emotional time of casting, such as attacking each sahir must draw upon or mark in some The sahir’s audience is inspired with a other, assaulting their leader, or burning way; or else through a circle that he draws feeling of loyalty and cooperative enthu- down a mosque. Those who suspect they upon the ground or on a solid surface such siasm, a strong desire to work together have been enchanted may make a Percep- as a wall or floor. To allow others to travel with others in their community. In effect, tion + Guile roll against an Ease Factor of through this passage, the marked target or everyone who listens to the performance 9 to resist, otherwise they act as if they circle must be large enough for each indi- receives a +3 bonus to Personality rolls had decided on the action themselves, and vidual to pass through it. associated with working together, as if proceed to carry out the command to the These effects have one parameter, De- the caster had the Inspirational Virtue. best of their abilities. lay, which determines how long the sahir The Ease Factor to see through this illu- If they are prevented from fulfilling must wait for the effect to manifest. The sion is 12. their orders, the desire to comply will fade markings or circle that he draws on the tar- (Base 4, +1 Emotional, +2 Ease Factor) over time, more or less quickly depending get must remain undisturbed until this time.

57 The Cradle & The Crescent

Season: The effect manifests at the next might require the burning of white candles makes a Stamina roll against an Ease Fac- solstice or equinox. (+0 magnitudes) and sweet incense while chanting appro- tor equal to three times (the magnitude of Moon: The effect manifests during the next priate passages of the Qur’an and inscrib- the spell – 3). For example, a Level 25 ver- full or new moon. (+1 magnitude) ing them on the target. sion has an Ease Factor of 6. Sun: The effect manifests at the next dawn (Base effect, +3 Immediate, +1 addi- or dusk. (+2 magnitudes) tional Warping Point) Immediate: The effect manifests immedi- Solomonic Travel ately. (+3 magnitudes) Spell Formulas The hush of solitude The sahir can perform a mystic cer- The spells given here are specially de- Solomonic Travel General emony to augment his Casting Total, or signed for Solomonic Travel. Delay: Immediate to disguise his casting. This requires him This effect closes a passage that has to have a (Realm) Lore score of at least 3 been opened with Solomonic Travel or (of the realm appropriate to the effect), [Spirit] brings the curse of Bayna a similar power, even one that is being consume special materials appropriate to Solomonic Travel General maintained by a spirit or which has been the realm (e.g., candles, incense, offer- Delay: Immediate created but has not yet manifested. At ings, sacrifices, etc.), and he must describe This effect causes an individual tar- Level 20, it can cancel another effect of the effect upon the target with pictures or get that the sahir touches to immediately up to Level 20. At Level 35, it can can- words. For example, a divine ceremony gain two Warping Points, unless the target cel another effect of up to Level 50. At

Solomonic Travel Guidelines

Active Solomonic Travel ritual spells Open a passage through a supernatu- Level 15: Open a passage into the Twi- grant the sahir supernatural senses, al- ral regio boundary of level no greater light Void (see Realms of Power: Magic, lowing him to see through illusions and than (the base magnitude of this ef- pages 23–26). (Ritual) perceive things that are imbued with su- fect + 5). Open a window through an Arcane pernatural power. Treat this as scores in Open a passage through the Twilight Connection. (Ritual) both Magic Sensitivity and Second Sight Void to a vestige or boundary in the Open a window through which equal to the magnitude of the spell for as Magic Realm of level no greater than ghosts and other insubstantial beings long as the spirit maintains it. This su- the base magnitude of this effect (see can be seen. (Ritual) pernatural sense is also affected by the Realms of Power: Magic, pages 21–26). Open a window into a sleeping per- Delay parameter, however, and does not Open a passage into the Faerie Realm son’s dreams (see The Mysteries Revised actually manifest until the spell comes through a supernatural aura of level Edition, pages 102–111). (Ritual) into effect, though the spirit must still no less than (10 – (the base magni- Level 20: Open a window to or from maintain it until then. tude of this effect + 1)) (see Realms of the physical world through a Mag- A window or passage allows the sahir Power: Faerie, pages 20–23). ic Realm vestige or boundary (see and anyone nearby to perceive species Close a window or passage opened Realms of Power: Magic, pages 21-23). through it from another location, and al- with Solomonic Travel or a similar (Ritual) lows those on the other side to perceive power if the magnitude of the can- Level 25: Open a passage that trans- the sahir’s location as well. These portals celed effect is less than ((this spell’s forms the sahir and his companions remain open as long as the spirit maintains base magnitude + 1) x 2). into spirits for the duration. (Ritual) the effect, and travel through a passage Open a passage from the Faerie Open a passage into a sleeping per- can be selectively granted or revoked to Realm to a supernatural aura with an son’s dreams (see The Mysteries Revised others by the spirit or as the sahir directs. aura bonus or penalty no less than Edition, pages 102–111). (Ritual) (10 – (the base magnitude of this Open a passage through an Arcane General: Give the target a Warping spell + 5)) (see Realms of Power: Faerie, Connection. (Ritual) Point if it fails a Stamina roll against pages 29-30). (Ritual) Level 30: Open a direct passage to or an Ease Factor of (3 x (the spell’s base Open a passage through a supernatu- from the Magic Realm through a ves- magnitude + 1)). Additional magni- ral aura to another aura of the same tige or boundary, bypassing the Twi- tudes can also increase the number of realm, both auras of level no less light Void (see Realms of Power: Magic, Warping Points gained. than (10 – the base magnitude of this pages 21–23). (Ritual) Restore a number of Might Points to spell). (Ritual) Open a direct passage to or from the a target equal to (the base level of the Level 10: Force the target to make an Faerie Realm (see Realms of Power: Fa- effect – 5). Aging roll. erie, pages 29–30). (Ritual)

58 The Cradle & The Crescent

Level 50, it can cancel another effect of up to Level 80. The sahir must mark the passageway he is closing in some way, usually by drawing the sign of the Ashab al-Nahr upon it with a piece of charred wood or ash. (Base effect, +3 Immediate)

Through the gray haze Solomonic Travel General Delay: Sun At sunset or sunrise, the sahir opens passage through a regio boundary of level no greater than (the magnitude of this effect + 3). For example, a Level 10 spell would open passage through a boundary of 5 or less. While this naranj works on boundaries aligned with any realm, the sahir may only incorporate his (Realm) Lore score if he correctly identifies the type of aura for the regio. If he guesses wrong, he receives no bonus. (Base effect, +2 Sun)

To the highest mountains of Qaf Solomonic Travel General Delay: Season When cast from within a supernatural target’s Might, not the spirit’s own power. The target touched by the sahir is brief- aura, this spell opens a passage into the Fa- (Base effect, +3 Immediate) ly exposed to the harsh, timeless powers of erie Realm (See Realms of Power: Faerie, pages one of the four supernatural realms, and 20–23). As a Level 5 spell, the origin aura must make an immediate Aging roll, even strength must be 10, with each additional We will meet again if the target is too young to require such magnitude lowering the minimum aura as the seasons turn rolls naturally. If the target is not living or strength by 1. Solomonic Travel General is immortal, this naranj has no effect. (Base effect) Delay: Season, Ritual (Base 10, +3 Immediate) From within a supernatural aura, the sahir draws the outline of a portal that will Warm as the life of day lead to a different aura of the same realm The magical minaret Solomonic Travel General that he has visited before. The levels of Solomonic Travel Level 30 Delay: Immediate both auras can be no less than (10 – the Delay: Immediate, Ritual The sahir marks and concentrates magnitude of this spell), which means The sahir draws upon the surface of a upon a spirit or other supernatural being that a Level 45 spell is needed to enable pool, the face of a rock, or a circle of sand, and restores a number of lost Might Points travel to or from a Level 1 aura. If both and once the ritual spell is complete he to its Might Pool. The number of Might auras are at least Level 5, a Level 25 spell is and any others he designates can perceive Points it regains is equal to (the spell level sufficient. Most commonly, sahirs use this what is happening in a place to which he – 20), so at Level 25 the target would re- naranj to enable travel to the yearly Majlis, has an Arcane Connection. This super- cover 5 Might Points. Note that the naranj and cast it at the very end of spring so that natural perception goes both ways, so that must also penetrate the being’s Magic Re- they can use it during summer. others near the target can also see and hear sistance to have its effect. (Base effect) the sahir and his companions, though it is This naranj may be used to restore clear who is actually there and who is on Might Points to the spirit through which the other side. Those on either side of the it is cast. This is because the sahir is actu- Sight of many lifetimes magical window can even cast spells and ally drawing upon the concentrated power Solomonic Travel Level 25 use their powers through it. The window of one of the four realms to replenish his Delay: Immediate only remains open as long as the sahir’s

59 The Cradle & The Crescent spirit maintains the effect, however. through this doorway into what sahirs call The oubliette al-wazir As this is a ritual spell, the sahir can “the spirit realm.” They pass through the Solomonic Travel Level 45 open and close the window by concentrat- doorway, yet once they reach the other Delay: Immediate, Ritual ing, even selectively allowing or denying side they are now insubstantial and in- This ritual spell opens passage to a access to several at once. In addition, after visible to other mortals, like a spirit, and particular location in the Magic Realm, the window opens the sahir gains super- mostly unable to affect them, physically or without requiring travel through the natural senses equivalent to scores of 6 in with their magic. They are also tangible Twilight Void (see Realms of Power: Magic, Second Sight and Magic Sensitivity for as to other spirits: they are able to see and pages 21–23). It is said that the current long as the effect lasts. interact with each other as if they were grand vizier possesses an Arcane Con- (Base 15, +3 Immediate) corporeal. Spirits who travel through the nection to a pit in the middle of a great doorway experience just the opposite; stone fortress located in that realm, built they become physical and unable to in- on an island in the middle of a cold and By the light of the ominous moon teract with the spirit world without appro- lonely sea. Traitors to the Suhhar can be Solomonic Travel Level 30 priate powers. (See Realms of Power: Magic, quietly exiled to this prison through the Delay: Moon, Ritual page 100, for more on how spirits interact use this spell. Like other Solomonic Travel spells, with the physical world.) (Base 30, +3 Immediate) the sahir draws the doorway through Sahirs generally circumvent the delay which he will gain passage, and once the by casting the spell during a full moon. moon changes he and his companions step (Base 25, +1 Moon)

60 Chapter Four The Jinn

Amongst us [jinn] are some that sub- of Jinn” sidebar for further details. strongly aligned to the elemental Forms. mit their wills and some that swerve from All jinn are said to be composed of Most jinn can assume a physical form justice. Now those who submit their wills, “smokeless fire” — the exact nature of this composed of elemental matter or solid en- they have sought out the path of right varies depending on the chosen Realm ergy using one of their powers. Many have conduct: but those who swerve, they are alignment of the particular jinni: Faerie the ability to change their shape into ele- fuel for Hell-fire. jinn are composed of Glamour, Infernal mental manifestations, animals, humanoid — The Qur’an, Al-Jinn: 14-15 jinn have bodies of rarefied power and forms, or the shape of particular humans. Magic jinn are composed of pure magic. Jinn divide themselves into several According to Islamic teaching, God This magical body is usually aligned to the main tribes that roughly correlate with created three classes of intelligent beings: Form of Vim, rather than being flame as- their Realm alignment. Thus the Jann are the angels (mala’ika, sing., malak) made of sociated with the Form of Ignem, although lesser Faerie jinn that follow the ways of light; the jinn (“the hidden,” masc. sing. some jinn, particularly Magic jinn, are Islam and pass for human merchants, no- jinni, fem. sing. jinniyya) made of smokeless fire or aether; and humans al-Ins( ) made of clay. Angels are God’s direct servants at Other Middle Eastern Spirits: Non-Jinn his side, while both humans and jinn are capable of salvation and were sent to pop- Common Muslim folk sometimes Hermetic theory as Spell Spirits, are ulate the earth. Muhammad was tasked mistakenly refer to ghosts and other su- similarly explained using this lesser term, with bringing both jinn and humans to pernatural creatures from Arab folklore as though they lack the cultural identity of salvation and many jinn appear to have jinn. Dhilan, ghaddars, hatifs, naddahas, true jinn. The Named Spirits of Her- adopted Islam, but there are also jinn who nisnases, shiqq, and udars are not jinn in metic Theurgy, such as the Astra Planeta have devoted themselves to tempting oth- the sense given here, nor are the Persian daimons so well known to Arab wizards, ers and have rejected the message of the divs, yazatas, and peris. However, Faerie are also not considered jinn, and are re- faith, risking damnation. It is said that the jinn may mimic or assume roles similar ferred to instead as al-Nujum, “the Stars.” jinn were the original inhabitants of Earth to these creatures in order to entrap hu- To the ignorant mundane, anything but fell away from the worship of God. mans in their stories. These creatures supernatural is jinn, but to a sahir, a Iblis, the Islamic equivalent of the Devil, have different origins than jinn: ghosts jinni is a specific creature subject to the is recorded as being originally one of the may have once been humans; some have Art of Sihr and its legacy of command most powerful of the ancient jinn. He fell been created by magical mishaps or the passed down from the wisdom of Sulei- to pride and refused to bow down to Adam workings of ancient wizards; others are man. This makes dealing with unknown when commanded by God. aligned to the Divine or Infernal Realms. supernatural entities potentially difficult All jinn occupy a constant place in the Despite their name, the Faerie creatures and dangerous for a sahir, and so most folklore of Islam and share several common referred to as Soqotran jinniyah and as- prefer to rely on knowledge passed down characteristics. Some myths tell of impious sociated with the Myrrh trees of that is- by their forebears and are very cautious humans that have transformed into jinn on land are not true jinn and are similarly when dealing with encountered spirits their deaths, although whether this de- unaffected by Sihr. they have not summoned directly. scribes the creation of Infernal ghosts or Arab folklore also blames many su- Sahirs using Sihr or their Solomon- transformation into Magic spirits or some pernatural events and occurrences, in- ic Magic have no exceptional power kind of Faerie apotheosis is difficult to de- cluding ghostly haunting, on the jinn. over these other spiritual creatures but termine. The true nature of bazarkh, the Thus the term “jinni” is also mistakenly some may be able to use different magi- soul’s experiences immediately after death, used to describe any magical spirit, ef- cal abilities such as the Goetic Arts of has not been elucidated by the few Me- fect or creature. The lesser Airy Spirits, Summoning and Commanding to affect rinita and Criamon scholars interested in including the entities understood by these spirits. pursuing this state. See the “Terminology

61 The Cradle & The Crescent mads, or shepherds, interacting with hu- lamic angels. group of supernatural spirits (in Latin, ge- mans in stories involving hospitality and Other terms used within the various nii) that inhabit the Islamic lands and are morality. The Shaitan are a collection of folk tales refer to rank or power within integral to wider Arab culture. both dark Faerie and Infernal spirits, some various tribes of jinn. The names ‘afrit and This definition includes jinn aligned of who have become corrupted into true marid usually refer to the stronger types to the Faerie Realm, as well as those ge- terrestrial demons. The Ghul tribe consists of Faerie jinn, although their relationship nii loci found in Muslim lands aligned to of dark Faerie sexual predators and canni- to humanity can be either benevolent or the Magic realm. It also addresses a range balistic Infernal savages that haunt cem- antagonistic depending on their defin- of Infernal spirits: true demons of Islamic eteries and graveyards looking for carrion ing role. Confusingly, the terms Ifrit and lands and wider Arab folklore, such as Iblis or lone travelers. The powerful Marid tribe Marid also refer to two of more power- and his descendents; the ghul; and local are a loose alliance of ancient Magic ele- ful of the reportedly 112 jinni tribes. The Middle Eastern examples of demons, such mental spirits of water, wind, and weather term “shaitan” typically refers to dark Fa- as mazzikim and shedim. found predominantly in Arabia. erie jinn but is also used to refer to Infernal Together they form a collective of en- jinn in general, the specific tribe of jinn tities of varied Realm alignment character- known as Shaitan, and in many cases to ized by the following: Iblis himself. • They share a common special Free Terminology Virtue: Jinni that denotes their Jinn Defined unique status. • They have True Names that can of Jinn Mechanically be learned, even those jinn of low Might Score. The exact nature of jinn is difficult The sahir summoning art of Sihr is • They are supernatural spirits native to define, as the term is used collectively defined in its scope by its limitation of to the lands of the Dar al-Islam: the to refer to a myriad of spirits variously summoning only jinn (see Chapter 3: The Levant, Iberia, the Maghreb, Egypt, aligned to the Faerie, Infernal and Magic Order of Suleiman). In this book, the term Arabia, Iraq, Mesopotamia, Persia, and Realms. There are no Divine jinn, only Is- jinni refers specifically to the collective Transoxiana. • They have encountered Islam and chosen to accept (Faerie), reject (dark Faerie), ignore (Magic), or oppose (In- fernal) the teachings of the Prophet. • They almost universally speak and understand Arabic (classical) as an Abil- ity, Pretense, or via magic — rare ancient jinn may speak Aramaic, Hebrew or lost Semitic languages. • They have the Ability (or Pretense, if Faerie jinn) Theology: Islam (jinn) as part of their exposure to and incorpo- ration into Arab culture. • They have some supernatural power that allows them to remain hidden when desired — either invisibility, immateriality, illusory form, or the ability to shapechange into animal guise.

Ultimately, the storyguide is the final arbiter on what is a jinni and what is not a jinni. Specific Faerie or Infernal jinni may not rigidly conform to the guidelines presented here if it suits their concept or role to be an exception — this may include select Hermetic and Heroic Virtues and Flaws at the discretion of the storyguide. Each jinni is an individual with his own unique place in the story. Be creative.

62 The Cradle & The Crescent

Ghosts, demons that are not specifically Infernal jinn, and the European spirits Jinni Names of the Faerie and Magic Realm familiar to Hermetic magi are definitely not jinn. Crea- Jinni names, while similar to those real or dissonant quality to them, for ex- tures of Virtue and other physical creatures of the humans of the Mythic Middle ample: Anees al-Galees, Jerjees, Kabikaj, with a Might score are also not jinn. East, have their own peculiarities. Kharrat, Khyron, Qumqam, Singam, Generally, such names fall into sev- Sakr, Zamzam, Zarmabaha. Troupes eral broad categories and follow con- are encouraged to generate these latter ventions similar to other Arab names names by changing some of the letters Common Jinn Traits including the use of nasab, kunya and of Arabic, Aramaic, Turkish or Persian nisbas. Only the more powerful ranks names at random. Most jinn who interact regularly with of jinn such as the ‘afrit and marid have humans possess the Faerie Speech Minor multiple names, often using an honor- Virtue or an equivalent power such as the ific name to describe their greatness Story Seed: Minor Heroic Virtue Gift of Tongues in- (laqab) (see the Appendix for further The List of Suleiman stead, giving them the ability to converse details on names). King Suleiman was granted domin- in all spoken languages. Some of the rare- The first group of names includes ion over all jinn by God and many sahirs ly-encountered pre-Islamic jinn may claim those jinn named after common animals believe that the Art of Sihr is directly to speak only Aramaic, or some other an- of which they can assume the shape, descended from his powers. Legends cient Semitic language. particularly in the case of Faerie jinn. speak of a codex written by the prophet Jinn frequently have Second Sight and Such names include: containing the True Names of all jinn, a Greater Malediction stating that, when it Af’aa (“Snake”), Arnab (“Hare”), a priceless treasure for any summoner. enters a bargain, it is bound to the agreed Baghl (“Mule”), Fa’r (“Mouse”), Feel The list can reputedly update and edit terms unless its partner reneges first. The (“Elephant”), Hemaar (“Donkey”), He- itself magically as jinn are born and die. supernatural nature of jinn is usually appar- saan (“Horse”), Jamal (“Camel”), Kalb Some sahirs claim to have found ent to regular humans and some animals, (“Dog”), Maa’ez (“Goat”), Nasr (“Vul- fragments of Suleiman’s list amidst such as cats, dogs and horses, although ture”), Qett (“Cat”), and so forth. Many the pages of other books dealing with this is reflected in different Flaws for jinn Magic jinn are named after the natural feature they are associated with as their (Realm) Lore — pages on which archaic of different Realms as noted later. Many names sometimes disappear or emerge humanoid jinn possess one or more of the locus: Amirat al-Jabal (“lady emir of the mountain”), Ighraq al-Siq (“torrent of between readings. Whether these pages Skinchanger Minor Virtue and the Ways are truly fragments of the greater list or of the Land (Desert or, less commonly, the gorge”). Others have titular names or nicknames (nisba): ‘Abd al-Qinnina Faerie books created from the legend is Mountains or Plains) and the Greater Im- unclear — not all the names appear to munity: Fire Major Virtues. (“slave of the bottle”), Bali’ al-Ard (“swallower of the ground”), al-Damawi (“the be genuine True Names. Both Hermetic As spiritual beings, jinn must possess magi and sahirs may seek to recover such the Donning the Corporeal Veil Power bloody”), al-Ghazzalin (“the weaver”), al-Khalil (“the Empty One”), al-Malik fragments in the hope of reconstructing (for Magic jinn) or a similar power, such either the whole text or discovering the as Coagulation (for Infernal jinn) or an (“the king”), al-Qatil (“the slayer”). Finally, many Faerie jinn have names means of capturing the True Names of equivalent (for Faerie jinn), in order to cre- new jinn. ate a physical body that can interact with that seem almost human but have an un- material beings. Some minor jinn, such as the Faerie jann and the Infernal ghul, are spirits locked into a physical form, but lated to their roles, similar to the Ferocity have already made a choice to side with they can shapechange into at least one Virtue of animals. Some Infernal jinn have evil and this decision is reflected in their other form or become insubstantial or in- lost the ability to act contrary to the dic- predominantly dark Faerie nature. Those visible for short periods of time. tates of their passions, transforming into individual Infernal jinn who have become Jinn are generally considered extreme- true terrestrial demons, and thus lack a true demons have sacrificed their free will ly long-lived (equivalent to the effects of Confidence score. on becoming irrevocably aligned with Ib- the Faerie Blood Minor Virtue) but are lis and the Infernal. Faerie jinn may act as not always immortal, and many lesser jinn if they have freedom but, in truth, their have the Age Quickly Major Flaw rather Jinn and Free Will choices are restrained by the roles and sto- than being truly immortal spirits. ries they inhabit. Not all jinn have Confidence, but All jinn claim a common origin in Jin- many Faerie jinn possess the Reputation Although jinn appear to possess free nistan. Some sahirs and scholars speculate as Confidence Virtue, which grants Con- will, Islamic scholars believe this may that this means jinn began as creatures of fidence to be used for specific actions re- not be true. The Ghul and Shaitan tribes the Magic Realm born with free will, and

63 The Cradle & The Crescent Jumayl, A Jinni Guide

This lesser jinni has been created as Wound Penalties: –1 (1–5), –3 (6–10), trade routes of the Levant, Arabia, Per- an example starting magus-level char- –5 (11–15), Incapacitated (16–20), sia, Transoxiana, and beyond for a crime acter using the full rules from Realms of Dead (21+) his brother committed. An excellent Power: Faerie. The selection of skills and Pretenses: Animal Handling 3 (camels), swordsman and skilled outdoorsman, particular powers are designed to be Athletics 3 (running), Mythic Mid- he is well known among the Muslim useful for a party traveling through the dle East Lore 4 (trade routes), Aware- merchants and even Levantine Redcaps Mythic Middle East. His need for vitality ness 3 (alertness), Brawl 3 (dagger), for his easy-going nature and bravado and human interaction to recover Might Bows 5 (short bow), Carouse 2 in defending caravans from raiders and points provide a strong hook to involve (power drinking), Faerie Speech 5, brigands. Like most Faerie jinn, he can him in adventures and active stories, al-Mushaqqar Lore 2 (drinking es- change into an animal form — in his making him a good choice to accompa- tablishments), Faerie Lore 3 (jinn), case, a white wild Bactrian camel using ny magi as a guide throughout the area Folk Ken 4 (mercenaries), Leader- his Skinchanger Virtue. covered by this book. ship 4 (battle), Ride 3 (camels), Sec- Although immune to Fatigue like Jumayl may be found in any major ond Sight 3 (jinn), Single Weapon other faeries, Jumayl is unusually sus- city in the region or even the ports of 7 (long sword), Survival 2 (deserts), ceptible to the effects of mundane alco- the Levant, but he favors the bustling Theology: Islam 1 (jinn), Wilderness hol — a weakness that helps him to play markets around the fortress of al-Mush- Sense 3 (find water). his role within stories along the caravan aqqar in Bahrayn (see Chapter 6: Mythic Powers: routes. Unlike most faeries, due to his Arabia), where well-paid work and cheap Cuirass of the Zephyr, 1 point, Init +3, Might Recovery Requires Vitality Flaw, alcohol can be easily found. Auram; as Circling Winds of Protection his Might points, once spent, can only with Duration of Recitation / Qira’a recover if he gets a full night’s rest and (as long as Jumayl keeps reciting eats a meal in the company of fellow Jumayl verses of the Qur’an — equivalent to travelers. This must be done within a Concentration). human community, eating travel rations Faerie Might: 15 (Vim) Blinding Light of the Pious, 1 point, Init +3, or caravanserai meals, drinking bever- Characteristics: Int –1, Per +2, Pre 0, Com Ignem; as Flash of the Scarlet Flames. ages fermented by humans and listen- 0, Str +2, Sta +0, Dex +2, Qik +3 Tay al-Ard (Travel), 4 points, Init +1, Cor- ing to humans sing or tell tales about Size: 0 pus; this power instantly transports their travels. For every eight hours the Age: appears 25 Jumayl and 2 individuals he holds character rests, he recovers a number Confidence: 1 (3) hands with from one location to an- of Might Points equal to the prevailing Virtues and Flaws: Jinni, Pass as Human; other that he has visited before or has Aura as modified by the Realm Interac- Greater Powers x2, Ostentatious; an Arcane Connection to, regardless tion Table, or 1, whichever is greater. He Faerie Speech, Highly Cognizant, of distance. As Leap of Homecom- does not actually need to eat or drink Humanoid Faerie, Increased Faerie ing, with R: Touch, T: Group, 45 however. Jumayl knows enough about Might x2, Improved Characteristics, spell levels, 1 Intricacy point spent wizards to avoid leaving Arcane Con- Reputation as Confidence (caravan on reduced cost. nections carelessly and keeps his True guard), Second Sight, Skinchanger, Equipment: a fine damascene steel long Name a close secret. Warrior, Well-Traveled, Wilderness sword, leather scale caravan guard His powers have been created as Sense; Greater Malediction (keep armor, flashy jewelry Greater Powers but could readily be re- any bargain made), Might Recov- Vis: 3 pawns of Vim vis, camel’s tooth duced to Lesser Powers to downgrade ery Requires Vitality; Carefree, Du- Appearance: Jumayl (“little camel”) is a him to a standard companion if his Os- tybound (Bedouin honor code), Tra- comely, lithe man of uncertain ori- tentatious Major Virtue, 2 Increased Faer- ditional Ward (Bismillah Invocation), ental appearance, alabaster skin and ie Might Minor Virtues and Highly Cog- Vulnerable to Folk Tradition. white hair. One eye is iridescent nizant Minor Virtues were also dropped. Personality Traits: Impulsive +3, Cheer- green, the other ocean blue. He fa- In this case, his Might Recovery Requires ful +3, Impious –1 vors swirling robes dyed a deep blue Vitality Major Flaw should be replaced Reputation: Skilled Caravan guard 2 color over light leather armor, high- with three Minor Flaws. Alternatively, if (Mythic Middle East) lighted by gold jewelry. used as an NPC, his Virtues and Flaws Combat: do not need to balance and further pow- Long Sword: Init +5, Attack +14, Defense This jinni, one of the jann, is a mer- ers with illusions or summoning animals +9, Damage +8 cenary guide, forced to wander from could be added. Soak: +3 caravanserai to caravanserai along the

64 The Cradle & The Crescent

changed their Realm alignment to either Faerie or the Infernal only after interact- Bali’ al-Ard, a Bedouin racehorse ing with humanity and coming into contact with Islam, losing their free will in Beloved by his master, a young Bed- Damage +5 the process. ouin sahir named Salih al-Kamil, this Soak: +3 The fact of the matter is unclear — jinni takes the form of an exceptional Wound Penalties: –1 (1–7), –3 (8–14), jinn may only appear to change Realms. Arabian stallion renowned for his racing –5 (15–21), Incapacitated (22–28), For example, a Magic jinni of a local ability. His magical travel powers and Dead (29+) geographic feature may be replaced by a lack of fatigue allow him to cheat during Pretenses: Arabic 5 (horses), Athletics 6 Faerie jinni created through stories of its the dust and confusion of longer desert (racing), Awareness 3 (bad footing), interactions with nearby Muslims. Alter- races. This gives his master great status Theology: Islam 1 (jinn) natively an Infernal jinni, attracted by the and pride, feeding his need for Vitality, Powers: potential for sin created by the presence but is also the source of continual ha- Drinker of the Wind, 1 points, Init +1, Ani- of pagan Magic spirit, may destroy the rassment from horse breeders wishing to mal; This power instantly transports original genius loci and take its place. To mate their mares in the hope of produc- ‘ al-Ard from one location to another common folk and even magi, the jinni may ing talented offspring. As they are un- within seven leagues that he can see appear to have changed Realms as the new aware of the Faerie nature of the horse, or has an Arcane Connection to. As spirit assumes the name, appearance, and such suitors do not realize that time out Seven League Stride but as a non-Her- role of the original entity. at stud deprives his master of his magi- metic effect allows the rider to ac- cal aid and that such unions will always company him to fulfill his racehorse be unsuccessful in producing foals. role. Greater Power, 30 spell levels, 2 Intricacy points spent on Initiative Pious and Impious Jinn and 2 Intricacy points spent on re- Bali’ al-Ard duced Might cost. Those jinn who profess to have sub- Immateriality, 3 points, Init +2, Imaginem; Faerie Might: 5 (Animal) mitted to or rejected Islam are aligned Makes him immaterial until sunrise Characteristics: Int –2, Per 0, Pre +2, to the Faerie Realm. Often referred to or nightfall. Personal Power, 40 Com –4, Str +4, Sta +3, Dex +1, as pious and impious jinn, their religious spell levels, 1 Intricacy point spent Qik +5 (racing)* behavior is a sham required by their roles on Initiative, and 1 Intricacy point * Denotes the specialty for Mythic in that they appear to uphold or illustrate spent on reduced Might cost Quickness. Islam’s tenets as an example or challenge Equipment: exceptional quality tack and Size: +2 to humans. This type of jinni is the one harness, coppery gold horseshoes Confidence Score 1 (3) most likely to be involved with mundanes Vis: 1 pawn of Animal vis, copper Virtues and Flaws: Jinni, Faerie Beast; and they are frequently encountered in the horseshoe Greater Power; Great Quickness x2, Mythic Middle East. Appearance: Bali’ al-Ard (Arabic, “The Improved Characteristics, Mythic These creatures often live in groups Swallower of the Ground”), ap- Quickness (racing)*, Personal Power like humans and mimic the behavior and pears as a magnificent example of x2, Reputation as Confidence; Curse an Arabian stallion, a breed famed culture of their mundane neighbors, of- of Venus, Greater Malediction (keep ten appearing as merchants, shepherds throughout the Mythic Middle East any bargain made); Proud (Minor), and even in far-off Europe. and nomads, although city-dwelling jinn Incognizant, Traditional Ward (Bis- are frequently encountered in the farther millah Invocation), Tragic Intelli- This jinni can only assume animal reaches of the Mythic Middle East. Such gence (easily tricked) jinn generally live in close proximity to form although he is able to become im- * Although a Heroic Virtue, this Vir- material. He is an example of a potential humans but in places humans find inhos- tue is allowed, being integral to the pitable: deserts, ruins, wastelands, and khadim (servant spirit) of a beginning Faerie racehorse concept. unGifted sahir with only limited scores abandoned houses, or in wells, cisterns, Qualities: Domesticated, Fast Runner, latrines, and other taboo places. Together in the Solomonic Arts. See Chapter 3: Herd Animal, Imposing Appear- The Order of Suleiman for more details they comprise a group of Faeries involved ance x3 in meddling with humans in a variety of of khadim and sahir. Personality Traits: Proud +3, Loyal +2, Bali is not balanced for use as a start- boundary stories, whether physically or Brave +1 philosophically, but most commonly rep- ing player character and is based on Reputations: Magnificent racehorse an Arabian racing horse — essentially resenting tales concerned with social dis- 3 (local) tinctions or adulthood. a modified courser. Like all horses he Combat: gains a +3 to running rolls. Most of these Faerie-aligned jinn share Hooves: Init +6, Attack +3, Defense +4, the following Virtues and Flaws in addition to those noted earlier for all jinn: Eidolon,

65 The Cradle & The Crescent Bottles of Suleiman, Slaves of the King

There we saw a man casting his net to ‘Abd al-Qininna, a servile that can be touched by a potential mas- catch fish, and presently he pulled them Bottle of Suleiman ‘afrit ter or add substance to its ‘afrit form so up and behold, in them was a cucurbite it can bear loads, invoke Touch range of copper, stopped with lead and sealed Faerie Might: 30 (Imaginem) powers or engage in combat at the re- with the signet of Solomon, son of Da- Characteristics: Int —, Per +2, Pre +2, Com quest of its master. 25 spell levels. vid, on whom be peace! He brought the 0, Str +4, Sta +2, Dex +1, Qik +1 Tay al-Ard (Travel), 4 points, Init +1, Cor- vessel to land and broke it open, when Size: +3 (in ‘afrit form) pus; This power instantly transports there came forth a smoke, which rose a Confidence Score: 1 (3 points) the ‘afrit and others it carries from one twisting blue to the zenith, and we heard Virtues and Flaws: Jinn, Monstrous Ap- location to another that the bearer of a horrible voice, saying, ‘I repent! I re- pearance, ; External Vis (Major: cop- its cucurbite has visited before or has pent! Pardon, O Prophet of Allah! I will per cucurbite, grants Self-Confident), an Arcane Connection to, regardless never return to that which I did afore- Greater Power x2 (Tay al-Ard, Flight), of distance. As Leap of Homecoming, with time.’ Then the smoke became a terrible Ritual Power x4 (Binding Oath, R: Touch, T: Group. 50 spell levels, 1 Giant frightful of form, whose head was Grant: Wealthy); Faerie Speech, Im- Intricacy point spent on reduced cost. level with the mountaintops, and he van- proved Powers x2, Lesser Powers x4, Serendipitous Wealth, 10 points, Init –9, Ter- ished from our sight... Narrowly Cognizant, Reputation as ram; This power seemingly grants the — Tale of the “The City of Brass,” Confidence*; Intangible Flesh, Sover- effects of the Wealthy Virtue, but sim- The Thousand and One Nights eign Ward (Bismillah) ilar to the Wealth of Nations power Personality Traits: Proud +3, Sly +3, of False Gods, summons treasure from Folk tales abound in Eastern folk- Cruel +2 somewhere else. (See Realms of Power: The Infernal, page 37). 50 spell levels, lore of poor fisherman who cast their Reputations: Terrifyingly magical +3 Ritual Power (Grant: Wealthy), 5 In- nets into the ocean, calling upon God’s Pretenses: Penetration 6, Theology: Is- tricacy points spent on cost. aid only to pull in strange and ancient lam 1 (jinn) Vis: 6 pawns of Imaginem, concentrated bottles. Termed “cucurbites” and known Powers: , 5 points, Init –19, Vim; in its cucurbite prop to the peasant folk as Suleimanic Bottles, Binding Oath Voice, Penetration +15; Upon “re- Appearance: These Faeries initially appear these vessels are gourd-shaped copper leasing” the apparently captive ‘afrit as their cucurbite, a solid gourd-shaped flasks sealed with a lead plug embossed from its prison, the rescuer can bar- flask of copper, using their Eidolon and with the Seal of Suleiman. When the gain for a set three wishes or a length Loosely Material powers. They shift stopper is removed, a jinni issues forth, of conditional service depending on into their smoky column form only either thankful or wrathful toward its the personality of the individual Fa- when the Seal of Suleiman stoppering rescuer, but always a potential source of erie jinni, provided he agrees to de- their apparent prison is disturbed. This wealth or woe. In some tales the prison stroy the cucurbite and permanently latter form consists of a giant human is in the form of a seal ring, or, most fa- release the jinni from captivity. 50 torso of unnatural color, often red, but mously, a humble battered lamp. The levels, Ritual Power, 5 Intricacy sometimes blue or green, surmounted origin of these mystical containers is points spent on reduced cost. by a monstrous face with horns or jag- unclear — some may indeed represent Eidolon, 2 points, Init –2, Imaginem; This ged teeth. To the inexperienced ob- pre-Islamic jinn bound by Suleiman in power allows the Suleimanic Bottle server, this fearsome manifestation ap- ancient days, while other examples may to manifest its glamour both as the pears to be the actual faerie, although represent echoes of the legends of spirits prop known as a cucurbite that ap- in reality the jinni remains an insub- bound by his magical descendants and pears to contain its essence and then stantial spirit beneath the illusion. contemporary sorcerers. in a second form as a towering hu- So popular has this motif become in manoid column of smoke issuing Bottles of Suleiman is not suitable as Arab folklore that a particular type of Fa- from the mouth of its prison. 20 spell player characters due to their unbalanced erie jinn, the Bottles of Suleiman, have levels, selected twice. power and their limited independent po- become associated with this story, tak- Illusionary Home, 4 points, Init –4, Imagi- tential in stories. Only an exceptionally ing the form of the vessels themselves. nem; Creates a sumptuous phantas- experienced sahira would be able to bind Typically involved in stories about the mal palace for the bearer of the cu- this powerful version as a spirit compan- Bringing of Riches and Humility (Realms curbite. 40 spell levels. ion using the khadim bond, although of Power: Faerie, page 79), these liminal en- Flight, 3 points, constant, Auram, Touch; 30 lesser examples of this type of jinn may tities can be found anywhere along the spell levels as Wings of the Soaring Wind. be attractive to younger sahira. This jinni shorelines of Islamic lands, usually near Loosely Material, variable points, Init –5, Cor- is primarily inspired by the stories “The the villages of poor fishermen. pus; The spirit can form either a simple Fisherman and the Jinni” and “The City physical manifestation of its cucurbite of Brass.”

66 The Cradle & The Crescent

Loosely Material, Intangible Flesh, and Traditional Ward (Bismillah Invocation), or rarely, Sovereign Ward (Bismillah Invo- cation). These jinn commonly have powers associated with illusions, flight, shape changing (into animals, whirlwinds or other humans), and travel, rather than the elemental-themed powers of their Magic cousins. Many Faerie jinn suffer from the Minor Flaws Dutybound (Bedouin hospitality), Vulnerable to Brass, Vulnerable Magic (mua’addhin’s call) and/or Vulner- able to Folk Tradition. Unlike most other faeries, Faerie jinn possess True Names as noted earlier, even if they have a low Might Score. The minor Faerie jinn known as jann are highly dependent on human interaction and differ from their cousins in that they must have a physical form, although every janni can transform into at least one other shape, usually an animal. Such lesser Faerie jinn have the following Virtues and Flaws: Humanoid Form, Pass as Hu- man, Dutybound (Bedouin hospitality), Restricted Might Recovery, Traditional Ward: Bismillah Invocation. Examples of Faerie jinn with details of some of the Virtues, Flaws and powers mentioned earlier include the Bottles of in the older forms of religion when en- through transferring their locus to an indi- Suleiman, Faerie ghulas, Hesaan the race- countered or else claim to have converted vidual or object through a form of magical horse, and the janni Mythic Companion- to Islam somehow during their captivity. bargain, and may reflect the most ancient level character, Jumayl, detailed nearby. Such ancient Faerie jinn can be difficult and original manifestation of jinn — spir- Faerie jinni counterparts to many Eu- to distinguish from the elemental jinn its defined by their geographic identity ropean faeries exist within the Mythic noted later, even for experienced sahirs, rather than their reflection of and interac- Middle East and can be adapted for use in and play roles in stories about discover- tion with Islamic culture. a saga set in the Mythic Middle East, see ies of the past and the fleeting nature of Some of these pagan jinn claim to the Faerie Bestiary of Realms of Power: Faer- mortal achievements. represent pre-Islamic divinities worshiped ies, pages 70–83, for further details. by the Arabs in ancient times or ancient powers of long lost races and cultures, Pagan Jinn but they are not dependent on human Pre-Islamic Jinn vitality like their Faerie counterparts. As Islam spread, other initially non-Arab Long ago during al-Jahiliyya, the Jinn that show little interest in the Magic spirits were forced to adapt, ac- pre-Islamic times of the past, Faerie jinn affairs of mankind or the message of the cepting additional Inferiorities in return claiming Jewish and Christian beliefs Prophet are typically aligned with the for retaining their places of power or else were common. Even in the days before Magic Realm. Referred to as pagan or hea- evolving into Faerie or Infernal versions the Great Deluge, the jinn are purported then (kaffir, “unbeliever”) jinn, these ele- of their former manifestations like the to have followed the original monotheis- mental spirits are tied to specific landscape Forest Spirits of ancient Germany (see tic religion of Adam. Such jinn would be features in the wilderness that lies between Chapter 3: The Forest of Guardians of the also considered Faerie rather than Magic the major settlements of Arab civilization Forest for further ideas). in alignment, but are seemingly rare in the across Persia, the Holy land, North Af- As primal Magic creatures, many have thirteenth century. rica, and southern Iberia. This natural fea- strong elemental ties. They are aligned Many jinn are said to have been im- ture may be an oasis pool, a mountain or with one of the classical elemental Forms prisoned in ancient times by the Sulei- a stretch of desert. These spirits are true of Auram, Aquam, Ignem and Terram and man. These jinn either declare their faith genii loci, only able to leave their feature can be affected by the appropriate El-

67 The Cradle & The Crescent Variants on the Genie of the Lamp Motif

The creature ‘Abd al-Qininna re- would be more powerful than the one Major Flaw. Depending on how carefully flects a reasonably powerful version of described here, perhaps with a Might the party promising release has couched this motif — an ‘afrit able to drastically of 50 or more and extra magical pow- the terms of the contract, this Flaw may change the fortunes of the poor man ers. An intermediate example with a Fa- either allow the ‘afrit to angrily depart, who releases it. In contrast, the simplest erie Might of only 20 would simulate the cursing its arrogant rescuer with a poor and least powerful of this class may pos- “Slave of the Ring” in the Tale of Aladdin reputation (Faerie Antipathy, Major) or sess only the Eidolon power, have much or one of the lesser jinni initially called to remain and torment the foolish knave diminished characteristics and merely upon by Suleiman to fetch the throne of until driven off (Plagued by Supernatu- dissipate upon release with a great show Balqis, Queen of Sheba. ral Entity). of imagery and an exclamation in praise Those experienced in the bargains of of Allah and Suleiman. These lesser jinn jinn, possessing a Faerie Lore score of 6 feed off the vitality shed by the simple Three Wishes? or greater or one of the applicable sum- wonder of the common fisherman before moning Arts or Accelerated Abilities at dissolving their cucurbite or projecting Many captive Faerie jinn are com- 11 or more, know to include the appro- an illusion of it washing back out to sea pelled by their story to bargain or create priate caveats to prevent the latter occur- in the confusion caused. a contract with their rescuer. Typically, rence. These individuals are also aware Although bottles are the common- such jinn offer three wishes, within their of the correct formulae to command est form for the cucurbite prop, similar power, using their Binding Oath Ritual the released Faerie back into its prison, Faerie jinni prisons have been described Power. The price of the compact is usu- successfully ending the story safely. Of that manifest as brass rings, bowls, or ally the promise of release from further course, the knowledge of what to use the most famously as a battered lamp. The imprisonment once service has been third and final wish for does not protect creature portrayed in the Aladdin story rendered. Breaking the contract inflicts a against the temptation of greed. emental Summoning Art, although they Unlike their Faerie and Infernal cous- page 135, as a starting point, changing have true intelligence and are not con- ins, Magic jinn are not automatically his Form alignment to Terram but retain- sidered simple elementals. Other jinn susceptible to the Bismillah Invocation, ing his resistance to flames. He is an ex- embody the living Herbam aspects of although many of the less powerful en- ample of a lesser earth jinni that might nature. Such Magical jinn, being Magical tities possess a Minor Flaw mechanically be pressed into service by a more mature Spirits, need not eat or drink and do not equivalent to the Traditional Ward (Bis- sahir as a khadim, and is not designed as a age unless they suffer from the optional millah Invocation) of their Faerie cousins. starting character. Alternatively, he could Age Quickly Flaw. Some of the more powerful entities with be a potential patron for a Spirit Votary These elemental creatures are the type greater familiarity with the teachings of if he could be coaxed out of his cave, of jinn most commonly summoned by Islam, as represented by a Theology: Is- but would need to add the Grant: Spiri- both non-Hermetic and Hermetic sahirs lam score of 3 or more, may even feign tual Pact Ritual Power, which may require and are generally the most easy to identify submissiveness to catch an unsuspecting trading additional Inferiorities (see Realms as jinn using either Magic Lore or an ap- sahir off-guard. of Power: Magic, pages 88–89, for details propriate Area Lore (see Chapter 3: The The great Daimon of the Empty Quar- of Spirit Votaries). As a spirit of a place, Order of Suleiman). Each has a mandatory ter, Al-Khalil, mentioned in Chapter 6: the physical location haunted by this Ways of the (Land) Virtue and Magical Air Mythic Arabia, the jinni at the base of the jinni acts as an Arcane Connection that Flaw. These jinn may possesses some or Whirlpool of Uballa (Chapter 7: Mythic provides a +1 bonus to the Penetration all of the following Powers: Donning the Mesopotamia) or the feared ruler of the Multiplier; more potent Arcane Connec- Corporeal Veil (at least once for humanoid Taklimakan (Chapter 9: On the Silk Road) tions can only be obtained from the jinni form, although additional animal forms are would all be appropriate to design as pow- if he takes corporeal form. common), Guide, Manifestation and Pres- erful Magic jinn. Unusually for a jinni of his power, ence. Crafter of (Form) and/or Ruler of Baghl has a reasonable knowledge of Islam (Form) are common among greater genii and may pretend to be susceptible to the loci but optional for lesser jinn. The most Creating Magic Jinn by Example: folk traditions that affect Faerie jinn, al- powerful examples of these pagan jinn are Baghl and Ighraq al-Siq though except for the muezzin’s call, such true Daimons (see Realms of Power: Magic, rituals have no real effect over him. page 110). The jinni Wahhab is an ex- Baghl, see insert earlier, has been Ighraq al-Siq, from Chapter 7: Myth- ample of a Pagan jinn (see Houses of Hermes: created by using the lesser flame jinni ic Mesopotamia, is an example of a very Societates, page 135). Wahhab from Houses of Hermes: Societates, powerful Magic jinni with a strong el-

68 The Cradle & The Crescent emental affinity designed as an Autumn elementals (pages 132–139). Note that his as the inspiration for a similar Faerie crea- starting character using the rules from base Magic Might for character creation ture or an Infernal jinn related to the Or- Realms of Power: Magic, but Magic jinn using the rules in Realms of Power: Magic is der of Aerial Powers. A medium powered do not necessarily have to be balanced 35, although this as been increased to 40 creature would have a Might of 20–25, to be used in play. He could potentially using repeated purchase of the Improved being roughly comparable in power to a be summoned and perhaps even con- Might Virtue. starting Hermetic magus, and could eas- trolled by an experienced sahir or Her- He differs in powers from many Fa- ily be aligned to Auram or Terram instead metic magus. As these spirits are bound erie jinn in that his magic is primarily el- with some minor modification. to a landscape feature or compelled to a emental rather than illusory and is greatly Unlike most Magical spirits of similar magical bargain, they are best designed focused by the physical constraints of his magnitude, Ighraq al-Siq does not possess as non-player characters or as challenges narrow surroundings. Like many other pa- the Daimon Special Virtue, although he for the troupe, rather than companions in gan jinn he is supernaturally tethered to does possess a True Name like all jinn. If a conventional saga. This character can his physical locale and suffers a significant granted the Daimon Virtue, he can only be used as a template for similar elemen- drop in power if separated from it — in be bargained with using Hermetic Theur- tal jinn using the suggestions earlier and his case, he is tied to the body of the Zab gy and cannot be controlled or coerced the rules for genii loci Magic Spirits as River and is reluctant even to step onto using simpler magic (see Realms of Power: detailed in Realms of Power: Magic (pages its banks. Magic, page 102). 106–107) and ideas from the section on Alternatively this creature can be used

Baghl, an Earth Jinni

Magic Might: 15 (Terram) Second Sight 4 (jinn), Theology: Is- teristics, size, combat statistics, and Season: Spring lam 3 (jinn). Wound levels listed earlier. His arms Characteristics: Int –2, Per +2, Pre +1, Powers: and armor are also created with this Com –1, Str +3, Sta +3, Dex +1, Flesh to Stone, 2 points, Init –4, Terram; power. He cannot become fatigued. Qik –1 Baghl can change any human he This body lasts until he decides he Size: +2 touches into stone until sunrise or no longer needs it. Killing the body Confidence Score: 1 (3 points) until the morning call to prayer does not kill Baghl. Virtues and Flaws: Magic Spirit; Jinn; (Base 20, +1 Touch, +2 Sun; 3 Presence, 0 points, constant, Mentem: Greater Immunity: Fire, Ways of Mastery points spent on reducing Baghl is aware of everything that the Mountains; Second Sight, Sk- Might cost). goes on within his haunt. This power inchanger, Strong-Willed, Tough; Ruler of Earth, 1–3 points, Init 0, Terram; needs to Penetrate to perceive beings Greater Malediction (honor bargains Duplicates any non-Ritual Perdo with a Magic Resistance. made), Magical Air, Vulnerable Mag- Terram or Rego Terram spell less Vis: 1 pawn of Terram vis can be col- ic (mua’addhin’s call); Reclusive. than or equal to 15th level at a cost lected every year from his haunt, in Qualities and Inferiorities: Focus Power of 1 Might point per magnitude of the form of a quartz-encrusted sta- (Ruler of Earth), Greater Power x2 the effect. lactite at the back of his cave. If slain (Flesh to Stone, Presence); Improved Incorporeal, 0 points, Init Constant, Men- in physical form, his body yields 3 Abilities x3, Lesser Power x2 (Don- tem: Baghl is naturally both invisible pawns of Terram vis. ning the Corporeal Veil), Minor Vir- and intangible, and cannot be influ- Appearance: Baghl is the jinni of a dark tue (Improved Characteristics). enced by the physical world. Magic cave found in the Elbruz mountains Personality Traits: Reclusive +5, Immu- can only directly target him if the that was once used as a quarry until table +3, Proud +2 caster can sense his existence. In this he drove off the miners. He may be Combat: form he has no physical statistics or appeased mainly by being left alone Maul (warhammer): Init –1, Attack +11, combat scores. Without taking a cor- to enjoy his beautiful cave forma- Defense +3, Damage +15 poreal form, Baghl’s physical charac- tions, although he sometimes agrees Soak: +10 teristics are only used when dealing to converse with theological schol- Wound Penalties: –1 (1–7), –3 (8–14), with other incorporeal creatures. ars. He appears as an obese man with –5 (15–21), Incapacitated (22–28), Donning the Corporeal Veil, 2 points, Init +1, a mule’s head, pupilless eyes of jet- Dead (29+) Corpus: Baghl can form the physical black stone, and quartz-veined limbs Abilities: Arabic 5 (stone), Athletics 3 body described under Appearance to that heft an oversized maul. In physi- (climbing), Great Weapon 4 (maul), house his spiritual form; when doing cal form he can assume the shape of Profession: Miner 3 (gemstones), so he acquires the physical charac- a large black mule.

69 The Cradle & The Crescent The Buran of Yenghissar

This wild desert storm spirit, or ions or a welcoming oasis, only to powers common to most demons and is buran, once plagued the small village of launch itself in fury at an unsuspect- an insubstantial spirit, unable to affect Yenghissar along the route to Khashgar, ing victim. Alternatively it can cre- the physical world except through its bringing devastation to the crops and ate images of itself as a humanoid magic. It is an example of an Infernal herd animals every seven years. It is now sandstorm with glowing fiery eyes storm spirit likely to be found in the bound by an Infernally-aligned sahir us- in order to terrify its victims prior to Taklamakan Desert, although much ing the Goetic Art of Binding (see Realms their deaths. A minor illusion which stronger and less powerful creatures of Power: The Infernal, page 117). A speech- affects an Individual amount of mate- also exist (see Chapter 9: On the Silk less, destructive force of fury incarnate, rial (such as the demon itself) costs Road). Many travelers’ tales tell of com- it rages to be released and constantly one point; a larger illusion which panions fallen behind who are tempted strives to create elemental havoc around fills a room costs five points. These off the track by the illusions created by the thoughtless sahir who has trapped it visions always have a flaw, however these demons. within his ancestral sword. (they smell wrong, can only be seen Those storm spirits aligned to the by one target, etc.). Magic realm may have very similar char- Elemental Control of Wind ; variable points; acteristics, although they lack the Recal- The Buran Init +1; Auram: The buran has con- citrance power and the brutal malevo- trol over the winds of nature, which it lence of their demonic cousins. Similar Infernal Might: 25 (Auram) uses to wreak destruction on the des- spirits aligned to other elemental Forms Order: Aerial Powers (Buran) ert fringes. It may create any Creo, can be represented with modifications to Characteristics: Int –5, Per 0, Pre +3, Muto, or Rego effect appropriate to these statistics. Com -2, Str na, Sta na, Dex +3, Auram, at a cost of 1 Might Point Qik +6 per magnitude of effect. The demon Size: +4 cannot create any effect with a level Story Seed: The Confidence Score: 1 (3) greater than its Infernal Might, nor Corruption of the West Virtues and Flaws: Jinni; Berserk, duplicate Ritual effects. Strong-Willed, Wilderness Sense; European demons of Christian ori- Recalcitrance, 0 points, Init constant, Vim: Fury (Major) (when summoned), gin are becoming increasingly common Any attempt to control (but not de- Greater Malediction (bound by bar- in the Levant since the advent of the stroy) the buran with any form of gains), Mute Crusades, but have yet to penetrate past Supernatural Power (magical, Di- Personality Traits: Untameable +5 the borders of Outremer. Apart from a vine, or otherwise) treats the demon’s Reputations: Scourge of Yenghissar 2 handful of Jewish demons and Infernal Might as if it were 150% its actual (local) entities from ancient Persian mythol- Might, or otherwise has its Ease Fac- Hierarchy: 3 (storm demons) ogy, the vast majority of Infernal creator increased by 50%. For example, Combat: Not applicable, the buran is an tures in the Mythic Middle East are in a Circular Ward Against Demons of 38th insubstantial spirit fact Infernal jinn and thus susceptible level is needed to stop this buran Soak: Not applicable, the buran is an in- to Sihr, as commonly practiced by the with Might 25. substantial spirit Order of Suleiman. Weaknesses: Protected Group (indi- Wound Penalties: Not applicable, the All this will change as merchants, viduals that invoke the Bismillah buran is an insubstantial spirit missionaries and Hermetic magi pen- invocation) Abilities: Arabic 5 (understanding)*, Folk etrate further east, bringing with them Vis: 5 pawns of Auram vis prava, left be- Ken 3 (travelers), Theology: Islam 3 their own legacies of sin and corruption hind as black sand when dispersed. (jinn), Survival 5 (desert), Taklam- that may change the balance of mysti- Appearance: Usually manifests as a gi- akan Lore 5 (legends), Wilderness cal power in the Mythic Middle East. ant shapeless vortex of raging black Sense 2 (weather) The Unholy Trinity (see Chapter 1: sand using its Auram powers. To * Represents level of understanding as Saga and Introduction) are a group of those with Second Sight, a giant the spirit is Mute. demons drawing on western concep- humanoid shadow can be discerned Powers: tions of Islam that may have a large within the sandstorm. Delusion of the Desert, 1 or 5 points, Init +3, role to play in increasing the number of Imaginem: This evil spirit can create non-jinn Infernal spirits of the Mythic Unlike many other corrupt jinn, the illusions of a lost traveler’s compan- Middle East. buran lacks the Coagulation and Obsession

70 The Cradle & The Crescent Learning from Jinn the correct distinction between jinn of unable to change their roles, advance different Realm alignment can be difficult or evolve into other forms (see Realms for even experienced sahir but once a jinni of Power: Faerie for additional details). In- As creatures of embodied magical aligns with the Infernal, it has irrevocably fernal jinn, on the other hand, are those power, all jinn, regardless of Realm align- transformed into a true demon. creatures who intentionally inspire hu- ment, can act as sources of study, akin to All Infernal jinn share the following mans to sin, manipulating them to make the observation of magically occurring Vulnerabilities in addition to the Virtues them fall. phenomena referred to by Hermetic magi and Flaws noted earlier for all jinn: Bis- The distinction between a Highly as significatos Covenants,( page 101). Each millah Invocation and Iron. Most Infer- Cognizant dark Faerie jinni and Infernal individual jinni acts as the equivalent of nal jinn similarly suffer from the Minor jinni is a difficult one — many such Faerie a tractatus on a single appropriate Her- Flaw Vulnerable to Folk Tradition. Dark creatures quickly lose themselves to the metic Form (typically an elemental Form Faerie jinn have Virtues, Flaws and Pow- forces of Iblis. The term “shaitan” confus- for Magic jinn, Imaginem for Faerie jinn, ers similar to their pious jinn cousins de- ingly refers to both types of creature and and Vim for Infernal jinn), the Acceler- tailed earlier. the ambiguity and danger this creates ated Ability Sihr and their aligned (Realm) Infernal jinni counterparts to the fol- for sahir characters is intentional. The Lore. The jinni does not teach the sum- lowing demons found in Realms of Power: Sihr of a sahir will work on both types of moner, nor does it need to possess a score the Infernal can be encountered through- creature, although the actual Realm Lore in the relevant Art or Ability, as it is the out the Mythic Middle East: mazzikim, required for the ritual may be mistaken summoner’s observation of the Essential succubi and lesser evil spirits would be by the character, producing unexpected Nature of the jinni rather than the jinni’s classed as shaitan, whereas many ‘afrit outcomes when the summoner fails her knowledge that is the key. The summoner with close elemental ties are best repre- control attempt because a creature as- may only gain the benefit for one Ability sented by Aerial Powers or perhaps pow- sumed to be a dark Faerie turns out to or Art per season. erful False Gods with additional powers be Infernal. To gain the benefits of study, a sahir related to elemental control. or other summoner must coerce a jinni Aside from their appearance and the or jinniyya into service for a whole sea- modifications noted earlier, these jinn Ghula, Faerie son. Such coercion may be in the form can be represented by the same statistics of a non-magical bargain, Sihr, Hermetic as their European cousins. Further details Rego magic with an appropriate duration, on demons are given in Realms of Power: These dark Faerie jinn may rise from, the non-Hermetic Goetic Art of Com- The Infernal. or impersonate, those who die of thirst in manding, or the Hedge Art of Elemen- the desert. They seek virile and wealthy tal Controlling (for Magic jinn associ- husbands. They drain the blood of their ated with an elemental Form). Mundane The Dangers of Distinction: husbands as they sleep. Once sufficient threats able to be enforced by effective Dark Faerie or Infernal? vitality has been consumed, the ghula can Rego or Perdo magic may be used to have a baby. The baby appears to share force an appropriate non-magical bar- The distinction between dark Faerie the characteristics of the human parent, gain, although the jinni will seek revenge jinn and truly Infernal jinn can be diffi- but it is a faerie, a ghula like its mother. on its enslaver. cult, as both types of creatures are com- Baby ghuls are born with teeth. A jinni can only instruct its master monly referred to as shaitan (“demon”) The ghulas in a city sneak out of their once for each Ability or Art. by the common folk of medieval Islam houses while their husbands sleep. They and are depicted as such in the various gather in graveyards to feast, cavort and Source Quality of a Jinni: stories. Many Infernal jinn, including per- drain the blood from corpses. In most 3 x magnitude of Might haps Iblis himself, were once dark Faeries versions of their story, the husband of and many Infernal jinn have dark Faerie a ghula discovers these night meetings, counterparts who draw vitality from sto- and destroys the nest of ghuls, but can- ries arising out of the activities usually not bring himself to kill his child. The Corrupt Jinn ascribed to demons. young ghula grows to adulthood, and In general, the actions of dark Faerie tyrannize the city, forcing the man who In Ars Magica terms, corrupt jinn in- jinn are impersonal and instinctive. Such discovered the ghuls to flee. This old, clude those terrestrial demons strongly entities act in a way that may encourage sick, broken man lives near the town, aligned to Arab folklore and medieval Is- humans to sin because it suits their role warning travelers away, and reciting his lamic culture found in Islamic lands. Many in their chosen story and they feed off role in his home’s downfall. In doing this, demonic-appearing jinn are actually dark the vitality created by such emotions as he spreads the fame of the ghuls, which Faerie creatures, who choose to accept or guilt, greed, cruelty and lust. As such, gives them vitality. reject the Islamic faith as part of their role most dark Faerie jinn are Incognizant or A related story says that ghulas are within stories involving humans. Making only Narrowly Cognizant — they are the ghosts of prostitutes, given solid form,

71 The Cradle & The Crescent

and that they are simpler in their predatory behavior. They merely eat the dead, and lacking fresh prey eat corpses. They use their wiles to lure men of weak faith to hidden places and have a power that causes sleep, allowing them to crush the heads of their victims with stones. Faerie ghula statistics first appeared in Realms of Power: Faerie, page 72.

Ghul, Infernal

An Infernal ghul (fem., ghula, pl., ghuls or ghilan) is a degenerate jinni, a corrupt and cannibalistic creature of the night. They are believed to be descendants of a depraved tribe of primitive jinn given over to the Infernal. Solitary by nature, they haunt cemeteries, garbage pits and slums preying on the weak or feeding off carrion. Hideous to behold, they often disguise themselves in heavy robes as lost travelers, women in distress, or kindly dervishes to waylay travelers with the aid of their pow- Ghula, Faerie

Faerie Might: 20 Dead (21+) els, MuCo(An) (Base 10, +2 Sun, +1 Characteristics: Int 0, Per 0, Pre +5, Com Pretenses: Arabic 5 (seduction), Charm Size), 3 intricacy points spent on cost, +1, Str +1, Sta 0, Dex 0, Qik +1 6 (men), Brawl 6 (in dark areas), 2 intricacy points spent on initiative) Size: 0 Stealth 9 (urban areas), Theology: Equipment: Perfume, wardrobe Virtues and Flaws: Jinn; 2 x Greater Fa- Islam 1 (jinn). Vis: 4 pawns Imaginem, rat skulls erie Powers, Infiltrator (Wealthy, or- Powers: Appearance: Ghulas usually look like phaned merchant’s daughter); Ways Cause Drowsiness: 2 points, Init –2, Corpus; beautiful women. To attract husbands, of the Land (Desert); Faerie Sight, Allows the ghula to cause a human it ghulas pretend to be wealthy widows Faerie Speech, Feast of the Dead, touches to fall asleep. 25 spell levels, or orphans of good family, in need of Humanoid Faerie, 3 x Increased Fa- ReCo (Base 4, +1 Touch Range, +4 husbands. Ghulas often pretend to be erie Might, Personal Faerie Powers; Until Duration), 1 intricacy point members of communities displaced Narrowly Cognizant; Greater Male- spent on cost by war, as it gives their story verisimil- diction (when it enters a bargain, it Illusionary Home: 0 points, Init –3, Imagi- itude. The eyes and the insides of the is bound to the agreed terms unless nem; This comprehensive use of mouths of Arabic ghulas are always its partner reneges first), Restricted glamour makes a place look, sound, green. Male Faerie ghuls exist, but are Might (Major — daylight); Tradi- smell and feel like a suitable home the servants of the ghulas, and rarely tional Ward (Bismillah Invocation). for the role the faerie is playing. play the role of seducer. See later for Personality Traits: Demure/Ravenous +3 Within the altered space, the sense an example of an Infernal male ghul. Combat: of taste is also affected. 40 spell lev- Claws: Init 0, Attack +11, Defense +10, els, MuIm (Base 5, +1 Touch, +2 Sun, Ghulas are not designed as player char- Damage +5 +1 Constant, +3 Structure), 4 intri- acters. The version represented here differs Fangs: Init +1, Attack +10, Defense +8, cacy points spent on cost. slightly from the European ghulas or lamiae Damage +4 Transform Into Human: 0 points, Init. 0, Ani- originally presented in that she reflects the Soak: 0 mal; This power transforms the char- Arab conception of her as an evil jinniyya. Wound Penalties: –1 (1–5), –3 (6–10), acter between human and feasting Although a form of Faerie spirit, ghulas are –5 (11–15), Incapacitated (16–20), form. Personal Power, 25 spell lev- locked in a physical manifestation.

72 The Cradle & The Crescent Ghul, Infernal

Infernal Might: not more than 20 usually claws. It wears rags or rent robes the Arts Fabulosa, or more commonly, Order: Furies stained with marrow, blood and dirt the Goetic Arts of Commanding or of Weaknesses: Protected Group (individu- from the graves it digs up. More Spirit Summoning. als that invoke the Bismillah Invoca- intelligent and magical examples tion), Vulnerability (Iron) appear more human but still have Abilities: Arabic 5 (deception), Brawl sharply angular features, promi- The Varied Guises of Iblis 6 (claws), Charm 4 (trust), Stealth nently pointed or serrated teeth, and At the troupe’s option, different ver- 4 (urban areas), Theology: Islam 1 long curved nails. sions of Iblis may exist simultaneously in (jinn). Other Abilities depend on the a saga. In the guise of lesser faeries claim- individual ghul This character guide is for an Infer- ing his name, the character Iblis appears Powers: nal male version of the ghul and differs in a number of minor roles in the folk- Berserker Rage, 1 point, Init 0, Mentem: substantially from the similarly named lore of the Islamic lands. In some stories The demon can grant anyone (usu- female Faerie ghula earlier. Whereas he may be the Islamic Devil or embody ally itself or its animal companions) the latter are female-appearing Faerie a great duke of the Deluders, while in the Berserk Virtue, which persists un- creatures that eat their spouses, these other tales he is a powerful dark faerie til the target calms down. Infernal creatures act as primal destroy- monarch or a faerie opponent posing as Change Form, 0 points, Init 0, Corpus ers and are found more commonly in a lesser demon. or Animal: A ghul can change his male forms. The exact relationship One such tale is that of “The Old physical form at will, to whatever between the two types of creature Woman and the Devil”, where a very fal- human or animal form he desires. is unclear — Infernal ghul may have lible Iblis is challenged by an old woman Most ghul are limited to changing evolved from corrupt Faerie creatures to show who is the craftier. The old form into one type of creature (any or they may simply be different enti- woman tricks a merchant and his wife, human female form, any bird form, ties that appear to share similar forms but later undoes the harm she has caused, any canine form, for example), but and characteristics. thus proving that “the devil is no match more powerful individuals have been Unlike members of dark Faerie- for an old woman.” This lesser Faerie Ib- known to adopt multiple shapes. The aligned jinn tribes, this ghul is a true ‘’ter- lis can only destroy or create strife in the Size of the form is limited to what- restrial demon’’ (Realms of Power: The Infer- stories, but never undo evil or perform ever is natural for the species, so a nal, page 28) and loosely belongs to the good deeds. human-sized ghul taking adult hu- Order of Furies, sharing several of the man form must be between Size –2 traits and powers of that class of demons. and +2. This transformation is not Unlike most demons and other Infernal Story Seed: The Dark Sufis akin to a magical spell; it is a natural jinn, although a spiritual creature, an In- manipulation of the physical matter fernal ghul cannot assume incorporeal You may wish to introduce into that makes up the demon’s body, and form and does not possess the Coagulation your saga a misguided Sufi tradition, consequently Magic Resistance does power. This example lacks the Envisioning made up of individuals who respect Ib- not stop physical attacks from shape- and Obsession powers of most common lis for his refusal to bow down to Adam, changed ghul as there is no ongoing demons but other individuals may have assuming that it was his love for Allah magical effect. these powers or additional deceptive that motivated his decision not to bow Endurance of the Enraged, 0 points, Init powers or skills instead. to anyone but his God. Such heretical 0, Corpus: The ghul do not suffer Exceptional individuals exhibit ad- mystics could comprise a Misguided In- from wound penalties, except on ditional magical abilities over rock and fernal Tradition of unwitting diabolists Defense totals. flesh (asCrafter/Master of Earth and/or similar to the Luciferans. The mystical Restoration, 10 points, Init +0, Corpus: Crafter/Master of Flesh), illusions, pos- powers of such Infernal Sufis could be When a ghul uses this power, the session, or they have learned some of reflected by the Favoured Abilities: In- next blow will heal the wound he the magic of humans (Dowsing, Hex, cantation, Effusion, Phantasm and Cer- suffered the last time he was hurt. Malefica, or otherwise represented by emony. (See Realms of Power: The Infernal, Each use of this power is only good the equivalent of a Duplicate the Magi’s pages 127–131). Posing as a holy man, for one damaging blow. (Technique) power). The most danger- a Dark Sufi may contact a Criamon Appearance: A common ghul is a tall ous and feared ghul are those who have character, seeking to lead the magus feral creature, hunched over with gained power over other jinn by learn- into corruption. overlong arms ending in cruel iron ing one of the summoning Arts — Sihr,

73 The Cradle & The Crescent

ers of deception and mimicry. A Typical Demonic Qareen All ghuls can assume the form of at least one scavenger native to their area, Most people are not aware of their do something contrary to the tenets dog, hyena, jackal or vulture, and ex- qareen; the following creature is ap- of his faith. cel at assuming the forms of humans to propriate for those who have the Ma- Envisioning, 1 or 5 points, Init +2, Men- conceal their debased nature. They dis- jor Story Flaw Plagued by a Supernatu- tem; This Power allows the qareen dain weapons and hunt and fight with ral Entity (Qareen). These characters to appear in the dreams of its sleep- claw like nails and jagged teeth. Folklore have qareen that they are consciously ing companion (in which case it tells that many ghuls, if wounded with aware of, that they can see, and that costs 1 point), or make the target a weapon but not killed outright with a actively try to cause them to stray experience a waking dream or vision single blow, will be healed when struck from the path of good. Less obtrusive (in which case it costs 5 points). a second blow, making them dangerous Infernal qareen may be reflected by The qareen cannot instantly make opponents for lone victims. either the Impious Friend or Manu- substantial changes to a dream, but factured Ignorance Flaw, and have instead gradually twists it to take on Might scores in the range of 5 to 10. a darker and more frightening tone, Qareen An affected individual hears whispers and can speak through any figure from his qareen, using its Envisioning from the victim’s subconscious. A Power, and such comments appear to waking dream is more obvious; the The Messenger of Allah said, ‘There is come from the victim’s own head (and victim suffers an immediate and not one of you who does not have a jinni should be provided as advice from the powerful hallucination of whatever appointed to be his constant companion.’ storyguide with nary a mention of a de- the demon desires. This may be so They said, ‘And you too, O Messenger mon involved). frightening that the victim is stunned of Allah?’ He said, ‘Me too, but Allah has for a round, and must make a Brave helped me and he has submitted, so that Order: Tempters (Shaitan / Qareen) Personality roll against an Ease Fac- he only helps me to do good.’ Infernal Might: usually 15 (Vim) tor of 9 or have an extreme reaction, — Ibn Mas’ood Characteristics: Int +1, Per +1, Pre +2, such as retching, convulsions, or ab- +3, Str na, Sta na, Dex na, Qik +2 ject terror. This is the preferred way And whosoever turns away blindly Weakness: Protected Group (victims for a qareen to communicate with its from the remembrance of the Most Gra- who willingly and totally reject the chosen companion. cious (Allah) (i.e., this Qur’an and adora- qareen, fueling the rejection with a Protection of the Appointed Companion, 0 tion of Allah), We appoint for him a Shai- Faith Point), common jinni Weak- points, Init +2, Mentem; The com- tan (“Satan — devil — unruly — defiant”) nesses (see later). panion of a qareen cannot act di- to be a Qareen (a companion) to him. Abilities: Vary for individual qareen rectly against it without extreme — The Qur’an and may complement those of its provocation; it would be akin to companion. In general, a qareen attacking one’s own mother. The Qareen is the Arabic name for a spirit may have up to 300 XP of Abilities victim may be as angry as they like believed to be assigned to an individual that it may use to aid or hinder its with the jinni, but actually physi- Muslim as a “constant companion” — a chosen human. cally opposing it requires a huge personal tempter, intent on enticing him to Powers: effort of will, and the expenditure sin. According to the hadith, every human Apparition, 1 point, Init 0, Imaginem; of a Confidence point, which must has a jinni appointed to accompany him Qareen may assume an illusory be repeated every time the victim through life and test him, tempting him form that only their companion wants to renew his attacks. away from the path of God. Considered can perceive. To the victims, the Appearance: A qareen is an incorpo- part of the tribe of Shaitan, such qareen are form appears to be a real person in real spirit, appearing to those with dark Faerie creatures akin to the shedim all respects. Second Sight or means to see the demons of Judaism (Realms of Power: Infernal, Control Human, 2 points, Init +2, Men- invisible as a pallid reflection of its page 57). Most characters are unaware of tem; If this power penetrates, the chosen companion. To its victim, their qareen, but some have more irksome qareen exerts direct control over its a qareen uses its powers to appear companions reflected by possession of Ma- companion. It can issue commands either pleasing or terrifying depend- jor Story Flaw Plagued by Supernatural En- that the target carries out to the best ing on its motivations and schemes. tity (Qareen), or possible the Minor Story of his abilities. However, the target Unlike many other demons, it lacks Flaw Faerie Friend. Most of these jinn are can attempt to break the control of the Coagulation power and cannot playful and mischievous rather than cor- the jinni every time he is asked to form a physical body. rupting and provoke stories of temptation, reflection and forbearance. Nearly all qareen belong to the Faerie Realm, but some

74 The Cradle & The Crescent

have become corrupted and have become aligned to the Infernal, transforming into Story Seed: A Pious Companion? true demons. There are no Divine or Mag- ic Realm aligned qareen. Rarely, an exceptionally pious Submitted Qareen Each of these companion spirits has character may be able to convince her slightly different powers but shares the typi- dark Faerie qareen to accept the error Major Supernatural Virtue cal Weaknesses of jinn (detailed earlier). Ex- of his ways and appear to submit to Your Faerie qareen or accompanying amples of the powers of an Infernal qareen Islam. As all Faerie-aligned jinn, even jinni has submitted to Islam. Like a vari- are given later — Faerie qareen have almost Faerie members of the predominantly ant Ghostly Warder (ArM5 page 94) it identical base powers, only a differing Realm corrupt jinni tribes such as Shaitan, can guide and assist you with its powers, alignment and motivation for testing their have been granted free choice, this is a but cannot provide general Magic Resis- chosen victim. Unlike many other jinn, a potential long-term story option. Such tance, as it is not a creature of the Di- qareen cannot assume physical form as they benevolent qareen become the equiva- vine or Infernal realms. Such qareen can either lack the Coagulation power of most lent of highly cognizant Faerie guard- easily be designed using the Ghostly demons or the Donning the Corporeal Veil ians. Being pious jinn rather than true Warder (ArM5 page 193) or else creat- power common to many faeries. Divine spirits, their power is aligned ed as Companion-level characters using Some qareen have additional powers to the Faerie Realm and not the Divine the rules for creating Faerie Characters — the qareen that accompanied the an- Realm, although they may be mistaken (Realms of Power: Faerie, page 43-63), typi- cient Arabian kahin (pre-Islamic “seers”) for guardian angels by the unwise. In- cally possessing the following Virtues are believed to possess the following pow- fernal qareen, as they are true demons, & Flaws: Faerie Speech, Highly Cogni- ers or their Faerie equivalents: The Serpent’s do not have free choice and so cannot zant, Lesser Power x2 (Eidolon, Guide); Oracle, Trust of the Innocent and Forked Tongue be redeemed. Intangible Flesh, Negative Reaction. of the Serpent — powers normally attributed to the Spirits of Deceit (See Realms of Power: The Infernal, page 38). A qareen is left powerless if its victim Story Seed: An Unwanted Guest, makes a concerted positive effort to throw off the malevolent jinni’s influence. This and an Unexpected Invitation requires the spending of a point of Faith Although Christian, Jewish, or pagan 66–69, 81–82) can attempt to bind In- (perhaps a point of Faith acquired by re- summoners native to Islamic lands may fernal qareen as their spirit familiar but penting of the sins committed while influ- also possess a qareen, at the troupe’s dis- only magi with Faerie Magic can bind enced by the qareen). Confidence alone is cretion, a Hermetic magus may discover submitted qareen or dark Faerie qareen. not enough to shake off the influence of upon arriving in the Mythic Middle East Demonstration of power over a qareen the companion shaitan, unlike the Jewish that a Faerie qareen has attached itself is sufficient grounds for membership in shedim. In effect a qareen is a special form to him, despite his status as an unbeliev- the Order of Suleiman and the character of Infernal or Faerie genius loci with a lo- er. Magi with the Spirit Familiar or the may find himself the recipient of a cor- cus linked to its assigned human compan- Theurgic Spirit Familiar Mystery Vir- dial invitation to join a group of open- ion allowing it to travel the world. tues (The Mysteries: Revised Edition, pages minded sahirs.

Wizards and Qareen Solomonic magic by drawing on the reluc- Faerie-aligned jinn possess a weakness tant jinni’s Might. Qareen do not make the to the Bismillah Invocation, reflected by Islamic sahirs are keenly aware of qa- greatest candidates for the khadim bond their Traditional Ward Minor Flaw (Bis- reen and many have the ability to per- but many young sahirs see the magical millah Invocation) and all Infernal jinn ceive the true form of their accompanying servitude as a means of making the most have an equivalent Vulnerability to this tempter, either through Second Sight or out of the pestering spirits. folk practice of “naming,” the invocation their other magic. Most qareen accompa- of God’s name that opens most chapters nying wizards are malevolent, reflected by of the Qur’an. the Flaws detailed earlier. As jinn, they can Jinni Weaknesses Faerie and Infernal jinn cannot act be coerced with magic, bargained with against an individual who has uttered this and even imprisoned using the appropriate phrase before encountering the spirit, supernatural powers, but at the sahir’s own Bismi-llāhi ar-raḥmāni ar-raḥīmi! similar to the Protected Group Weakness risk. See Chapter 3: The Order of Sulei- (In the name of God, Most Gracious, of demons — none of their Supernatural man for further details on sahirs and their Most Merciful!) Powers work on these individuals, and potential to form magical khadim bonds — The opening invocation common they can only defend themselves in com- with qareen that allow them to boost their to all but one sura of the Qur’an bat if attacked (Realms of Power: The Infernal,

75 The Cradle & The Crescent page 34). This protection has a conditional sura) and an-Nas (114th / last sura) pair- duration of Until (leaves immediate locale ing), al-Kafraa (109th sura) and al-Ikhlaas Lands of of the jinni or completes a specific action) (112th sura). or until the time of the next daily prayer, The Ayat al-Qursi or “Throne Verse” whichever is sooner. (255th verse) of al-Baqarah (2nd sura) the Jinn To pronounce the Bismillah correctly and the last two verses of the same sura requires a poetic grasp of the language of are similarly potent wards against jinn. A The following locations are particu- the Qur’an, reflected by an Arabic score of Muslim character who has memorized and larly associated with the jinn. 6 or more and a successful Com + Theol- correctly recites 50 ayat (verses) of the ogy: Islam stress die roll against an Ease Qur’an receives the same benefit. Factor of 6. The Bismillah can only be in- Each sura takes a considerable amount Jinnistan voked prior to recognizing a jinni and is of time to recite and requires the individ- ineffective if the character is surprised by ual to have memorized and the recall the a jinni. specific verses using their Art of Memory The jinn dwell in places just past Devout Muslims are instructed to ut- or Theology: Islam score (see The Myster- the ken of humans — out of the corner ter this phrase before entering locales ies: Revised Edition, pages 25–26). Characters of the eye, behind the doors impossibly where jinn are believed to live such as with an Arabic score of 6 or greater gain a squeezed between two seemingly normal ruins, lavatories, cemeteries, deserts, and +2 to their roll. houses, or just around the last corner of caves, but only those with the required one of the alleys leading off the bazaar. fluency in Arabic and a decent grasp of They visit the mundane realm often but Islamic theology can actually benefit from Jinn and Other their real homes may lie underground, this magical protection. Expressions of the Divine amid the beauty of the wilderness, within dark ruins or even beyond the mundane Due to their strong cultural allegianc- realm in regiones and the Supernatural Other Folk Traditions es, all Faerie and Infernal jinn are vulner- Realms. All these locales are collectively That Ward against Jinn able to other strong expressions of the referred to as Jinnistan. Islamic faith. No such jinn can use their Judging from the tales, although it Arab folklore abounds with addi- powers to affect a hajji, a Muslim who has may once have been part of the Magic tional folk remedies for jinni curses and completed the pilgrimage to Mecca within Realm, Jinnistan may now lie mainly in powers. Many lesser jinn are affected by the last year (see Chapter 1: Introduction the Realm of Arcadia, but seems to have the Minor Flaw Vulnerable to Folk Tradi- and Saga). branched into the Realm of Eudokia and tion (see later) or suffer from the Vulner- A Muslim character who focuses his perhaps even into parts of Hell. Its geog- able Magic (mu’addhin’s call) Major Flaw, prayers through correct recital of a sura of raphy is as varied as the mundane realm their magic expiring at sunrise with the the Qur’an and who successfully invokes and its inhabitants pursue lives similar to crow of a cockerel or with the morning God’s aid to defeat a jinni (See Realms of their non-magical brethren of the Mythic call to prayer from the minaret of the lo- Power: The Divine, page 41) gains twice the Middle East, often passing freely between cal mosque. Muslim characters may use usual bonus. their magical homeland and their mun- either the appropriate Realm Lore or their Faerie jinn are strangely unaffected by dane neighborhood. Theology: Islam score to try to dispel other religious demonstrations — Chris- Whole cities of jinn, such as Am- the malign effects of such jinni enchant- tian, Jewish or Zoroastrian — whereas In- erabad, the City of Amber, are found ments. Magic jinn are not so severely af- fernal jinn as demons may be affected by within its fluid borders and parts of other fected, but a properly worded invocation such holy displays. Infernal jinn remain lost and legendary cities such as Golden of the Qur’an can grant some protection susceptible to the Scourging the Infernal Baghdad (see Chapter 7: Mythic Meso- against their powers. power of relics but simple objects of faith potamia) and Khashgar, the nexus of the The following four suras of the have no special power over these crea- fabled Silk Route (see Chapter 9: On the Qur’an, known as the “Four Quls” (each tures (Realms of Power: The Infernal, pages Silk Road), form a background for many begins with “Say:”) are effective wards 33-34). of the tales involving jinn. Some travel- against jinn and perhaps other spirits — Unless otherwise noted, Magic jinn ers claim that Jinnistan can be reached each provides a +3 bonus if successfully are not susceptible to these restrictions but by traveling beyond the Great Rivers, the recalled when invoking the Khawass al- may suffer other flaws reflecting a vulnera- eastern mountains or sailing beyond the Qur’an as a holy forebearer for the baraka bility to the power of the Divine. Whether edge of the ocean. Acknowledgement of Evil, Celestial Immunity, these vulnerabilities stem from the power These claims are all true, but false all Expel Demons or Resist Temptation (See Realms granted to Suleiman over their ancestors the same. Where there are jinn, there is of Power: The Divine, pages 103–105, for or the apparent conversion of large num- Jinnistan. details of baraka). The four specific suras bers within the jinni tribes in recent times are: al-Mu’aumidhatayn (the al-Falaq (113th is unclear.

76 The Cradle & The Crescent

The Mountains of Qaf wishing to travel into the mysterious Mag- be found in Realms of Power: Faerie, Chapter ic Realm, claiming its metaphorical tone 5: Touches of Faerie. Muslim folklore describes this chain contains a pathway that leads outside the of peaks encircling the known lands, Circle of Time. forming a barrier between the lands of the ‘Afrit Blood humans and the supernatural homes of the jinn. Impassable, foreboding, and pur- Mortal Scions The ‘afrit are ranked among the more portedly emerald green in color, mundane powerful of the jinn and many have mon- geographers have attempted to place this of the Jinn strous oversized appearance and a cruel mythical site variously in the Caucasus, nature. Although not necessarily evil, they the Pamir, the Paropamisadae and even An exotic Merinita maga, Arabian Ex are often indifferent to humans or consider the distant Urals or the Atlas Mountains Miscellanea magus or hedge wizard hail- them inferior. of North Africa. ing from the Mythic Middle East pos- Classical scholars equate this range sessing a jinni variant of Faerie Blood or Benefits: +1 to Strength or Intelli- with the legendary Mount Imeon or the Strong Faerie Blood (see later) may make gence, but not to more than +3 Caucasus Indicus of the Greeks — the an interesting character to play in an Ara- Legacy: +1 bonus to Strength or Intel- great eastern barrier of the world of Alex- bian saga. Designed with a suite of accom- ligence, can go as high as +4 ander the Great (see Chapter 9: On the panying themed powers, such a character Sympathies: Power, Cruelty, Patience Silk Road). may also be played as an exotic outsider in (negative) Perhaps the Qaf are not one mountain a game set in western Europe. Such char- Other Virtues and Flaws: Greater chain but are the Essential mountain range, acters may possess only a jinni-themed Benediction: Flight, Greater Immunity: the embodiment of the concept of moun- Faerie background or may have a whole Weapons (bludgeoning or piercing or slash- tains within the Magic Realm, past which collection of Benedictions and other pow- ing), Ways of the Desert; Frightful Presence, lie whole different worlds. Alternatively, ers ruled by Charms with a jinni flavor. All Huge, Large, Second Sight; Monstrous Ap- they may be the Faerie Realm’s distillation the Virtues and Flaws used in the descrip- pearance; Faerie Heritage, Susceptible to of all the tales of impassable mountains tions of Faerie jinn earlier could be suit- the Divine, Vulnerable to Folk Tradition told since antiquity. able for such a strongly themed character. (naming or Bismillah Invocation) Such characters would be susceptible to Appearance: Tall or large in girth, of- Faerie Calling through Warping, unless ten horned, reddish complexion Al-Khadar specifically created as a Hermetic magus. In this case, they suffer Wizard’s Twilight Outside the circle of the known instead. Further ideas and details on such Ghula Blood world, past the pale blue waters that line jinni-themed Faerie touched characters the coast of Persia and beyond the trade can be adapted from Realms of Power: Faerie, The ghulas are rapacious wasteland fa- waters of the Erythraean Sea, lies the great Chapter 5: Touches of Faerie. eries of the Arab world. Sexual encounters ocean of Al-Khadar (“the Green”), a mag- The paragraphs later describe some between human men and female Faerie ical and metaphorical barrier breached optional jinni varieties of the Faerie Blood ghulas (see earlier) result in either another only by jinn, adventurers, sorcerers, and Virtue — adding new varieties to those ghula (if the child is a girl) or ghul-blood- Islamic saints. Few claim to have traveled found on page 42 of ArM5. The specific ed humans (if a boy is born). The sons of to its distant shores or floating islands benefit of possessing Faerie Blood of each ghulas can then go on to produce either laden with human-headed trees and in- type is listed, along with the enhanced girls or boys with ghul blood. This variety telligent apes. Those who claim to have version for those characters that have the of faerie blood could also represent other returned report their ordeals in allegory Faerie Legacy Virtue. Note that this en- violent faerie ancestors. Those with ghul and lies, such as in the travels of Sinbad hanced effect replaces the normal benefit blood are nearly always sinister-looking, the Sailor. of Faerie Blood; it is not in addition to it. born with teeth and unusually aware of Islamic cosmology speaks of whole Each listing also has some typical Sym- their surroundings. worlds beyond that which contains pathies, and some suggestions for other The template reflects a character de- Mythic Europe and the Mythic Middle Virtues and Flaws possessed by different scended from a Faerie ghula rather than East — worlds inhabited by fearsome an- faerie bloodlines. Finally, since characters the offspring of an Infernal ghul. Charac- gels, strange humans, exotic jinn and even with Strong Faerie Blood gain a distinctive ters born of Infernal ghul may best be pre- more alien beings. Hermetic scholars of appearance from that Virtue some com- sented as Devil Children (see later). the Keeper of Tales mystery cult suggest mon features are given; these could also that these lands lie within the Faerie realm be used for characters with regular Faerie Benefits: Claws that can be retracted and of Eudokia. Blood who also have the Disfigured Flaw. extended at will, these have the fol- Criamon magi point to “The Tale of Further information on Faerie Blood, lowing weapon statistics: Init –1, Atk Buluqya” as a possible itinerary for magi Faerie Legacy and Faerie Sympathies can +2, Dfn +3, Dam +2.

77 The Cradle & The Crescent

Legacy: As earlier, except that the claws Jann Blood be scions of the jann and many beautiful are extra large, and the Damage bonus women, including the legendary Balqis, is +4 rather than +2. The jann are lesser Faerie jinn, mem- Queen of Sheba, claim jann parentage. Sympathies: Wastelands, Stalking, Com- bers of a tribe that closely mimics human passion (negative) culture and behavior to the extent of fol- Benefits: +1 to Presence, but not to more Other Virtues and Flaws: Ways of the lowing Islam, herding camels and living than +3 Desert; Skinchanger (hyena or vul- the nomadic lifestyle of Bedouin. As such, Legacy: +1 bonus to Presence, can go as ture); Nocturnal, Poor Presence they are the most likely type of jinn to pro- high as +4 Appearance: dark skin, wrinkled, sharp duce offspring with Faerie Blood or adopt Sympathies: Deserts, Hospitality, Tem- teeth, green on the inside of the foundlings into their tribe. Many Faerie perance (negative) mouth, always have green eyes. sorcerers of Mythic Arabia are believed to Other Virtues and Flaws: Supernatural Beauty, Ways of the Desert; Faerie Speech, Persona, Second Sight, Skin- changer (camel, eagle); Envied Beauty; Disfigured (one animal feature), Du- tybound (Bedouin honor), Susceptible to the Divine, Vulnerable to Folk Tra- dition (Naming) or Vulnerable Magic: Mu’addhin’s Call Appearance: Swarthy, deeply tanned, piercing blue eyes

Mythic Scions of the Jinn

Faerie jinn and characters descended from them are well-suited for use as player characters in sagas involving the Mythic Middle East. Such characters could be created as a companion- or magus-level character using the balanced rules provided in Realms of Power: Faerie, pages 43–63, and incorporating the suggested inherent Pretenses and Required Virtues and Flaws noted in the sections earlier. Players wishing to create a character with ties to an elemental jinni aligned to the Magic Realm can design a Mythic Companion, using the Blood of Heroes Special Virtue from Houses of Hermes: True Lineages (or the Mythic Blood Virtue for Hermetic magi) or the Magic Blooded Vir- tue from Realms of Power: Magic, and choose appropriately-themed Virtues and Flaws. Some of the Elemental Virtues from Hedge Magic Revised Edition may be particularly appropriate for such characters. A Gifted Companion or Mythic Companion Char- acter using the Spirit Votary Major Virtue from Realms of Power: Magic could similarly be used to represent a pagan priest devoted to an elemental jinni recognized as a pre-Islamic Arab divinity, perhaps even

78 The Cradle & The Crescent

claiming descent from such ancient gods. between the object containing the faerie’s to read each other’s glamour to guide Mortal characters descended from In- spiritual essence and the faerie’s body. If their interactions, instead of using Fa- fernal jinn or truly demonic jinn are best this connection is broken, or the object is erie Lore. represented by the rules for Devil Chil- destroyed, the faerie’s distant body disin- • See mundane things hidden by glam- dren, given in Realms of Power: The Infernal, tegrates, but the essence can construct a our (Ease Factor = 3 + (Might of Faerie page 99–101, and begin with the Devil new body, given sufficient time. If the vis causing the glamour – Might of the Child Special Virtue, Demonic Blood and in the prop is used, the faerie is perma- faerie attempting to see through the the following starting Virtues and Flaws: nently destroyed. glamour)/5) Second Sight, Susceptible to the Divine, When selected as a Major Virtue, the and Greater Malediction (when he enters prop provides its bearer with any one a bargain, he is bound to the agreed terms Minor Virtue, selected at creation. This Faerie Speech unless its partner reneges first) instead provides the faerie with a little additional Minor Virtue, Supernatural of the usual template listed. Examples power, but its main advantage is that hu- Many faeries have a Pretense called of such characters include the whelps of mans who discover the object are far more Faerie Speech that they use instead of Infernal ghul, children conceived by cor- likely to treasure it, and keep it safe. This acquiring human languages. Faeries seem rupt shaitan, or the grandchildren of Iblis provides the faerie with time to form a new to know the same languages as whomever himself. Repellent is a common Flaw, and physical body and reclaim his object. they are talking to. If speaking to a group some of the more powerful of these indi- As an example, a faerie warrior with a that has demonstrated mixed linguistic viduals have learned various Hedge Arts, Might of 20 uses his sword as his spiritual skills, the faerie may select which lan- including the Goetic Arts of Summoning anchor. A character that defeats the war- guage to speak. and Commanding to enslave their pious rior finds that the sword contains 4 pawns This effect occurs whenever the faerie jinni cousins. of vis, but also finds that the sword has no speaks and costs no Might. It is not magi- Player character jinn created with a Encumbrance and grants a human wielder cally resisted, because the effect only al- Might Score are susceptible to summon- a +2 bonus on the Single Weapon Ability. ters the behavior of the faerie. If the faerie ing, dispelling and controlling spells that The bonus comes from the faerie’s Grant has not heard a person from its audience affect Vim rather than Mentem, regardless Puissance power. If the human keeps the speak, it may only use whichever language of Realm, although it should be noted that weapon, then eventually the faerie can it last used with humans. Once its audi- magi and mundane companions without generate a fresh body, and seek out the ence speaks the faerie may then converse Might can be equally affected by Corpus wielder and challenge him to a duel. in the correct language for its audience. and Mentem magic that penetrates their Faerie Speech is frequently given to Magic Resistance, if any. characters designed as NPCs. Characters Faerie Sight designed for possible use by players have Minor Virtue, Supernatural this Virtue more rarely, to free up a Virtue Virtues and Flaws This Virtue, which works constantly at slot, but it is still appropriate for a wide no cost to the faerie, is used in conjunc- variety of faeries. tion with the Awareness Pretense. It allows This section includes several Virtues faeries to: and Flaws first detailed inRealms of Power: Reputation as Confidence Faerie that are appropriate for Faerie jinn • Tell mundane things from glamorous Minor Virtue, Supernatural and characters with strong jinni heritage ones. (automatic success: no roll is Some faeries are forced, by their glam- required) our, to live up to their Reputations. These • See the borders of glamour, so that faeries don’t have true Confidence, but New and Modified Virtues they know which faerie props and ter- pretend to have it to such a skilled degree ritories belong to (automatic success: that the distinction does not matter. A These virtues are appropriate for Fa- no is roll required) faerie with this Virtue gains a number of erie jinn characters. • See Arcane Connections, so that they false Confidence points equal to its high- know which objects belong to a human est reputation, and may spend them, one (automatic success) and which human at a time, on rolls that support any Reputa- External Vis (if human and object can be observed, tion. The faerie regains these points when Minor or Major Virtue, Supernatural automatic success.) a human would regain Confidence. The faerie’s spiritual essence (anchor) • Read each other’s glamour. Faerie Lore Highly Cognizant faeries may be resides in one of the props traditional for is a body of knowledge that humans aware of the link between their Reputation its role, and this can be carried far from the learn through experience, so very few and their need to uphold that Reputation faerie’s body without the faerie suffering faeries have it. (Ease Factor = Might of with Confidence; other faeries with this ill effects. There is an Arcane Connection other faerie/5). Faeries use this ability Virtue are not.

79 The Cradle & The Crescent

New and Modified Flaws Heat and Corrosion rules found on page that is vulnerable to religious symbols, for 181 of ArM5. Assume that the object acts as example, can not work around the symbol These flaws are designed by Ferie jinn a source of damage with an intensity of +6. by putting mundane poison in the food characters. If a faerie receives an Incapacitating of the wearer, or burning his house down wound from an item that is a Traditional around him. The person is completely safe Ward, then in addition to the usual effects from the faerie. The faerie must attempt Intangible Flesh of Incapacitating wounds (ArM5, page to flee the ward, and its body is destroyed Major Flaw, Supernatural 178–179) the faerie cannot spend any instantly by the ward’s touch. The character is immaterial, and can- further Might points. It can still activate not physically influence the world. Char- powers with a zero cost. If the character acters with this Flaw should consider the has constant-effect powers with a non- Vulnerable to Folk Tradition Eidolon and Loosely Material powers. zero cost, they expire at the next sunrise (Islamic) or sunset and cannot be reactivated until Minor Flaw, Hermetic or Supernatural the character is no longer Incapacitated. The being’s magic is susceptible to Traditional Ward The character may heal at a human rate, various folk-remedies for averting hostile Minor Flaw, Supernatural or may remove the injury with an appro- spells. Any target that is aware that the If a taboo is selected as a Minor Flaw priate story event. creature has just used its magic may at- then the faerie may not touch a thing pro- tempt a folk ritual, such as making a sign tected by the ward with its glamour. The against evil, spitting, and so forth. This faerie is likely uncomfortable in the pres- Monstrous Appearance grants the target or targets a Magic Resis- ence of the ward, but is not compelled Major Flaw, General tance equal to (5 x the target’s appropriate to flee. The faerie cannot regenerate Something about the character looks (Realm) Lore or Theology: Islam), or 0 if Might points in the presence of a tradi- strange and frightening to others, giving the target does have either of these Abili- tional ward. If forced to touch the ward the character a –6 penalty in all social situ- ties, against the being’s magic only. Fur- the glamour holding the faerie’s body to- ations where its appearance is a factor. thermore, someone with the appropriate gether begins to break down: their body (Realm) Lore or Theology: Islam may be begins to flake away. Prolonged contact able to devise a manner to break a lasting with the ward destroys the body of the Sovereign Ward enchantment, such as plucking nine hairs faerie by unpicking the glamour holding Major Flaw, Supernatural from the tail of a cat and burning them in its body together. If a taboo is selected as a Major Flaw the an enclosed room with a possessed victim; This may appear to humans as if the faerie may not harm a person or thing that this typically requires an Intelligence + ward is burning the faerie. The damage to is defended by the ward. “Harm” is defined Ability roll against an Ease factor of (9 + the faerie’s body can be simulated with the very broadly in the faerie’s glamor. A faerie the spell effect’s magnitude) or greater.

80 Chapter Five Mythic Zoroastrianism

The religion of Zoroaster is a vener- roaster was murdered in the city of Balkh able one and his priests gave their names A Mythic by warriors of the Turanian Tribe while he to the practitioners of magic itself. The prayed at a fire temple. followers of Zoroaster, also known as With imperial patronage the Mazdean Mazdeans, worship the almighty God History faith, under the guidance of Zoroaster’s Ohrmazd. Mazdeans uphold the tenets of discipline Osthanes, quickly grew to be- personal honesty and truthfulness. Mazdeanism starts with the birth of come the preeminent faith in Persia. The The Mazdean priesthood, called mo- its founder, the prophet Zoroaster (also priests of Ohrmazd were known as mobeds (in Greek, “magoi”), were once mas- known as Zarathustra), over six hundred beds, and they held the secrets of Zoro- ters of the supernatural arts, commanding years before the birth of Christ. Zoroaster aster: how to understand the movements angels, spirits and elementals; predicting was born to the virgin Dughdov and when of the heavens, control spirits, and unlock the future; transmuting the nature of mat- he was born he laughed rather than cried. the secrets of the natural world. ter; and performing great miracles. They He was raised as a priest on the very edge Under the Achaemenians and Parthi- are custodians of millennia of arcane lore of the Persian Empire. ans, the mobeds expanded their religion and and mystic knowledge. The mobeds were After a period of meditating on the practices into the west, and many great phi- once a powerful tradition — their magic world in a sacred cave, Zoroaster was vis- losophers from the Hellenic world traveled at its peak may even have come close to ited by God (called Ohrmazd), and from to learn the secrets of the Zoroastrians. rivaling Hermetic Magic — but they are this came the Zoroastrian holy hymns, the A downturn for the faith came with now greatly diminished. Gathas. Zoroaster spent the next ten years the invasion of Persia by Alexander the This chapter details Zoroastrianism preaching his new faith, traveling as far as Great. Temples, sanctuaries, and icons of in Mythic Europe, its faith, practices and the rising sun in the east, and throughout the Mazdeans were plundered and de- current concerns. It also describes the mo- Persia. At age 42, Zoroaster converted the stroyed. The priests who defended their beds and their powers. great Persian Emperor Vishtaspa after per- holy places were slaughtered; their scrip- forming a great number of miracles. Zo- tures were burned. The Seleucid period

81 The Cradle & The Crescent that followed this time was one of despair came from the Arabs.” The Mazdean Church for the Mazdean faithful. Persecuted, they For the Muslim overlords of Persia, saw their temples turned over to false Ohrmazd is one and the same as the God gods, devils, and magical spirits. Their of Abraham; the Zoroastrian scriptures For much of the history of Mazdean- holy teachings were dispersed throughout are in the same category as the Torah and ism, there existed a religious institution, the world for the impious and unbelievers the Gospel, and Mazdeans are considered composed of hierarchies of priests sup- to read and use. “people of the book” (dhimmis). Zoroaster ported by the emperor. It was not until The Zoroastrians regained their himself is thought of as a prophet. Despite the high priests Tanser and Kartir under strength under the Sasanids, and came into this, a large body of laws has been insti- the Sasanids that there existed a formal conflict with the powerful Roman Empire tuted to enforce the social and legal infe- Mazdean Church with an explicit hierar- and the Mercurian priests. During this pe- riority of the dhimmi in the community. chy under the direct theological and spiri- riod, the Mazdeans and their priesthood Zoroastrians particularly are (unofficially) tual rule of the high priests. were in furious conflict in the western discriminated against, called gabars (“infi- The mobeds that ran the Mazdean provinces with the Mercurians of the Ro- dels”) and accused of fire and devil wor- Church also engaged in the suppression man Empire. Mobeds marched with Persian ship. Over the years many Zoroastrians of rival “false” faiths that were prevalent armies in Syria and Palestine, calling down have converted to Islam. in the empire, including Christianity, angels and spirits, and giving their generals Most Zoroastrians who have not con- Manichaeism, Judaism, and other exotic prophecies and visions of the future. These verted have moved to remote and poor ar- faiths from the lands to the east. This conflicts, however, were peripheral to the eas of south central Iran. Increasingly they practice continued until the end of the true struggle of the mobeds, which was are migrating further east to unknown Sasanid dynasty. principally a war against the followers of lands. Despite this, Arabic has not dis- The Mazdean Church was as thor- Ahriman, the Mazdean Devil. placed the local language, and the Iranians oughly destroyed as the empire that sup- maintain distinctly Persian cultural prac- ported it, although the institution of the tices. The ancient glories of the Achae- priesthood survived. The priesthood is he- Zoroastrians under Islam menian era, and the heroes who antedated reditary, rather than open to any who wish the first Persian Empire, were preserved to become priests. The rise of Islam in early seventh cen- in countless tales, poems and stories. The The remaining institution is colle- tury spelled the end of the Zoroastrian Persian national epic Shahnameh, written by giate in nature, with no single prelate to dominance of Persia. Large numbers of the poet Ferdowsi in the 10th century, is firmly resolve doctrinal disputes. As the Mazdeans converted to Islam after the de- still widely read and recited in the 13th Mazdeans are so few, so dispersed, and feat of the Sasanid Empire by the Islamic century, and details the mythological and mostly persecuted, there are few theologi- armies. This conquest is known among historical past of pre-Islamic Persia, in- cal or doctrinal disputes of significance. Mazdeans as “the ruin and devastation that cluding a history of Zoroastrianism. A Note on Historical Accuracy Mazdean Faith Zoroastrianism is one of the least the various legends, histories and in- well-known world religions; translations terpretations are more often than not Humata, hukhta, huvarshta of its ancient texts are contradictory and used as authoritative. (“Good thoughts, good words, their interpretations open to debate. good deeds”) Textual and archaeological evidence is — Mazdean saying scant, and there is little consensus among A Note on Names historians and theologians on many ele- Mazdeans worship a single, all-power- Zoroastrian names have at least ments of their history or beliefs. ful creator called Ohrmazd (“Wise Lord,” four differing versions: the old Avestan, Zoroastrianism is also a living faith, Ahura Mazda), who is opposed by Ahri- Middle Persian, Parsi (the Persian spo- undergoing internal debates about its man (“Destructive Spirit,” Angra Mainyu). ken in the 13th century), and Latinized own origins. The history of Zoroaster, Ohrmazd is the source of all creation and names. This chapter uses the Avestan the religion he founded and the na- all good things that exist, and is transcen- names more often than not, but the tions that adopted that faith as their dent. Ahriman is the embodiment of every Parsi names are given in parentheses state religion is open to debate and in- evil thing and concept. terpretation. This chapter seeks to be where appropriate. Some figures, such as Zoroaster, have their Latinized names Zoroaster preached a very high stan- respectful to this venerable living faith dard of personal morality that binds the and its adherents. This is also a gam- only. “Zoroastrian” is used interchange- ably with “Mazdean”. laity and priesthood alike; actions taken ing resource, so the most “mythic” of in this life form the basis for reward or punishment in the next. Collectively, the

82 The Cradle & The Crescent

actions of the faithful can bring about cosmic changes: the triumph of good over Story Seed: The Accursed Turanians evil. Zoroaster’s teachings stress personal honesty and harmony with society. The Turanians were a tribe originat- raised a massive fortress called the For- The material universe is God’s good ing from around the Ural Mountains tress Arvandasp. creation, and all unpleasant aspects of it, north of the Oxus River. Once consid- The Turanians were assimilated by such as plagues, cold and drought, are ered a holy tribe, the Turanians were led the Turks during the seventh century; products of Ahriman. Because there is a astray by powerful diabolical forces and their diabolical elements were utterly danger of physical corruption in the world, waged war against the pious Iranians. destroyed. Infernal artifacts belonging elaborate steps are taken with rituals and Zoroaster’s murderer, a Turanian soldier to the Turanians, including the sword practices designed to maintain purity. called Bratarvakhsh, was granted un- that killed Zoroaster, may still lie hidden These rites purify the body and the soul. told infernal powers and, using sorcery, in the lands north of the Oxus River. It is in the material world that humanity makes its choices for right or for wrong. There is no rejection of the material world as being a source of sin or evil in itself. Story Seed: The Demon-Blooded The world is to be enjoyed, although in moderation; asceticism has no place in the Paladins of Manochir Zoroastrian faith. The paladins of Manochir roamed including a mace and a belt, be bur- Persia before its conquest by Alexan- ied in secret in the desert. Alexander der the Great. Legends say that the also tried to exterminate the demon- Ohrmazd greatest paladin of the age fathered a blooded lineage. Rumors from those of white-haired child, a sign of demon Alexander’s troops who carried out his blood. The descendents of the demon- commands say that the mace could kill My sixth name is Understanding; my blooded son were mighty warriors, an elephant with a single blow, while seventh is Intelligent One; my eighth nearly unstoppable. whoever wore the belt was impervi- name is Knowledge; my ninth is Endowed When the Persian Empire was ous to harm. A cache of these paladins’ With Knowledge; my twentieth is Mazda conquered, the Order of Manochir awesome weapons would be a valuable [Wisdom]. I am the Wise One; my name is was disbanded by Alexander. He or- discovery, as long as they are not infer- the Wisest of the Wise. dered that their great arms and armor, nally tainted. — Yasht 1.7-1.15

Ohrmazd is the supreme creator of such as Christianity, Islam, and Judaism. (“Holy Immortals”), who represent the the world and all the good it contains. His worshipers benefit from the Domin- highest principles of goodness. The Ame- The Wise Lord is self-created, omniscient, ion, and those with a personal relationship shaspand care for and protect creation. omnipresent, holy, invisible, and beyond with him have True Faith. Each is a pathway to reaching Ohrmazd human comprehension. He is neither be- and personifies ideal Zoroastrian qualities. gotten nor is anyone his equal. As creator According to Mazdean teachings, the of the earthly and celestial realms, he is Mazdean Divine Beings Ameshaspand are part of Ohrmazd’s na- the dispenser of every material good and ture. In Ars Magica, however, they are ex- spiritual blessing. tremely powerful angels representing sev- Ohrmazd revealed to Zoroaster per- There are a multitude of divine been aspects of God; they only act according sonally the mysteries of creation, the reali- ings in the Mazdean celestial hierarchy. to the direct will of the Wise Lord and ty of life and death, and the unseen spiritu- Most of the angels and even the Ame- accordingly their every act is miraculous. al powers that dwell invisibly throughout shaspand (Amesha Spentas) spend a great They are not, however, of the same nature the world. To know Ohrmazd is to live deal of time both in the celestial Divine as God. All Ameshaspand, in addition to in accordance with his divine will, to of- Realm and the material world. Ameshas- their other Choirs, are also Archangels. fer him praise and worship, to please him pand, yazdan and Mazdean angels possess in purity of thought, word and deed, and the same traits as the angels described in Vohu Manah (Bahman): The preeminent to further his cause by joining his forces Realms of Power: The Divine, Chapter Two. celestial being next to Ohrmazd, against evil. Vohu Manah (“Good Mind”) embod- In Ars Magica, Ohrmazd is the God of ies wisdom. He was the Wise Lord’s the Divine Realm, the single all-powerful Ameshaspand first creation and he guards the ani- creator and sustainer. He resides beyond mal kingdom in the material world. the Divine Realm, and is the same creator These are seven personifications of He presides over good thoughts and worshiped by all other monotheistic faiths, aspects of Ohrmazd, called Ameshaspand wisdom, and commands divine spirits

83 The Cradle & The Crescent The Mazdean “World Year”

According to Mazdean astrologers, down into hell by reciting the Ahun- shyat-ereta. (350 AD) there exists a “world year,” during which var prayer. (9619 BC–6619 BC) 10,000 Beginning of Ukhshyat-ereta’s all heavenly bodies complete a full cycle 3,000–6,000 Ahriman lay prostrate. millennium. He led the forces of of movement. The “world year” is a cycle Ohrmazd gave material form (ge- good and overcame evil. A new time of 12,000 years, divided into spans of tig) to creation, shaping the world of goodness was again followed by three millennia. Each span saw the birth in seven stages, with one primeval slow decline. (380 AD) of either Zoroaster or one of the three man, animal and plant. (6619 BC– 10,970 Birth of second World Saviour, Saviors of the World, and the broad pat- 3619 BC) Ukhshyat-nemah. (1350 AD) tern of events was repeated. The year 6,000–8,969 Ahriman breaks into the 11,000 Beginning of Ukhshyat-nemah’s 12,000 is believed to herald the victory material world, polluting it, and millennium, where he will lead the of the Third Savior, the Saoshyant, who destroying the primeval creations. forces of good to victory over evil, will complete the final defeat of evil. From their seed grew all existing followed by period of slow decline. Approximate dates are given in AD plants, animals and men. The great (1380 AD) and BC. The table assumes a birth date king Yima reigned over mankind. 11,943 Birth of third World Saviour, for Zoroaster of 650 BC. There is no Many events of Persian myth, leg- Astvat-ereta, the True Saoshyant. agreement, even in the Zoroastrian texts, end and epic took place. (3619 (2323 AD) of when precisely he was born. BC–651 BC) 11,973 He will bring the work of Frasho- 8,970 Birth of Zoroaster. (650 BC) kereti to a conclusion with the res- 0–3,000 Ohrmazd, with foreknowledge 9,000 Beginning of Zoroaster’s Millen- urrection of the dead, the Last Judg- of need and means to destroy evil, nium. Zoroaster receives his rev- ment and the final conquest of evil. brought his creation into being in a elation and begins his proselytizing. (2353 AD) spiritual (menog) state. Ahriman, ris- (620 BC) 12,000 History will end. The Kingdom ing from the deep, perceived the cre- 9,001–9,969 Time of goodness, followed (Khshathra) of Ohrmazd will come ation, fashioned the evil spirits and by slow decline. (607 BC–349 AD) on Earth and he will reign forever. attacked creation. Ohrmazd cast him 9,970 Birth of first World Saviour, Ukh- (2380 AD)

that encourage such things. Those Spenta Armaiti (Spendarmad): A feminine Spenta Mainyu (Spenamino): Spenta Mainyu who marry and raise a family are more Ameshaspand, Spenta Armaiti (“Holy (“Good Spirit”) is the Ameshaspand of blessed by Vohu Manah than those Devotion”) is believed to be the God Himself, the active Holy Spirit. who choose an ascetic life. Vohu Ma- daughter of Ohrmazd. She personifies From Spenta Mainyu issues life, light, nah also appeared to Zoroaster and devotion, piety, religious harmony, and beauty. It is through Spenta led him to Ohrmazd. and faith. Particularly pious Mazdeans Mainyu that God actively wages war Asha (Asavahisht): As embodiment of venerate Spenta Armaiti very highly upon Ahriman. He does so by creat- divine and moral law, Asha (“Best (in this way, she is held in similar re- ing good works and beautiful things, Righteousness”) leads the path of gard to the Blessed Virgin Mary), as in opposition to the despair and evil the pure to Ohrmazd. The entire she enlightens the mind and purifies created by Ahriman. Some Mazdeans celestial realm lives according to the the heart. Zoroaster in particularly believe Spenta Mainyu to be a part of principles that Asha embodies, while loved Spenta Armaiti above all other the Godhead itself, a divine attribute. the material world gravitates towards Ameshaspand. She governs the earth, Like the other Ameshaspand however, him. Asha encourages saintly behav- granting bountifulness to the Wise Spenta Mainyu is actually a very holy ior, nobility of character, and truth. Lord’s creations. and powerful angel (possibly the same Asha guards the material fire, and Haurvatat (Hordad): The personification being as Metatron). thus embodies the highest value of of health, Haurvatat (“Wholeness”) is the Mazdean faith. another female Ameshaspand. She gov- Khshathra Vairya (Shahrevar): This Ame- erns water, and assists personal salvation The Yazdan shaspand embodies the realization of and communication with Ohrmazd. heaven on earth, the “Desirable King- Ameratat (Amurdad): The personification of dom”. Khshathra guards the sky, pro- immortality and master of vegetation, The yazdan (sing., yazad, “Adorable tects warriors, and presides over metal, Ameratat (“Life”) is inextricably linked Ones”) are Zoroastrian angels and benev- which is his symbol. The riches of the with Haurvatat. The two form a spiri- olent spirits. Figures such as Marduk and world — gems, gold, and silver — be- tual bond, promoting health, joy, com- Mithras are yazdan (also called yazatas) of long to Khshathra. fort, and pleasure among the faithful. greater or lesser significance. They occupy

84 The Cradle & The Crescent

the third celestial rank, after God and the the generous, which were bright and tall are sent to hamestagna (hamestakan, “limbo”). Ameshaspand. and strong. And I said: ‘Happy are you, Here the soul experiences no torment or There are 40 named yazdan, with the who are the soul of a generous person, torture, only discomfort. most important of the yazdan, such as exalted thus above all other souls.’ And it Mithras, Haoma, Atar, or Vayu, receiving seemed to me praiseworthy. a hymn or Yasht of their own. — Arda Viraz Namag, Chapter 12 Resurrection and Judgement Many yazdan personify natural phenomena or abstract ideas, such as the The blessed souls in heaven wait for moon, stars, and winds, or blessings, obe- Reaching Heaven the birth and triumph of the final and dience, and peace. There are two distinct true Saoshyant (“World Savior”). At his orders of yazdan, terrestrial (gaethya) and Upon death, the human soul (urvan) appearance, all the dead, righteous and celestial (mainyava), although both have remains with the body for three days. On damned, will rise from on the spot where the same function: to grant various bless- the fourth, the soul is led by its frohar to they died; their bodies will be surren- ings to those who invoke them with of- the Chinvat Bridge (“the Bridge of the dered from the seas and ground, their ferings and sacrifices. Many yazdan are Separator”), which spans a great abyss. bones reformed from the earth, hair angels, but not all of them; rather, some Heaven waits on the other side. At the from plants, blood from water, and life are Divinely-aligned spirits. bridge, each person’s soul is judged by from fire. Many of the faithful and their com- Rashnu; also guarding the bridge are the They will gather for the final judg- munities have their own yazdan, who are yazdan Mithra and Sraosha. If the record ment. The wicked will be condemned to venerated in the same way that Christians of the person’s soul balances in favor of three days in hell; the pure will receive venerate saints. Yazdan can be invoked good thoughts, words and deeds, then the three days in heaven. After three days, like a saint (see Realms of Power: The Divine, soul crosses without difficulty to heaven. all shall be purified, good and evil alike, page 87), although they cannot be threat- If the reverse is true, the bridge narrows by walking through molten metal. Ev- ened. To invoke a yazata, the invoker to a knife’s edge, and the soul is sliced into ery soul will speak the ancient tongue must be ritually pure (having undergone ribbons as it falls into the abyss of hell. of Avestan and worship Ohrmazd, and the Nahn purification rite, see Rites and life will be restored to its perfect, pri- Practices, later). mal state. This great army will then Limbo fight all of Ahriman’s demons in the final Armageddon, leading to the triumph Frohar Mazdeans whose life’s words, thoughts, of Ohrmazd. His victory will herald an and deeds are equal parts good and bad eternity of bliss. The frohar (both singular and plu- ral; fravashi) are the perfect divine spirits of every created thing. For humans, they Saints and Relics are guardian angels, although everything, plant, animal, element, even other divine The Zoroastrian faith does not have the aid of the yazdan, Ameshaspand, and spirits, have a frohar — only demons and a special category of people considered angels. Similarly, the Mazdeans do not beings from other Realms do not have one. “saints.” They do, however, have a pre- venerate relics, although there are a great The title of frohar is granted by Mazdeans ponderance of holy men and women many sacred and holy objects. These ob- to angelic beings of several different types — great kings, priests, warriors, and so jects — including statues and inscriptions — the Choirs of the Potentates, Authori- on — who are venerated and invoked in on walls — are imbued with Faith scores, ties, and Angels. Frohar guide the souls of prayers. The faithful prefer to call upon and some may have other divine powers. the dead to the afterlife. They help the sun, moon, stars, and sky move, assist women to give birth, and bestow health upon the faithful. The longest Yasht of the Avesta (the The Staff of Yoisht Frayana Mazdean Bible) is devoted to the frohar. Yoisht Frayana was a descendent help of the Yazdan, and cast the sor- of the Turanian apostle of Zoroaster, cerer into hell. and defeated the sorcerer Akhtya in a The Staff of Yoisht Frayana is a pow- Heaven battle of wits. Akhtya had terrorized erful Mazdean relic, with a Faith score the Mazdean priests for years, killing of 5. It has the Acknowledgement of I came to a place and saw the souls of them after they failed to answer his Evil, Celestial Immunity, Expel Demons generous people, who walked adorned and riddles. Frayana successfully answered and Grant Serenity powers (see Realms of were above all other souls in brightness. each of Akhtya’s 99 questions with the Power: The Divine, page 88). And Ohrmazd ever honored the souls of

85 The Cradle & The Crescent Fire Devout Mazdeans visit fire temples on Mazdean Dominions a daily basis, while the less observant only attend on sacred days of the month. In 13th Mazdeans enjoy the same Dominion as Fire is the central symbol of the century Mythic Europe, with the Zoroastri- Christianity, Islam, and Judaism, with the Mazdean faith and is the visible sign of an faithful pushed to the edge of the Mus- Dominion aura extending from the sacred Ohrmazd’s divine presence. As the sym- lim world, there are only a few temples with flame at the fire temple or from a sacred bol of truth (asha), fire is highly venerated fires burning full-time. In their place, many fire in the home. The size and sacredness by Mazdeans. All sacred fires, whether for Zoroastrians keep small oil lamps or wood of the fire increases the Dominion. temple or personal use, must be kept con- fires burning in the home. This type of fire The Dominion aura’s rating decreases stantly burning. Extinguishing a sacred fire is the simplest and is called atesh dadgah (“fire as the distance from the sacred fire increas- is a grave sin, as is polluting it by dropping of the appointed place”). If this fire is used es, so that the aura ratings are the same unclean objects into it. Only clean, dry for cooking, then cooking pots must not be in the community as laid out in Chapter wood can be used for a sacred fire, prefer- more than two-thirds full, to avoid the con- One, Realms of Power: The Divine. Thus, the ably sandalwood, aloe, or benzoin. tents boiling over and polluting the fire. highest Dominion Aura is near the sacred The typical Zoroastrian sanctu- There are two grades of sanctified or fire, decreasing to the borders of the fire ary is a fire temple, anagiari (literally, a “royal” fire above theatesh dadgah: the atesh temple (or building), with the lower rating “fire place”). It is a square enclosed cha- adaran (“fire of fires”) and theatesh Behram (or throughout the faithful community (the pel with grillwork and vents to let the atesh Varahran, “fire of the guardian Varah- village or town and their fields). fire’s smoke out. The fire rests in an iron ran”). The atesh adaran is the union of four In areas where Mazdeans live side by urn on a stone dais; the urn is typically ceremonially ignited fires. The highest side with other Divine faiths (Islam for ex- filled with sand or ash on which the fire grade of fire,atesh Behram, requires combin- ample), their Dominion aura is likely to be burns continuously. It is maintained by ing fires from 16 different sources and takes in Schism. the priests of the temple, who must add considerable time to perform the ceremonial wood and say the appropriate prayers lighting. Atesh Dadgah: Increase Dominion Aura five times daily. by +1 (max rating 3) Atesh Adaran: Increase Dominion Aura by +3 (max rating 5) Atesh Behram: Increase Dominion Aura by +6 (max rating 10)

Ahriman

Thus spoke the Evil One: ‘Nei- ther our thoughts nor teachings nor wills, neither our choices nor words nor acts, not our inner selves nor our souls agree.’ — Yasna, Verse 45

Ahriman is the Zoroastrian Devil. He personifies the Lie Druj( ), and is leader of the demonic hordes; he embodies every negative and evil thing and concept in the universe. Ahriman pollutes and corrupts the bodies and minds of humans, inflicting upon them disease, deformities and decay, as well as moral turpitude, lies, malicious thoughts, and false teachings. For every good creation of Ohrmazd, Ahriman made an evil one. Ahriman is the same being as the Christian, Muslim and Jewish Devil. Like the Devil in Christian tradition, Ah- riman was not of evil substance, but made a

86 The Cradle & The Crescent

conscious decision to deny God and be evil. Because he is not omniscient or omnipo- Story Seed: A Heretical Revival tent, Ahriman cannot foresee his own final defeat, and because he has no forethought, The Cult of Mithras was a Mazdean perhaps a player’s character, discovers a he cannot know of things to come. heresy that was popular in the west- cache of scrolls explaining the historical ern provinces of the Persian Empire, link between Mazdeanism and Mithra- especially following the arrival of ism, as well as suggesting the secret lo- Hellenism after Alexander the Great. cation of the birthplace of Mithras, in Mazdean Devils Although it was persecuted by the deepest Persia. imperial Mazdean priesthood, it had What would happen if a Hermetic The daevas and all Mazdean demons a profound effect on Western mystic Mithraist discovers the still-living reli- have the same traits as those in Chapter practices and beliefs. gion of Ohrmazd, and how will they re- Four of Realms of Power: The Infernal. The In a Mithraeum in Mythic Europe, a act upon learning the Mazdeans believe daevas are exceptionally powerful de- Hermetic magus of the Cult of Mithras, Mithras to be a divine spirit? mons, with high Infernal Might scores and ranks. Demons spirits, doomed to suffer torments and deception for all eternity. Each type of The Daevas There are 45 named demons in the sin attracts its own torments and punish- Mazdean scriptures, all of whom oppose ments. Those who commit mortal sins of Created by Ahriman in mockery of the the yazdan and Ohrmazd. The demons the flesh, extinguish holy fires, destroy Ameshaspand, the daevas are the unholy assault the faithful, plot, seduce and de- bridges, speak falsely, or give false wit- arch-demons of evil who oppose and con- stroy, kill and torment, and seek at every ness are punished with bitter cold, blaz- trast with the Holy Immortals. Together, moment to cause evil. Zoroastrian de- ing fire, and foul stenches. Those who they are known as the Druj, “the Lie”. All mons share the characteristics of demons deny the good religion are bitten and that is foul and corrupt, vile and harmful as described in Chapter 4 of Realms of devoured by serpents. Women who are is personified by a daeva. Not merely to Power: The Infernal. vain and falsely mourn have their heads do with nature or physical corruption, the cut off and their tongues torn out. People daevas are also responsible for the darker who do not keep themselves purified and emotions such as hate and envy. Hell clean, or who pollute lakes and rivers, are Aka Manah is Ahriman’s chief lieuten- beaten by demons. ant and opposes Vohu Manah. He perverts And I saw the blackest hell, danger- Each individual thus holds the key to the minds of humans with evil thoughts, ous, fearful, terrible, holding much pain, his or her own destiny. By choosing to and blunts their intelligence and reason. full of evil, foul-smelling. Then I thought perform evil acts or think evil thoughts, an His chief role is to create discord and that it seemed like a pit, to whose bottom individual condemns himself to Hell. spiritual disruption. Mazdeans believe a thousand spears would not reach; and that the reason children cry when they if all the firewood which is in the world are born is because Aka Manah frightens were placed on the fire in the most evil- Mazdean Heresies them with ghastly visions of suffering. smelling, darkest hell, it would never give Indra drives humans away from virtuous out fragrance. Again, as close as eye to deeds and thoughts, opposing Asha. Saura ear, and as many as the hairs on a horse’s Mazdeanism has had its share of he- also delights when the faithful discard the mane, so close and many in number are retical movements. In their time, the symbols of purity and goodness, although the souls of the wicked therein. Yet they heresies were all severely persecuted and his main activity is to encourage tyranny see not, and hear no sound from one an- repressed by the Mazdean Church and and anarchy; Saura opposes Khshathra. other. Each one thinks: ‘I am alone.’ And imperial authorities. None survive into Naonghaithya opposes Spenta Armaiti, they suffer gloom and darkness and stench the 13th century. Nevertheless, the im- and attacks the faith and devotion inside and fearfulness and torment and punish- pact of these heresies, and their relics and people’s souls, encourages disobedience, ment of diverse kinds … monuments, may still remain, lost and and opposes faithfulness. Taurvi and — Arda Viraz Namag, Chapter 55 waiting to be found. Mazdean heresies Zairich oppose Haurvatat and Amerertat including the Zurvanites, who believed respectively, causing imperfections and The Mazdean Hell is the abode of all that Ohrmazd had a father called Zurvan mortality in plants and animals, spreading evil rulers, evil-doers, evil-speakers, evil- (Time), and that free will was an illusion, diseases and deformity, creating poison- thinkers, and those of evil conscience. and the Mazdakites, who were ascetics, ous plants and animals, and spoiling food Those damned souls condemned to go to and practiced poverty. with decay. Hell are surrounded by demons and evil

87 The Cradle & The Crescent

Ahuna Vairya: “Just as God is powerful, so on specific occasions: Padyab, Nahn and Rites and is Zoroaster, because of His power of Riman. The final type of ritual includes Asha. The gift of Vohuman is for the various ritual actions to ensure continuous person who serves Ohrmazd. Any per- purification, both personal and communal. Practices son who helps the needy shall receive All of the purification rituals (exclud- help from Ohrmazd.” ing padyab and the daily rituals) drive Man’s first duty on earth is to profess Ashem Vohu: “Righteousness is good, it is away any possessing spirit, infernal or the religion and to practice and worship best. According to our wish it is, ac- otherwise and cancel any non-permanent, according to it; not to turn from it, but to cording to our wish it shall be. Righ- non-Divine supernatural effects. have belief in the Good Religion of the teousness belongs to Asha Vahista.” Mazda-worshipers ever in mind; to dis- Yenhe Hatam: “We worship those male tinguish profit from loss, sin from virtue, and female beings whom Ohrmazd Bareshnum goodness from badness, light from dark- knows are best for worship according This rite is required for all candidates ness, Mazda-worship from daeva-worship. to righteousness.” for the priesthood, but its function is to re- — The Teachings of the Magi gain and maintain ritual purity. It also aids the soul’s journey to heaven, and is often A great number of ritual practices are performed when someone is about to die. performed as part of the Mazdean faith. The Sacred Cord The ritual itself consists of three cer- For pious Mazdeans, their faith is not a The sacred cord of the Mazdeans emonial baths performed with the aid of set of doctrines or a system of belief, but (called a kusti) is a long woven cord, two priests at a fire temple over a ten-day rather a faith that is lived through its tied three times around the waist. The period; a total of 18 applications of con- prescribed rites and sets of behavior that cord is central to many of the rituals secrated bull urine (nirangdin), sand, and shape their lives and endow them with and symbols of the faith, representing water; the presence of a dog 13 times; and meaning and purpose. the connection between heaven and the recitation of various prayers. The can- Like all faiths, the level of observance earth. All practicing Mazdeans have didate similarly meditates, prays, and ob- of the rites varies from person to person. a kusti. serves ritual acts during the ten days. Most Mazdeans observe the major rituals The ritual does not work if any of the and ceremonies of their faith, recite the ingredients used are contaminated during main prayers and genuinely believe in the the ritual’s performance, if any impurity tenets of Mazdeanism. Videvdat enters the fire temple, it rains during the Like the sacraments and other reli- ceremony, or if the candidate dies before gious rites of other Divine religions, prop- A major liturgical service of the mo- the end of the ceremony. erly performed prayers, ceremonies and beds, the Videvdat is performed in the In addition to the purifying effect de- rituals have a real spiritual and mystical ef- fire temple by qualified priests. It takes scribed earlier, the subject of this ritual also fect. In Ars Magica, purification rituals replace between midnight and dawn, with gains a Faith Point, although he only gains ally do spiritually cleanse the person who recitations from the Yasna, the Visparad, it once (the first time), even if the rite is performs them, burial rites allow a person’s and the Videvdat (see Mazdean Scrip- performed again on subsequent occasions. soul to reach the afterlife, and prayers re- tures, later) to invoke divine spirits and ally do result in miracles. ward off demons. Offerings are made to Ohrmazd and the Ameshaspand to coin- Padyab cide with sunrise. A simple ablution ritual performed Prayers several times a day: in the morning after rising, after answering calls of nature, Purity Rites before taking meals, and before saying The recitation of prayers is a major prayers. The rite consists of a short prayer element of all Mazdean rites. There are The ritual link between purity and im- formula, the washing of the face and ex- hundreds of prayers recorded, although purity symbolizes each Mazdean’s person- posed parts of the body (generally hands three have special prominence and are al participation in the cosmic war against and feet), and the untying and re-tying of used most frequently. Their potency and evil. The purification ritual practices and the sacred cord. sacredness is so great that they are re- symbolic gestures of Mazdeanism symbol- corded in every Zoroastrian library and ize this struggle on a daily basis. form a part of almost every ritual and re- There are three categories of purifi- Nahn ligious ceremony. Their recitation is con- cation rituals. The most important is the A sacred bath purification requiring sidered one of the most effective prayers Bareshnum, which is undertaken by each the services of a mobed, it can be con- to Ohrmazd. Mazdean at least once in their life. The ducted either at home or in a fire temple. second comprises three rituals observed It is only performed during the day, and

88 The Cradle & The Crescent

is observed during the Navjote ceremony, ered a key weapon in the struggle against The lamps lit in this ceremony in- marriage, forty days after childbirth, and evil. This ritual is a priestly function and crease the Dominion aura in the room the on any one day during the Farvardegan requires no witnesses or lay participants. lamp is in, by one point (up to a maximum holiday marking the end of the Mazdean It takes about two and a half hours, rating of 3; there is no effect if there is no year. The ceremony involves chewing a and is performed by two priests in a spe- base Dominion aura, or if the Dominion is sacred pomegranate leaf, drinking a few cial area in the fire temple called thepawi . already at level 3 or higher). drops of consecrated bull urine, recit- The Yasna establishes a connection being of the Repentance Prayer, applying tween the spiritual (menog) and material unconsecrated bull urine (gomes) over the (getig) worlds, inviting the tangible pres- Initiation body from the head down, performing the ence of Ohrmazd and the Ameshaspand This ritual, called the Navjote, makes a sacred bath, and dressing in a new set of to the fire temple. child, aged 12 to 15, responsible for hon- clothes. A longer, more complex purifica- During the ceremony, Ohrmazd and oring Mazdean religious observances. The tion ritual similar to this is administered to his angels are reverently invoked, and the child receives his or her sacred cord (kusti) those who are particularly impure — this 72 chapters of the Yasna are recited as the and sacred white shirt (sedra), takes puri- is called the Si-Shuy Nahn. priests walk symbolically around the pawi. fying baths, and makes the declaration of At the end of the ceremony, consecrated the articles of faith (fravarane): “I profess haoma is poured onto the floor as an of- myself a Mazdean, a follower of Zoro- Riman fering to the Wise Lord. The remaining aster, opposing the demons, accepting the This purification ritual requires two libation and bread is consumed by the doctrine of Ahura, one who praises the attendants (one of whom must be a priests and other attending worshipers. beneficent immortals, who worships the priest), and is only performed on those This consumption mystically links the at- beneficent immortals. I accredit all good who have come into contact with corpses tendants of the ceremony with the divine things, those that are indeed the best, to in the course of ministering to the dead. forces present. Ohrmazd the good.” It involves chewing pomegranate leaves, Once the ritual is complete, the Do- A character who undergoes the Nav- drinking consecrated bull urine, and ritu- minion Aura around the holy fire increases jote receives a Faith Point, which can be ally washing. The two attendants must by three points (but not beyond eight), used as normal. It is lost if the character also purify themselves. If the subject is decreasing by one point every five paces performs a significant sin. Additionally, a woman, she performs the ritual behind from the fire until returning to normal; this the rites performed in this ceremony a partition. effect lasts for only an hour. The priests have the effect of rendering the child’s who perform the ritual and attendant wor- name unusable as a True Name for super- shipers gain a Faith Point. Worshipers in natural activities, in the same way that Daily Rites a state of sin do not get this benefit, and baptism does. When a Mazdean comes into contact if any of the priests are impure during the with substances considered impure, he or ritual, there is no benefit. she is rendered ritually impure. Impure Marriage substances include hair, skin, nails, blood, The ceremony of marriage is an im- saliva, urine, feces, semen, and menstrual Birth, Initiation, portant religious occasion, involving the blood when they leave or are separated Marriage, and Burial bride and groom taking purifying baths, from the body. Carrion, rotting flesh, or with the ceremony itself happening just plant matter, and foul-smelling air are also There are four ceremonies that coin- after sunset. A procession of priests, offi- considered impure. There are thus specific cide with significant times in a Mazdean’s cials, the bridegroom, and his family (and rituals to be performed when cutting hair life. There are prayers, purification rituals sometimes musicians) enters the bride’s and nails, sneezing and yawning, urinating and devotions coinciding with birth, ini- home; the bridegroom stays outside, and excreting, as well as after sex (the act tiation of a child into the community, mar- where his head is marked in red. After this, of which is not impure or sinful in itself, riage, and, finally, burial. he enters and sits before the priest. The although the resulting excretions are). bride enters some time later and sits next There are purification acts for purifying to the bridegroom, with a cloth hanging utensils, tools, furniture, and rooms. Birth between them. Prayers are said, vows are Before birth, at the fifth and seventh exchanged, and benedictions are made. A months, a sacred lamp is lit to ward off de- sacred fire and candle are present through- The Yasna mons that may seek to harm unborn babies. out. At the end of the ceremony, there is Forty days after the birth of the child, the typically a feast. The Yasna (“sacrifice”) is the most im- mother is given a purifying bath (the Nahn). The marriage ceremony grants both portant ritual for Mazdeans, and is per- A child is taken to the fire temple on his or bride and groom a Faith Point that may be formed daily each morning by priests in the her first birthday and has ashes from the sa- used to strengthen their resolve in the face fire temple. Performing the Yasna is consid- cred fire applied to his or her forehead. of adversity or temptation.

89 The Cradle & The Crescent The Mazdean Calendar in Detail

The Thirty Days Festival: Maidhyoi-shema Purpose: Midsummer Day Divine being Area of responsibility Related Ameshaspand: Haurvatat 1 Dadvah Ohrmazd Creator, God Related Creation: Water 2 Vohu Mana Good Purpose Dates: 26 – 30 Apr. (S), 26 – 30 May (F) 3 Asha Vahishta Best Truth 4 Khshathra Vairya Desirable Dominion Festival: Paitishahya 5 Spenta Armaiti Holy Devotion Purpose: Bringing in Corn 6 Haurvatat Wholeness Related Ameshaspand: Spenta Armaiti 7 Ameretat Immortality Related Creation: Earth 8 Dadvah Ahura Mazda Creator-by-Adar Dates: 24 – 28 Jul. (S), 23 – 27 Aug. (F) 9 Atar Fire 10 Apo Waters Festival: Ayathrima 11 Hvar khshaeta Shining Sun Purpose: Homecoming of the Herds 12 Mah Moon Related Ameshaspand: Ameretat 13 Tishtrya Dog star (Mercury) Related Creation: Plants 14 Geush Urvan Ox-soul Dates: 23 – 27 Aug. (S), 22 – 26 Sep. (F) 15 Dadvah Ohrmazd Creator-by-Mihr 16 Mithra Loyalty Festival: Maidhyairya 17 Sraosha Hearkening Purpose: Midwinter 18 Rashnu The Judge Related Ameshaspand: Vohu Manah 19 Fravashayo All Souls Related Creation: Cattle 20 Verethraghna Victory Dates: 23 – 27 Oct. (S), 22 – 26 Nov. (F) 21 Raman Peace 22 Vata Wind Festival: Hamaspath-maedaya 23 Dadvah Ohrmazd Creator-by-Din Purpose: All Souls 24 Daena Religion Related Ameshaspand: Spenta Mainyu, Ohrmazd 25 Ashi Recompense Related Creation: Man 26 Arshtat Justice Dates: 25 Jan. 1221 (S), 24 Feb. 1221 (F) 27 Asman Sky 28 Zam Earth Festival: No Roz 29 Manthra Spenta Holy Word Purpose: New Day 30 Anagra Raocha Endless Light Related Ameshaspand: Asha Vahishta Related Creation: Fire Dates: 27 Jan. 1220 (S), 26 Feb. 1220 (F) Holy Festivals

Although each day is holy, there are seven special holy The Twelve Months (in 1220) festivals in the Zoroastrian calendar, dedicated to each Ameshaspand. Each festival goes for five days. The seventh Month Divine Being corresponding Month festival, known as No Roz (“New Day”) is the greatest holy 1 Farvadin January/February festival of the Mazdean calendar, prefiguring the final “New 2 Ardvahisht February/March Day” of eternal bliss. Note that the festival dates, although 3 Hordad March/April associated with seasons, have drifted significantly from their 4 Tir April/May original dates. The dates are given in Imperial (S) and An- 5 Amurdad May/June cient (F). 6 Shahrevar June/July 7 Mihr July/August Festival: Maidhyoi-zaremaya 8 Avan August/September Purpose: Mid-spring 9 Adar September/October Related Ameshaspand: Khshathra Vairya 10 Dai October/November Related Creation: Sky 11 Vahman November/December Dates: 26 Feb. – 2 Mar. (S), 27 – 31 Mar. (F) 12 Spendarmad December/January

90 The Cradle & The Crescent

There has been periodic reform of Haoma the calendar to stabilize the months in relation to the seasons, but over the Haoma (hom) is a sacred plant used bonus for effects that promote health decades and centuries the dates have to make an intoxicating drink. The or fertility and for effects that allow drifted to become out of sync with the drink is made by pounding the leaves the consumer to see invisible, spiritual seasons (with no leap year, the day drifts and stems of the plant. The plant is beings. When used in effects promot- by one day ever four years). This has re- so sacred that it has its own powerful ing longevity, it grants the character a sulted in different Mazdean communities yazata to protect and nurture it. When +5 bonus. using different calendars — the Shenshai prepared according to sacred principles Consumed without mystical prepa- (“Imperial”) and Fasli (“Ancient”) — so it increases health and fertility, and can ration, but properly fermented, haoma that they hold their holy days at differ- even aid in the pursuit of immortality. has mild hallucinogenic effects (tem- ent times. Haoma is especially important for many porarily granting the Visions Flaw), in- During the five days of the holy fes- Mazdean purification rituals, prayers, creases arousal, and increases strength tivals, the Dominion Aura radiating from and invocations. (character gain a +1 bonus to acts of the fire temples takes on a nature abhor- When used in alchemical and herbal strength). The effects last between one rent to the forces of Ahriman. Any crea- potions and brews, haoma grants a +3 and three hours. ture with Infernal Might that seeks to enter the Aura is unable to do so if their Might Score is less than the Dominion Burial month is also dedicated to a divine being. Aura x10. Should they succeed in entering The ceremonies of death and burial Consequently, once a month, the day and the Aura, they suffer an amount of dam- are the most difficult, especially for those month have the same name, which is the age per hour equal to the Dominion Aura Mazdeans in Muslim lands, where they are cause for special reverence. The ninth day rating (which can be Soaked as normal). forced to comply with local laws and cus- of the month, sacred to fire, is favored in On the final day of each holy festival, the toms. Traditionally, the corpse is ritually any month for visits to the fire temple, but damage inflicted on Infernal beings can- washed and dressed. A dog is presented, especially so during the ninth month (also not be Soaked. so it gazes at the corpse, both to ensure sacred to fire). the person is really dead, and to ward off evil spirits (this ritual is called sagdid, “dog- sight”). The Ahuna Vairya prayer is recited by priests, and then the body is taken to the funerary tower (dakhma, “Tower of Si- lence”), a massive tower-like building exposed to the sun and flesh-eating birds. The bones of the dead are left to dry, and then thrown into a deep well filled with lime and phosphorus. The soul of a Mazdean buried according to this way (or any Divine ritual) can never be affected by any form of magic. This puts it beyond the reach of Hermetic and other forms of magic.

The Mazdean Calendar

The Zoroastrian calendar has a year of twelve months with thirty days each, with an extra five days inserted after the eighth month in Persia, or at the end of the year elsewhere. There is no seven-day week for the followers of Zoroaster. Each day is dedicated to a divine being, to whom the faithful should dedicate their good actions and thoughts on that day. Each

91 The Cradle & The Crescent Mazdean Scriptures The Videvdat There are Zoroastrian versions of The Videvdat (Vendidad, “law abjuring the Theology and Civil and Canon Law demons”) has 22 sections containing the Abilities. Additionally, some mobeds and Zoroastrianism emphasizes its oral religious, civil, criminal, and purification Mazdeans may speak Avestan, their sacred traditions and all priests learn the scrip- laws of Mazdeanism. It also details the religious language. Most Mazdeans speak tures by heart. The words of Zoroaster life of Zoroaster and the origins of medi- Parsi (Persian) or the language of their were written down over his lifetime to cine (medicine by knife, herbs, and sacred area, such as Arabic. form the Avesta. There are many books rites). (Summa, Theology: Zoroastrian, A mobed character may take the Se- making up the Avesta, many of which have Quality 6, Level 6.) nior Clergy Major Social Status Virtue been lost, destroyed or pillaged following (see The Church, Diocese Chapter), reflect- the Muslim conquest of the Sasanid Em- ing the character’s status as a dastur (“senior pire. While some fire temples may possess The Khordeh Avesta priest”). This reflects the fact that your copies of parts — even large parts — the Often combined with the Yasht (see character is in charge of several subordi- chief role of the priesthood is to act as later), the Khordeh Avesta (“Little Avesta”) is nate mobeds, and probably governs a large living scriptures, memorizing every word for use by priests and lay folk in private fire temple. and prayer. devotion. It is a summary of the Avesta, Mazdeans typically do not take Vir- containing prayers, invocations, and bless- tues or Flaws that would make them a ings. (Tractatus, Theology: Zoroastrian, monk or nun. To Mazdeans, the world is Avesta Quality 6) a wonderful place to be lived in and enjoyed. The fight against evil takes place in The Avesta contains the hymns, formu- society, so being cloistered away and prac- las, laws and stories of the Mazdean faith. The Yasht ticing an ascetic lifestyle of deprivation is There are two main parts to the Avesta. The Yasht (“worship”) is a collection not in keeping with their faith. There is The Avesta is also written in multiple lan- of 22 hymns and prayers invoking yazdan also no tradition of wandering holy men guages, Avestan and “Gathic,” a liturgical and angels. Each prayer invokes only a or women in orthodox Mazdeanism (pre- language for prayers. The Ability Dead single being, such as Ohrmazd, each of cluding analogs of Virtues or Flaws such as Language: Avestan grants knowledge in the Ameshaspand, and the sun, moon, Mendicant Friar). both. There are translations into Parsi stars, Mithra, and Sroasha respectively. (and other languages, like Latin, Arabic, (Tractatus, Theology: Zoroastrian, Qual- and Greek), although they are not con- ity 6) New Ability: sidered holy. Dead Language (Avestan)

Avestan is the holy liturgical language The Yasna of the Zoroastrian Holy Scriptures, used The Yasna is the chief liturgy of the Mazdean by Zoroaster himself. No longer spoken or Mazdeans. “Yasna” literally means “sac- written outside of the fire temples, the lan- rifice”, and includes confessions, rituals, guage is now used purely for sacred hymns prayers, exhortations, praise, and worship Characters and prayers. This ability allows your char- of Ohrmazd. The Yasna is formed from six acter to read and write texts in Avestan, Gathas (hymns), and has a total of 72 chap- Mazdean characters have access to and to understand the words of prayers ters. Five of the six Gathas are considered unique Virtues, Flaws, and Abilities, re- spoken in Avestan. to be the direct word of Zoroaster him- flecting their faith, culture and society. To write this language (written from self. The sixth was written by his disciples. right to left), your character must have a (Summa, Theology: Zoroastrian, Quality score of at least one in Artes Liberales. 4, Level 9.) Virtues and Abilities This Ability is generally only possessed by mobeds. Specialties: Liturgies, scripture, oral The Visparad Making a Mazdean character depends tradition, alphabets, myths. (Academic) The shorter liturgy, the Visparad (“to on the saga. Sagas set in predominately all the lords”) is 23 chapters of invoca- Muslim or Christian lands would see the tions, praise, and hymns to Ohrmazd, the Mazdean character take the Outsider Ma- New Virtue: Magian Lineage yazdan, and the other powerful divine be- jor Flaw. In areas where Mazdeans are a ings, and also includes the seasonal festi- sizeable minority, or even a majority, then Minor or Major, General vals (gahambars). (Summa, Dominion Lore, the other Social Status Virtues and Flaws This Virtue makes the character a true Quality 3, Level 4.) can also be taken. blood descendent of the original Median

92 The Cradle & The Crescent

tribe of Magians, the original priestly If you are Poor, it likely reflects the poor caste of Persia. Many mobeds possess this station of Mazdeans in the community The Mobeds: Virtue, either Minor or Major, but is not in general, and you may also possess the a requisite. Outsider Flaw. Your character may take Academic Princes of Magic Minor: Your character’s lineage is weak, al- Abilities at character generation. You though he or she is still ethnically Ma- must take the Minor Personality Flaw Vow Without a doubt magic arose in Per- gian, and gains a strong constitution (ArM5, page 60) to reflect your constant sia, with Zoroaster. On this our authori- due to his purity. The character gains a state of ritual purity, and dedication to ties are agreed … –1 bonus to Aging rolls and a +3 bonus your community. This Virtue is only avail- — Pliny, Natural History, 30.2.3 to resist the effects of disease. able to male characters. Major: In addition to the benefits of the The priests of Ohrmazd are the mo- Minor Virtue, your character has an beds, whose lineage can be traced back affinity with the ancient prophetic and New Virtue: to the Median tribe and Zoroaster him- other mystical arts of your ancestors. Knowledge of True Names self. The mobeds are a holy tradition, The player must choose three Arcane with Initiations that grant them unique or Supernatural Abilities which the Minor or Major Supernatural holy powers. character need not start play with, and Your character may start play knowing In centuries past, the mobeds were sag- which cannot be True Names. These one or more True Names of supernatural es who possessed great occult knowledge. Abilities are considered connected, beings. Any Mazdean character may take In addition to their holy powers, they had so that whenever your character suc- this Virtue, although it is only of use to mastered the forces of magic, astrology, cessfully studies one of these Abilities those characters with supernatural abilities alchemy, and theurgy. That knowledge is (that is, gains at least one experience or powers. This Virtue reflects the deep largely lost in the 13th century, and mo- point from study), he or she gains an and ancient occult knowledge possessed beds are now almost exclusively practitio- additional experience point in each of by the mobeds. ners of holy powers. the other two. At the storyguide’s discretion, this vir- The Mazdean priesthood is heredi- tue may be made available to other char- tary: only sons of a mobed or the male de- acters, such as sahirs, Hermetic theurgists, scendents of a priestly family can be con- New Virtue: Mazdean Priest infernalists, or Holy Magi. sidered for priestly office. Needless to say, mobeds are not celibate and may marry. Minor, Social Minor: This virtue grants you 30 experi- There are several ranks, and initia- Your character is an ordained Mazdean ence points to spend on True Names tions that must be performed to achieve priest, initiated as a mobed. This means — each True Name costs 5 experience each rank. The lowest rank of Mazdean that the character may carry out the vari- points to learn. Names with fewer priest is that of ervad. An ervad may per- ous rituals and ceremonies, such as the than 5 experience points provide no form ordinary services, but none of the Yasna, Vivevdat, Navjote, marriage, burial, benefit at all, but you can decide to important rituals. The ceremony of mar- official prayers, purification rituals, light- partially learn a True Name by spend- tab initiates a priest to the rank of mobed, ing of sacred fires, and initiation of new ing fewer than 5 experience points on a fully qualified priest, able to perform all priests. In Mazdean communities, your it. Each True Name is recorded under services and rituals. The highest remain- character is held in high regard and treat- Abilities as “True Name of (Being).” ing rank is that of dastur, the head of a ed with great respect. The character wears The character may know the True group of priests of an area or particular pure white clothes and when performing Names of beings from the Magic, Fa- fire temple. Higher levels of the priest- ceremonies, covers his face with a white erie and Infernal realms. You may take hood have been lost to time. veil to protect the sacred flame from his this virtue more than once to gain ad- breath and saliva. ditional experience points to spend on As a mobed, your character resides True Names. in a community that likely has a fire Major: The Major Virtue version of Zoroastrian Magi temple. This means that your character Knowledge of True Names is identi- Realms of Power: The Divine gives has arduous and time-consuming reli- cal to the Minor version, also grant- rules for Zoroastrian holy magi on gious and ceremonial duties. Most of ing 30 experience points, except that pages 116–117. Those rules could your time is spent praying, performing you may also know the True Names also provide inspiration for Zoroas- ritual purification rites and tending to of angels and other divine beings. trian holy sahirs, although the ben- the sacred fire. If you are Wealthy, you Storyguides and troupes should con- efits of Holy Magic would need to have several ervads (junior priests) who sider this Virtue carefully before al- be adapted. perform many of the more arduous tasks. lowing it.

93 The Cradle & The Crescent

The mobeds are known for their pious Sense Holiness and Unholiness Supernat- Supernatural Abilities study and worship, their ethics, divina- ural Ability. tions and prophecy, holy learning, and Favored Abilities are Supernatural Taught by the Mobeds rules of purity. Abilities taught by the mobed tradition, Few Hermetic wizards would believe and for which mobed characters do not Favored Abilities: Invocation, Adju- ration, Wonders, Sense Holiness that the Persian magoi still remain a living need to subtract the total of their Su- and Unholiness tradition. The relics, scriptures, and holy pernatural Ability scores from their Ad- Other Abilities (not favored): Ceremo- rituals of the magoi are legend, highly vancement Total (see ArM5, page 166). ny, Dream Interpretation, Mythic sought after. Zoroastrian texts are con- Mobeds also teach a range of non-favored Alchemy, Mythic Herbalism sidered masterpieces of the magical arts, Supernatural Abilities, either suffering the containing everything from hidden truths penalties or initiating them as a Mystery. Mobed characters are not limited of alchemy, to the names of archangels Favored Abilities only impact mobeds to the Abilities listed here; these are and demon princes. Some Hermetic magi, with True Faith; mobeds without such a simply common to the societas. however, believe their knowledge to have connection to Ohrmazd must take the ap- been primitive. propriate Virtues at character creation, or Initiate into them during play. A great number of Mystery powers New Ability: Mobeds and the are available to mobeds, although it is extremely rare for a community of Mazdeans Mobed Lore Suhhar Sulayman to possess a mobed that knows more than one or two. This Ability is the Organization Non-mobed sorcerers before the sev- Mobeds experience the Divine Ascent Lore for the mobeds, and is used for enth century were ignored and spurned in place of generic Warping or Twilight, their initiation rituals. This lore does by the Mazdean priesthood. The non- with Divine Form the most common kind not give any specific knowledge of Mazdean sorcerers of Persia and the Holy of Ascent. the Mazdean faith, beliefs, or ritu- Land were no match for the great imperial als (this is represented by the Abil- powers of the mobeds. ity Theology: Mazdean), but rather This situation was reversed after the Mazdean Hedge Magic the legends, history, and structure of seventh century. The Order of Solomon the priesthood, as well as the specific became the Suhhar Sulayman, and the The mobeds are known for their strong initiation rites and oral lore of the Islamic sages and sorcerers now reign alchemical lore; the Videvdat, for example, mobed tradition. supreme in Persia, while the mobeds are focuses on alchemy and medicine. Mo- an insignificant force on the periphery beds may take the Mythic Alchemy and Few mobeds today possess The Gift. of the civilized world. As in the West, Mythic Herbalism Virtues (see Hedge Magic This allows them to integrate into society their lore, rituals and secrets are greatly Revised Edition, pages 81–82) without the easily and take on influential and trusted prized, and their historical knowledge of need for any further background explana- roles. A relatively large proportion of the mystic arts of astrology and alchemy tion, and these Virtues are often associated mobeds also possess True Faith and may is admired, if not associated with the mo- with the Divine Realm, rather than Magic. perform miracles. This may be because of beds still living. However, it is not unusual for a mobed to special divine favor, or because only the have supernatural powers derived from truly devout become priests in a small and both realms. oppressed religion. The Magic of the Mobeds Holy Powers Mobeds in Mobeds practice holy powers, although Western Eyes these powers are only bestowed upon those The Holy Powers taught by the mobed initiated into full mobed rank; ervads nor- tradition are spectacular and majestic, To Western wizards and mages, the mally have no special divine powers. The commanding the forces of nature and cre- priests of Zoroaster were an order of rank of dastur indicates both a political and ating life out of nothing. When mobeds seers who were dedicated to the service ceremonial rank, and also suggests invest- invoke their divine wonders, they use the of the gods who had strong constitutions ment of some mystic powers. sacred names of yazdan and the Ameshas- and lived to a great age, for their pro- Mobeds teach as Favored Abilities pand; their prayers call upon the aid of the fession as magi made it incumbent upon the Holy Method Invocation; the Holy Wise Lord himself. Especially powerful them to observe the strict rules of life. Powers Adjuration and Wonders; and the mobeds can even call into existence divine

94 The Cradle & The Crescent

spirits to perform tasks for them and give character can cause holy effects to mani- of all kinds, including dispelling their them aid. fest. This might be because God’s servants powers and compelling their coopera- hear your character’s pleas and intervene, tion. Through Adjuration, God asserts his Casting Score: or because your character’s understanding ultimate authority over creation and both Communication + Invocation + Holy of God’s word is such that he can wield the natural and supernatural worlds. Adju- Power + modifiers + aura + die roll God’s power using God’s voice. This ration is also the witnessing of oaths and typically relies on Communication, and truths, by forcing otherworldly beings to If this total is less than the target Level, requires that the character invest Confi- recognize God’s authority and obey him. the effect doesn’t happen, but there might dence in the effect. The target might cry out in pain and won- be other effects instead, in the form of su- der when affected, or speak in a different pernatural retribution. This is called a Trag- voice that represents its true nature for edy of Hubris. It might manifest as a curse, Adjuration the effect’s duration. Invocation is used a loss of ability, fatigue, a physical injury, to compel creatures to act, often forcing or even a Flaw. It is also a great opportunity Adjuration is the Power to summon, them to use their powers on the holy char- for an appropriate story event. This trage- control and banish supernatural creatures acter’s behalf. dy usually lasts only until the character has somehow atoned or made amends for his presumptuous actions, though the effects Adjuration Guidelines are sometimes permanent, depending on the severity of the transgression. When these guidelines refer to a su- estly. (Invocation) pernatural creature, it means a specific Level 15: Compel a supernatural crea- Minor Tragedy (–1 to –10) entity with a Might score. ture to do your bidding; you may • A Method, Power or other Supernatu- give it one command which it must ral Ability is halved Level 4: Bind a supernatural creature to follow exactly for the duration. • Gain a Minor Flaw, e.g., Lesser Male- the terms of a contract. (Invocation) (Invocation) diction, Fear, Poor Memory, Simple- Level 5: Compel a supernatural creature Level 20: Compel a mundane crea- Minded within range to manifest in your ture to do your bidding, as earlier. • Suffer a Medium wound presence. (Invocation) (Invocation) • Receive three extra botch dice on Level 10: Compel a supernatural crea- Level 25: Compel a human being to do all rolls ture to reveal the truth, even a de- your bidding, as earlier. This com- • Gain a Warping point mon; you may ask one question, and mand must be within the person’s if you overcome the creature’s Magic nature, as evidenced by appropriate

Major Tragedy (–11 to –20) Resistance it must answer you hon- Personality traits. (Invocation) • A Method, Power or other Supernatu- ral Ability is lost • Gain a Major Flaw, e.g., Greater True Names Malediction, Blind, or Enfeebled • Suffer a Heavy wound Mobeds may learn and use True ated Realm Lore. True Names grant a +5 • Permanently suffer a minor tragedy Names (see Realms of Power: The Infernal, bonus to Penetration modifiers, and are • Gain a Decrepitude point page 34, and also Realms of Power: The of indefinite duration. Divine, page 20). Each True Name is Mobeds have access to hundreds Ultimate Tragedy (–21 or more) treated as a special Ability called “True of True Names of angels and demons. • All Supernatural Abilities are lost Name of (Being),” and costs 5 experi- Characters may start play knowing the • Character possessed by a supernatural ence points to learn, and once a True True Name of one or more beings (see creature Name is learned, your character gains 1 the Knowledge of True Name Virtue, earlier • Suffer an Incapacitating wound experience point to the being’s associ- in this chapter). • Permanently suffer a major tragedy • A terrible plague, war, or famine affects the entire region Using Vis

Invocation Mobeds may use holy and magical bonuses as magic vis. The consequenc- vis. If a mobed knows certain mysteries, es of profaning holy vis, or using it for By addressing God and the servants he may even extract vis from an aura. diabolical ends can be dire, risking Di- of the Divine, commanding them by their Holy vis grants the same mechanical vine retribution. names, and entreating them for aid, your

95 The Cradle & The Crescent

Adjuration

Major, Supernatural This Virtue allows the character to command and control supernatural beings, and he begins with the Supernatural Ability Adjuration 1.

Dream Interpretation

Major, Supernatural The character can understand and interpret the secret meaning of dreams. This Virtue gives the Supernatural Ability Dream Interpretation 1, which may be used in place of Meditation to activate Holy Powers and also allows him to interpret dreams of a general nature. Mobeds may take Dream Interpretation, although it is not an Ability favored by their tradition. It may, however, be Initiated into as a Mystery Virtue.

Invocation

Major, Supernatural This Virtue gives the character Invo- cation 1, a Supernatural Ability which Wonders

Those who ask properly will receive Wonders Guidelines God’s gifts, for God provides for the faithful in need. God also summons storms, fire, General: Create a dangerous substance, storm from a clear sky, or a light that winds, and other powerful natural forces. like fire or poison, that does +(base shines like the day. (Invocation) These wonders are created at the holy level of the spell) damage upon con- Create nourishing food or drink, character’s command, and even controlled tact. (Invocation) enough to sustain a single person. by him to some extent, although God al- Create a natural substance that (Invocation) ways keeps His hand upon His miracles. harms non-divine supernatural crea- Create a nonliving object that has Such things may appear at times to listen tures, such as water that corrodes been processed in some way, such to another voice, and act in ways that the like acid or a light that burns like as a leather coat, a lance, or a coin. holy character does not anticipate. fire, doing +(base level – 5) damage. (Invocation) These effects use Invocation to conjure (Invocation) Level 15: Create and control a power- and command divine forces by their name Level 2: Create a mature living plant, ful force of nature, such as winds and purpose. When a character suffers a or cause a plant to grow more quick- that lift a person off of the ground Tragedy of Hubris with Wonders, he might ly. (Invocation) or a flame that lights up the sky for create unwanted items, such as rotten food, Level 3: Create and control a com- miles. (Invocation) vermin, or mud. Or the effect might still mon force of nature, such as a Create a living, docile bird, fish, liz- happen, but completely out of his control. gust of wind or a burst of flame. ard, or amphibian. (Invocation) (Invocation) Level 20: Create a living, docile mam- Create a non-living natural object, mal. (Invocation) such as an animal corpse, driftwood, Level 30: Create an animal with Divine Holy Virtues or a rock. (Invocation) Might 5. Each 5 points of additional Level 5: Create and control an unusual Might increases the Level by 10. The following virtues are appropriate force of nature, such as a sudden (Invocation) for characters of the mobed tradition.

96 The Cradle & The Crescent

allows him use the Holy Method of In- vocation and to roll a stress die for mi- New Wonders Guidelines raculous effects. General: Create a sacred spiritual force Create a sacred force that acts as that that can neutralize the spiritu- the Scourging the Infernal power Wonders al taint of the Infernal Realm. For radiated by relics (Realms of Power: example, the force could trans- The Divine, page 45), forcing infer- Major, Supernatural form Infernal Warping into Divine nal beings to flee (note that this is The character begins with the Super- Warping (1 Warping Point per level an equivalent effect, not a true relic natural Ability Wonders 1, which allows of effect is transfigured), although power). Use the level of the effect him to conjure holy items, creatures, and the Warping itself is not removed. in place of the Divine Might of the the elements at God’s will. The power can strip the infernal relic when calculating the effect of nature of Infernal vis, completely the aura. (Invocation) destroying the vis (1 pawn of vis Level 35: Create a spirit with Divine per 3 levels of effect). It can also Might 5. Each 5 points of addition- destroy Confidence Points gained al Might increases the Level by 10. Holy Abilities through committing sin (1 Con- (Invocation) fidence Point per 5 levels); note These abilities can be taken by charac- that doing this causes the target to ters of the mobed tradition. feel great remorse for the acts they performed to gain the Infernally gained Confidence Points (this Adjuration* does not work against demons, but can work against other creatures The character is skilled in controlling with Infernal Might). (Invocation) and banishing supernatural creatures and their powers (see Miraculous Effects, later). Specialties: type of creatures (angels, page 48. However, mobeds may possess sleep in graveyards in order to gain the as- demons, ghosts, faeries), causing a specific other Holy Powers. sistance of ghosts. effect. (Supernatural) The second use is a form of di- Specialties: Any appropriate Holy rect divination. In this case the char- Power, own dreams or the dreams of oth- acter is interpreting his own dreams or ers, dreams had under specific circum- Dream Interpretation* the dreams of others to find answers to stances (Supernatural) posed questions. The dreamer must be In the Mazdean tradition, Ohrmazd prepared, as per the other use of the and His servants regularly send messages Dream Interpretation Ability, and upon Invocation* and prophecies through dreams: Zoro- waking the character again spends (6 aster received visions and guidance from – Dream Interpretation, to a minimum of Using holy words, phrases and the Wise Lord on many occasions. Dream 1) hours contemplating the imagery. You prayers, the character can invoke interpretation helps mobeds translate the may then make an Intelligence + Dream Ohrmazd’s power. He must either cry out confusing symbolism in dreams to make Interpretation roll. Characters with the his prayer in a loud voice, or somehow clear their deeper meaning. Premonitions Ability gain a bonus equal inscribe his prayer in writing. This adds The Dream Interpretation Ability has to their Premonitions score. the character’s Communication to your two uses. The first is a form of Meditation, The Ease Factor is the level of the roll, and requires that he spend a point of as per the Holy Method, used in combi- equivalent Momentary non-ritual Intel- Confidence (or Faith) to bring the effect nation with Holy Powers. In this case the lego Hermetic spell. Holding an arcane into being. character must engage in ritual prayer for connection to a target is treated as Touch You may also roll a stress die instead an hour before spending a full night in range and the Boundary target does not of a simple die when calling a holy effect restful sleep. Upon waking the character require a ritual. The usual rules for pen- if you wish. By doing so, the character es- must spend (6 – Dream Interpretation, to etration in ArM5, page 184, apply to sentially commands rather than entreat a minimum of 1) hours contemplating the this Ability. God’s aid, summoning more potential imagery revealed to him in his dream. At Most who possess the Dream Inter- power but risking giving greater offense the end of that time you roll for the mi- pretation Ability have specific rituals that should he prove unworthy. raculous effect as normal. Note that Medi- they believe help them to achieve insight. Specialties: using holy names, in writ- tation cannot be used with Adjuration or Some fast before sleeping, some wear rit- ing, affecting a particular kind of target. Wonders; see Realms of Power: The Divine, ual clothes while they sleep, while others (Supernatural)

97 The Cradle & The Crescent

Wonders* Ameshaspand: Khshathra Vairya Mazdean Astrology Meaning: “Desirable Dominion” (Major Mystery Virtue) The character can cause living crea- Equivalent Form(s): Vim tures, non-living objects, and forces of This Mystery allows the character to nature to manifest through God’s power Ameshaspand: Haurvatat use his knowledge of the heavens to de- (see Miraculous Effects, later). Special- Meaning: “Health” termine the most effective time to pay or ties: causing a specific effect, a particular Equivalent Form(s): Aquam, Auram use holy powers. The mobed may also use kind of material, in specific circumstanc- new astrological durations. es. (Supernatural) Ameshaspand: Spenta Armaiti Meaning: “Holy Devotion” Equivalent Form(s): Terram Celestial Durations Group Magic No duration may be longer than a Ameshaspand: Ameretat year. Failing the calculation roll causes the Meaning: “Long Life” effect to fail. Botching a calculation roll Mobeds can practice their magic col- Equivalent Form(s): Herbam causes the effect to botch. lectively. In times past, when they were an imperial priesthood, hundreds of mobeds Ameshaspand: Vohu Manah Minutes: The effect lasts for a certain would gather to perform great rituals in Meaning: “Good Purpose” number of astrological minutes. Equiv- honor of Ohrmazd and his angels. In the Equivalent Form(s): Animal alent to Diameter. To calculate the 13th century, few communities have more duration correctly, succeed in a roll of than a few Mazdean priests and those that Ameshaspand: Spenta Mainyu Intelligence + Artes Liberales + dice do are unlikely to possess the knowledge Meaning: “Holy Spirit” against an Ease Factor of 6 + Number of such powerful rites. Equivalent Form(s): Corpus, Mentem of Minutes desired. To perform group powers, mobeds use Hours: The effect lasts a number of astro- the Ceremony Ability (see Realms of Power: logical hours, regardless of sunrise or The Divine, pages 34–36), and engage in Mazdean Alchemy sunset. Equivalent to Sun. To calculate prayers and rituals. Most of these are com- (Minor Mystery Virtue) the duration correctly, succeed in a roll munal in nature, and so laypeople will of Intelligence + Artes Liberales + dice often participate (although this gives no Through Mazdean Alchemy, a mobed against an Ease Factor of 6 + Number mechanical bonus). may distill vis from a Divine Aura. Dis- of Hours desired. tilling divine vis takes a season before Days: The effect lasts a number of astro- the vis is extracted. The character uses as logical days, regardless of the lunar Holy Mobed Mysteries his Lab Total his Intelligence + Invoca- phase. Equivalent to Moon. To calcu- tion + Wonders + Holy Magic + modi- late the duration correctly, succeed in fiers. Modifiers include the aura, bonuses a roll of Intelligence + Artes Liberales The mobeds have several unique mys- from Lab assistants and so on. The Lab + dice against an Ease Factor of 6 + teries that are holy in nature (that is, they Total is divided by 10, as per Hermetic Number of Days desired. can only be initiated by a character with vis extraction. Sign: The effect lasts a number of astro- Holy Powers or True Faith). Many allow logical signs, regardless of sunrise or mobeds to wield mystical powers. sunset. Equivalent to Year. To calculate

Blessing of [Ameshaspand] Mobed Beliefs on Astrology (Minor Mystery Virtue) According to the holy Zoroastrian fenders, constantly striving to bring The mobed with this holy mystery tome, the Dadistan i Menok i Khrat (“Judg- goodness and wellbeing into the world. gets a +3 bonus to Casting Scores for ments of the Spirit of Wisdom”), the art The planets (the Sun, Moon, Mars, holy powers used in the area covered by of Astrology was passed from the Spirit Mercury, Jupiter, Venus, and Saturn), on a specific Ameshaspand (see list). There of Wisdom to Zoroaster. the other hand, are ruled by monstrous is a different version of this virtue for Mobeds believe that welfare and demons, which, by dint of being closer each Ameshaspand. adversity on Earth originates through to the world, constantly thwart their the seven planets and the twelve zo- zodiacal rivals and more often than not Ameshaspand: Asha Vahishta diacal signs. To the mobeds, the twelve succeed in bringing ruin and misery to Meaning: “Best Righteousness” great Spirits of the Zodiac are among humanity (an explanation of why Earth Equivalent Form(s): Ignem, Imaginem Ohrmazd’s most capable and holy de- is not a paradise).

98 The Cradle & The Crescent Saoshyant’s Elixir

Invocation Wonders Level 50 he must endure for three days (see Inju- the necessary vis for the spell, and from R: Per, D: Mom, T: Ind, Ritual ries, Heat and Corrosion in ArM5, page its fat Saoshyant’s elixir may be distilled. Only the most pious, holy and ex- 181). The surging metal removes all taint Drink this, and for as long as the mobed perienced mobeds ever attempt the from his soul and purifies his flesh, but strictly follows the tenets of Mazdean- preparation of Saoshyant’s elixir. This also causes him terrible pain and injury, ism, he does not have to make aging holy ritual requires a season of prepara- though it is said to feel like being bathed rolls and cannot die. Instead, he gains tion to cast. in warm milk if the mobed is completely a Warping point every year, another These are the instructions for prepar- without sin. Some of the metal prob- whenever he gains Aging or Decrepitude ing the elixir of eternal life, that which ably sticks to his body, and if he survives points from other means, and another raises our bodies from the elements into he must bear these disfiguring patches when he would die from his wounds or which they have been dissolved and re- grafted to his skin like tattoos for the rest a lethal blow. Fatal wounds Incapacitate unites them with our souls, as handed of his days, as removing them again ex- him instead. down from Saoshyant the Savior. poses him to evil and undoes the effects Saoshyant’s Elixir is intensely person- The mobed must first prepare him- of the ritual. al and cannot be cast upon another; to self for salvation by undergoing a ter- Once the mobed are is of evil, he gain the gift of extended life on earth, a rible ordeal. Molten metal (usually lead) must sacrifice a holy animal, usually a mobed must perform it himself. is poured over his entire body, which bull with Divine Might. This provides (Special)

the duration correctly, succeed in a roll dicates that the mobed can find no more This Mystery Virtue grants the mobed of Intelligence + Artes Liberales + dice bonuses for that day. access to unique Ranges, Durations, and against an Ease Factor of 6 + Number Targets that are compatible with Holy of Signs desired. Powers (see insert). Righteousness of the Wise Astrological minutes, hours, and days (Minor Mystery Virtue) are equal in length to normal units of time, Saoshyant’s Elixir but have no fixed starting point, so that the Mobeds believe that Spenta Mainyu (Major Mystery Virtue) effect lasts a fixed length of time, rather revealed these secrets (and others) di- than until a fixed point. Astrological signs rectly to Zoroaster before taking him to The ritual of Saoshyant’s Elixir (Realms are, similarly, one-twelfth of a year each. Ohrmazd. For many mobeds, the attribute of Power: The Divine, page 117) is the Zoro- of wisdom is the highest nature of God. astrian route to immortality. The ceremo-

Celestial Blessing for Holy Spell Casting New Durations, Ranges, and Targets The mobed may determine the most favorable hour for performing holy magic, New Duration: Fire as boundaries to this range. Furthermore, holy powers or use other divine abilities. the ground must be natural earth. Artificial By aligning his practices to the beneficial The spell will last as long as a specific ground, like floorboards or cobble stones, powers of the stars, he may gain a bonus sacred fire burns in a specific fire temple puts a target out of this Range. Ground is of +1 to +5. The player must decide on (the fire and temple must be determined equivalent to Arcane Connection. the activity and bonus desired before roll- at the time of casting the spell). Fire is ing, and succeed in a roll of Intelligence equivalent to Moon. + Artes Liberales (Astrology) + simple die New Target: Community against an Ease Factor of (desired bonus x 4). If successful, the mobed determines an New Range: Ground Affects everyone living in the same hour during that day (selected by the sto- community. A community is defined as ryguide) in which the activity will benefit The target can be affected so long as a group of people living in the same lo- from the desired bonus. If the mobed does he/it is touching the same ground that cality, or who form a distinct segment not perform the chosen activity in that the caster is standing upon. The caster of society (such as Jews, beggars, or hour, there is no benefit. A mobed may need not be able to see the target. Riv- Christians, but can also include plants perform this calculation multiple times ers, mountains and other significant ob- or animals). Community is equivalent for a single day, but each hour may have stacles (although not roads or walls) act to Boundary. no more than one bonus. A failed roll in-

99 The Cradle & The Crescent Mobed Initiations Long-Lived Mobeds

There have been several long-lived a point of wanting to take their reward Mobeds can initiate unGifted practi- mobeds: the high priests Vishtana, in the next life. The practical lifespan of tioners into their mysteries. The rules for Tansar, and Kartir all lived for several a mobed with the Ameratat power is no this are laid out in Hedge Magic Revised Edi- generations, as did Osthanes, the first more than around 200 years. tion, page 13. Prince of Magi. However, each reached

Mobed Initiation Scripts ny itself is a sacred and holy purification (equivalent to Aura of Rightful Author- rite. Gaining this Mystery Virtue grants ity with Voice range). (The normal Com- Mobeds use their Mobed Lore for ini- you knowledge of the ritual, which can manding Aura also grants Magic Resis- tiation totals. The mystagogue is typically be performed with the Holy Method and tance, but True Faith grants that anyway.) another initiated mobed or dastur. It is Power, Invocation and Wonders. Like the possible for mobeds to self-initiate if they ritual in Realms of Power: The Divine, the level have a script but no mystagogue, although of this holy rite is 50. Hauvatat (Wholeness): most mobeds seek out a mystagogue from True Faith 6 another community. The mobed’s physical body becomes The scripts used by mobeds to Initiate Gifts of Gayomart immune to putrefaction, change, disease their various powers typically emphasize ex- (Major Mystery Virtue) and all forms of material corruption and treme purity and lengthy prayers. Initiations decay. Subtract double the character’s can also require the initiate to challenge and Gayomart (“Primeval Man”) was the True Faith score from Aging Rolls. He overcome great foes — powerful demons Zoroastrian Adam or “first man,” and is more easily resists magical attempts to and evil sorcerers. Similarly, Ordeals could seen as the embodiment of human perfec- alter the shape of his body, inflict harm also require the initiate to end famine, hun- tion. This Holy Mystery opens the human upon him or give him diseases or wounds. ger or disease for a community. Initiation body and soul to the Light of God, mak- He gains an additional bonus to Soak and Quests typically involve the establishment ing those characters with True Faith even Recovery rolls equal to his True Faith of a fire temple, the conversion of a sig- more holy and sacred. Score x3 (giving a total bonus to Soak to- nificant or notable person, or recovery and A character must possess True Faith to tals of True Faith x5, with the bonus from proper burial of a deceased Mazdean. initiate this mystery. The mystery grants Vohu Manah). Furthermore, he no longer While there are many written Initia- the character additional powers as his scars or blemishes, as his body slowly re- tion Scripts, Mazdeanism places great val- True Faith score increases (see “Embody- turns to its perfect natural state. Incapaci- ue on the oral tradition; many of the living ing the Light,” Realms of Power: The Divine, tating wounds no longer leave permanent Initiations are oral Scripts. page 61). marks upon him, and given enough time (years) he can re-grow lost limbs and other body parts. Initiation into Asha (Truth): True Faith 1 Mythic Alchemy The character cannot be lied to or Initiation Ease Factor: 21 purposefully deceived. In his presence, no Ameratat (Immortality): Script Bonus: +5 (+3 Quest: light one may speak or communicate a direct True Faith 8 ceremonial fire, +1 Sacrifice of wealth, lie. This power has a Penetration equal to So long as the mobed maintain the +1 time) his True Faith score, and may be increased maxims of Zoroaster and Ohrmazd, re- The initiate must light one of the by +5 for each Faith point spent. If this mains in a state of purity and truthfulness, grand ceremonial fires of the Mazdean power Penetrates, even demons and faer- observes the taboos and behaves with faith, known as the atesh adaran , in honor ies cannot deceive him. good thoughts, good words and good of the first 27 yazdan, and Ameratat. This deeds, he will never die, and gain Warping typically takes a season to properly prepare Points instead of Decrepitude points. Me- and perform, and takes significant expen- Vohu Manah (Good Mind): chanically this requires that the character diture. The initiate must remain in a state True Faith 4 have a Faith Point gained from a purity of ritual purity throughout the process. Through Vohu Mana, the mobed per- ritual at all times. His body slowly ages, sonifies wisdom and the true path to God. although he can more easily resist its ef- He gains a Commanding Aura (Realms of fects through the gift of Hauvatat. While Initiation into Power: The Divine, page 42), which grants this virtue means the character effectively Mythic Herbalism a bonus to his soak equal to twice his will never die, he can still be killed by mas- Initiation Ease Factor: 21 True Faith score, and a commanding aura sive damage. Script Bonus: +13 (+3 Quest, +9

100 The Cradle & The Crescent Major Flaw: Enfeebled, +1 Sympathetic Initiation into derness in an area with many wild animals, Bonus) Dream Interpretation imbibe ceremonial haoma, and survive for The intitiate must must hunt down Initiation Ease Factor: 21 the night without magical aid. During this and destroy a powerful disease-causing Script Bonus: +6 (+1 time, +3 Sym- night, and thereafter, the initiate has the Infernal spirit, while affected by the ill- pathetic bonus, +3 Minor Flaw: Offensive Offensive to Animals Flaw. Overcoming ness that the spirit causes. The illness to Animals) this obstacle symbolises the intitiate’s tri- must inflict the equivalent of the En- Dream Interpretation can only be umph over nightmares. feebled Major Flaw. This shows that he intitiated into by a Mazdean who is mar- is capable of personally overcoming ter- ried by the Mazdean ritual. The intitiate rible sickness mystically and physically. must spend a season in meditation, prayer, Apart from the illness, the initiate must ritual cleansing, and contemplation of his remain in a state of ritual purity through- dreams. Finally, at the end of the season, out the initiation. the initiate must travel deep into the wil-

101 Chapter Six Mythic Arabia

Arabia is the heartland of Islam, them and the sea. Of particular note is a home to the two holy cities of Mecca Landscape large high plateau in the eastern half of and Medina. Muslims are encouraged the peninsula, encompassing the prov- to visit this region at some point during inces of the Najd and Yamama, which has their lives to fulfill the obligation of the and Society fertile valleys where crops are grown and hajj — the greater pilgrimage to Mecca animals (mainly sheep and goats) are pas- — though for many practical concerns The landscape of Arabia is more varied tured. In the south, the land rises into hills make this impossible. than most western travelers would expect. and mountains rich with incense trees, Ancient cities lie buried beneath the North Arabia, once known as Arabia Petra water, and other natural resources — sig- sands of Arabia, holy shrines are scattered to the Romans, is a desert land of stone nificant portions of Hadramawt and Ye- across its landscape, and jinn and other su- and sand. While much of the peninsula men are forested, and these features gave pernatural creatures haunt deserted ruins is indeed covered by arid deserts, there rise to the Roman name for the province, and even mix with the inhabitants of some are also mountain ranges running paral- Arabia Felix. The old trade routes of the of its cities. lel to most of the coastal regions, with incense road that once ran through the narrow but fertile coastal plains between deserts now track through the Red Sea around the Arabian coast and onwards to the fabled ports of the Erythraean Sea of the ancients. Much of the peninsula is dotted with oases, around which villages and towns have sprung up. This is particularly true of the coastal provinces and the Najd/ Yamama region, though such settlements may also be found in some of the deserts. The exception is the dreaded Empty Quarter, an inhospitable wasteland that is rumored to swallow all who venture into it. The inhabitants of Arabia consist of a mixture of settled townsfolk, many of whom cultivate crops for a living, and Bedouin nomads who wander with their families and flocks, trading with the townsfolk or working as guides and caravan guards on the network of trade and pilgrimage routes that cross the area. Periodically tensions flare up between townsfolk and nomads, but for the most part relations are peaceful. One influential factor here is the religion of Islam, which most people follow in one form or another, although there are also many Christians and Jews living throughout the region.

102 The Cradle & The Crescent Zawba’a, Whirlwind of the Desert

Magic Might: 18 (Terram) 3 (trade routes), Folk Ken 1 (wizards), The zawba’a is a bloodthirsty jinni of Season: Summer Hunt 3 (tracking), Penetration 3 (Cor- the Arabian deserts, which takes delight Characteristics: Int –2, Per –1, Pre –3, Com pus), Second Sight 4 (invisible things), in slaying anyone unfortunate enough –1, Str +3, Sta +3, Dex +2, Qik +2 Survival 3 (deserts), Theology: Islam 1 to stray across its path. It is, however, Size: 0 (+1 in material form) (Jinn), Wilderness Sense 3 (deserts) a rather single-minded creature and is Confidence: 1 (3) Powers: unlikely to adopt any tactic beyond the Virtues and Flaws: Magic Spirit; Jinni; Donning the Corporeal Veil, 0 points, Init frontal assault, making it relatively easy Greater Immunity (heat), Ways of +1, Terram: The zawba’a can assume to outwit. the Deserts; Berserk, Keen Vision, material form (Size +1, as described Some experienced sahirs are able Second Sight, Wilderness Sense; later) to allow it to attack its oppo- to bargain with zawba’a and bind them Blatant Magical Air, Driven (to kill), nents physically. (Greater Power; see as servants using the khadim bond (see Greater Malediction (bound by bar- Realms of Power: Magic, page 102) Chapter 3: The Order of Suleiman). gains), Magical Air*; Baneful Cir- Flay, 0 points, Init +1, Corpus: As the Such sahirs often use these desert jinn cumstances (in contact with iron) zawba’a touches its opponent his as a form of travel — the sight of a Magical Qualities and Inferiorities: skin is partially flayed from his body. powerful sorcerer being carried across Greater Power x3, No Fatigue; Im- The victim suffers a Heavy Wound. the landscape by a whirling sandstorm proved Attack x2, Improved Initia- (R: Touch, D: Mom, T: Ind. Greater instead of a mundane mount strikes re- tive x2, Improved Soak x2 Power, 20 levels, –2 Might cost, +1 spect into even the most powerful of Personality Traits: Angry +2, Vicious Initiative, remaining Mastery points mundane rulers! +3, Merciless +2; Bloodthirsty used for Penetration Ability) (Strength) +3* Presence, 0 points, Constant, Imaginem: Combat: The zawba’a is aware of everything Story Seed: Death by Zawba’a? Clawing Wind: Init +8, Attack +12, De- happening in the area that it haunts, The characters are called in to inves- fense +8, Damage +6* which can be up to a Structure in tigate a murder. The victim was found * Includes Bloodthirsty Essential Trait size. (Greater Power; see Realms of flayed to death in his chamber, which earlier. The zawba’a may also cause Power: Magic, page 103) was covered in a fine layer of sand. In- additional damage with its Flay Pow- Vis: When the zawba’a is destroyed, it vestigating, the characters uncover a er, later. leaves behind a small whirling col- plot by a shadowy cabal of sahirs from Soak: +7 umn of black sand that if collected a minor Islamic sect who have learned Wound Penalties (material form): –1 yields 3 pawns of Terram vis and 1 to bind the zawba’a, deadly jinn whirl- (1–6), –3 (7–12), –5 (13–18), Inca- pawn of Auram vis. winds, to their service. The sahirs use pacitated (19–24), Dead (25+) Appearance: In corporeal form, the them as weapons against their political Abilities: Arabic 5 (abuse), Athletics 2 zawba’a appears as a column of sand enemies, unleashing them on unsuspect- (sprint), Awareness 2 (potential vic- whirling at high speed, within the ing victims. Is this what happened here, tims), Bargain 1 (magical bargains), heart of which chuckles a malicious, and if so, who was responsible? Brawl 5 (clawing wind), Desert Lore bloodthirsty face. It is about 8 ft tall.

The inhabited parts of Arabia are gen- Hazards of the Deserts privation check time for lack of water is erally ruled by local dynasties, most of reduced in the deserts to 4 hours, while whom owe nominal allegiance to the Ab- Arabia contains three major deserts: the sunlight does +1 non-combat damage basid caliph of Baghdad. The Hijaz, ‘Asir, the Nefud Desert to the north, the Empty if skin is left exposed (see ArM5, pages and Yemen are divided between members Quarter to the south, and the Dahna cor- 180–181). of the Ayyubid family ((ay-YOO-bids), ridor that links the two. These deserts Another (usually natural) hazard is dry the family of Salah al-Din (Saladin)), present a range of hazards that must be quicksands, which can swallow a man and with the Hijaz falling under the nominal overcome if characters are to travel safely his mount in seconds. If a character steps on control of the sultan of Egypt (al-Kamil within them. one of these, he begins to sink immediate- Muhammad, r. 1218–38), while ‘Asir and The sun burns hot in the deserts, ly and is pulled under within two rounds. Yemen are controlled more directly by meaning that characters need to take pre- Death from suffocation follows if he is not the sultan of Yemen (al-Mas’ud Yusuf, r. cautions against heat and sunstroke. This rescued (again, see ArM5, pages 180–181). 1215–1229). includes covering their skin to avoid sun- A character who is caught in an area of dry burn and carrying adequate supplies of quicksand may make a Strength or Quick- water to stave off dehydration. The De- ness stress roll against an Ease Factor of 9 in

103 The Cradle & The Crescent

greater respect than even the magnificent Arabian Steeds Arabian horse or their prized falcons. Most Arabian sahirs belong to a Bedouin The Bedouin are known for their aforementioned traits. tribe and comparatively few dwell within fine horses, but also use dromedary For a single-humped dromedary cities or formal buyut, preferring to form camels in war and trade. Their jinni camel, use the statistics for Bactrian alliances along tribal kinship and blood- cousins may ride more exotic mounts camels (Chapter 9: On the Silk Road) lines. Due to the rich sources of vis in such as giant ostriches, leopards, or with the following modifications: de- the area, the Bedouin wizards are heav- even stranger beasts. crease Strength to +1 and Stamina to ily involved in magical trade with their For a mundane Arabian racehorse, +3, and increase Dex to 0. Drop the urban sahir cousins, exchanging vis for use the statistics for the Courser given Long-Winded Virtue and the Feral rare books on the Solomonic Arts or even in the Book of Mundane Beasts (see Realms Scent Flaw. Drop the Hardy Quality personal teaching. of Power: Magic, or the Atlas Games web- and decrease Fatigue Levels by one. Bedouin characters may have Per- site) and add the Imposing Appearance Reputation is Cranky +1 (much of Ara- sonality Traits or Personality Flaws that x2 Quality and the Great Quickness Mi- bia). Change combat statistics to: Init 0, reflect these cultural legacies. The Minor nor Virtue, raising the beast’s Presence Attack +4, Defense +2, Damage +2 and Flaw Dutybound (Bedouin code) is all but to +1 and Quickness to +3. Similar Ara- Soak +3. Change to Survival 3 (home universal among Bedouin characters and bian steeds bred for war or other roles terrain). Full statistics for dromedary reflects a general obedience to these cus- can be created using the base Destrier camels are given in Magi of Hermes, pages toms. Rare characters from the deep des- or Charger as templates and adding the 10–11. erts may even have the Pagan Major Flaw. Many Faerie jinn mimic aspects of Bedouin culture, particularly the less the first round to leap or pull himself free The Bedouin powerful creatures referred to as jann. before he sinks a significant distance, with Most of the nomadic tribes have jinn- a botch indicating that his arms are trapped Although the nomads of northern blooded elders, are advised by wandering in the following round. Thereafter it is up Arabia have nominally all converted to sahir viziers accompanied by powerful to his companions to help him escape its Sunni Islam, remnants of their pre-Is- ‘afrit or marid servants, and count fami- clutches, though if his arms are free he may lamic culture or code, known as muru’a, lies of true Faerie jann among their blood assist in the second round, reducing any have survived. The importance of hos- kinsmen. Such jinn most often take the further Ease Factors that he may have to pitality (diyafa), courage (hamasa), and shapes of animals beloved of the tribes: roll against by 3. Thereafter he has been honor (sharaf for men, ird for women) camels, falcons, saluqi hounds, or the pulled under and is not able to help. remain paramount and color aspects of noble Arabian horses. The ancient Ju- Characters also must be wary of brig- even urban Arab society. Forgiveness, rhumite tribe, former rulers of Mecca ands, who prey on caravans crossing the loyalty, and self-sacrifice are also integral in pre-Islamic times, contains only dark deserts. They are likely to avoid a cara- concepts. The Bedouin tribes still revere Faerie jann-blooded members and still van that is clearly well-guarded, but this the camel above all animals, according it refuses to submit to Islam. Several other depends on how desperate they are for goods to support themselves. Sandstorms may suffocate travelers or even strip the flesh from their bones. These Saluqi may be natural, created by the magic of malevolent sorcerers or the manifestations Although most dogs (kalb) are con- greyhounds listed in The Book of Mun- of elemental jinn. The zawba’a, detailed in sidered unclean by non-Maliki school dane Beasts or Realms of Power: Magic, the nearby insert, is an example of a mali- Muslims, the noble breed known as the page 143, modified accordingly: add cious jinn of whirling sand. saluqi are prized by their masters, often the following Qualities: Grapple, Im- Various other desert jinn and demons sleeping in the tents of their Bedouin posing Appearance x2, Keen Eyesight seek to harm unwary travelers. In some owners and being lauded in poetry af- and drop Keen Sense of Smell; add the cases they may use powers that affect the ter their passing. Prized both for their Endurance Virtue and an additional Im- mind or conjure illusions, presenting trav- beauty and hunting skill, these grey- proved Characteristics Virtue; increase elers with visions of lush, palm-filled oa- hound-like dogs act as coursers, oper- Presence to +1 and Stamina to +3; ses where they may quench their thirsts. ating either in speedy packs or as bird change to Hunt 4 (track by sight). Ex- A character may only realize that she has dogs in tandem with falcons. Details on ceptional saluqi may have the Puissant been deceived when she takes her first hunting with hounds are given in Lords of Hunt Virtue and have powers similar to long draught of water, only to find her Men, Chapter 5: Leisure. Faerie Hounds as detailed in Realms of mouth full of sand. Saluqi use the base statistics for Power: Faerie, pages 88–89.

104 The Cradle & The Crescent Pagan Deities of Arabia

Trees, especially the date-palm, wind- their time of menstruation. Story Seed: sculpted rocks and precious wells are treat- Nakhla: Goddess of the date-palm tree. The Stone Lovers ed with a respect that borders on the wor- Al-Qawm: God of war and the night. shipful by the Bedouin — many of these Protector of caravans. A group of magi or sahirs wish- sites are the abode of a supernatural spirit Sa’d: Associated with steadfastness in ing to settle a pair of uniquely shaped referred to as an ‘ashira (“close friend”). battle. rock outcrops in a remote Magic aura These creatures are appeased with gifts or Wadd: Protector god. inadvertently offend the local Bed- respect and their homes are typically the Yaghuth: Associated with victory in ouin tribe, who consider the stones location of auras or vis sources aligned to battle. ‘ashiras and thus part of their tribe. the various Elemental forms. Their legends tell of two giants, Aja Some of the more powerful ‘ashira The nature of such old deities may and Salma, banished lovers who dwelt are Magic jinn, genii loci manifestations vary and multiple entities bearing the for five hundred years at the site, slow- of Arab deities worshiped in pre-Islamic same name can be found within miles ly transforming into the vaguely hu- Arabia, or else Infernal jinn that have of each other, but with widely differ- man-shaped stone sentinels of today. usurped their place. The following repent realm alignment and power. The The tribe fears that the wizards will resents a selection of such deities: benevolent version of Wadd venerated awaken the spirits of the ossified gi- by a tribe from northern Najd may be ants or draw the attention of the dark Abgal: Guardian god of Bedouin and an aloof Magic jinni, while the vengeful Faerie and Infernal jinn that haunt the camel drivers. Infernal incarnation of the same deity outcrops at night. Dhu’l-Khalasa: God of oracles and feared by tribes in Uman may be a False To settle in the area or access vis divination. God trying to subvert the nomads away from the site, the characters must not Dhu Shara: God of mountains. from their faith. Others may be Faerie only deal with the representatives of Hubal: Senior deity associated with the jinn woven out of the stories told by the the local tribe, but also the evil jinn that moon and divination. Bedouin at their night fires about such haunt it. Frequent magical activity may Ishtar: Goddess of fertility, sexual love, fantastic natural locations. The weakest awaken the sleeping giants, who may and war. More commonly wor- may be no more powerful than a minor not respond favorably to the interlopers shiped in ancient Mesopotamia. elemental jinn with a Might score of less depending on whether they are elemen- Manaf: A fertility deity worshiped by than 10, whereas the spirits of larger tals, demons, pre-Islamic jinn or even women, though women were not and more isolated landmarks may have cursed humans. allowed to touch its idols during Might scores approaching 50.

tribes from the ancient times are believed sahirs disdain the more specific techniques in Realms of Power: Faerie, pages 117–118, to live on in Bedouin memory as clans of and concentrate on summoning and bar- may be equally appropriate. Details on Faerie jinn,such as the Jadis, the tribe of gaining with jinn exclusively. These sahirs Arabian poets are given in the sidebar on Tasm and the Thamudites are usually accompanied by their favorite Arab Poetry later. Regardless of whether he is human or falcon or saluqi, which is actually a Faerie jinn, Muslim or pagan, a member of a Bed- jinn servant bound by a khadim bond (see ouin clan owes absolute loyalty to his clan Chapter 3: The Order of Suleiman for fur- Brothers of the Tribe first, his family second. ther details on sahirs). All tribes include at least one sahir, of- Knowledge of muru’a is treated like ten supported by female hedge magicians a non-Hermetic Mystery Cult Organi- Bedouin Wizards known as hakima (“wise women”) or kahina zation Lore that can be learned like any (“soothsayers”) that resemble Folk Witch- other Ability. It is used to initiate various A disproportionately large number of es aligned to the Faerie Realm, or male Faerie-aligned Supernatural Virtues of Bedouin possess supernatural ability when shai’ir, poets resembling the ancient artists value to a desert nomad using the rules compared to the town dwellers in the set- of pre-Islamic times. The unGifted hedge found in The Mysteries: Revised Edition, pages tled parts of Arabia. It has been noted that witches typically lack the Cursing and 8–20, with the tribe’s hakima acting as Bedouin sahirs are more often Gifted than Flight powers and have the Animal Heal- Mystagogue. The following Virtues can their fellows in other areas of the Mythic ing and Entrancement Virtues instead. be initiated and are commonly possessed Middle East. Such sahirs typically special- Details of Folk Witches can be found in by exceptional Bedouin: Animal Ken, Art ize in either Solomonic Storytelling or Hedge Magic, pages 33–53, although some of Memory, Arcadian Travel, Cursing, Solomonic Travel, although some Bedouin of the ideas for Faerie Doctors presented Death Prophecy, Dowsing, Enchanting

105 The Cradle & The Crescent

Poetry (as Enchanting Music), Entrance- Initiation scripts vary from tribe to Flaws that reflect these tenets: Generous, ment, Greater Immunity: Thirst, Puissant tribe, but typically involve Ordeals related Higher Purpose, Overconfident, Oversen- Arabic, Spiritual Pact, Ways of the Des- to the central concepts of the Bedouin code sitive (to breaches of honor), Proud, Vow ert, and Wilderness Sense. and inflict Major or Minor Personality (always keep your word), or Weakness.

Falconry in Arabia

Believed by some to have originated cations: add the Tireless Quality and the boon companion. The falcon lived for a in Mesopotamia, the art of falconry, or Long-Winded Virtue. Exceptional saqr, full 80 years and the falconer aged not a al-Qanas, is widely practiced through- especially prized by the nomad sheikhs, day. When it died, he returned to the nest out Arabia, particularly by the Bedouin possess the Puissant Hunt Virtue and the to discover another fledgling, which lived tribesmen. Unlike in Mythic Europe, the Imposing Appearance x2 Quality. another 80 years. Once again, Lukman primary goal of hawking is to supplement retained his youth. He repeated this an- the meager nomad diet, particularly in other five times, growing sadder with the the winter months. An exceptional bird, Shahin passing of each successive hawk. The sev- particularly one of the better-suited fe- enth falcon he named Lubad, “the accu- males, is still considered a mark of status These smaller hawks are equiva- mulation of all times,” and when it passed, by tribal leaders. The main prey hunted lent to the peregrine falcons of Europe. the weight of five centuries crashed down are the houbara, the karwan (stone curlew), These Size –4 raptors are the fastest on Lukman and he finally died. and the hare. The most commonly used falcons but have much less endurance. The nest lies within a Magic regio, bird is the saqr, similar to the gyrfalcon, They excel in catching smaller birds accessible only after an arduous climb in but the peregrine falcon, known as the on the wing, but are less suited for des- western Arabia. Each fledgling, if raised shahin, is sometimes preferred. ert hawking. Increase the basic falcon’s and trained as a companion, grants its The authority on falconry is an Quickness by 1 but subtract 2 from trainer immunity from all Aging rolls for unnamed Arabic text by the falconer Strength, change to Ambush Predator, a fixed duration of 80 years. Each year, Moamyn, equivalent to a summa Level 4, add Stealth 3 (ambush prey), decrease the owner gains a single Warping Point. Quality 7 on Animal Handling (falcon- to Flight 3 (climbing flight) and modify The falcon’s boon is incompatible with ry), but also containing the equivalent of their combat statistics accordingly. standard Hermetic Longevity Rituals or a tractatus on Hunt (hawking), Quality similar magic. Once the falcon dies, the 7. In the next decade it will be translated Anqa owner suffers from the Age Quickly Flaw into Latin as the De Scientia Venandi per Aves until he raises the next hatchling. Unlike by Master Theodore of Antioch at the The Arabian phoenix, or anqa, is very a normally fragile hawk, the bird does not court of King Frederick II, with a resul- similar to the rukh detailed in Chapter 9: need to make Aging rolls until it reaches tant Quality of only 6. By 1250, the work On the Silk Road — its coloration con- 80 years old at which point it suddenly will have been corrected and glossed by sists of bright red, orange and gold. Like dies without a roll. The bird has a Magic the Stupor Mundi himself, resulting in the an Eagle of Virtue, as the anqa ages its Might of 8 and the Unaffected by The superior work known as De arte venandi feathers grow dim and it flies to its aerie Gift Minor Virtue. It can be slain or die cum avibus (Quality 8) which becomes above the Mountains of Qaf. There, im- by other mundane means. widely copied. molating itself in flame, it is reborn as a The tale of Lukman reaches the char- See Lords of Men, Chapter 5: Leisure, single black egg. Hermetic magi observ- acters and they may wish to gain the se- for further details on hawking and Realms ing this process over a season can treat crets for themselves or to see if the bird’s of Power: Magic, page 86, for training ani- the experience as a significatos, gaining power may provide insight into a po- mals using magic. experience in the Arts of Animal, Ignem, tential Longevity Ritual Breakthrough. or Vim. Unfortunately, the current falcon has been trained by a Bedouin sheikh who is Saqr unaware of his magnificent hawk’s value. Story Seed: The wizards may try to slay the immor- Similar to its European cousin the The Seven Falcons of Lukman tal hawk and then follow its aggrieved gyrfalcon, detailed in The Book of Mundane owner to the secret location of the nest, Beasts, Realms of Power, page 142, or Lords of Legend tells of the longevity of Luk- but risk the ire of the tribe’s sahirs and Men, page 59, the bird most commonly man. One day, the son of ‘Ad heard a their jinn allies. Even if they defeat or used by Arabian falconers is the saqr. voice calling to him and discovered a compensate the sheikh, will the bird ac- Known for its endurance rather than its nest with two falcon fledglings. Choos- cept a foreigner ignorant of the Bedouin speed, the saqr has the following modifi- ing the stronger, he brought it up as his code of honor?

106 The Cradle & The Crescent

Story Flaws such as Close Family Ties, De- pendent, Enemies, Feud, Pagan, and Oath of Fealty may also be appropriate for Bed- ouin characters. European characters who seek to gain such Virtues may seek out the Bedouin and petition for membership of a tribe. Foreigners that demonstrate values admired by the Bedouin may be invited into the clan and eligible to undergo such ceremonies, forging a blood kinship with a nomad tribe and gaining both Dutybound (Bedouin code) and the Close Family Ties (adopted Bedouin clan) Flaw. To the Bedouin and their jinn allies, this bond of clanship (‘asabiyya) supersedes all other loyalties. This may create difficulties for Hermetic magi when their adopted clan’s interests do not align with those of their covenant or the Order of Hermes as a whole and they are forced to sacrifice either the Code or relations with their new kin. The Quaesitors may come looking for the transgressor, only to come face to face with a fully armed tribe of jinn-blooded Bedouin backing up the renegade, or that same tribe may turn up at a covenant, looking for vengeance.

Kohl The Najd

Various myths tell of the origin of The most common magical kohl in kohl, the black or blue powder, made Arabia is equivalent to a potion created and Yamama from frankincense and other spices, by Bedouin folk witches, and confers the used by women all over the Mythic Minor Virtue Second Sight on a char- The Najd and Yamama regions take Middle East as eye makeup. Many acter for Sun duration when applied. the form of a high plateau that slopes attribute its origin to the jinn, as the Other formulations of kohl have been down from the west to the east. Yamama powder can be readily purchased from noted to confer differing Virtues related is covered with a plethora of oases, mak- the stalls of the hidden race within the to enhanced sight: Keen Vision, Magic ing it home to a large number of settle- bazaars of Golden Baghdad, although Sensitivity, Piercing Gaze, and Wilder- ments where the main form of subsistence the price is seldom in money. In Yama- ness Sense. Ability scores granted by is agriculture. The Najd is more mountain- ma, they tell a legend about a blue- magical kohl have a typical score of 2 ous and rockier, so settlements tend to be eyed witch named Zarqa al-Yamama or 3, equal to the folk witch’s Brew Po- found in the valleys where the inhabitants who was blessed with vision so keen tency/5 (round up) as detailed in Hedge make use of run-off rainwater. she could see a man approaching Magic, pages 41–42. The majority of the population of the thirty miles in the distance. In ancient Sahiras or Hermetic magi may use region is nomadic Bedouin, though the times when the country was still called such substances for their enchantments. populations of some of the urban cen- Tasma and Jadis, she was killed by an Kohl powder has a Shape and Material ters are quite large. Two ancient tribes invading Yemenite king who ordered bonus of +3 to affect vision. Its main of Faerie jinn — the Jadis and the Tasm his physicians to examine her eyes to component is ground from charred res- — still wander through this area and are discover the secret of her magical vi- in, usually frankincense obtained from known for their unusual wares, unim- sion. Her eyes were found stained and southern Arabia (see later). peachable honor, and offering the most smudged with kohl. marvelous hospitality.

107 The Cradle & The Crescent Tayma’ and Khaybar with some of the Muslim Bedouin tribes Shi’i group known as the Qarmatians of the area, against other settlements of (qar-MAW-tee-anz), who reigned in the the Arabian Peninsula. region from 899 to 1076. In 930 the Qa- Tayma’, Khaybar, and the surround- rmatians sacked the holy cities of Mecca ing towns have traditionally been havens and Medina, stealing the Black Stone from for Jews, and in 1220, they are indepen- the Ka’ba. It was returned under mysteri- dent settlements owing allegiance to no ous circumstances in 951, left wrapped in sultan. The Jews make up the majority Bahrayn a sack in the major mosque in Kufa with of the inhabitants of the area, and are a note saying, “By command we took it, known for being fierce and clever fight- The region of Bahrayn, consisting of and by command we have brought it ers. They continue to ensure that their both the eastern coastal territories of Ara- back.” The Fatimids (FAW-ti-midz), an children learn the arts of war from an bia and islands off the east coast, has had Isma’ili Shi’i dynasty who ruled in North early age, and they keep their skills sharp a checkered past. Perhaps its most notori- Africa at the time, are generally credited with periodic forays, made in alliance ous rulers were an Isma’ili (is-ma-’EE-lee) with having persuaded the Qarmatians to

Story Seeds for the Najd and Yamama, Bahrayn, and the Empty Quarter

The Jews of vors of the original battle against him are as easy as leaving. Would-be explorers Tayma’ and Khaybar gradually being murdered. The charac- would be advised to secure some sure ters may be asked to protect one of the means of return or risk becoming lost in Fierce and cunning fighters, the Jews descendants, to hunt down the sorcerer, the eerie landscape for many lifetimes, of Tayma’ and Khaybar are able rapidly or to discover the purpose of the ritual. perhaps even forever. Those who return to muster armies at times of need. Any- often come back irrevocably changed one who could harness their strength and Warped — instances of mundane would hence be able to assemble a formi- The Ghosts of Hajar characters returning initiated into Sihr dable fighting force at very short notice. and one or more of the Solomonic Arts A mother in Hajar misplaces her They could therefore be useful allies if are not unheard of, but these unconven- child, who becomes lost outside at night the characters suddenly find themselves tionally initiated sahirs are never fully in the city. The local community of sa- facing an enemy army (such as the clas- trusted by their fellows. hirs suspect the ghosts are responsible sic necromancer with his undead horde). Criamon magi speculate that the but, being unable to control the spirits of However, traditional Judaism takes a dim Empty Quarter may contain a means to the dead, directly seek outside assistance. view of magic and its practitioners, so pass between this world and the Coun- Can the characters find the child before the characters may have to go to consid- ter-Cyclical Alam. Merinita contend the ghostly soldiers do? This story could erable lengths to convince the Jewish el- instead that the provinces of the Empty also become the basis for a longer saga ders of the region that their cause is just. Quarter encircle a hidden entrance to arc involving laying the ghosts to rest Arcadia where reflections of the ancient and freeing Hajar and the surrounding deities of Arabia lie trapped — whether The Fate of the Black Stone regions from their curse. by God, Iblis, or some Magic entity. Perhaps both or neither are correct, but What did happen to the Black Stone The Valuable Quarter the joint sponsorship of a Hermetic ex- during its sojourn in Bahrayn? Why was pedition to investigate the Empty Quar- it broken? The characters find informa- Due to the ease in which travelers ter has recently been agreed on and the tion (perhaps revealed by a Qarmatian) can seemingly enter the Twilight Void two Primi are looking for young magi indicating that during its absence the and the Magic Realm, this area is some- willing to investigate the rival claims. stone was stolen from the Qarmatians times known as Rub’ al-Ghali, the Valu- Some sahirs speculate that al-Hajjar and by a renegade sahirs who wished to use able Quarter, among local sahirs and the al-Zill, two of the early contributors it to power a ritual of unknown nature. few Hermetic magi who have learned of to Solomonic Magic, may have disap- Eventually, at considerable cost in lives, its existence. Potentially vast resources peared into myth in this manner, and the Qarmatians were able to slay the sor- of vis and magic from the Magic Realm will one day return from their extensive cerer and recover the stone, but by the are within the grasp of even the most wanderings like King Baluqiya of old, time that they did, it had been broken inexperienced wizard, but unfortu- confirming the speculations of Islamic into seven pieces. Now the supposedly nately for the hopeful, returning to the theology on magical kingdoms beyond dead sorcerer has been seen abroad once mundane world does not appear to be the known world. more, and the descendants of the survi-

108 The Cradle & The Crescent

return the stone, but no-one knows for region, the dunes climb to great heights much more traffic than the rest of Arabia, sure. Whatever the truth of this, the Black and the traveler enters the domain of particularly in the form of pilgrims. In ad- Stone was broken into seven pieces as a al-Khali (“the Empty One”), a powerful dition, its position on the Red Sea makes result of its travails, and it is now held to- elemental jinn said to stand guard over it an important way station for maritime gether with a silver band. The Qarmatians’ the lost lands of the al-Jahiliyya, the trade between the Mediterranean Sea and reign ended when they were ousted by the pre-Islamic times. the Indian Ocean, and its coasts are dotted Sunni Arab Uyunid dynasty, who rule the This vast trackless expanse forms one with harbors that provide shelter for ships region in 1220, but some Qarmatians still of the largest and strongest Magic auras in traveling to and from Egypt, the main live in the area. the Mythic Middle East. Beyond the thou- link between the two. Sahir communities sand foot tall dunes that mark its periph- are notably few or found only far from ery, the aura strength rapidly increases to the main cities — the density of Divine Hajar 10 and the mundane terrain breaks down auras and regiones makes magic difficult into an ever-shifting landscape of bright- and, even without The Gift, wizards of all ness. Multiple regiones of bright feature- types prefer to keep a very low profile to Hajar is the most important city in less sand lie within its boundary, providing avoid provoking elements of the religious Bahrayn, being its major port and a link subtle traps for the unwary. Such pockets authorities. The roads to Mecca and Me- between Bahrayn and the coast of Persia of space may only be entered involun- dina are choked with Infernal jinn, seeking on the opposite side of the gulf. However, tarily, but can be accessed with astonish- to corrupt souls by encouraging impious its inhabitants do not go outside at night, ing ease — add 6 to the roll for entering thoughts and sowing doubt in the minds for it bears the marks of a past trauma. In a regio described in ArM5, page 189. Un- of pilgrims. 350 the Persian emperor Shapur II (r. 309– fortunately, leaving the regiones is not as 379) ordered his forces to attack the Arab easy — there is a –3 penalty when trying tribes on both sides of the gulf, slaughter- to leave, making escape difficult for those Non-Muslims and ing, plundering, and abducting thousands without Second Sight, Magic Sensitivity, of people in Hajar, the surrounding area, or other supernatural abilities. the Holy Cities and the Persian coast opposite. Some travelers even find themselves di- Now these regions are haunted by the rectly transported into the mystical space Non-Muslims are not permitted to ghosts of the dead, who come out at night of the Twilight Void, seemingly without come within the harams ((HA-ramz); sing. and beseech anyone they meet to help passing through a detectable regio. By haram) of the cities of Mecca and Medina, them against their persecutors, at least passing through this soft place, they find sacred areas extending about five miles out until they are slain by weapons wielded themselves adrift in the ageless space, of each of the cities. This may, however, by invisible soldiers. It is said that these most commonly just outside the boundary be problematic when designing stories weapons can slay the living too, so the lo- of one of the provinces of Auram, Imagi- involving the two holy cities, unless the cal people remain indoors after dark, stop- nem, or Terram. Some explorers describe entire party consists of Muslim characters. ping their ears against the screams and the encountering vestiges of ancient cities or You may wish to adopt one of the follow- sounds of desperate hands pounding on migrating nomad tribes, or have reported ing approaches: their doors. passing through provinces aligned to other Forms. Details on the Magic Realm and • The characters may seek to visit the Twilight Void are given in Realms of Power: holy cities without being discovered. Magic, pages 24–26. Magic will certainly help in this re- The ready access to the Magic realm gard, though once the characters The Empty appears to be the result of some linger- are within the cities they are likely ing effect of an ancient magical disaster to have difficulty casting spells due and a ritual level power of the genius loci to the high Dominion auras there. Quarter al-Khalil, while the featureless mundane Mundane disguises may actually be a landscape appears to magically resonate better option, though the characters Rub’ al Khali, the Empty Quarter, is with the emptiness of the Void. will need to be at least slightly skilled the particularly inhospitable tract of des- to avoid discovery. Needless to say, ert that forms the border between north- doing this is a grave act of sacrilege, ern and southern Arabia. No caravan and characters caught trying to sneak tracks have crossed it since the fall of the into the cities in this way will face se- kingdom of ‘Ad in the third century and The Hijaz vere penalties. the loss of its trade in frankincense from • You may wish to have a smaller group, the south — even the Bedouins skirt The Hijaz is the religious heartland of consisting of only Muslim characters, around its fringes. Several miles beyond Islam, being home to the two holy cities of visit the city, with the other members the settlements in the periphery of the Mecca and Medina. As a result, it receives of the troupe taking on the roles of

109 The Cradle & The Crescent

other Muslims whom the characters of this, the harams bear Dominion auras et”), is the second holy city of Islam and meet along the way. of 3, and the Dominion auras in the cit- is situated on a flat plain cradled between • Alternatively, maybe a special arrange- ies themselves are usually 4 and often even several mountains and ancient lava flows, ment can be made if the characters are higher. Fighting and the taking of life (ex- the junction of a number of valleys and able to prove their need to visit the cept slaughtering animals for food or de- passes through the mountains. The soil cities. Maybe they may visit as long as struction of savage or diseased animals) is is unusually fertile, and a variety of fruits they are accompanied by representa- forbidden in the haram areas of the two and cereals are grown here. The city is tives of the local authorities, or maybe holy cities. Unless otherwise noted, all surrounded by strong walls with watch- the holy sites are still off-limits to the Muslim Dominion auras within these ar- towers built by the sultan of Syria, Nur non-Muslim characters, but they may eas bear a Calm Temper Trait at a score al-Din (r. 1146–1174), in 1162. The visit the other parts of the cities freely. of +3 (see Realms of Power: The Divine, pages governor currently owes allegiance to • A more radical, but probably the 38-39). Transgressors may be struck down the sultan of Egypt, although the city easiest, solution is to assume that with a visible manifestation of God’s ire, is largely left to run its own affairs. The non-Muslims are allowed to visit the even for minor infringements — reports of city has traditionally been home to a Mythic versions of the holy cities, impious travelers provoking instances of large number of religious scholars; the with no further complications or re- the Curses Ignis Domini, Smiting of the Lord , famous jurist Malik ibn Anas (d. 795), strictions involved. or Swallowed Alive and Sent to Hell are well- who founded the major Sunni school of known, albeit rare (see Realms of Power: The law that became known as the school of Whatever approach you take, a visit to Divine, page 89). the Malikis ((MEH-li-keez), “the follow- the holy cities, for a Muslim or a non-Mus- ers of Malik”), is one of those who lived lim, should be an intensely religious expe- and worked here. rience. These are, after all, cities where Medina Dominion auras in Medina are one God intervened directly and frequently point higher than they would be else- in human affairs, and such concentrated where, and the city is the site of numer- divine attention has left a legacy of holi- Medina, Madinat al-Nabi ((ma-DEE- ous mosques, shrines, and other histori- ness that affects all who visit. As one result nat un-NA-bee), “the City of the Proph- cal sites.

110 The Cradle & The Crescent Mecca and including Mecca and Medina (see other religious buildings here. In addition, Non-Muslims and the Holy Cities, ear- the city sees constant traffic as pilgrims lier), but it is also used to indicate the arrive, stay for periods ranging from a The holy city of Mecca lies in a val- Haram Mosque specifically. The divine couple of weeks to a few years, then move ley between several mountains, sheltered influence on Mecca is clear: the climate on again. The majority of the people who from the winds and heat of the wilderness. is supernaturally mild, vegetation grows live in Mecca are Sunnis, but there are also The city contains both urban dwellings lush but never wild, and a sense of peace a large number of Zaydi (ZAY-dee) Shi’is and a multitude of shrines, convents, re- pervades the streets. As in Medina, all here. Pilgrims come from almost all Mus- ligious colleges, and especially mosques, Dominion auras in the city are one point lim denominations. of which there are 100. At its center lies higher than they would be normally. The city is ruled by a governor known the greatest of these, the Haram Mosque, Mecca is always densely populated. In as the Grand Sharif (sha-REEF), a descen- within which is the Ka’ba. As indicated addition to the townsfolk who serve the dent of the Prophet through his grandson earlier, the Arabic term haram indicates city’s needs, many religious scholars live al-Hasan and a member of the Hawashim the inviolable sacred areas surrounding and work in the Haram Mosque and the clan; the current Grand Sharif is Qatada Story Seeds for the Holy Cities

The Lava Flows of Medina ies for subterfuge or war, being privy to Divine aura. The spirit’s remaining magi- secret ways into the closed areas. cal power preserves the well’s amazingly The lava flows around Medina cooled The Jurhumite sahir might seek out pure water but it has come to resent its and hardened centuries ago, but occa- Hermetic magi to aid them in their feud imprisonment by the Dominion. sional earthquakes open cracks in them, against the current regime. Are the Ju- Ancient beyond belief, the Zamzam allowing fresh lava to flow out. The char- rhumites behind the change in the lava marid may also have knowledge of the acters learn that the earthquakes are not flows around Medina, or are they merely past useful to the characters that cannot a natural phenomenon, but are instead being used as scapegoats by a opportu- be gained from any other source, but the results of experiments by forces hos- nistic group of renegade sahir? how can one discreetly communicate tile to Medina who is attempting to re- with such an entity within the most holy liquify the lava flows all around the city. shrine of Islam? If freed, what would its Will they be able to stop them before The Restoring actions be and how would the Muslim they achieve this and drown the holy Waters of Zamzam authorities react to such desecration of city in molten lava? the ancient spring? On the night after the end of Ra- madan, the Divine aura in the Well of The Lost Lords of Mecca Zamzam at Meca’s Haram mosque dips The Mosque of the Jinn slightly and the water in the well can be The Jurhumites are an ancient tribe harvested by moonlight as an unusual A magus of House Merinita hires the of jann-blooded Bedouin who once ruled form of Extraordinary Aquam Vis. Each characters to conduct an investigation Mecca and areas of the Hijaz. They re- mouthful of water is able to restore all of into the Mosque of the Jinn at Mecca, jected Islam and appeared to be defeated a character’s lost Fatigue Levels through demanding that they provide an exten- by the early armies but now live on with- an unknown ritual level non-Hermetic sive report on its denizens and visitors in in old tales about the pre-Islamic tribes of effect. Hermetic magi may be tempted the hope of understanding how and why Arabia. The whole tribe now consists of to obtain such a remarkable substance, such Faerie creatures seemingly ape the Faerie jann, although a few jinn-blooded whether for personal use or as a potential worship of the Dominion without pro- sahirs are secretly considered adopted source of Insight into overcoming the ducing a Divine aura. members of their clan. They are best Hermetic Limit of Energy. The normally hospitable Jinn become represented as dark Faerie Jinn and play considerably less enthusiastic when it roles in stories about crises of faith or becomes apparent that the characters are dishonor and tend to have more elemen- The Marid of the Well there to observe, rather than take part in tal magic (specifically Auram and Terram Muslim worship, since it is from human Unknown to most of the pilgrims, the powers) at their disposal than their usual participation in the latter that the jinn eponymous Zamzam — an ancient Mag- Faerie cousins (see Chapter 4: The Jinn). derive vitality. Many of the jinn object ic marid — lies trapped in a suppressed As former inhabitants of Mecca, Jurhu- to being treated like lab specimens. How Magic regio at the base of the Well of mites are potential guides for non-Mus- can the characters resolve this situation Zamzam at Mecca’s Haram mosque, its lims attempting to infiltrate the holy cit- without upsetting either their hosts or powers overcome by the overwhelming their employer?

111 The Cradle & The Crescent

(r. 1201–1220). If your saga follows his- are generally kept mostly covered with a crowding each other. Whether the regio is tory, in 1220, Qatada, along with many green drapery known as the kiswa (KIS- accessible or not, Muslims may seek to in- other members of his family, is killed wa). Implanted into the wall at the eastern voke baraka from Muhammad both inside when his son al-Hasan carries out a mas- corner, about five feet from the ground, and just outside the Ka’ba. sacre to ensure his succession. However, is the Black Stone, said to have been cast Within the courtyard of the Haram the Ayyubid sultan of Yemen, al-Mas’ud from Heaven to show Adam and Eve mosque also lies the marble domed Well Yusuf, steps in to quell the chaos and where to build the Ka’ba. According to of Zamzam, about 20 yards east of the imposes military rule. The Grand Sharifs tradition, the stone was originally white Ka’ba. Revealed to Ibrahim’s wife Hajar only regain control after the sultan’s death but turned black as it absorbed sins over when she was searching for water for her in 1229. the centuries. Muslim pilgrims attempt to thirsty son Ishmael, the well is older than touch or kiss the stone to gain forgiveness the first buildings of Mecca. The waters for their sins. are clean and pure but although they are The Haram Mosque The Ka’ba may be entered through drunk by many Muslim pilgrims as part of and the Ka’ba a door on the northeast wall, which is their devotion, they do not usually have about seven feet above ground level and any supernatural properties. The Haram Mosque is the most sa- reached by a wheeled set of wooden cred of mosques, the building that holds steps that is pushed up to the door when the Ka’ba, the shrine built by Adam under it is opened. The inside is richly deco- Al-Ma’la Cemetery and the guidance of angels, and subsequently rated with slabs of marble of many col- the Mosque of the Jinn rebuilt by Abraham and his son Ishmael. ors, and normally one finds within three It takes the form of a rectangular court- columns that support the roof, a stair- Say (O Muhammad): It is revealed yard, around which are highly-decorated case leading to the roof, and a variety unto me that a company of the Jinn gave open halls supported by multiple rows of Muslim artifacts and relics, including ear, and they said: Lo! We have heard a of columns. Off the northwest hall is the several ancient and valuable copies of the marvelous Qur’an, Dar al-Nadwa (DAHR un-NAD-wa), a Qur’an and documents on the walls that Which guideth unto righteousness, so building constructed around a second record the activities of those who reno- we believe in it and we ascribe no partner hall, where consultation is carried out be- vated the Ka’ba. The exception is on days unto our Lord. tween religious scholars and the Grand when the Ka’ba is opened to the public, And (we believe) that He exalted be Sharif. Off the southwest hall is a build- which is most Mondays and Fridays, for the glory of our Lord hath taken neither ing used by scholars of the Maliki legal on those days pious Muslims who enter wife nor son, school. The mosque has twenty gates and the Ka’ba find themselves in a terrestrial And that the foolish one among us seven minarets. The Dominion aura here divine regio, still at aura level 10, which used to speak concerning Allah an atro- is overwhelming, with a score of 10. Mus- represents an even more richly decorated cious lie. lim characters may invoke baraka here to version of the Ka’ba and has the distinc- — The Qur’an 72: 1-4 request any of the Saint Powers listed in tive feature of being able to accommo- Realms of Power: The Divine, pages 88–89; if date more people than could normally fit On the northern edge of Mecca is the required, the site counts as having Divine inside the building. cemetery of al-Ma’la, where many of the Might of 100. Muslims in the Ka’ba usually seek to Prophet’s family members and followers The Ka’ba itself takes the form of pray at the place where the Prophet used are buried, including Amina, his mother; a cuboid shrine, about 40 feet on each to pray, about five feet from the southwest Khadija, his first wife; and ‘Abd al-Muttal- side and 46 feet tall. Although it is richly wall, and at such times, miraculously, they ib, his grandfather. Near the cemetery is a decorated, the upper parts of the walls may all pray in the same place without mosque known as the Mosque of the Jinn, where a group of jinn heard the Prophet reciting the Qur’an and were thereby per- The Hajj suaded to convert to Islam. The mosque has since become the ap- The hajj is one of the five “Pillars of Details of the hajj are presented in parent center of jinn worship of God, and Islam,” five practices that mark some- Realms of Power: The Divine, page 108. they continue to gather publicly at this one as being a Muslim. All Muslims A Muslim who has completed the hajj place, so that at prayer times, and espe- are obliged to perform the hajj at least gains a Personality Trait of Pious +3. The cially at the Friday noon prayer, it bustles once during their lifetime, if at all pos- Muslim also gains 3 Faith Points. It is pos- with Faerie jinn of all manner of shapes sible. For most who undertake it, it is a sible to undertake the hajj again to regain and sizes. Even the mosque officials are life-changing event, often leading them the Personality Trait and Faith Points, but undisguised jinn. to abandon inappropriate practices and repeated performance of the hajj will nev- Unspoken convention requires that make a new start in life. er raise the Personality Trait above +3. all jinn attending prayers avoid assuming forms that are too monstrous or so large as

112 The Cradle & The Crescent

to take up too much space in the mosque. The Cult of the verses that permitted the Muslims to ask A few humans also attend prayers at the Daughters of Allah the Daughters of Allah to intercede with mosque, interacting freely with its super- Him on their behalf. According to the natural inhabitants. Respectful mortals, Al-Lat was one of three major god- story, this was immediately corrected by including sahirs and other wizards, are desses worshiped in the local area, the God, who revealed to His Prophet verses always welcomed, if sometimes a bit over- other two being al-Manat, goddess of for- that rejected such a role for the goddesses. enthusiastically. The mosque has a Faerie tune and destiny, whose cult was based at Whether this incident actually happened Aura of 4 which rises to 5 when the jinn a place called al-Qudayd, at an unknown remains a matter of debate among Muslim are attending prayers. location about ten miles from Medina, and scholars of the 13th century. al-’Uzza, goddess of strength and the plan- In Mythic Arabia, Ta’if is home to the et Venus, who was worshiped at a sanctu- Cult of the Daughters of Allah, a fam- Ta’if ary on the outskirts of Mecca. These three ily-based cult that has secretly kept the goddesses were known as the “Daughters worship of the Daughters of Allah alive of Allah.” Even before the rise of Islam, throughout the centuries. At any given About 60 miles to the southeast of Allah was worshiped by the pagans as a point in time, there are three members Mecca, built on the mountain slopes, lies supreme creator god, and these Daughters of the family, each of whom can channel the town of Ta’if. Before the rise of Islam, are connected with a story known as that the power of one of the three deities. The Ta’if was the site of a major idol to the of the “Satanic Verses,” which by 1220 has family’s ultimate objective is to restore the Arabian goddess al-Lat, goddess of fertil- been circulating for centuries among Mus- worship of the Daughters of Allah, but ity and patron of shepherds and caravan lim scholars. first they need to find the sanctuaries of travelers, but after the Muslim conquest According to this story, at one point all three goddesses; they have found the of the city in 631 this idol was destroyed. during the Prophet’s lifetime, the Qur’anic sanctuaries of al-Lat and al-’Uzza, and Ta’if is well-known for its orchards, and it revelation allegedly was somehow adul- now they are in the process of seeking supplies fruit to many other towns of the terated by Iblis, who managed to achieve out al-Qudayd and the lost sanctuary of region, including Mecca. the temporary insertion into the text of al-Manat. The current family consists of a

113 The Cradle & The Crescent

man named ‘Abd al-Qadir, his son Yusuf, Arab Poetry and Yusuf’s wife Farida. Depending on how you wish to depict Poetry has an important place in by the Faerie Friend, Magical (Being) the cult in your saga, you may choose to Bedouin culture, the earliest examples Companion, or Impious Friend Minor generate the members of the cult using the dating from before the rise of Islam. Flaws, depending on the Realm affilia- rules for Spirit Votaries (Realms of Power: Thepoet (shai’ir ; not to be confused tion of the artist. Many ‘abqari possess Magic, pages 88–89); alternatively, it may with sahir) and the reciter (rawi) hold a Enchanting Poetry and the Muse Minor be that the cult is infernally corrupted, in position combining elements of histo- Supernatural Virtues (Houses of Hermes: which case the rules for Diabolists may be rian, soothsayer, and panegyrist. Verses Societates, page 56). Some of these poets more suitable (Realms of Power: The Infernal, in praise of the tribe or sheikh, known are granted such power over words that pages 101–113). as qit’ah, and scathing attacks on the vir- they may mimic the Folk Witch power ‘Abd al-Qadir, as the representative of tue of other tribes, referred to as hija’, of Cursing or the Gruagach Arts of Give, al-Lat, has powers over fertility and travel, form the bulk of the works transmit- Blessing, and Curse, reflecting their abil- including the ability to control the growth ted through oral tradition. Zajal, mock ity to lampoon and satirize opponents of humans, animals and plants, and travel battles in verse, remain popular as a way into misfortune through their verse (see supernaturally swiftly from one place to of resolving hostilities between Bedouin Hedge Magic Revised Edition for details of the next. Yusuf, as the representative of al- sahirs. This is mechanically an opposed these non-Hermetic powers). Manat, can affect probabilities, affecting roll of Communication + Solomonic Journeying to ‘Aqbar may compose players’ die rolls, and Farida, as the rep- Storytelling for sahirs, or Communica- part of an Initiation Script for a mem- resentative of al-’Uzza, is supernaturally tion and Folk Ken for battles between ber of the Merinita “Keepers of Tales” strong and also has powers over Venus’ mundanes, but characters with an Ara- Mystery Cult, or be of interest to Jer- traditional realms of beauty, romance, the bic score of 6 or greater gain a +2 to biton magi or artistic Redcaps passion- performing arts and communication. their total. ate about the stories and legends of The Poetry and storytelling remain an Thousand and One Nights. integral part of Arab life in the 13th century and it is thought that exceptional performances may produce wondrous Story Seed: effects. The Art of Memory, valued by The Poetry Festival at ‘Ukaz ‘Asir & Yemen Islamic scholars for reciting the Qur’an, Once a year the small oasis town of To the south of the Hijaz lie the prov- is believed to have originated among inces of ‘Asir and Yemen, controlled by the the pagan poets. Enchanting Poetry and ‘Ukaz, situated halfway between Mecca and Medina, holds a poetry competi- Ayyubid sultan of Yemen. The majority of Entrancement are common among Bed- the population are either Sunnis or Zaydi ouin poets, even among non-wizards, tion, a tradition dating back to ancient times. The seven great poems known as Shi’is, although in Yemen there are also and the former is the most commonly scattered communities of Tayyibis (TOY- initiated Major Supernatural Virtue the Mu’allaqat (“the Suspended Odes”) that now grace the walls of the Ka’ba yi-beez), an offshoot of the Isma’ili Shi’i gained through devotion to muru’a. Fatimids who maintain the belief in a hid- A fabled example is the irascible sati- had their origin in this fair. Today, the winner’s prize varies from year to year den dynasty of imams. The Tayyibis are rist, Abu Nuwas, a poet sponsored at the heavily involved in trade and have regular legendary court of Harun al-Raschid, as the sponsorship of the fair passes from one tribe of jinn to another. The contact with the island of Soqotra to the who passed into the myth and legend south, home to a strange culture of non- of Golden Baghdad as a Faerie creature prize is always something of great value — one year, the jinn may reward a Hermetic sorcerers (See Rival Magic, pages of Elysium, living within the tales of The 110–141, for more details on Soqotran Thousand and One Nights. winner with the secret path to ‘Abqar, another year they may bestow kinship Sorcerers). As a result of their seafaring, with their tribe for eternity, and yet an- the Yemenites are even beginning to expand into the old Ethiopian lands in Africa Story Seed: other they may offer the service of one and across the Arabian Sea into al-Sind. Poets and Qareen of their younger jinn as an uncondi- tional servant. Depending on the prize, ‘Abqari, contemporary poets blessed magi and sahirs may be drawn to the with an artistic qareen, can be created festival, hoping to gain something oth- Sana’a using the rules for Legendary Artists or erwise impossible to acquire — some- Maestro Mythic Companions (see Art thing vital to their plans. Competition & Academe, pages 133–135). The qareen is always fierce, but the poetry is always Located in the highlands of Yemen, of such characters are best reflected breathtakingly beautiful. where the air is fresh and the temperature cool, the city of Sana’a is the administrative center of the Yemen-’Asir region, home to

114 The Cradle & The Crescent

the Ayyubid sultan al-Mas’ud Yusuf. It is renowned for its market, the Suq al-Milh Story Seed: Farida’s Fears (Salt Market), where all sorts of oddities may be found by the persistent, and for The cult of the Daughters of Allah strongly connected to her Muslim up- the quality of its food. discovers the location of the sanctuary bringing, which is leading her to have of al-Manat and begins a tripartite ritual second thoughts. Maybe she is being that is intended to bring about apoca- asked to engage in practices that she lyptic results, possibly restoring the finds conflict with her own morals. The Valley of ‘Abqar goddesses to the mortal realm, or dam- More sinisterly, perhaps she is pregnant, aging or destroying the Ka’ba at Mecca. and she has been told by her father-in- In Al-Jahiliyya, the pre-Islamic times, The player characters get wind of this law that she will be giving birth to her jinn were said to dwell in the Valley of and must take action to stop them. replacement, making her concerned for ‘Abqar and inspire the greatest of the old Farida, as the newest member of her future in a family that is normally Arabian bards and poets, acting as their Su- the family, has qualms about her in- limited to only three members. Will the pernatural Muses. The valley may be a faerie volvement in the cult. Perhaps she feels characters be able to help her? regio accessed from both Yemen or southern Jordan, a city or town within Arcadia, or perhaps all of these simultaneously. Story Seed: The Food of Sana’a

Why is the food in Sana’a so uni- of time. If such cooking vessels are in Ma’rib versally good? The characters gain pos- widespread use, then the entire popula- session of a cooking vessel from Sana’a tion of the town may be suffering from and discover that it bears a hedge magic Warping effects unawares. Who created To the east of Sana’a lie the remains enchantment that makes meals unusu- these vessels, and do they know of the of Ma’rib, the ancient capital of Balqis (or ally tasty, but that also Warps those who damage that they are causing the people Bilqis), the Queen of Sheba. It was once use the vessel over an extended period of Sana’a? ruled by mukkaribs, hereditary priest-kings

Suleiman and the Queen of Sheba

Suleiman heard from the hoopoe (a glass she mistook it for a lake, drawing trol celestial entities and Astra Planeta brightly-colored bird fond of traveling up her skirts and baring her legs. When Daimons in a way similar to the Theurgi- widely) of the Queen of Sheba’s king- her folly was revealed, she recognized cal Mysteries? dom, a land where the people worshiped that her worship of the sun was also in- Characters might encounter the the sun alongside God, and so he decided correct and acknowledged God as the hoopoe or its descendents, magical crea- to invite Balqis to discuss her faith with only deity. tures who might be guides through the him. She accepted his invitation and pre- region or even prove suitable as familiars pared riddles and difficult questions with or magical covenfolk. Also, what became which to test him. Then she set out to Story Seed: King Suleiman of the queen’s throne and the hall paved Jerusalem in a caravan laden with gold, and the Queen of Sheba with glass? Perhaps they are supernatural spices, and precious jewels. or even Divine items that remain some- Suleiman, in the meantime, asked his Remains of Sheba’s sun worship might where, waiting to be rediscovered. court if anyone could bring the queen’s still be present in Ma’rib or other sites In addition, what became of Sulei- throne before she arrived. A jinni boast- across the Middle East — the actual dei- man and the Queen of Sheba? Accord- ed that it could obtain it before Sulei- ties that the people of Sheba worshiped ing to tradition, they both died, but they man rose from his seat, but “one who might be in reality either powerful Faerie were powerful sorcerers. Could they still had knowledge of the Book” promised entities, who crave worship from humans be alive, perhaps working behind the to bring it in the blink of an eye. The and plot to achieve this, or demons who scenes to influence human events? Per- throne thus procured, it was disguised to represent themselves as a heavenly trin- haps the Queen’s skills at entrancement test whether Balqis was a recipient of di- ity, seeking to turn people away from and political magic has secretly left a vine guidance. When she entered Sulei- worship of the True God. Was the magic legacy within the Storytelling magic of man’s throne room she remarked on how of the mukkaribs a variant of the more current sahirs, a legacy that may hint at much the throne resembled her own, but common summoning arts — instead of further mysteries yet to be incorporated then when she entered a hall paved with calling jinn, could it command and con- into the Solomonic Arts?

115 The Cradle & The Crescent The Nisnas

Magic Might: 10 (Corpus) Soak: +6 The nisnas is found in the forests of Season: Summer Wound Penalties (material form): –1 Yemen and Hadramawt, though its ori- Characteristics: Int 0, Per +1, Pre (1–4), –3 (5–8), –5 (9–12), Incapaci- gin seems to be in Hadramawt specifi- –3, Com 0, Str 0, Sta +2, Dex +2, tated (13–16), Dead (17+) cally. It is a wild, inoffensive creature, Qik +3 Abilities: Arabic 4 (listening in), Ath- but the people of Hadramawt find its Size: –1 letics 5 (leaping), Awareness 3 flesh sweet, so they hunt it for food. Confidence: 1 (3) (ambushes), Brawl 3 (fist), Con- Nisnases can speak, and tales are told Virtues and Flaws: Magic Human; centration 2 (jumping), Folk Ken 2 of some who begged for mercy before Magical Monster; Essential Virtue (peasants), Hadramawt Lore 3 (for- they were slain. (Fast Leaper), Ways of the For- ests), Hunt 3 (tracking), Stealth 3 ests; Keen Vision, Long-Winded, (sneak), Survival 3 (forests), Wilder- Sharp Ears, Voice of the Forest, ness Sense 3 (forests) Story Seed: Wilderness Sense; Enemies (peo- Powers: An Escaped Nisnas ple of Hadramawt); Compulsion Hop like the Wind, 0 points, Init +5, Corpus: (curiosity), Missing Eye, Missing R: Per, D: Sun, T: Ind. The nisnas can The characters come across a nis- Hand, Small Frame make great leaps to cover terrain at nas that has escaped from its captors. It Magical Qualities and Inferiorities: speed. This works like the Hermetic begs them to help it get away. This is Greater Power, Improved Defense spell Gift of the Frog’s Legs, except that likely to raise a moral or emotional di- x2, Improved Fatigue x2, Improved the nisnas may make a great leap ev- lemma for some characters. According Initiative x2, Improved Soak x2; ery round. (Greater Power, 20 levels, to most religious teachings, only hu- Monstrous Appearance*; Susceptible –2 Might cost, +4 Initiative) mans have souls. Yet this creature seems to Deprivation Vis: 2 pawns Corpus, in foot. literally half-human; so does it have a Personality Traits: Cautious +1, Curious Appearance: The nisnas looks like a soul? Even if not, will the characters +3, Skittish +2; Fast (Leaping) +6* small man, but with half a head (with willingly refuse aid to a creature that is Combat: no face), half a body, one arm, one begging for them to help it escape from Fist: Init +6, Attack +2, Defense +8, leg, a sheep’s tail and half a face im- being eaten? Damage –3 planted in its chest. of celestial deities representing the sun, Magic jinn aligned to its natural features moon, and stars: al-Shams, ‘Ilmaqa, and Hadramawt are relatively unknown to all but a hand- al-Zuhara. ful of itinerant sahirs. The extreme lack Most of the palaces, temples, and Hadramawt is a relative backwater of mundane resources, sparse population, gardens lie in ruins now, but the great in the Muslim world. Its valleys contain and its distance from larger settlements jinn-built temple of Ghumdam remains, few sources of water and are only sparse- will require magical solutions for the cov- standing in solitary silence and bearing ly populated, while the hills, though at enant to prosper. a Magic aura of 6, although smaller less some points heavily forested, are too powerful auras are scattered throughout steep to make agriculture or coppicing the city, home to pagan jinn that once viable means of subsistence. Very few Frankincense and Myrrh served the Queen at the bequest of King pilgrims or other travelers make it this Suleiman. The great dyke that once held far south, and the people tend to be sur- back the waters of the Wadi Udhana, pro- prised when they encounter strangers. It Both these resinous materials are ob- tecting the city from the depredations of is remarkable only for the unusual crea- tained from gnarled trees that grow pre- the uncontrollable water elementals that ture known as the nisnas (nis-NEHS) and dominantly in the fog-wrapped mountains plague the river upstream, lies broken in being the source of many of the resins of Hadramawt, although groves can be the high mountains. and spices traded throughout the Mythic found in parts of Oman, Ethiopia, and on The lands around here could be a Middle East passing along the coast to the isolated island of Soqotra. Harvest- good spot upon which to found a cov- Mythic Europe. ers tap the trees, making small incisions enant, if the characters could overcome Like other distant areas of the Mythic that allow the milky sap to exude slowly the difficulties of supplying such a re- Middle East, its isolation may make it ap- and then harden into “tears” of sticky mote site and the hostile supernatural pealing as a potential site for initial Her- resin over three months. The two resins inhabitants, who bear no love for wizards metic settlement, because the magical reform the main ingredients of incense used or summoners. sources of the wilderness and the various throughout the Mythic Middle East and

116 The Cradle & The Crescent

Mythic Europe. Myrrh was traditionally more expensive in ancient Rome, although frankincense has always been more popular, and each is worth more than its weight in gold when traded. The resin trees are found on the more inaccessible wooded slopes of the area and guarded by flying serpents known as syrenii (or iaculii). These mundane guardians must be driven off by harvesters with smoke created by burning a similar resinous reagent imported from Anatolia known as storax. Frankincense, literally “incense of the French,” comes from the stunted and hardy mogar tree. It is commonly referred to as olibanum (al-lubban, “that which results from milking”). It is a light yellow resin, often tinted with green, known for its medicinal qualities, in particular its ability to quicken the blood. The quality of the resin depends on the exact climatic and soil conditions, with each tree having a specific time when it produces its best resin. When burned, it gives off a slightly balsamic and lemony fragrance characteristic of incense. The charred resin is one of the main components of the eye-powder referred to as kohl (see earlier). Frankincense resin has the following Shape & Material bonuses: inferior examples. It has a sharp pleasant and in the holy oil used by the Eastern +3 medicine, +5 promote life. scent and when burned gives off a heavy, Orthodox Church. Myrrh has the follow- Myrrh, in contrast, is a reddish-brown acrid smoke with a hint of vanilla. Apart ing Shape & Material bonuses: +3 relieve resin, with the best quality specimens be- from its use in incense, it is used as an ad- arthritis or inflammation, +5 preservation, ing both darker and more translucent than ditive in wine, for embalming ointment, +2 sanctify.

Flying Serpent (Iaculus)

The flying serpents known to Pliny unusually rapid and lethal method of at- er the syrenii originated on Soqotra or as syrenii are found in great numbers in tack. As the ibis is linked to Thoth and the more aggressive variety represents a southern Arabia and on the island of So- therefore Hermes, most Hermetic magi more primitive species that was then im- qotra to the far south of Yemen (see Rival consider an iaculus an ill-omened crea- ported from the mainland. Magic, page 110). The Arabian snakes are ture, but at least one Quaesitor uses them Syrenii use the base statistics for Ad- typically white in coloration with bat- as aids to his investigations. Exceptional ders listed in The Book of Mundane Beasts or like wings, and an individual syrenus may syrenii are believed to have additional Realms of Power: Magic, page 141, modified sport a pair of short legs. These snakes powers allowing them to ignore wards as follows: increase Quickness to +4; gain perch in the incense trees of Hadramawt and other protection magic in order to ability to fly; add Ferocity (when leap- and are known for their darting attack, deliver their venom, but these claims ing) and Improved Characteristics Vir- leaping out of trees onto passing prey. have yet to be investigated by Hermetic tues; add the Fast Flyer and Good Jumper Flocks of syrenii attempt to migrate into magi. Their exact relationship to the Qualities; add Athletics 4 (jumping). Any Egypt each year, only to be destroyed by magical Olibanum Serpents of Soqotra character who makes a Intelligence + their natural enemies, the ibises. is unclear but the Arabian serpents are Magic Lore or Intelligence + Arabia Lore Hermetic magi refer to these snakes much less sociable than their kin and roll against an Ease Factor of 9 will recall as iaculii, but most mundanes call them appear resistant to being tamed short of that these creatures can be scattered by “javelin-snakes” or “darters” due to their magical means. It is not known wheth- burning the resin of the storax tree.

117 The Cradle & The Crescent Iram, City of a Hadramawt and ‘Uman Story Seeds Thousand Pillars The Trees That Cry Blood survivors of the destruction who wishes to recover something from the city; or (The tribe of) ‘Ad rejected warnings. In the seaside hills of Hadramawt is they might come across it purely by ac- Then how (dreadful) was My punishment a grove of five ancient mogar trees that cident, finding a tunnel into the earth or after My warnings. seem to grow directly from the rock, even reaching it after falling victim to a Lo! We let loose on them a raging wind resisting even the thrashings of the patch of dry quicksand. on a day of constant calamity, seasonal monsoons of the Erythraean However they find it, visitors to the Sweeping men away as though they Sea. The resin produced from these city find it intact in a great cavern under were uprooted trunks of palm-trees. trees, when harvested during a violent the desert, still filled with the riches of Then see how (dreadful) was My pun- storm, yields unusually pure frankin- its inhabitants, along with their desic- ishment after My warnings! cense tears that each contain a single cated corpses, and the Magic auras here — The Qur’an 54: 18-21 pawn of dedicated Rego Terram vis — remain strong. Indeed, this makes it an each tree produces several pawns of vis attractive site for a new covenant. The The capital city of Ubar was home to per harvest. The timing of the harvest major difficulty is navigating the city, the people of ‘Ad, a race of giants who storms is complex, but well-known to for its inhabitants were about 12 yards held sway over much of Yemen, Hadra- the local inhabitants, who are terrified in height and hence everything is built mawt, and ‘Uman five generations after of the particularly large and aggressive on a much larger scale than it would be the Great Flood, from their mythical population of syrenii nestled among the for normal humans. homeland of al-Akhaf. However, the branches of the grove. Harvesting the The discovery of the ancient city people of ‘Ad were idolaters, and when vis is no easy undertaking, as the ser- may draw the attention of the remain- God commissioned one of them, the pents seem immune to the usual storax ing Giants of ‘Ad, itinerant stonesmiths prophet Hud, to bring them back to the smoke and standard wards appear to renown for their building skills. Will the right religion, they rejected him, per- have little effect. giants look favorably upon the discov- sisting in their idolatry even after God Even if successfully harvested, the erers or will they try and prevent the inflicted a drought on them as a warn- existence of the trees becomes read- city from disclosing its ancient secrets ing. In the end God sent a great storm ily known to another magical group, and treasures? to destroy them, with the exception of whether they be rival Hermetic explor- Hud and the few who accepted his mes- ers, local hedge wizards or sahirs repre- sage. The storm drove the city deep into senting the Order of Suleiman. Perhaps The Witches of Nizwa the sands. There it lies still, waiting to be renegade members of the Olibanum discovered by explorers. Perhaps the witches of Nizwa are tribe of the normally isolationist Soqo- The great depression in the sands a movement of Infernalists or Faerie trans are interested in the unusual resin above the surface of the city has a Magic wizards who become the arch-enemies produced (see Rival Magic for details on aura of 5, hinting at the greater riches of the characters. Banished Soqotran these non-Hermetic wizards). Contin- beneath. witches may have formed a secret ued supernatural disturbance and in- community in exile, or the group may tense magical activity or botches in the be agents of the Olibanum King trying grove may awaken the trees, providing to discredit and destabilize the Order another obstacle to harvesting as the of Suleiman (see Rival Magic, pages animated bushes gain the ability to ac- 110–141). The group may even be the tively resist interlopers with their spiny ‘Uman last remnant of a tradition of sorcer- arms. Are the tears of the trees worth esses privy to the astral magic of an- Located at the eastern end of the Ara- the price in blood? cient Sheba. bian Peninsula, ‘Uman’s interior is mostly Alternatively, the rumors may be hot and dry desert, while the coastal mountains and plains are cooler and Discovering the Lost City utterly unfounded, which has interesting implications if the characters have more fertile, supporting agriculture. The There are a number of ways that found an attractive site for a covenant province also forms a channel for trade characters might come across this lost near the city, leading to stories, or even between Arabia and the Indian Ocean, city. They might come across a map in- a complete saga, based on the theme of which is conducted via various ports on dicating its location; they might be ap- overcoming negative preconceptions its coasts. The majority of the population proached by a descendent of one of the and stereotypes. of ‘Uman follow a variant form of Islam called Ibadism.

118 The Cradle & The Crescent Muscat Giant of ‘Ad

Perhaps the same as the Crypto Portus Descendants of Great ‘Ad, the giants 24), –5 (25–36), Incapacitated (37– (“Hidden Port”) of Ptolemy or the Moscha of southern Arabia are colossal magical 48), Dead (49+) of Pliny, this coastal town is a prominent creatures from pre-Islamic times. De- Abilities: Animal Handling 2 (falcon- trade point for voyages traveling beyond scended from Noah’s third son, they ry), Arabia Lore 6 (cities), ‘Adid 5 the Mythic Middle East. Many voyagers have dwelled within magic regiones (ancient), Bargain 3 (payment for dreaming of wealth depart, never to re- deep within the deserts of Oman since services), Brawl 2 (stomp), Craft turn, from its quays. Recently conquered the loss of their greatest creation, the (stonemason) 6, Magic Lore 4 (Ara- from the Abbasids by the local Yahmad fabled City of a Thousand Pillars. Un- bia), Survival 3 (desert). tribe, the city is looking to expand trade like many magical creatures, the ‘Adites Powers: further eastwards. It is the home of a large are not immortal and weaken if they Stonesmith, 1–4 points, Init –4, Terram: group of sahirs specializing in the Solo- spend too much time outside strong Duplicates any non-Ritual Creo Ter- monic Art of Travel, who have founded desert Magic auras. ram, Intellego Terram or Muto Ter- a bayt al-hikma dedicated to discovering ram spell less than or equal to 20th the legendary islands encountered in the level that affects stone, at a cost of 1 tales by Sinbad the Sailor. Giant of ‘Ad Might point per magnitude of effect. Equipment: mason’s tools, sand-col- Magic Might: 20 (Corpus) ored Bedouin robes Season: Autumn Vis: 1 pawn of Corpus vis in heart, 1 Nizwa Characteristics: Int 0, Per +2, Pre –1, pawn of Terram vis in each hand. Com –1, Str +13, Sta 0, Dex +1, Appearance: Towering above the av- Qik –4. Nizwa is the royal city of ‘Uman, erage human, a giant of ‘Ad stands Size: +7 home to the local Nabhanid kings and over 30 feet tall but appears much Confidence Score: 1 (3) a center of religion, trade and art. It has more civilized than the primitive Virtues and Flaws: Magic Human; numerous beautifully decorated mosques giants of Europe. They have an af- Improved Characteristics, Magical and palaces, as well as bustling markets finity for falcons and other birds of Champion, Ways of the Desert; Pa- prey and are usually found accom- that are particularly famous for their silver gan; Anchored to the Desert; (Mag- jewelry and finely crafted daggers. Several panied by at least one nesting with- ical) Animal Companion, Offensive in their long hair or beard. Lone gi- buyut of sahirs are found within the city to Spirits. and its hinterlands. ants emerge from the deep desert to Magic Qualities and Inferiorities: Gi- offer their building skills to sorcer- However, Nizwa also has a darker gantic x6; Focus Power, 3 points; side, reputed to be the home of witches ers and emirs, in return for insights Monstrous Appearance (free); Ac- into the secrets of eternal life. and sorcerers. Among the deeds as- climation Prone; Susceptible to De- cribed to these are instantaneous travel, privation. A giant of ‘Ad is balanced as a achieved by crossing a line drawn in the Personality Traits: Proud +2, Focused –1 sand to appear at another location, and, starting character, albeit a powerful Combat: initial Companion option. This char- more sinisterly, turning people into mind- Chisel (as knife): Init –4, Attack +3, De- less slaves by making them appear to die, acter guide has 295 Experience Points fense –2, Damage +15 available to spend on Abilities and 5 then taking their “corpses” and control- Stomp (kick): Init –5, Attack +4, Defense ling them. Virtue points free (to be balanced with –1, Damage +16 5 points of Flaws). His falcon compan- Soak: +3 ion may be either mundane or magi- Fatigue Levels: OK, 0, –1, –3, –5, cal, although proportionately larger Unconscious (up to Size +3) and has its statistics Wound Penalties: –1 (1–12), –3 (13– adjusted accordingly.

119 Chapter Seven Mythic Mesopotamia

This chapter covers the political cen- their claims to legitimacy. thousands of years old, though recent geo- ter and northwest provinces of the Sunni The terrain of this region is divided logical changes, combined with the little Muslim world, most of the rulers of which broadly into three zones. In Iraq and effort made by the government to address proclaim at least nominal allegiance to the much of the Jazira, especially between the effects of these or maintain the existing ‘Abbasid caliph in Baghdad. However, in the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers, are fertile network, have sharply reduced their pro- most areas provincial governors reign as plains where agriculture flourishes; in Iraq, ductivity. To the north, east, and northwest independent rulers, only seeking approval in particular, many of these plains benefit of these plains, the terrain becomes more from the caliph when it helps to bolster from being irrigated by a network of canals mountainous, making cultivation more Aladlammu and Apsasu

Faerie Might: 30 (Animal) Folk Ken 4 (spotting the possessed), (Base 20, +1 Touch) Ritual Power Characteristics: Int +1, Per +1, Pre +1, Infernal Lore 4 (disease spirits), Sec- (25 levels, –2 Might cost, +15 expe- Com +1, Str +8, Sta +2, Dex +2, ond Sight 5 (demons) rience points in Penetration) Qik –2 Powers: Vis: 6 pawns of Animal, in hooves Size: +4 Burn The Filthy Spirit, 0 points, Init –5, Appearance: The aladlammu has the Confidence Score: 1 (3) Vim: By making eye contact with body of a mighty bull, an immense Virtues and Flaws: Huge x3, Greater a demon (whether through normal pair of wings, and a bearded human Power (Repel the Nightstalking Spirit), In- sight or Second Sight), the alad- head. The apsasu have a similar ap- creased Might, Major Virtue (Greater lammu can strip it of 15 Might. PeVi pearance, but their heads are female. Immunity to Disease), Ritual Power 10 (Base 5, +1 Eye) Lesser Power (10 When they strike with their hooves (Restoration of the Defiled Body); Faerie levels, –2 Might cost, +1 Init) against an opponent, sparks fly. Speech, Improved Characteristics Repel the Nightstalking Spirit, 1 point, Init x2, Improved Damage, Improved –4, Vim: The aladlammu can desig- The aladlammu and apsasu are guard- Soak x3, Increased Might x2, Hybrid nate a room or area of clear ground ian creatures created by the gods of old, Form, Lesser Power (Burn the Filthy to be safe from demons. If there are male and female respectively. Creatures Spirit), Positive Folk Tales, Second no clear pre-existing boundaries, the with the same characteristics, but with Sight; Compassionate, Sovereign creature must mark the protected winged human bodies to match their Ward (special amulet, see later), area somehow to create an unbro- heads are called shedu if male, or lamassu if Supernatural Nuisance (disease de- ken line, although this need not be female. Colossal effigies of these beasts mons); Incognizant a circle. If the power has a sufficient can be found among many major ruins of Personality Traits: Hatred for demons* Penetration Total, no demon with the ancient Middle East. They are fierce +3, Helpful +2 an Infernal Might of 25 or less may opponents of harmful spirits, and a re- Reputations: Foe of Demons 2 (Local) enter this designated area. ReVi 30 gion lucky enough to have an effigy can Combat: (Base 25, +1 unusual Target) Greater evoke the faerie to assist them if plagued Trample: Init 0, Attack +12, Defense +8, Power (30 levels, –2 Might cost, +10 by disease or demons. A character with Damage +14 experience points in Penetration) an appropriate Area Lore and Faerie Lore Soak: +8 Restoration of the Defiled Body, 3 points, Init can construct an amulet that constitutes Wound Penalties: –1 (1–9), –3 (10–18), –11, Corpus: as per the spell of the an aladlammu’s Sovereign Ward (Realms –5 (19–27), Incapacitated (28–36), same name (ArM5, page 129). As a of Power: Faerie, page 52). Dead (37+) ritual power, this power requires a These creatures are not suitable as Pretenses: Awareness 3 (alertness), Brawl permanent reduction in Might Score player characters. 7 (hooves), Chirurgy 2 (heatstroke), as well as Might points. CrCo 25

120 The Cradle & The Crescent

mia have been largely abandoned by their Demons of Mesopotamia worshipers. Nevertheless, the religion persists in scattered cult centers through- Mythic Mesopotamia throngs with nal, page 55). Finally, the gidim are Infer- out Iraq and the Jazira, notably Harran, demons, some of whom have been active nal ghosts, specifically Reveners Realms( Mardin, Ashshur, and Mosul. Although since ancient times. The uttuku are a local of Power: The Infernal, page 75) who return not sanctioned by Islam, the priests (many form of Mazzikim (Realms of Power: The In- to torment bereaved families. of them yatus — see Mythic Persia) walk fernal, page 73), and are Infernal jinn (see Among those who still worship the without fear through the streets in their Chapter 4: The Jinn). The galla-demons old gods (such as in Harran or Mardin) distinctive tall conical hats and tunics. are powerful disease spirits similar to the there is a class of priest-magicians called These pitifully few worshipers are woeful- Decani (Realms of Power: The Infernal, page the ashipu, or exorcists. The practices ly insufficient to sate the gods, who have 52), and are specifically opposed by the of most ashipu consist of knowledge of been forced to remain in hidden regiones Aladlammu (see later). The lilu are a form the weaknesses of demons (through the for centuries. Literally starved of human of ghul who haunt the wastes of Mythic Infernal Lore Ability), and how to con- interaction, they are desperate for atten- Mesopotamia, and are especially dan- struct protective amulets that counter- tion and may by now not be too discrimi- gerous to children and pregnant women. act them. Some ashipu may have more nating about how this attention is gained. Their female counterparts are the lilitu, active powers against demons, and may Some may have grand ambitions of hav- who are succubi (Realms of Power: The Infer- be members of the Suhhar Sulayman. ing their cults resurrected. Others may simply seek to make friends with player difficult, although valleys provide areas The gods of ancient Mesopotamia, characters, though their means of doing where crops may be grown. Meanwhile, to as ancient Faerie creatures, offer interest- so may at times demonstrate a lack of un- the west lies the great Syrian desert that ing possibilities as antagonists in sagas derstanding of human emotions, perhaps divides Mesopotamia from Syria and the and stories. Faeries ultimately depend on becoming aggressive or worse if their ini- Holy Land; this desert also merges to the human involvement with them to gain tial overtures are rebuffed. south with the Nefud of Arabia. vitality, especially through the retelling The following represents a selec- Most of the inhabitants of these re- of stories in which they are characters. tion of the deities worshiped in ancient gions are Muslims, although there are However, the gods of ancient Mesopota- Mesopotamia: also significant populations of Christians and Jews. The majority of people live in the cities, towns, and villages that cover the area, but the desert areas are home to a mix of wandering nomads and settled communities at oases.

The Starving Gods

The great gods, the Anunna, Stayed parched and famished.[…] But, like sheep, could only fill their windpipes (with bleating). Thirsty as they were, their lips Discharged only the rime of famine.[…] (Atrahasis) put down… Provided food… The gods smelt the fragrance, Gathered like flies over the offering. — Atrahasis, Tablet 3

121 The Cradle & The Crescent

Anu: Sky god; head of the elder gods Ereshkigal: Weeping queen of the Under- who have studied the Magic Realm might (Anunnaki); cult center at Uruk. world; wife of Nergal; cult center at recognize this myth as a version of the Ti- Ea: God of subterranean freshwater ocean; Kutha. tanomachia (Realms of Power: Magic, page god of arts, crafts, magic, and wisdom; Sin: Moon god; god of wisdom; cult cen- 108), where a race of faerie gods wrests cult center at Eridu. ters at Ur and Harran. power from primordial Magic beings. Ellil: God of the earth; head of the young- Shamash: Sun god; god of justice; cult Following the demise of their mother, er gods (Igigi), and keeper of an object centers at Sippar and Larsa. the eleven types of monsters were pressed of supreme power known as the Tablet Marduk: Patron deity of Babylonia; king into the service of the gods. Those gods of Destinies; cult center at Nippur. of the gods; cult center at Babylon may now be fading in power, but their ser- Ishtar: Goddess of fertility, sexual love, Ashshur: Patron deity of Assyria; king of vants can still be found performing their and war; cult centers at Uruk, Nineveh, the gods; cult center at Ashshur. ancient duties. These monsters are: the and Erbil. mushmahhu (a seven-headed dragon), the Dumuzi: God of flocks and agriculture; ushumgallu (a lion-dragon), the bashmu (a lover of Ishtar, for whom he spends six Tiamat’s Creatures horned snake 60 leagues in length), the months every year in the Underworld. mushhushshu (a snake-dragon; see later), Adad: Storm god and canal controller; lord the lahamu (a giant covered in long curly of omens and divination using animal In the Babylonian Epic of Creation, the hair), the ugallu (a man-like creature with livers; cult center at Aleppo. primordial Tiamat engendered the line of a lion’s head and tail, and bird’s feet), the Mami: Great mother goddess; cult cen- gods with her consort Apsu, but later grew uridimmu (a man with the hindquarters of ter at Kesh (unknown site in central distressed by the tumult of the younger a lion), the girtablulla (scorpion-man; see Mesopotamia). gods, and produced 11 races of monsters later), the umu dabrutu (a fierce storm), the Nergal: God of war, plague, and forest to exterminate them. Eventually she was kulullu (a merman, half man, half fish), and fires; king of the Underworld; cult killed by Marduk the champion-god, and the kusarikka (a man with the hindquarters center at Kutha. the world was made from her corpse. Those of a bull, and bull horns).

Girtablullu

Magic Might: 17 (Animal) Fatigue Levels: OK, 0, –1, –3, –5, metal-reinforced leather) Season: Summer Unconscious Encumbrance: 0 (3) Characteristics: Int –1, Per +1, Pre 0, Com Wound Penalties: –1 (1–6), –3 (7–12), Vis: 3 pawns of Perdo, in sting –2, Str +3, Sta +2, Dex +3, Qik +4 –5 (13–18), Incapacitated (19–24), Appearance: From the waist up, ap- Size: +1 Dead (25+) pears as a human warrior, with long Confidence Score: 1 (3) Abilities: Arabic 1 (Maslawi), Athletics hair and a braided beard. From the Virtues and Flaws: Magic Human; Ways 4 (over sand), Awareness 3 (interlop- waist down, the girtablullu has the of the Desert; Great Quickness; ers), Babylonian 5 (orders), Brawl 5 shiny black carapace of a scorpion, Greater Malediction (inhibited at (sting), Bows 5 (longbow), Hunt 2 including its long tail equipped with night, see later); Dutybound (thieves), Leadership 3 (scorpion- a stinger. It stands on two clawed Magical Qualities and Inferiorities: men), Local Area Lore 1 (hiding legs like those of a bird, and carries a Improved Abilities, Improved At- places), Penetration 3 (Venom power), bow. Some scorpion-men have bird- tack (bow) x2, Improved Char- Stealth 3 (ruins) like wings. acteristics x4, Improved Damage Powers: (sting), Improved Might x2, Im- Venom, 0 points, Init n/a, Corpus: the The gods appropriated the girtablullu proved Powers, Improved Soak x2, sting of the scorpion-man’s tail con- as guardians of monuments and sacred Lesser Power (Venom), Minor Vir- tains a potent venom. Characters places, and they are particularly associ- tue (Large) struck must make a Stamina roll ated with the sun god Shamash. Conse- Personality Traits: Fiercely Protective* +3 against an Ease Factor of 9 or take a quently, these scorpion-men are encoun- Combat: Heavy Wound. The sting is treated tered by those who investigate the ruins Bow: Init +5*, Attack +20*, Defense as a weapon, so this power has no left behind by cultures past. Girtablullu +13*, Damage +11 Initiative score. PeCo 20 (base 15, are usually found in small groups, which Sting: Init +9*, Attack +15*, Defense +1 Touch) Lesser Power (20 levels, constitute a Trained Group. They are +15*, Damage +9 and venom (see –4 Might cost, +10 experience in most powerful during the day, suffering Powers) Penetration) from the Poor Eyesight, No Sense of * Includes +3 for Ways of the Desert Equipment: bow, quiver of 11 arrows, Direction, and Clumsy Flaws when en- Soak: +12 lamellar armor (equivalent to full countered at night.

122 The Cradle & The Crescent Mushhushshu

Magic Might: 25 (Animal) claws and bite in the same round. constant effect) Greater Power (35 Season: Summer Soak: +15 levels, –3 Might cost) Characteristics: Int +2, Per 0, Pre +2, Com Fatigue Levels: OK, 0, –1, –3, –5, Un- Eye of the Serpent, 1 point, Init –6, Corpus: 0, Str +6, Sta +2, Dex +1, Qik –1 conscious The mushhushshu can transfix a per- Size: +3 Wound Penalties: –1 (1–8), –3 (9–16), son with a glance, leaving him inca- Confidence Score: 1 (3) –5 (17–24), Incapacitated (25–32), pable of movement. ReCo 15 (Base Virtues and Flaws: Magic Animal; Ar- Dead (33+) 5, +1 Eye, +1 Conc) Lesser Power cane Lore, Clear Thinker, Keen Vi- Abilities: Arabic 4 (Maslawi), Assyria (15 levels, –2 Might cost, +5 Init sion, Lightning Reflexes, Piercing Lore 4 (magical places), Awareness from Improved Powers) Gaze, Strong Willed, Tough; Proud, 3 (invaders), Babylonian 5 (Assyr- Vis: 5 pawns of Vim, in horns Wanderlust; Infamous ian), Brawl 6+2 (bite), Concentra- Appearance: The mushhushshu has the Magical Qualities and Inferiorities: Gi- tion 3 (Eye of the Serpent), Hunt 4 sinuous body of a snake, although it gantic, Major Virtue (Greater Immu- (interlopers), Infernal Lore 3 (local has four legs like a dragon; the forelegs nity to Poison), Greater Power (Voice demons), Intrigue 3 (politics), Faerie are like those of a lion, and the hind- of Regal Authority); Gift of Speech, Lore 2 (servants of deities), Magic legs like those of an eagle. Its head has Improved Abilities x2, Improved At- Lore 4 (local spirits), Mesopotamia both horns and a splendid crest. tack (bite) x2, Improved Powers x2, Lore 4 (Old Babylonia), Penetration Improved Soak x2, Lesser Power (As- 4 (Voice of Regal Authority), Second After the death of their mother Tia- sessing Gaze), Lesser Power (Eye of the Sight 4 (spirits) mat, the mushhushshu (moosh-choosh- Serpent), Minor Virtue (Desert Regio Powers: shoo, where the “ch” is pronounced as in Network*), Minor Virtue (Large), Assessing Gaze, 1 point, Init –10, Corpus: “loch”) were assigned to Ashshur, the pa- Minor Virtue (Lesser Immunity to Ar- The mushhushshu can determine tron of Assyria. His priesthood were ca- rows), Minor Virtue (Puissant Brawl), which of a group of humans poses pable of summoning and controlling the Minor Virtue (Second Sight) it the greatest threat. This usually mushhushshu, and there may be yatus in * See Realms of Power: Magic, page 45. reveals who is the most competent Harran (see later) who are still able to do Personality Traits: Vain +6, Aloof +2, warrior, but can also detect the pres- so. Unless summoned, the mushhushshu Thirst for Knowledge +2 ence (although not strength) of mag- roam through the hills and desert fringes Reputations: Violent against Foreigners ic. InCo(Vi) 25 (Base 5, +1 Eye, +2 of old Assyria, traveling between Magic 2 (Local) Group, +1 requisite) Lesser Power auras and regiones. They are prone to Combat: (25 levels, –4 Might cost and +1 Init attack any armed foreigners within the Bite*: Init –1, Attack +18, Defense +9, from Improved Powers) borders of Assyria, but can be forestalled Damage +9 Voice of Regal Authority, 1 point, constant, from attacking by offering interesting Claws*: Init –1, Attack +14, Defense +10, Mentem: Anyone hearing the voice information or important news. Before Damage +10 of the mushhushshu is strongly in- battle, if possible, the creature uses its * Because of the sinuous body of the clined to obey its commands. ReMe Assessing Gaze power to determine the tar- mushhushshu, it can attack with both 35 (Base 5, +2 Sun, +3 Sound, +1 get for its Eye of the Serpent power.

this event, the ‘Abbasids built their capital Qasr Shirin Iraq at Baghdad, from which they have reigned almost continuously ever since. For much Overlooked by the mountains of the There have been human settlements in of the 10th, 11th, and 12th centuries, the Persian plateau, Qasr Shirin (“the palace of Iraq for thousands of years, and this con- ‘Abbasid caliphs were figureheads under Shirin”) is a large walled village on the road tinues to be the case in 1220, especially the control of their deputies, but since the to Jibal province. It takes its name from Shi- along the Tigris and Euphrates rivers. reign of the caliph al-Muqtafi (r. 1136– rin, the wife of the Persian king Khusraw II The ancient Faerie gods who used to rule 1160) the caliphs have been able to resist Parviz, who used to dwell here. The ruins of over this land are no longer seen abroad, control by others and rule Iraq indepen- her palace remain, and on nights when the though remains of their ziggurat temples dently. As noted earlier, the current caliph, moon is full, the palace comes alive with Fa- still tower into the sky to mystify pass- al-Nasir, is a strong ruler; at times his di- erie versions of Shirin, Khusraw, the sculptor ersby. Now Iraq is the political center of rect authority has also been acknowledged Farhad, and the rest of their court, eternally the Muslim world, a status it has held, with in the Jazira and parts of Persia, and many re-enacting the story of the courtship of Shi- varying degrees of actual authority, since rulers of the provinces respect his author- rin. Characters who visit the site at the full the ‘Abbasid takeover in 750. Soon after ity, in name at least. moon take on the roles of characters in this

123 The Cradle & The Crescent tale, gaining rewards or wisdom from their tion is the Great Mosque of al-Mutawakkil participation therein. A character might be- Samarra (r. 847–861), an immense structure that is come Shirin, sought after by two men and largely intact and is particularly well known unsure which of them to love; she might The capital of the ‘Abbasid caliphs be- for its spiral minaret, which towers about become Khusraw, the king, who expects to tween 836 and 892, the city of Samarra used 180 feet above the ground. receive all that he desires and is bemused to be a sprawling complex of richly deco- In 1220 the majority of the inhabit- when he is unable to gain what he wants rated palaces and mosques on both sides ants of Samarra are Twelver Shi’is (Realms through the force of his position alone; or of the Tigris, where for most of that time of Power: The Divine, page 112), who have he might become Farhad, jockeying for Shi- the caliphs were virtual prisoners of body- remained in the city as it is home to the rin’s affections even though his rival is the guards who in the meantime fought each tombs of the 10th and 11th imams, as well all-powerful king of Persia. Perhaps a trio of other for control of their masters. How- a mosque with an underground chamber characters might take on all three roles, in- ever, after the caliphs returned to Baghdad where the 12th imam vanished, which is teracting with each other in ways that they the city fell into disrepair, and most of its also one of two places where he may reap- would not do in their regular lives. buildings are now ruins. The major excep- pear at the end of time (the other being Hilla, described later). Thus these Shi’is The Courtship of Shirin await his return here.

The Persian tale of Khusraw and task. Khusraw is briefly taken aback Shirin is best known in the version by when news reaches him that Farhad Baghdad the poet al-Nizami (d. 1209). Khusraw has completed the task, so he sends a II, the King of Persia, falls in love with message to Farhad that Shirin has died. Baghdad is the political center of Islam, Shirin, an Armenian Christian princess. Farhad, distraught, throws himself from insofar as it is the seat of the caliph, even However, their courtship encounters the cliffs to his death. Before doing so, though the caliph’s political reach is actu- difficulties, at which point there ap- he throws away his axe, made of pome- ally fairly limited. Founded by the second pears a rival for Shirin’s affections, the granate wood, and where it falls there ‘Abbasid caliph, al-Mansur (r. 754–75), the supernaturally strong sculptor Farhad. grows a pomegranate tree, the fruit of city has been home to the caliphs for most Khusraw and Farhad contest with each which will cure any illness. Meanwhile of the 458 years that have passed since its other, and the rivalry grows intense. Khusraw’s courtship of Shirin continues, first stones were laid in 762. The oldest part Eventually Khusraw is able to get rid of and after he has proven himself through of Baghdad is the Round City, the original his rival by ordering him to cut away the many acts of heroism, including killing a triple-walled city founded on the west bank Behistun cliffs in the Zagros Mountains lion with his bare hands to save her life, of the Tigris by al-Mansur, at the center to find water, a seemingly impossible she finally consents to marry him. of which lies the Bab al-Dhahab (Golden Gate) palace, which was the first caliphal palace. Over the next two centuries, the caliphs expanded the city on both sides of Story Seeds for Samarra and Baghdad the river, building mosques, palaces, and gardens, so that it enjoyed a summer of in- A Samarran Covenant The Wandering Caliph tellectual and cultural achievement. However, Baghdad has declined great- While parts of the city of Samarra From a scant few years after his death ly since the old days. Repeated fires, floods are holy sites, it is a sprawling complex right up to the current day, the Suhhar and civil conflict have left much of it in of buildings covering a wide area, and Sulayman have heard tales of encounters ruins. On the west bank, each of the quar- it may be that parts of it hide Magic with Harun al-Rashid. These encounters ters is isolated from the others by walls and auras and devices left behind from the start innocuously enough, as a chance surrounded by a wasteland of architectural activities of sorcerers at the courts of the conversation with three strangers, but remains. On the east bank, the quarters caliphs. Thus it could be an attractive usually blossom into strange and fantasti- around the caliph’s palace are prospering, place to set up a covenant, particularly cal adventures in Golden Baghdad. Many but this only comprises a third of the city. as even though the buildings are ruined, sahirs believe this Harun al-Rashid (ac- Sectarian dissent between Shi’is and Sunnis, the underlying structures (wells, irriga- companied by his vizier and executioner) and also among different Sunni schools of tion canals, etc.) remain largely intact. to be the faerie ruler of Golden Bagh- law, are a cause of internal tension, which The major question is how the current dad, and those whom he invites across occasionally turns into violence. The major mundane population of the city would the Threshold into the Faerie Realm are social group in the city unaffected by the react to a bunch of foreign wizards set- chosen based on a contribution they can decline is the Muslim mystic Sufis (SOO- ting up home nearby. make to the betterment of his city. feez), who are flourishing as a result of the building of several ribats (ri-BAWTZ),

124 The Cradle & The Crescent

or hospices, for them by the caliphs. The caliphs have also been building or restoring a number of other religious institutions, including the city’s many mosques, shrines, and religious colleges, in an attempt to ease tensions, remove the divisions in the community, and promote a cultural revival. Every summer, many of the streets and most of the open land on the south side of Baghdad fills with stalls and tents in an enormous fair. This event is well-attended by merchants and travelers from all over the Mythic Middle East, and typically lasts most of the season. It is said that all manner of goods and services may be found at this event, including unique items and entertainments brought by strange men from fantastic lands. Visitors are cautioned to maintain a clear idea of what they seek before they go exploring, for there are said to be many vendors who appear only when their wares are especially desired, or who lure unwary travelers into their tents where they disappear forever. The summer bazaar is the site of the yearly meeting of the Suhhar Sulayman (Chapter 3: Order of Suleiman: The Majlis al-Suleiman).

The Dar al-Hikma

More Solomonic sahirs live in Baghdad than anywhere else in the world — easily a thousand of them. The city is home to no less than eight buyut al-hikma, including the great academy that sahirs call Dar al- Hikma, which was originally established from the Magic Realm and to summon this period has left its mark on the city. by the First Council in Baghdad, north of multiple spirits at once. For this reason, Scattered across Baghdad are numerous the palace and halfway between the Bab al- she was chosen by the other sahirs to lead places where it is possible to cross into a Sham and the Bab al-Khurasan. This large the bayt, despite her relative youth and the Faerie version of the city. Here the roofs building currently houses nearly a hundred fact that she has The Gift. She will prob- are covered with gold, the streets are young and old sahirs living and studying ably become Asala of the Ashab al-Qalb paved with marble and the tales of the together, and is overseen by Niya al-Wa- once her predecessor dies. She is said to Arabian Nights are re-enacted, with or with- ziriyya al-Jabr Satefa al-Inshai al-Qasri al- believe that the Suhhar has stagnated, out the participation of visitors. Here it is Qalb. It is known to have an exceptional and that Gifted sahirs (in both senses) are possible to receive a visit at night from the astrological observatory, with perhaps the its best hope to avoid extinction. This is caliph Harun al-Rashid, his vizier Ja’far the finest astrolabe ever constructed to date, a controversial position, as less than ten Barmakid, and his executioner, Masrur the and the architecture is as grand as that of percent of the Suhhar have The Gift and eunuch, who frequently venture out in dis- the Bab al-Dhahab Palace and Mosque. Gifted sahirs are not generally admired. guise to observe the behavior of the city’s The Dar al-Hikma typically chooses inhabitants, rewarding the good and pun- its leader, and thus the representative ishing the bad. Here one might find one- for Majlis, based on the achievements of Golden Baghdad self eavesdropping on Sinbad the Sailor as those who attend the academy. Niya has he recounts his adventures to Sinbad the discovered a unique method of combin- As noted previously, Baghdad enjoyed Porter. One might even travel beyond the ing her Solomonic arts, yielding two spells its time of greatest prosperity during the walls of the city, going fishing with Judar that allow her to summon a spirit directly reign of the caliph Harun al-Rashid, and the fisherman, seeking the ring of Solo-

125 The Cradle & The Crescent

is still much admired for its mosque, near Story Seeds for Al-Mada’in and Dayr al-Aqual which is the tomb of Salman the Persian, an important companion of the Prophet. The Ruined Palace the spread of the Dominion near their Al-Mada’in is also the site of the ancient fortress, so they have a motive. In ad- ruins of Ctesiphon, the Persian imperial The imperial palace at Ctesiphon is dition, if any of the sahirs have sum- capital, and the ruins of the imperial pal- remarkable for the vaulted arch over the moned spirits that are stronger than ace still remain as witnesses to the passing remains of what used to be the Persian they can control, these may be trying of Sassanid power. emperor’s throne room, which is over to make trouble for their summoners. 110 feet tall at its highest point. This is Alternatively, the culprit may be at of great interest to practitioners of the Dayr Hizqil. Perhaps the monks there The Christian Mystery of Hermetic Architecture (The would like to claim the income from Mysteries, pages 97–101). If a charac- the toll levied on the Tigris traffic, in Monasteries ter seeks membership in such a cult, he which case they may, with supernatu- might be asked to investigate the site ral aid, be trying to cause trouble for Downriver from al-Mada’in are three as part of his Initiation. Otherwise, the either or both of the other monaster- Nestorian Christian monasteries (adyar characters might be asked to accompany ies. Or perhaps one of the inmates is to (ad-YAHR), sing. dayr) that are unknow- a cult member to Ctesiphon on some blame. Unbeknownst to the monks of ingly interconnected. They each have pretext. Investigating the site presents its Dayr Hizqil, the sahirs of Dayr Qunna their own unique features and are de- own challenges though, as the people are recently dropped off at the madhouse scribed as follows. likely to be suspicious of foreign strangers one of their own who had summoned poking around in the ruins of the palace. forces greater than he could control, which blasted his mind and destroyed Dayr al-’Aqul his sanity; perhaps he has now attained The Enemies of Dayr al-’Aqul enough coherence to seek revenge. Or Located on the banks of the Tigris, the maybe an enemy sorcerer is hiding at monastery of Dayr al-’Aqul is surrounded Who is diverting the Tigris River? Dayr Hizqil, merely feigning insanity by a fairly large town of the same name, The characters get involved when they to allow him to direct magical attacks which includes a major mosque. Here the are caught in a sudden change of direc- on Dayr al-’Aqul and Dayr Qunna. Fi- monks levy a toll from river traffic, which tion of the river, and are rescued by the nally, perhaps a demon or faerie is the they share with the townsfolk, making it monks of Dayr al-’Aqul. The sahirs of one making trouble, thriving off the re- a major source of income for the town as Dayr Qunna may be keen to restrict actions of the mortals involved. a whole. However, recently the monks have noticed that rapid changes are taking mon with Bulukiyya, or helping Hasan, of the Suhhar Sulayman have attempted to place in the river’s banks, with the result the goldsmith of Basra, to obtain the love map the entrances to Golden Baghdad, but that the river is gradually drawing away of a jinn maiden. It is also possible to take entrances behave differently for different to the west, which means that they may the role of one of these characters, experi- people, and most appear, disappear, and soon be cut off from the source of their encing their adventures firsthand. change, seemingly at random, with the re- livelihood. All attempts to prevent these The entrances to Golden Baghdad may sult that only a small number of relatively changes have failed, and both the monks take any form, from a simple mundane stable entrances have been identified with and the townsfolk suspect that some su- doorway that happens to lead there, to an any certainty. Members of the Suhhar also pernatural force may be involved. They invisible gate that can only be perceived debate whether supernatural creatures have been unable thus far to identify their by those with Second Sight, Faerie Sight, found in mundane Baghdad are native to enemy, but some suspect that the monks or similar magic or powers. It is entirely the mundane world, or are visitors from of the monastery of Dayr Qunna may in possible to stray through such entrances Golden Baghdad who have strayed the fact be foul sorcerers seeking the destruc- into the Faerie Realm (Realms of Power: Fa- other way through such portals. tion of Dayr al-’Aqul. erie, page 20) without initially being aware that one has done so, especially in cases where the Guardian actually forms part Al-Mada’in Dayr Qunna of the Threshold. Indeed, straying into Golden Baghdad by accident is a common A mile to the east lies the monastery of enough hazard that it is an acceptable Al-Mada’in is a small but densely-pop- Dayr Qunna, which is a large building with excuse for absence among the people of ulated town to the southeast of Baghdad. walls that are so strong and high that the the mundane version of the city, and most In the seventh and eighth centuries it was monastery resembles a fortress. This is per- people in mundane Baghdad have visited a much larger complex of seven towns, but haps not entirely surprising, as the building Golden Baghdad at least once. Members over the years it has gradually declined. It is not actually a monastery but a bayt al-

126 The Cradle & The Crescent

hikma inhabited by members of the Suhhar Sulayman and their followers, posted here The Epic of Gilgamesh to keep an eye on the caliphs and posing as Nestorian monks in the meantime. Of him who found out all things, I wandering in the wilderness. He makes shall tell the land, it as far as the gate through the moun- Of him who experienced every- tains that guard the sunrise, where he is Dayr Hizqil thing, I shall teach the whole. permitted to pass by the humanoid scor- He searched lands everywhere. pions that guard it. Beyond, he meets 20 miles south of Dayr al-’Aqul is the He who experienced the whole Siduri the alewife, who advises him to town of al-Nu’maniyya, within which is gained complete wisdom. go home and make the most of this life, the monastery of Dayr Hizqil. Here the He found out what was secret and since the afterlife is nothing to look monks maintain a madhouse, caring for uncovered what was hidden. forward to. Gilgamesh is undeterred, those who have been afflicted with in- He brought back a tale of times and he obtains directions from Siduri sanity. To work in such a place requires a before the Flood. to the abode of Utnapishtim, a mortal strong mental and physical constitution, He had journeyed far and wide, king who was made immortal by the and the monks are mostly down-to-earth, weary and at last resigned, gods after he survived the great flood. brawny types who are well-capable of He engraved all toils on a memorial Gilgamesh fails to obtain immortality manhandling their charges if need be. monument of stone. from Utnapishtim, and is instead forced He had the wall of Uruk built, the to return to Uruk with only the wisdom sheepfold that he has gained on his journey. This Of holiest Eanna, the pure treasury. is sufficient to make him a good king. The Ruins of Babylon — The Epic of Gilgamesh, Characters who take on the role of Tablet 1 Enkidu in this story, then, are doomed “And you, Belshazzar his son, have to die. This is something that may be not humbled your heart, even though you The ancient Mesopotamian Epic of known to some of the players, even knew all this! You have exalted yourself Gilgamesh attained its final form in the though it is highly unlikely that any of against the Lord of heaven! The vessels eighth or seventh century BC, though it the characters will know it. Any player of his temple have been brought in before owes its origins to a variety of much old- who, despite knowing the fate that lies you, and you and your lords, your wives er stories about the mythological king of in store, still has her character adopt En- and your concubines have been drinking the city of Uruk, who may be based on a kidu’s role and allows the character to be wine from them. You have praised the real person who ruled two millennia ear- killed not only achieves an Unmitigated gods of silver and gold, of bronze, iron, lier. It tells the tale of King Gilgamesh Success in re-enacting the story, but wood, and stone, which do not see or hear and his friend Enkidu, who adventure should also receive an extra Confidence or know; but the God in whose power is together until they are cruelly torn apart Point as a reward for bravery at the end your very breath, and to whom belong all by the vengeance of the gods. There of the session. your ways, you have not honored.” […] are actually three known major variants Ancient Mesopotamians did not be- That very night Belshazzar, the Chaldean of the tale; the following is a very brief lieve that death meant the complete end king, was killed. summary of the most popular version. of existence, but rather that the human — The Bible, Daniel King Gilgamesh of Uruk is an un- soul was transported to a dry, dusty un- 5: 22–23 and 30 popular ruler, and the gods send him derworld where the dead led a miserable, Enkidu, a wild man, to distract him. En- dreary existence: essentially a place de- The city of Babylon, in southern Iraq, kidu is tamed by Shamhat the temple void of vitality. To faeries, the deserted has been the site of many dramatic events prostitute, and after a wrestling match in Temple of Uruk, abandoned by humans, of history. It witnessed the chaining of which neither wins, Gilgamesh and En- is a symbol of such a place, and any Harut and Marut, the angels who taught kidu become close friends. Seeking fame character who has died as Enkidu thus magic to humans and now hang bound and honor, the pair go to the Pine Forest finds himself sent through the Guardian beneath the ruined city; the building of to slay the monster Humbaba. Upon re- portal back to the temple, alive and hav- the Tower of Babel; the exile of the Jews; turn to Uruk, the goddess Ishtar tries to ing gained whatever he sought. the construction of the Hanging Gardens seduce Gilgamesh, but he rejects her. In Storyguides may wish to draw out by Nebuchadnezzar; and the subsequent a rage, she brings the destructive bull of the suspense by having any compan- destruction of the city and Belshazzar’s heaven to attack Gilgamesh and Enkidu, ions of the dead character complete the kingdom by the Persians. As such, it is but they slay it and insult Ishtar. The remaining story of Gilgamesh’s travels a site of great potential interest to ex- gods decide that the pair have gone too before they also are returned to the plorers. More details on Babylon and its far and strike Enkidu with a fatal illness. temple, where they will find their ap- mysteries may be found in Ancient Magic, The distraught Gilgamesh takes to parently deceased comrade alive. pages 12–15.

127 The Cradle & The Crescent The Great Swamp goddess Ishtar. Local people stay clear of The Whirlpool at Ubulla the site, since some of those who visited it have never returned. The temple has South of Babylon lies the Great a Faerie aura of 2. In addition, explor- On the north side of a canal leading into Swamp, a marshy area that stretches be- ers who break through a rubble-strewn the Shatt al-’Arab lies the town of Ubulla, tween the two rivers until they join further doorway (actually a Faerie Guardian) a busy settlement with palaces, mosques south. Despite a noxious atmosphere and find themselves inadvertently passing and markets. However, in the late eighth frequent plagues of insects, the swamp is through an entrance to the Faerie Realm century the town was plagued by a vicious dotted with villages and towns inhabited of Elysium. The Threshold Strength here jinni, who took the form of a whirlpool in by determined souls who have managed to is 33, but those who visit the temple and the Shatt al-’Arab and wrecked any ships drain small patches of land and grow crops cross the doorway automatically accu- that came within its reach, thus blocking on them. Navigation through the swamp mulate the requisite number of Thresh- the trade route between Baghdad and the is primarily achieved using shallow-drafted old Points (major border (12) + trod Persian Gulf . The jinni was only defeated boats. The inhabitants of these swamps (the doorway, aura 5) + any temporal through the cleverness of Zubayda bint are pagan followers of the old religion, al- thresholds + any personal thresholds + Ja’far, the wife of Harun al-Rashid. She dis- though in the absence of a formal priest- any shortfall made up by the Guardian’s covered through her studies that the jinni hood they have but fragments of their faith Spirit Away Faerie Power). See Realms of in question was vulnerable to stone, so she left to them. One tale they do know, and Power: Faerie, pages 18–21. had a large number of ships loaded with have faithfully recited for generations, is Upon entering the Faerie Realm, stones, floated to the whirlpool, and then the Epic of Gilgamesh (see previous page). characters encounter Gilgamesh, who sunk, filling the jinni’s maw and burying it seeks to make one or all of them iden- in the riverbed, thus calming the waters tify with Enkidu, taking on his role in this and enabling ships to travel the Shatt al- The Ruins of Uruk tale; this sets them on the Path of Des- ’Arab once more. tiny (see Realms of Power: Faerie, page 33). If In the center of the Great Swamp rise they agree, Gilgamesh sends the charac- the ruins of a mighty stepped ziggurat, ters out into the wilds, there to await the Basra all that remains of a great temple to the arrival of Shamhat.

Located on two canals leading into the Shatt al-’Arab, Basra is an important city in southern Iraq. It contains numerous shrines and mosques, the best known of which is the mosque built by ‘Ali ibn Abi Talib, which has a minaret that shakes or remains still depending on whether an oath sworn before it is true or false. This is a miraculous effect, and cannot be fooled or resisted. Bas- ra is also well-known for its library, which reputedly contains over 15,000 books.

Kutha

Within the town of Kutha stands an immense tower of solidified ashes, all that remains of a furnace built by the ancient tyrant King Nimrod, the builder who also built the Tower of Babel. Nimrod attempted to kill Abraham by hurling him into this furnace, despite the fact that Abraham was the son of his vizier Terah, but God commanded the flames to be cool, and Abra- ham walked out unharmed. Meanwhile, the furnace itself was consumed by the flames, and only the Tower of Ashes remains.

128 The Cradle & The Crescent Karbala’ Story Seeds for the Great Swamp

Karbala’ is a site associated with a The Whirlpool at Ubulla They cried: Burn him and stand by traumatic event in Muslim history, hav- your gods, if ye will be doing. ing witnessed the violent end to one of The jinni at Ubulla is imprisoned on We said: O fire, be coolness and the first Shi’i revolts against the Umayyad the riverbed, but not slain. The char- peace for Abraham, dynasty. In 680 al-Husayn, the son of ‘Ali acters get word of a group of sorcerers And they wished to set a snare for him, ibn Abi Talib and grandson of the Prophet, who are planning to free the creature but We made them the greater losers. sought to advance his claim to the caliph- and use it as a weapon with which to And We rescued him and Lot (and ate after the death of the caliph Mu’awiya. impose their will on the caliph. Should brought them) to the land which We have blessed for (all) peoples. However, he and his followers were inter- they try to prevent this directly, or — The Qur’an 21: 66–71 cepted and slain at Karbala’ in the desert should they try to warn the caliph, all the time knowing that the sorcerers by Umayyad troops. This event sent an back in Ubulla are gradually getting The furnace was originally dedicat- emotional shockwave through the Mus- closer to achieving their goal? ed to the powers of Hell, and was home lim world; this was, after all, the Prophet’s to a fiery demon. However, direct inter- grandson. The event is still remembered vention from God on Abraham’s behalf with regret by all Muslims and particularly The Thief of Basra made it into a holy object and trapped mourned by Shi’is, who hold ceremonies the demon inside to quell the flames. commemorating the event on the day of The characters catch someone steal- Now, a cabal of corrupted individuals ‘Ashura’ ((‘ah-shoo-REH’), “the Tenth”), ing books on arcane lore from the li- seek to light the fires of Nimrod’s Fur- the 10th day of the Muslim month of Mu- brary at Basra. The thief is taken to the nace once more, a feat that can only be harram (mu-HAR-ram). minaret, and there his guilt is confirmed achieved by weakening of the faith of Karbala’ is now home to a small town, and he is sentenced to have his hand cut Kutha’s inhabitants, followed by profan- at the center of which is the tomb where off. However, before the punishment is ing the testament to Abraham’s miracle al-Husayn’s body is interred (his head is carried out, the thief tells the characters by burning holy men to death within it. in Cairo), which is a major place of pil- that he was only conducting the theft at the command of a sorcerer who is hold- grimage for Shi’is. It takes the form of a ing his family hostage. He begs them he cholars of illa domed shrine surrounded by a garden T S H to gain proof of this so that his crime pool. The gateway of the shrine itself is will be pardoned, as well as to rescue his The characters are contacted by a made of silver, while inside the tomb is family and keep them from harm. If the powerful but physically disabled Shi’i lit by golden and silver lamps. The other characters agree to help, the local chief sahirs, who asks them to travel to Hilla doorways in the shrine are closed off by qadi ((QAW-dee), “judge”) gives them a on his behalf and seek the wisdom of curtains of silk. Pilgrims coming to the week to obtain the proof required. a scholar named Muhammad ibn Mu- tomb kiss the silver gateway before en- Of course, it may be that the thief is hammad, who makes his home there, tering to pray. The tomb has a Domin- in fact lying, and there is no sorcerer or providing the characters with a list of ion aura of 8, and visitors may attempt family, in which case the characters re- questions that they must ask him. How- to invoke baraka from al-Husayn’s tomb turn from their wild goose chase only to ever, it quickly becomes clear that there in the form of any of the following Saint discover that the thief has escaped and are three scholars with this name in the Powers: Apparition, Acknowledgement of Evil, they are now responsible for tracking him town, all of whom have wildly varying Expel Demons, Resist Temptation, Grant of Se- down again. This may be a tricky task if responses to the questions, and also renity, Straighten the Crippled, The Faithful the thief also has supernatural powers. that relations between these scholars Made Whole, Celestial Immunity, Mass Heal- are intensely hostile due to their theo- ing, Humility of Caesar, Terrify the Unbeliever. logical differences. The characters will imrod s urnace Al-Husayn has a Divine Might of 75. See N ’ F have to spend a considerable amount of time, and no small amount of tact and Realms of Power: The Divine, pages 87–89 [Abraham] said: Worship ye then in- diplomatic energy, to gather all three and 105, for further details. stead of Allah that which cannot profit scholars’ answers without upsetting any you at all, nor harm you? of them (by clearly associating with ei- Fie on you and all that ye worship in- ther of his rivals) and causing them to Hilla stead of Allah! Have ye then no sense? become uncooperative.

The city of Hilla occupies both sides held fast by great iron chains. Hilla con- awaiting his return. Indeed, Hilla is a of the Euphrates River, though its greater tains a shrine where it is said that the center of Twelver Shi’i scholarship, with part is found on the western bank. The twelfth imam will reappear at the end of many religious scholars making their two sides are joined by a bridge of boats time, so many Twelver Shi’is live here, homes in the city.

129 The Cradle & The Crescent Ighraq al-Siq

Ighraq al-Siq (“the drowning flood of jor Flaw: Blatant Magical Air, Limited Creo Aquam or Rego Aquam spell the gorge”) is an ancient pagan spirit of Movement, Major Flaw: Restriction less than or equal to 40th level at the the Tigris, now confined to a gorge on (confined to the Majnun canyon on cost of 1 Might point per magnitude the lower or Lesser Zab, a tributary of the Lesser Zab); Minor Flaw: Baneful of the effect. Ighraq al-Siq can use the Tigris (also called Majnun, “the mad Circumstances (not touching water), the Water-way Range (equivalent river”) from its impetuous currents. Once Minor Flaw: Restricted Power (only to Sight) and Body-of-water tar- able to range freely along the length of use Drown in Floodwave form), Mi- get (equivalent to Structure) when the river, he is currently confined to a spe- nor Flaw: Restricted Power (only use invoking this power, being able to cific stretch in the lower reaches known Grant Wilding to individuals with target anyone or anything on or in as the Siq al-Majnun, or sometimes just existing score in Water Lore), Minor his part of the river or affecting the “the Jinni’s Gorge”. He is responsible for Flaw: Slow Power (Transform into Zab as a whole (see Realms of Power: the paroxysmal Spring flooding through Floodwave), Minor Flaw: Slow Pow- Magic, page 43). this narrow canyon. This immediate can- er (Donning the Corporeal Veil). CrAq 40 or ReAq 40: Focus Power (3 mas- yon area has a Magic Aura of 6. Personality Traits: Wrathful +5, Proud tery points to increase level by 15). +3, Fickle +2, Flood +3* (Essential Drown, 0 points, Init –2, Aquam: In Trait) Floodwave form only, Ighraq al- Ighraq al-Siq Reputation: Mad river 4 (local) Siq can engulf a target whose Size Combat: is smaller than his own after a suc- Magic Might: 40 Bludgeon*: (in floodwave form) Init -3, At- cessful melee attack in an attempt Characteristics: Int +1, Per +2, Pre tack +8, Defense +2, Damage +11 to drown it, necessitating a roll to +2, Com 0, Str +9, Sta +2, Dex +1, Lance: Init 0, Attack +8, Defense +2, avoid deprivation (ArM5, pages Qik –3 Damage +16 180–181). The victim can attempt Size: +5 Soak: +6 to escape from his clutches each Confidence Score: 1 (3) Wound Penalties: –1 (1–7), –3 (8–14), round using the Grappling rules Virtues and Flaws: Magic Spirit, Jinni; –5 (15–21), Incapacitated (22–28), (ArM5, page 174). (30 levels, 3 Magical Monster; Ways of the River; Dead (29+) Intricacy points spent on reduced Improved Characteristics x2, Large, Abilities: Arabic 2 (water), Aramaic 5 Might, 1 point on Initiative) Second Sight, Water Lore; Wrathful (water),Area Lore: Tigris 5 (floods), Donning the Corporeal Veil, 2 points, Init +1 (Major); Infamous (the mad river), Area Lore: Zab 6 (history), Brawl 6 (affected by the Slow Power Flaw, Poor Memory. (bludgeon), Great Weapon 3 (lance), takes an additional round of prepara- Qualities and Inferiorities: Focus Power Penetration 4 (wards), Second Sight tion to activate), Corpus; 35 levels: (Crafter of Water), Greater Powers 4 (jinn), Swim 6 (leaping out of the Ighraq al-Siq can form the humanoid x5 (Drown, Presence, Transform into water), Theology: Islam 2 (jinn), body described under Appearance to Floodwave), Lesser Powers (Don- Water Lore 6 (rivers). house his spiritual form; when doing ning the Corporeal Veil, Presence), Powers: so he acquires the physical charac- Ritual Power x3 (Grant Water Lore, Crafter of Water, 1–8 points, Init 0, teristics, size, combat statistics, and Grant Wilding); Huge x3, Improved Aquam: Duplicates any non-Ritual Wound levels listed earlier. His arms Might x 5, Improved Powers x5; Ma-

Najaf supporters kept the location of his grave over the years, and it is now an ornate secret, fearing that the Umayyads might structure that forms the focal point of The city of Najaf is of immense desecrate the site if they found it. How- the city and sees visits from thousands of importance to Shi’is, as it contains the ever, in 791 the ‘Abbasid caliph Harun pilgrims every year. Najaf is also home tomb of ‘Ali ibn Abi Talib. As described al-Rashid was hunting nearby, and he to an immense graveyard, where several earlier, ‘Ali was killed in 661, an event chased a deer into a thicket and then prophets and numerous important Shi’i which took place in Kufa. As he died, discovered that neither his horse nor his nobles are buried. There are also several he instructed that his body should be hounds could enter the spot. He made madrasas, mosques, and other religious put on a camel, which should be turned his servants dig in the thicket, and when institutions here. loose, then followed; where the camel they discovered the corpse of ‘Ali he or- The shrine of ‘Ali takes the form of knelt was where he should be buried. dered a tomb to be built on the spot. This a gold-domed structure, on each side of This was done, and for a long time his tomb has been refurbished and expanded which is a monumental portal with a sil-

130 The Cradle & The Crescent Ighraq al-Siq (cont’d)

and amor are also created with this takes an additional round of prepara- placed at the entrances to the ruins of power. He cannot become fatigued. tion to activate), Aquam: Ighraq al- some lost cities. The process may be This body lasts until he decides he Siq can transform into a floodwave, similar to the Goetic Art of Binding, no longer needs it. Killing the body seemingly drawing on the water of but an unknown effect triggered by does not kill Ighraq al-Siq. the stream to appear as an elemental. intrusion into the Majnun canyon area Grant Water Lore, 5 points, Qik –13, Vim: (45 levels) releases Ighraq al-Siq from his impris- Ighraq can grant the Minor Mystery Vis: 2 pawns of Aquam vis can be col- onment and compels him to drive off Virtue Water Lore to an individual lected every year from his haunt, in intruders. While trapped within the either temporarily or permanently. the form of clear rainwater that col- block, Ighraq al-Siq is essentially unable Characters granted this Virtue could lects within a niche carved into the to affect his surroundings in any way improve it further through Adven- stone block that imprisons him. If and cannot be detected by magic, as he ture, Exposure or Experience like slain in a physical form or dispersed becomes part of the native stone. The any other Nature Lore (see Houses in elemental, his body yields 8 pawns stone block is granted the jinni’s Magic of Hermes: Mystery Cults, pages 103– of Aquam vis within perfectly smooth Resistance, but can still be eroded and 104). The Source Quality of Ighraq’s stones of varied hue. broken by the elements and other non- canyon is normally 4 but magi able Appearance: Ighraq al-Siq appears as a magical attacks. to persuade the malevolent jinni thin giant with blue-green complex- Over time, the area immediately sur- to teach them can use the normal ion and straggly green-black hair rounding the block has become a fixed Teaching rules as an exception to the like water weeds. He carries a large Arcane Connection to the spirit, provid- usual rule — in this case Ighraq’s ef- spear and is clad in a vest of water- ing a +1 bonus to the Penetration multi- fective Source Quality is 9. smoothed stones. Once manifested, plier and replacing his original physical Grant Wilding, 10 points, Qik –23, Vim: this humanoid form can disperse locus. A character who actually stands Ighraq can grant the Major Mys- into his preferred elemental form, a barefoot on top or touches the prison tery Virtue Wilding to an individual floodwave carrying a hail of stones block is considered to have a stronger with an existing Water Lore score that can travel upriver or downriver Arcane Connection to Ighraq al-Siq, either temporarily or permanently along a watercourse as a marauding gaining a +3 Penetration multiplier bo- (see Houses of Hermes: Mystery Cults, torrent. The effect of a Deluge of Rush- nus, and also gains the benefit of the en- pages 105–106). ing and Dashing when invoked within trapped spirit’s Magic Resistance. A sahir, Presence, 0 points, constant, Mentem: the narrow confines of the gorge is summoner, or Hermetic magus can use Once released, Ighraq al-Siq is aware particularly devastating. his magic to attempt to command Ighraq of everything that goes on within his al-Siq using scouring (Realms of Power: haunt. This power needs to Penetrate the Infernal, page 117) or Sihr by stand- to perceive beings with a Magic Re- Story Seed: Jinni Blocks ing within the vicinity of the Jinni Block sistance. (35 levels, 3 Mastery points even if he is unaware of his presence. A spent on reduced Might) Since ancient times the spirit Ighraq failed attempt at controlling him, how- al-Siq has been trapped inside a Jinni Transform into Floodwave, 4 points Init –4 ever, will trigger his release and invoke (affected by the Slow Power Flaw, Block — a type of unusual tower tomb his displeasure.

ver doorstep. It is richly decorated with Celestial Immunity, Cure Blindness, Expel De- Kufa glazed tiles, thick carpets and gold and mons, Grant of Serenity, Mass Healing, Resist silver lamps. The doorways are covered Temptation, Straighten the Crippled, The Faith- About seven miles northeast of Najaf with silk curtains, and silk hangings also ful Made Whole, Humility of Caesar, Rebuke lies the city of Kufa. This used to be a adorn the walls inside the structure. The the Unfaithful, and Terrify the Unbeliever. vibrant settlement, but recently it has de- actual tomb itself is surrounded by a rail- The shrine is particularly well known for clined and much of the city is in ruins; al- ing made of engraved gold plates held healing miracles, so attempts to invoke though in the eastern part of the town the together with silver nails. The Domin- Saint Powers of this type enjoy a +1 bo- Great Mosque of Kufa remains in good ion aura in the shrine has a score of 8, nus. ‘Ali has a Divine Might of 75. See condition. This is the mosque where ‘Ali and visitors may pray for baraka from Realms of Power: The Divine, pages 87–89, was mortally wounded by his killer, and ‘Ali to invoke any of the following Saint for more. the site of the attack is marked by a mi- Powers: Acknowledgment of Evil, Apparition, hrab that has been built on the spot. Kufa

131 The Cradle & The Crescent continues to be visited by Shi’i pilgrims, tains numerous important religious sites, usually on the way to or from Najaf. Mosul including mosques housing the tombs of Jonah and St. George (who is also a proph- Mosul lies on the east bank of the Ti- et in Islam), a healing spring, a squash tree gris, opposite the remains of the ancient planted by the Prophet himself, and several city of Nineveh. Since 1128 the city has madrasas and Christian monasteries. The The Jazira been held by members of the Zangid population here consists of a mixture of (ZANG-gid) family, whose progeni- Muslims, Christians and Yazidis (on the last, To the north of Iraq lies the Jazira. Like tor, ‘Imad al-Din Zangi (d. 1146) is best see Realms of Power: The Infernal, page 136). Iraq, this is mostly a fertile area where ag- known for having taken Edessa from the Mosul is particularly well known for its riculture flourishes. Much of the region is crusaders in 1144. Currently Mosul is ef- textiles. Indeed, it is from the name of the ruled by the Ayyubids, who currently spend fectively ruled by a Mamluk regent, Badr city that the word “muslin” is derived. much of their time intriguing against each al-Din Lu’Lu’, ruling on the behalf of the other, with the result that those cities that emir al-Qahir Mahmud and acknowledg- are not ruled directly by them are able to ing Ayyubid overlordship. Barqa’id assert their independence, only acknowl- Mosul is defended by a double wall, a edging their authority in name. Most of strong citadel and, on the east side, the Ti- the rulers here, including the Ayyubids, gris itself. Outside the walls are suburbs and The city of Barqa’id is avoided by acknowledge the ultimate authority of the fertile gardens, while a wide north-south travelers, for it is populated almost en- caliph, although again this has little real road runs through the city itself. Many of tirely by thieves who rob unwitting impact on them. the houses are built of marble. Mosul con- visitors and prey on caravans passing it

Story Seeds for Kufa and the Jazira

The House of Ibn Muljam Tensions in Mosul Against the City of Thieves

As indicated in Chapter 2, ‘Ali was The people of Mosul follow a righ- The characters are victims of a raid killed by a political opponent with a poi- teous path, doing pious works. You will conducted by the people of Barqa’id, and soned sword. His killer, named ‘Abd al- meet none of them but has a cheerful their victory over the thieves is witnessed Rahman ibn Muljam, was subsequently countenance and a soft word. They are by the inhabitants of a local village, who executed. However, his sword was taken generous to strangers, receiving them offer them succor. When they arrive at away by associates and buried in a house kindly, and using justness in all their the village they find themselves welcomed where he secretly stayed while he was in dealings with them. like heroes, and it quickly becomes evi- Kufa, in which it has subsequently spread — Muhammad ibn Jubayr dent that the people are expecting them an Infernal taint while also becoming an (d. 1217), Travels to destroy Barqa’id and rid them of their object binding ‘Abd al-Rahman’s ghost oppressors. How will the characters re- to the site. Since then the house has The characters are contacted by a spond to these expectations? changed hands many times; because of magus or sahir who recently traveled to the uncomfortable feeling there, and the Mosul. The wizard in question, having many household accidents that occur, it read the travelogue of Ibn Jubayr, de- The Battle for Nasibin has been labeled as cursed, although the cided to investigate and see if the leg- locals do not know why. The house fi- endary kindness of the people of the Nasibin is actually the site of an in- nally passes into the hands of a friend of city had a supernatural cause. However, visible battle for souls between an angel the characters who has enough insight to his magical experiments in the city have and a demon, of which the outward man- realize that there are supernatural forces gone awry, and he has inadvertently set ifestations are the roses and the scorpi- at work, and he contacts them to ask for the people against each other, so that ons. So far, the battle between the two their help in discovering and removing civil war is brewing. The wizard has has reached only a stalemate, but either the cause of the troubles. However, by the Blatant Gift, impeding his ability party might decide to try and enlist the the time the characters reach Kufa the to defuse the tension, so he asks the aid of the characters. If the characters are spirit has become strong enough to pos- characters to come and act as mediators taken in by the appeals of the demon, ei- sess their friend. Can they remove the between the hostile factions while also ther succumbing to promises of rewards taint and defeat the ghost without harm- helping him to cancel the effects of his or mistaking the disguised demon for an ing him? magical meddling. angel, they may unwittingly find themselves aiding the cause of Hell.

132 The Cradle & The Crescent

on the road to Nasibin. As a result of its ever-worsening reputation, and the Mount Judi and Mount Ararat consequent reduction in the number of travelers passing near it, its inhabitants And it was said: O earth! Swallow thy in Armenia, something that accords have become ever bolder in their atroci- water and, O sky! Be cleared of clouds! with Christian and Jewish belief, but ties, attacking other nearby towns and And the water was made to subside. And contradicts Islamic belief. In fact, villages, to the point that their victims the commandment was fulfilled. And (the both groups are right in a sense: the have appealed to the rulers of Mosul and ship) came to rest upon al-Judi and it was remains of the ark are in a regio that Nasibin for help; however, each ruler has said: A far removal for wrongdoing folk! may be reached from either mountain. refused, claiming that it is the other’s — The Qur’an 11: 44 On Mount Judi it is possible to enter responsibility and leaving the people to the resting place of the ark from the fend for themselves. And in the seventh month, on the mosque; characters have merely to seventeenth day of the month, the ark walk through the mihrab, even though came to rest on the mountains of Ararat. it appears to be made of solid marble, — The Bible, Genesis 8: 4 in order to be transported there. For Nasibin more on Mount Ararat and the resting According to the Bible, Noah’s place of Noah’s ark see Ancient Magic, An important center of Nestorian ark came to rest upon Mount Ararat pages 70–73. Christian scholarship and the seat of a bishop, the city of Nasibin is home to a mixed population of Christians and Mus- ture occurred just before the end of sum- lims. It is famous for its gardens, said to mer, and astrologers have calculated that Mount Judi be 40,000 in number and blessed with un- at about that time all seven planets were usually large and fragrant white roses, but in the sign of Libra, a rare event that in- Mount Judi is believed by the Mus- also for its scorpions, which deliver a par- dicates powerful celestial influence in acts lims to be the final resting place of the ticularly venomous sting and fill the city in of subtlety, independence, and the assis- Ark of Noah. The mountain is topped by great numbers. tance of others. a mosque marking the spot, and at its foot Neither the Asala nor the vizier who lies the city of Thamanin (“eighty”), said once led the House of the Heavens have to have been founded by eighty of Noah’s The Astrologers of Nasibin been heard from since, and so have never companions, whose inhabitants claim de- explained this strange direction the great scent from this illustrious group. For most of the history of the Suhhar house suddenly took, but there are now Sulayman, Nasibin was home to a great many groups of sahirs who tell different bayt al-hikma known as the House of stories and give different reasons. The Amid the Heavens, the seat of the great fam- predominant belief is that they scattered ily of Solomonic astrologers called the to better assist Salah al-Din in the Battle Ashab al-Najm. This was a series of five of Hattin and the recapture of Jerusalem The black basalt city of Amid has large buildings carved from white stone in 1187, though others say they acted to been massively fortified by its Turk- and placed around a central building that put a plan into place that would remove ish overlords with thick walls, multiple housed an observatory with an astrolabe, Rashid al-Din Sinan of the Syrian Nizaris watchtowers and iron gates. The central with a great procession of statues in the (see Chapter 8: Mythic Persia, The Nizari portion of the town includes a high hill courtyard between them fashioned to Isma’ili State). upon which is built the citadel. Outside represent each of the ancient Babylonian All of the remaining sahirs from Na- of this wall lie the suburbs of the city, figures associated with the planets and zo- sibin now travel in roving caravans across again enclosed by fortified wall. The city diacal constellations. the Mythic Middle East, each occasion- is home to several religious buildings, in- In the year 1186, however, a fascinat- ally stopping in one place or another cluding both a major Sunni mosque and a ing event occurred. It is said that soon when the stars seem right. Their mobile great Jacobite church, both of which are after the vizier representing Nasibin and laboratories are still more common in built of black basalt and iron and are re- the Asala al-Najm returned to the bayt Jazira than other regions, being closest to nowned for their beauty. from that year’s Majlis, they and all of where they came from. Meriq, the cur- The over-fortification of Amid is the the other sahirs of the city departed in rent Asala (see Chapter 8: Mythic Persia, result of repeated attacks on the city made a mass exodus. Some of them had made Savah) maintains that their family bayt is over the centuries by immense armies of arrangements and had their possessions still located in Nasibin, even though no Faerie creatures, wielding wood and stone ready to transport, while others simply one currently lives there, and supposes weapons and clad in an ancient and un- set down their work and left whatever that those who left must eventually re- known form of leather armor. The precise they were doing unfinished. This depar- turn there one day. reason for these attacks is unclear, though

133 The Cradle & The Crescent they always take place on the spring equi- on the opposite side of the Euphrates Harran nox. The people of the city have become from the city is the site of the Battle of fatalistically used to preparing for these Siffin, which was fought between ‘Ali ibn attacks on a regular basis. On the other Abi Talib and Mu’awiya ibn Abi Sufyan in Currently ruled by the Ayyubids, the hand, the shared foe has proved to be a 657. After several months of skirmishing, city of Harran has an ancient pedigree as factor that has led to extremely good rela- Mu’awiya asked his opponent for resolu- the dwelling place of Abraham, and later as tions between the Muslims and Christians tion of their dispute by arbitrators. ‘Ali the first center of the scholarly movement of the city. agreed, but some of his followers did not that began translating many works of Clas- and so abandoned him; Ibn Muljam, who sical scholarship into Arabic in the eighth slew ‘Ali, was an adherent of this dissent- century. About nine miles south of the city Raqqa and the ing group. is a shrine marking where Abraham and Sar- The supporters of ‘Ali who died in the ah dwelled. Harran is also famous as having Battlefield of Siffin battle are buried here, and it is possible been the center of a cult of monotheistic to see through the ground to their uncor- star-magicians known as the Sabians, who Once a residence of the caliph Harun rupted bodies from afar. However, when were first encountered by the Muslims in al-Rashid, Raqqa is enjoying something one comes to the places where they lie, the ninth century; they are said to have since of a resurgence under the Ayyubids. Its the bodies may no longer be seen. The died out, but some may still exist, posing as markets are flourishing, and it is famous battlefield is a place of holy pilgrimage Muslims to avoid harassment. Harran is also for its blue-glazed ceramics. Meanwhile, for Shi’is. home to a prominent cult dedicated to the Ashshur, patron god of the Assyrians.

Edessa

The city of Edessa has changed hands many times in its history, having been held variously by the Byzantines, the Muslims, and others. In 1098 it was taken by the crusaders, who made it the capital of one of their four states. However, as noted previously, on Christmas Eve 1144 it was conquered by Zangi, and it is currently under the control of the Ayyubid sultan of Aleppo, al-’Aziz (r. 1216–1236). The majority of the population are Christians of various churches, and its chief claim to fame used to be a Christian relic, the Holy Mandylion — a cloth bearing an image of Christ’s face that was sent by him to King Abgar of Edessa. However, this relic was given to the Byz- antine Emperor in exchange for prisoners by the Muslim rulers of Edessa in the tenth century, and then lost when the crusaders sacked Constantinople in 1204. What became of the relic remains unknown, but the people of Edessa hope it will be miraculously restored to them someday.

The Sanjah Bridge

Crossing the River Sanjah, a tributary of the Euphrates, is an exceptionally well-made bridge, consisting over a single

134 The Cradle & The Crescent More Story Seeds for the Jazira

The Death of Tenik other, unknown relatives in the region, away the population, leaving it an empty waiting to be found. This has even more site that they may excavate for ancient In ancient times there were two interesting implications if the character treasures of their tradition and in which chieftains named Tigran and Vasdes. Ti- in question is Gifted; perhaps there is they may resurrect their cult. This desire gran ruled a village on the site of Amid, a whole magical lineage to which she to reclaim the site may find sympathetic while Vasdes ruled another village near- is related. ears among the characters, since Her- by. One night, Tigran raided the village Alternatively, maybe the cause for metic magi often have mixed feelings of Vasdes and took the latter’s wife, Te- concern is a corpse that, from a distance, about similar mundane encroachment on nik, hostage. The following night, the resembles a still-living character or one magical sites. The magi may be tempted night of the spring equinox, Vasdes led of the characters’ associates. Is this a to aid the Sabians in their efforts, or his troops out to rescue his wife and warning of some sort, a premonition of they may seek to arrange some sort of take revenge on Tigran, but Tenik, who the future? compromise that allows them to practice wished to prevent further bloodshed, Of course, with both storylines the their magic while leaving the local popu- threw herself between the two warbands characters will need to find ways to ob- lace undisturbed. in an attempt to halt the fighting, meet- serve the corpse in question more close- ing an accidental death under her hus- ly, to ensure that they are not merely see- band’s already-swinging club. Horrified, ing a coincidental resemblance. This can The Holy Mandylion both men called a halt to the conflict and probably be achieved using magic either resolved their differences. to gain a closer view of the body or to The Image of Edessa (as the Holy The Faeries at Amid seek to re-enact mark the grave so that they may disinter Mandylion is called by the West) is now the conflict of Tigran and Vasdes, but the corpse. Of course, if they do the latin possession of Otto de la Roche, the they are unable to bring it to its final ter, they will have to ensure that they are crusader Duke of Athens, not only one resolution due to human ignorance of unobserved by people who might object of the most powerful mundanes in the the story. In the meantime, their army, to them disturbing the site. Theban Tribunal, but now virtually in- the Faerie manifestation of the warband vincible thanks to this powerful relic. For of Vasdes, has grown as Amid has grown, his persecution of the orthodox clergy, with the result that it continues to be a The Heat Is On the pope has recently excommunicated threat to the city. The characters learn de la Roche (see The Sundered Eagle, Chap- of the story from a Faerie that lives near- This is a town with no beauty about ter 5: Athens, and 9: Relics of Constan- by and realize that the conflict may be it. It has no shade to mitigate its fever- tinople). The characters are somehow brought to an end if someone takes the ish heat, and its climate follows from motivated to return the relic to Edessa; role of Tenik and falls under Vasdes’ axe. its name (harran, “hot”). Its water bears perhaps they are hired by an Armenian Yet how may this be achieved without no acquaintance with freshness, and nobleman (or magus), or else it is neces- someone having to die? its squares and outskirts never cease to sary to defeat a great evil that threatens burn from the heat of its midday sun. Edessa. No noontime place of rest will you find The Dead of Siffin there, and you will breathe no air that is not heavy. Thrown into the naked waste, The Missing Talisman The identity of one of the corpses it has been founded in the midst of the buried at Siffin causes concern for the wilderness and, without the brightness The characters are approached by characters. of a city, its shoulders have been stripped representatives of the villages around Perhaps the one of the bodies, from of the clothing of verdure. the Sanjah Bridge. The talisman has a distance, looks like an ancestor of a — Muhammad ibn Jubayr been stolen, and the bridge is starting character, in which case, why is the (d. 1217), Travels to crumble at a supernaturally fast rate. ancestor here among the dead? Did an The local villagers depend on the bridge ancestor of the character travel here Why is Harran so unusually hot? The to allow them to transport crops to mar- and become involved in the fighting characters discover that the growing heat ket. Can the characters track down the between ‘Ali and Mu’awiya? If the an- in the town is the work of remnants of thief? Even if they do, can they restore cestor was in the region for a significant the Sabian magi, who hope that by mak- the talisman’s magical effect before the amount of time the character may have ing the city inhospitable they may drive bridge collapses completely? arch over 200 paces long, made from huge working for a local ruler, who was aided of the bridge. No one knows exactly what blocks of dressed stone. This was con- by a talisman that he carried. The talisman its function is, nor what would happen if it structed in ancient times by a sorcerer is now implanted in an arch at the crown were to be removed.

135 The Cradle & The Crescent Lake Urmiya Playing an Arzanjani Brass-Smith

Arzanjani brass-smithshave a magi- ReTe 15 (base 4, +1 Touch, +1 Taking its name from the town on its cal talent that allows them to manipulate Conc, +1 for intricacy): Lesser Power western shore, Lake Urmiya is a startling brass by hand, enabling them to produce (15 levels, –2 Might cost) shade of blue and smooth as glass. At its exceptional pieces of work. This is rep- center is a small island inhabited by fish- resented by the Minor Supernatural Vir- A character may begin the game ermen, who catch the strange dog-headed tue Lesser Power (Realms of Power: Magic, with this Virtue, in which case she fish that inhabit the lake. In ancient times page 45), which is gained through guild should also take the Vow Flaw and a this island was home to a powerful sorcer- Initiation. The Initiation Script to gain score of 1 in Organization Lore: Arzan- er who conducted experiments on these this power always includes the Minor jani Brasscrafters’ Guild. She should also fish, but an explosion triggered by a failed Personality Flaw Vow (guild loyalty). consider taking Flaws that represent the experiment destroyed most of the tower, Mechanics for Initiation can be found in experiences of her Initiation. including its master, though catacombs The Mysteries Revised Edition, pages 8–16. remain beneath the ruins. The residue of Organization Lore: Arzanjani Brass- the sorcerer’s magical activities and the Smiths’ Guild may be used in place of Story Seed: natural beauty of the setting have left the (Mystery Cult) Lore in this instance. To Learn the Craft lake with a Magic aura of 2, rising to 3 on the island. A magus of House Verditius is Crafter of Brass intrigued to learn about the powers of Arzanjani brass-smiths and sends 1 Fatigue level, Init equal to (Qik the characters to find out more. He Maragha – 6), Terram particularly encourages one of the R: Touch, D: Conc, T: Ind characters (perhaps a filius) to learn The city of Maragha seems to enjoy A piece of brass touched by the user the Mystery, so that they may later the favor of some supernatural entity, for of this power becomes supple to the examine its similarities to aspects of it is surrounded by flourishing orchards touch, so that it can be reshaped into a Verditius Magic. However, in order to different form. This does not enable the achieve this the characters will have that produce a strange type of melon, smith to fuse pieces together, so she must to persuade the elders of the Arzanjani green-skinned with red flesh, that tastes still carefully cut out the basic shapes of BrassSmiths’ Guild to initiate one of like honey. In addition, the sky is always the objects to be made. However, it does them, including convincing them that clear here, so the city is favored by as- enable an imaginative smith to create their secret will not be shared with the tronomers who enjoy the opportunity to pieces of great intricacy and beauty. world at large. study the heavens without having to rely on good weather.

Arzanjan begs (A-ta-begz) of Azarbayjan, the current head of which is Muzaffar al-Din Uzbek (r. The bustling market town of Arzanjan 1210–1225), who rules from Tabriz. Uz- Gilan is mostly populated by Armenian Chris- bek’s rule lies lightly on his domain; much tians. It is famous for the quality of the of it is left in the hands of local governors, The province of Gilan is a relative various pieces of work produced by its and Uzbek himself both acknowledges the backwater in the Muslim world, not be- crafters, with pride of place going to its overlordship of the Khwarizm-Shah and ing particularly rich or famous. Most of it brass-smiths, who produce works of re- pays tribute to the king of Georgia. is mountainous and covered with jungle, markable beauty in shapes unattainable by The population of Azarbayjan is in- but the coastal plain is fertile, and the the brass-smiths of other towns. credibly diverse. Ethnically, it includes people who live here grow various crops Turkic peoples, Persians, and people from including rice and wheat. The local rul- the Caucasus, while its religious tapestry ers of Gilan pay tribute to the rulers of includes a broad mix of Muslims, Chris- Jibal, to the south, but are otherwise tians, Jews, Zoroastrians, and followers of broadly left alone to rule the province in- Azarbayjan other religions. As a result of its terrain, dependently. The emir of Gilan has been communities are very scattered and its ma- forced into a political alliance with the Azarbayjan is a mountainous province jor centers are little more than large towns. leader of the Nizari Isma’ili (see Chapter to the north of the Jazira. Both it and the The lingua franca of the region is a Turkic 8: Mythic Persia). province of Arran to the north are nomi- language, though most of the people also nally ruled by a dynasty known as the Ata- speak local dialects.

136 The Cradle & The Crescent Barvan Story Seeds for Azarbayjan and Gilan

Barvan is the major city of Gilan and is The Sorcerer’s Tower supernatural entity that up until now notable only for its bad reputation, being ensured its prosperity. The question is, said to have no good houses or markets. The secluded tower at Lake Urmi- what act by the populace has earned It also does not possess a major congrega- ya could be a good site for a new cov- the creature’s enmity, and how may it tional mosque, although a number of minor enant. Alternatively, it also provides be appeased? mosques do exist. The Dominion aura in the a great excuse for an old-fashioned city is unusually low, with a score of only 1. dungeon crawl, should the players feel nostalgic for the early days of roleplay- To Build a Mosque ing. In both cases, given that the sor- Some of the people of Barvan cerer clearly bred the hybrid dog-fish would like to see a major mosque built found in the lake, it is more than likely in the city, both to provide a gather- that the tower and the tunnels below Mukan ing point for the people and to improve it house all sorts of hybrid monstrosi- the town’s reputation, but the governor Most of the province of Mukan con- ties that may oppose or welcome the is not of particularly pious inclination sists of a swampy plain stretching from the characters, depending on the needs of and would rather spend his money on mountains in the northwest portion of the your saga. worldly pleasures. In addition, the most province to the Caspian Sea. Much of this logical way to build such a mosque area is cultivated, with rice and wheat be- would be through the expansion of one ing particular crops grown here. Dim Skies and Rotten Fruit of the existing mosques, but the towns- An unheard-of thing happens: the folk cannot agree on which mosque to skies above Maragha become cloudy. expand. The characters are prevailed Bajarvan At the same time, the melon crop fails upon to act as external mediators both suddenly, going rancid overnight. The with the governor and between the player characters are asked to investi- leaders in the various mosques. Can One of the chief cities of Mukan is Ba- gate, and they soon discover that the they come up with a solution that will jarvan, which while a modest settlement town has fallen out of favor with the please everyone? enjoys its fame through proximity to the source of the Water of Life, which is said to be near the town. However, no one has yet managed to find the fountain, or if they have, they have not returned to tell the tale. Khidr and the Water of Life

Khidr (the Green One) is an impor- particularly important figure to the Su- tant Muslim prophet. He is said to be fis, who see him as the epitome of the immortal, having drunk or dived into Sufi shaykh. Khidr usually appears as Arran the Water of Life, which he found by a venerable Muslim in a woolen cloak. means of a shining jewel brought from As a result of diving into the Water of As noted earlier, the province of Arran is Paradise by the prophet Adam. Ac- Life, his skin and clothes are a bluish- ruled by the Atabegs of Azarbayjan, though cording to some stories, he and Alexan- green color. their actual involvement here is minimal. der the Great sought the Water of Life Khidr is best used as a mysterious The majority of the population follows Ar- together, crossing a dark land to find adviser to the player characters. He is menian Christianity, but there is also a sig- it. Alexander, however, became lost, so unlikely to reveal his true identity to nificant Sunni Muslim community here, in- that only Khidr actually reached the them, and at times he will give advice cluding most members of the ruling classes. goal of their quest. that seems bizarre and unreasonable, al- Khidr wanders the world giving though it will always be proved correct advice wherever God directs him; in the end (see Moses and Khidr, later). Baylaqan indeed, he is believed to have given Should the characters wish to find the guidance to all the prophets who have Water of Life — which purportedly lived since his birth, with the excep- grants immortality to those who bathe The most important city in Arran is tion of Muhammad, who instead tu- in it — they need to seek his guidance, Baylaqan, which stands in a river valley tored Khidr. Khidr has power over the though he will only help them in this if supplied by several streams, with the result sky, the sea and all plant life, and is a their intentions are pure. that the town has many mills, as well as

137 The Cradle & The Crescent

gardens. Like Bajarvan, Shamakhi claims The Fate of Baylaqan to be near to the source of the Water of Life, so it may be that explorers should The seer of Baylaqan is indeed cor- as ammunition when they attack the city start their search at the junction of the rect, for in 1220 the Mongols descend walls. They then pillage the city and burn Cyrus and Araxes rivers. Shamakhi also on Baylaqan and destroy it. According to it to the ground. Depending on when possesses the Rock of Moses, which marks sources, since they are unable to find suit- your saga is set, characters may arrive the spot where Moses met Khidr. A fish able rocks nearby for their mangonels, here either just in time to help fight the placed upon this rock by Moses and his the Mongols cut down plane trees, saw Mongols or after the conquest, in which servant came to life and swam away, and their trunks into chunks, and use these case they may be asked to help rebuild. local people still come to the spot to pray for the healing of those languishing near death. For Muslims the rock is a relic with flourishing gardens and orchards. However, been ruled by a Persianized Arab dynasty a Faith score of 3 and the Saint Power The this idyllic setting has recently become the known as the Shirvanshahs (shir-VEHN- Faithful Made Whole; see Realms of Power: The site of discord, as the citizens are divided SHAHZ), who rule from their capital at Divine, pages 43–46 and 88. about how to treat a popular preacher who Shamakhi. Currently power is shared be- raves about a “storm gathering in the east” tween two members of the royal family: that will soon engulf its people. Some wish Farrukhzad I ibn Manuchihr III (r. after to lock him up or even have him executed, 1187–before 1225) and his son Garshasp while others hail him as a seer. I (r. 1204–1225). The majority of the in- Georgia habitants of Shirvan are either Sunni Mus- lims, like their rulers, or Christians. The Christian kingdom of Georgia is, strictly speaking, outside the Muslim world, but its independence from Muslim Shirvan Shamakhi rule is recent and hard won. Invaded by the Muslims in the 7th century, then embroiled To the north of Arran and Mukan lies in centuries of warfare with Muslim over- the province of Shirvan, a mountainous The royal capital of Shamakhi consists lords, Georgia finally won independence in region with a number of towns dotting of a town built entirely of stone, situated at 1121 when King Dawid II (r. 1073–1125) the valleys. For centuries the province has the foot of a mountain and surrounded by took the capital of Tiflis, which remains the

Moses and Khidr

Then found they one of Our slaves, According to the Qur’an, when Mo- so by rendering the boat unusable Khidr unto whom We had given mercy from ses and his servant met al-Khidr, Moses saved it from being taken. The boy, un- Us, and had taught him knowledge from asked if he could follow the prophet and like his parents, was not a believer in Our presence. learn from him. Khidr initially suggested Islam, so Khidr slew him so that they Moses said unto him: May I follow that Moses would not be able to accept might get a better child (according to thee, to the end that thou mayst teach his actions without protesting, and even- tradition, they gave birth to a daughter me right conduct of that which thou hast tually only allowed Moses to follow him who was the progenitor of many proph- been taught? when he agreed not to do so. ets). The wall hid treasure that belonged He said: Lo! thou canst not bear Khidr then led Moses to a boat, to two orphans in the city, so by building with me. which he scuttled. Moses protested, but it up Khidr was protecting it until they Khidr reminded him of their agreement should be old enough to claim it. Moses How canst thou bear with that and Moses agreed to keep silent. The and Khidr then parted ways. whereof thou canst not compass any same thing happened when Khidr slew The story of Moses and Khidr is a knowledge? a young boy, and again when he built a lesson in unquestioning obedience that Moses said: Allah willing, thou shalt wall near a city where some people had might prove a useful model for Mystery find me patient and I shall not in aught refused to give them food. After Moses’ Cult Initiations your saga. Magi might be gainsay thee. third protest, Khidr explained his ac- required to follow a Mystagogue, keep- He said: Well, if thou go with me, tions: The boat belonged to people who ing silent in the face of apparently bi- ask me not concerning aught till I myself depended on it for their livelihood, but zarre acts. Sufis take the story as a model make mention of it unto thee. there was a coming a king who was tak- for the relationship of a Sufi student with — The Qur’an 18: 65-70 ing possession of the boats of his people, his master.

138 The Cradle & The Crescent

capital of the state today. The current king is Giorgi IV Lasha (r. 1213-1223). Story Seed: Sorcery, Treason, and Plot Georgia is a country of mountains, hills and plateaux, with lowland areas only The characters prevent a magical of breaking the Code’s prohibition on on the coast of the Black Sea and the val- murder attempt made on the King of mundane interference, although a tri- leys of the rivers Rioni and Kura. It is in- Georgia, and they are charged to bring bunal must determine whether he has habited by a number of different peoples, the perpetrator to justice. It is clear that brought ruin on his sodales and thus li- including Turks, Persians, Georgians, Ar- magic was involved in the attempt (per- able for censure. On the other hand, if it menians and Alans. There are both Chris- haps a character saved the king from a was not a Hermetic magus, then it was tians and Muslims among its population, bolt of magical lightning), which makes clearly someone with power that might although the dominant faith is its own na- the need to find the person behind it be a threat to the Order of Hermes, in tional Christian church, which owes loy- all the more urgent. If a Hermetic ma- which case the investigation is all the alty neither to the Pope in Rome nor the gus was responsible, then he is guilty more necessary. Byzantine Emperor.

Tiflis A Greater Armenian Covenant Greater Armenia offers an attractive On the other hand, setting up a Located on major trade routes, including location for an Hermetic covenant, with covenant in the area is not without its the Silk Road, and itself a major trade center, its numerous isolated sites that have re- challenges. The severe climate makes Tiflis is a city of great importance in the resisted mundane encroachment and may a covenant difficult to supply and sup- gion. As a result it has been hotly contested preserve high-level Magical auras. In ad- port. In addition, as the current tribunals over the centuries, and this is reflected in its dition, the chaotic politics of the region reach their limits in terms of how many fortifications, which include double walls makes it easy to establish an independent Hermetic magi they can support, other and three heavily reinforced gates. Despite presence, provided that the characters magi may also be looking to set up cov- this history of hostility between groups, do not become so powerful as to pose a enants in the region and may challenge Tiflis’ population is remarkably ethnically threat to neighboring political leaders. characters for the best sites. and religiously diverse and tolerant, and mosques, churches and synagogues exist at times literally next to each other in the city. mountains, high plains and valley basins. have annexed some of its southern terri- Its climate is very severe, with winters tories; the Byzantine Comneni retain part often lasting for over eight months. The of it under the control of their empire at country was conquered by the Muslims in Trebizond, to the northwest; and the rest the seventh century but managed to be- lies in the hands of local dynasties. Greater come an independent, tributary state in the The population of Greater Armenia mid-ninth century. However, soon it was is mixed, consisting mainly of Greek and torn by wars between the Muslims and the Armenian Christians and Turkish Mus- Armenia Byzantines, and in the tenth Century many lims. They grow cereal crops, fish in the Armenians migrated to Lesser (Cilician) rivers, and mine various metals and min- To the east of Asia Minor, and to the Armenia in Asia Minor. Greater Armenia erals, including silver and salt. The area southwest of Georgia, lies the war-torn fell to the Turks in the 11th century and is also known for its weaving, dyeing, state of Greater Armenia. It is a land of remains a contested area, for the Ayyubids and embroidery.

139 Chapter Eight Mythic Persia

Persia stretches from the Tigris River Zagros mountains to the south and west. nance. A significant minority of the popu- in the west to the Oxus River in the north The plateau lacks major rivers since they lation is nomadic or semi-nomadic; prin- and east. It is ethnically and culturally find no outlet; many rivers on the plateau cipally the Lurs of the Zagros mountains diverse; a consequence of both its vast are simply lost in sands and swamps, rather and the Ghuzz of Khurasan. Most of the size and its central position. However, than reaching the sea. provinces are ruled by a dynasty of Seljuk over seven-tenths of its land area is desert Persians are linguistically and ethni- Turks who have sworn loyalty to the cur- and waste. Much of the country is high cally different from the Arabs to the west. rent shah; these rulers are either atabegs plateau, four to five thousand feet above The majority of the population is found or mamluks. The atabegs were originally sea level. Exceptions include the lands outside the great cities. Most are tenants, provincial governors who were tutors of around the Persian Gulf south of the Za- sharing their crops with their landlords, Seljuk princes, but by the 13th century gros mountains, which are just above sea who tend to live in the towns. The low are semi-autonomous princes in their own level, and the narrow coastal strip to the rainfall for most of the region results in a right. The mamluks are raised as slave-sol- south of the Caspian Sea, which is just be- reliance on irrigation, through the use of diers to be utterly loyal to their masters, low sea level. The plateau is bounded by underground water channels called qanats, and placed in territories as direct subordi- the Alborz mountains to the north and the which require constant and skilled mainte- nates of the sultan.

140 The Cradle & The Crescent

had them killed and shaved — a grave The Shahnameh insult — and sent back to the Khan. It remains to be seen what the Great Khan’s The “Epic of Kings” is the national the Great; Ferdowsi then gives the his- response will be. saga of the Persian people, composed tory of the Sasanids, and ends with the by Ferdowsi in the tenth century. It is conquest by the Arabs (whom he calls a record of the pre-Muslim history and “the Army of Darkness”). legends of Persia. It begins with the cre- The Shahnameh is written in Parsi, ation of the world and of man, and then and copies are often beautifully illus- Persian the introduction of fire, metal-working, trated and decorated with gold leaf, and agriculture, and other technologies. run to seven volumes in length. A good The early kings and their accomplish- quality copy such as this is a summa on Supernatural ments are followed by the deeds of the Persian Lore, Level 4, Quality 12. It can great heroes: Saum, his son Zal, and also be studied as a series of tractatus on Factions grandson Rostam. The age of heroes Magic Lore, Faerie Lore, Divine Lore, ends with the conquest of Alexander and Infernal Lore, each Quality 10. In addition to the Suhhar Sulayman — who are ubiquitous in Persia’s cities — there are five key supernatural factions who The language of Persia is Parsi, or lowing the gradual collapse of the Seljuk are active throughout Mythic Persia. Persian, a tongue unrelated to other empire after the death of Sultan Ahmed Middle Eastern languages. Arabic is the Sanjar, and eventually defeated his suc- language of Islam, and retains its pre-em- cessor Togril III in 1194. Tekish’s son Ala The Yatus inence when discussing religion; it used ad-Din Mohammed continued his father’s also to be the language of all scholarship, work to conquer the remaining parts of but in the 13th century most Persian the Seljuk empire, and proclaimed him- In ancient times, the kings of Persia secular books are written in Parsi. Turk- self its shah in 1205, although the Ca- received assistance from sorcerers who ish became well-established during the liph has yet to recognize this title. Since went by the name of yatus. Unlike the period of Seljuk dominance, and various then he has crushed the Shansabanis mobeds who served Persia in a sacred dialects are found among the Ghuzz and in Khurasan, and extended his reign to fashion, the yatus were wholly secular, the Lurs. Transoxiana, and is now the ruler of a and had practices that were deplored by vast empire that stretches from the River the Mazdean priests. Several of the an- Jaxartes to the Persian Gulf. Two years cient Persian kings used cadres of these ago the shah met with emissaries from sorcerers attached to their armies; the ini- Recent History Genghis Khan in Samarkand. The shah tial successes of Darius and Xerxes against The Seljuk Turks ruled Persia for Peri Faeries nearly two centuries. It was always an empire made of two halves, with a sultan The peris are the courtly faeries role as entrapping lovers. However, appointed in Khurasan to rule the east, of Persia. Peris are almost exclusively peris rarely have powers over plant life. while the Seljuk overlord ruled from the female, and are extraordinarily beauti- Peris are occasionally accompanied by west. The sultanate of Khurasan came to ful — a pretty maiden in Persia is oc- diminutive male assistants who cater to an abrupt end in 1149 when the Shansa- casionally referred to as “peri-faced.” their every whim; these are effectively bani family destroyed Seljuk rule there Their game statistics are the same as sprites (Realms of Power: Faerie, page 85) using infernal powers. To add to the for lesser nymphs (Realms of Power: Fa- except that they have brightly-colored troubles in Persia, the Ghuzz — who had erie, page 73), and they fulfill the same birds’ wings. been invited to settle in Persia and join the armies — rebelled in Khurasan in 1151, and invaded the neighboring provinces. Despite holding Sultan Ahmed Pairika Demons Sanjar captive for over three years, the Ghuzz rebellion was short-lived, but the A pairika is the Persian term for the Jinn). They are cncountered throughout Seljuks never reclaimed Khurasan from Aerial Powers (Realms of Power: The Infernal, Persia and most commonly embody the the Shansabanis. page 42). These demons are treated as crushing heat of the desert or the dread- Ala ad-Din Tekish, the Mamluk ruler corrupt jinn by sahirs (see Chapter 4: The ful power of the earthquake. of Khwarazm, expanded his territory fol-

141 The Cradle & The Crescent Nasu Spirit

Magic Might: 5 (Animal) the material world when there are weapons, only by area effects such as Season: Spring no more corpses on which to feed. fire or smoke. The storyguide should Characteristics: Cun 0, Per +1, Pre Cr(Re)An 25 (base 5, +1 Touch, +2 consider how much of the swarm is 0, Com 0, Str –20, Sta 0, Dex +3, Sun, +1 requisite) Greater Power (25 affected by the area effect and assign Qik +10 levels, –3 Might cost, +2 Init) damage in terms of Might points: Size: –12 Corpse-Feeding, 3 points, Init +8, Animal: if one-fifth of the swarm is affected Virtues and Flaws: Magic Spirit; Magic When a nasu enters an orifice on a then it loses one Might point; if two- Sensitivity; Gluttonous corpse, it can emerge three rounds fifths is affected it loses two Might Magical Qualities and Inferiorities: later as ten individuals. Each of these points, and so forth. Greater Power Greater Power (Donning the Cor- individuals is identical in every way — no Hermetic equivalent. poreal Veil), Greater Power (Swarm to the original nasu, including having Vis: 1 pawn of Animal, in body. Form), Ritual Power (Corpse-Feed- this power, except that each swarm, Appearance: A three-inch-long fly, with ing); Improved Damage x10, Im- no matter how large, has a single a red and yellow striped abdomen. proved Powers; Miniature x5 pawn of vis. Every three rounds, a They make a fearful buzzing sound Personality Traits: Hungry +6* nasu swarm can gain three points of when they fly. * Essential Trait size, and its ability to grow is limited Combat: only by the number of corpses it has The nasu is a Persian magical non- Swarm bite: Init +10, Attack +7*, Defense available; of course, as it grows, it at- jinni spirit which is attracted to the bod- n/a, Damage +10 tacks living things and creates more ies of the recently dead, especially the * A nasu swarm cannot be parried, bodies. CrAn(Vi) 25 (base 5, +1 corpses of magical creatures or sorcerers. only dodged. Touch, +2 Group, +1 requisite) Rit- They rarely take material form unless Soak: +0 ual Power (25 levels, –2 Might cost, summoned; they are minor spirits, and Wound Penalties: –1 (1), –3 (2), –5 (3), +3 Init, including Improved Powers) any apprentice summoner can call one, Incapacitated (4), Dead (5+) Swarm Form 0 points, Init 0, Animal: A which is why many masters are very care- Abilities: Athletics 3 (flying), Awareness nasu does not attack as an individual, ful to indicate why they should never be 3 (corpses), Brawl 3 (biting), Magic but rather as a swarm. The combat summoned — one nasu can become mil- Sensitivity 3 (wizards) statistics are for an entire swarm, lions in a matter of minutes if sufficient Powers: which must be the same Size or larg- fresh meat is around. Although a magi- Donning the Corporeal Veil, 0 points, Init er than its opponent. Thus a swarm cal spirit, nasu are not jinn and cannot +9, Animal: Allows the nasu to take of 100,000 nasus (Size +3) can attack be called by sahirs using Solomonic Sihr, material form, which it can dismiss a standard group of humans. A nasu although they can be summoned by wiz- at any time. Nasu usually only leave swarm cannot be killed by normal ards using (Spirit) Summoning. the Greek city states can be attributed Mazdean purges and the Muslim inva- to the lack of preparedness among the sions, and they brought with them the The Mobeds Greeks for such magical assaults. knowledge of True Names and the In- In the main, yatus of old were faerie vocation of Names of Power Virtue (see The glory days of Zoroastrianism are wizards; legends hold them as the inven- Chapter 3: Order of Suleiman). long gone, but the faith is by no means tors of the Ars Fabulosa (Realms of Power: The yatus today can be found in west- extinct. Enclaves of mobeds can be found Faerie, page 131), which encompasses ern Persia, Iraq, and the Northwest prov- in Yazd, Daylam, and Kirman. For more Faerie Summoning and related practices. inces. Most are members of the Suhhar information on the mobeds, see Chapter Oral history recounts that these Arts Sulayman, combining Faerie Summon- 5: Mythic Zoroastrianism. were adapted directly from Canaanite ing with the Solomonic Arts, principally Necromancy, which is held to be the Solomonic Storytelling. Non-Solomonic origin of all summoning powers. Some yatus are faerie wizards specializing in The Nizari Isma’ilis yatus followed darker Arts and it was the Ars Fabulosa. Faerie blood is quite these Goetic yatus who prompted the common among the yatus. They are of- persecutions by the mobeds that eventu- ten pagan, which causes them to clash The original assassins, Nizari Isma’ilis ally lead to the decline of Persian magi- with many sahirs, so they tend to found are a fanatical sect who use murder to fur- cal warfare. When the Suhhar Sulayman closed communities of solely yatu buyut ther their religious and political agenda. was formed, Persia contributed several al-hikma. They are a renegade faction of sahirs, and lineages of yatus who had survived the are detailed in Nizari Isma’ili State, later.

142 The Cradle & The Crescent Zahhak Story Seed: The Zahhak

Zahhak was a demonic ruler of Persia The last Zahhak was the Shansabani demonic influence. in its heroic age, holding the nation in his Sultan Mohammed al-Ghuri, defeated The first Zahhak was not killed by evil thrall. He ruled from Ctesiphon in the 14 years ago (see Ghur, later). It would Feridun; rather, he was chained and bur- days of Jamshid (see Istakhr, later), and be unusual for another to be formed so ied under Mount Damavand (see Ma- conquered Persia after sawing Jamshid in quickly, but some Persian sahirs believe zandaran, later) with the assistance of two. Under his reign, virtue was despised that Genghis Khan is, or is advised by, an angel. He is no longer possessed by and wickedness lauded. His thousand-year a Zahhak. The predatory way in which the demon, but dwells there still, pro- reign was eventually ended by the hero he is turned towards Persia is typical be- tected from death by the divine bind- Feridun. Since that time, a Zahhak has havior of possession by Azi Dahak. If, in ings about him. This ancient individual periodically appeared and been battled by your saga, Zahhak is behind the Mongol from Persia’s heroic age might be able Persian sahirs, but he has never achieved the same level of power that he did in invasion, then a whole campaign could to give an insight to characters facing a Jamshid’s day. revolve around ridding the Horde of the reborn Zahhak. Zahhak is not a demon in the tradi-

The Demon Azi Dahak

Order: Duke of the Spirits of Deceit ing 8, Summoning 10 til he relates that lie to someone else. Infernal Might: 40 (Mentem) Powers: At this point he realizes how ridicu- Characteristics: Int +2, Per +2, Pre 0, Coagulation, 4 points, Init –1, Animal: Azi lous the falsehood sounds, and the Com +1, Str +12, Sta +4, Dex +5, Dahak can form a physical body, and demonic power is broken. An Intel- Qik –1 dismiss it at will. ligence roll against an Ease Factor of Size: +4 Obsession, 1–3 points, Init –5, Vim: Azi Da- 9 also reveals the lie to be false, with Confidence Score: 3 (9) hak can invoke the Personality Trait of the first roll allowed an hour after the Virtues and Flaws: Ablating, Binding, Com- Power Hungry. See Realms of Power: The effect was used, and further rolls per- manding, Summoning; Inspirational Infernal, page 31, for more details. mitted once every subsequent hour. Personality Traits: Deceitful +6, Hatred Envisioning, 1 point, Init 0, Mentem: The The Serpent’s Oracle, 2 points, Init –3, Vim: of Persia +5, Trustworthy –5 demon can appear in the dreams of The demon can duplicate the effects Reputations: Legendary Tyrant King 7 a person. of any Intellego spell for the cost of (Infernal) Possession, variable points, Init +2, Men- 2 Might points. It may also gain a Hierarchy: 7 tem: Azi Dahak usually places all of morsel of future knowledge, under- Combat: his Might Pool into possession and standing the most immediate conse- Bite*: Init +1, Attack +15, Defense +10, can control the actions of his victim. quences of any one specific action. Damage +20 He cannot regenerate Might points Empower the Possessed, 0 points, Init 0, Vim: * Azi Dahak can bite three targets in until the possession ends, so he has to Whenever a possessed victim is will- each round; he acts like a Trained leave periodically. During this time, fully using the Goetic Arts, Azi Dahak Group with three members. his victim suffers terrible dreams of grants a bonus equal to his own score Soak: +15 his death and torment in hell, and in that Art. Furthermore, the demon’s Fatigue Levels: OK, 0, –1, –3, –5, may act to prevent the demon re- Hierarchy score can be used in place Unconscious turning. See Realms of Power: The Infer- of the possessed character’s score. Wound Penalties: –1 (1–9), –3 (10–18), nal, page 32, for more details. Weakness: Abhorrent Material (flame –5 (19–27), Incapacitated (28–36), Trust of the Innocent, 1 point, Init –1, Men- from a Mazdean temple) Dead (37+) tem: The target of this effect loses all Vis: 8 pawns of Mentem vis prava, Abilities: Athletics 5 (flying), Brawl 8 judgment and believes a specific lie in eyes. (bite), Guile 8 (promises of power), (as long as it is passable) until present- Appearance: On the rare occasions it Intrigue 5 (nobles), Leadership 4 ed with evidence to the contrary. An takes material form, Azi Dahak is an (own heads), Organization Lore: Intelligence roll against an Ease Factor immense winged serpent with three Suhhar Sulayman 4 (viziers), Pen- of 6 is allowed to resist the effect. heads, bearing six eyes and three etration 4 (Possession), Teaching 5 Forked Tongue of the Serpent, 3 points, Init pairs of fangs on each head. When (Goetic Arts) –1, Mentem: The target believes any wounded, snakes and scorpions spew Arts: Ablating 12, Binding 8, Command- lie, no matter how preposterous, un- from its wounds.

143 The Cradle & The Crescent

deeds, but over time the victim is corrupted by the whispers and promises of power of the demon, and so far none have resisted his lure. Once the victim embraces evil, he is taught the Goetic Arts (Realms of Power: The Infernal, page 114), and can use Ablating to extend his life, gain magic resistance, and call upon all manner of evil powers by stealing them from other demons and supernatural creatures.

The Ghuzz

The Ghuzz are a race of magic- blooded humans who originate from the steppes to the north of Persia and east of the Caspian Sea. Legend tells that they are the scions of the biblical giants Gog and Magog, and there is no denying the giant blood that runs strong in these fearsome tribesmen. In addition to their size and their warrior reputations, the Ghuzz are also infamous for their uncontrollable nature. They would be all the more terrible if they could remain organized or loyal enough for long enough to make tional sense. Rather, when Azi Dahak the the possession can cure them. The snakes an effective force. The Ghuzz can be demon possesses an individual, that per- crave human brains, and the victim is found in many of the southern provinces son becomes Zahhak. Possession is indi- driven to satisfy this need by the demon of Persia, particularly Kirman, Makran, cated by the growth of a black snake from inside him. and Seistan. Ghuzz breed and ride huge each of the victim’s shoulders. When cut In the first instance, the possessing horses; those of the magic kin are the size off they simply regrow; only removal of demon forces the new Zahhak to do evil of elephants. Ghuzz Characters

All Ghuzz tribesmen have the Large New Virtue: Greater Power ing their actions. ReMe 30 (Base 5, +2 Virtue, except for those in whom the (Command The Masses) Voice, +1 Diam, +2 Group) Greater blood of Gog and Magog runs strong. Power (30 levels, –3 Might/Fatigue These, typically the leaders of the Ghuzz, Major, Supernatural cost, +1 Init) are magic kin, and they have the Giant This new Virtue grants the Com- Blood Virtue, and a Greater Immunity mand the Masses power that is de- to mental manipulation. These Ghuzz scribed later. The Greater Power Virtue New Flaw: Rebellious cannot be swayed through mundane or is further described in Realms of Power: Major or Minor, Personality magical means, and thus cannot be con- Magic, page 44. The character reacts adversely to trolled through Leadership, Charm, or Command the Masses, no cost, Init Qik any attempt to impose authority over Folk Ken, through Virtues such as Inspi- – 2, Mentem: The Ghuzz can issue an him, and actively works against those rational, or even through the Command order, and a standard Group of men are who are in command. He does not nec- the Masses Greater Power Virtue common strongly inclined to obey this order. essarily have any desire to be a leader among the Ghuzz leaders. The Ghuzz In battle, this secures total leadership, himself, but he does not easily submit — magical kin or otherwise — often and the Ghuzz need not spend his to another’s leadership. have the Rebellious Personality Flaw. turn forming a trained group or chang-

144 The Cradle & The Crescent Fars Story Seed: The Well of Hindijan

This province was the birthplace of Hindijan is the port of Arranjan well has drawn much interest from the two of the greatest Persian dynasties, the on the lower reaches of the Tab Riv- treasure hunters; it emits poisonous va- Achaemenians (6th–4th centuries BC) and er. Many fruitless nights have been pors, such that any bird flying over it Sassanian (3rd–7th centuries AD). It thus spent by treasure hunters in Hindi- fall dead into the well. However, be- gave its name to the whole region, for the jan, searching for a cache of treasure cause of its poison, the well remains as original name Parsa became Hellenized to rumored to be hidden there. A certain yet unexplored. Persis. Fars is currently an atabegate ruled from Shiraz by the Salghurid dynasty. Climatically, the province is divided into two parts: the Hot Lands (Garmsir), Salt of Seven Colors the lowlands near the coast; and the Cold Lands (Sardsir) to the north, in the high- Near to Darabgerd is a hill where rock an inducement or a reward for a trivial lands. In its southwest corner is the desert salt of seven colors is occasionally dug task. This allows him to summon and of Mandistan. out. This salt is of interest to sahirs for it is bargain with much more powerful jinn Dedicated Vis (Realms of Power: Magic, page than he ever could before, and his 122), exceptionally suited to the summon- benefactor hints that he can get much Arranjan ing of jinn, who find it particularly pleas- more. Unfortunately, the salt provided ing. Each pawn of this vis gives the same to the sahir is tainted to be highly ad- bonus as two pawns of normal vis when dictive, and the jinni summoned keeps The westernmost of Fars’ five great summoning jinn (but not other types of demanding more and more. This is fine cities, Arranjan lies on the south bank of spirit). Princes like to keep control of the while the benefactor keeps supplying the Tab River, which forms the border salt mines and use the salt of seven colors the salt, but he eventually starts to with Khuzistan. It is surrounded by date to court sahirs, or reward them. ask for bigger and bigger favors. The gardens and olive groves, and is known sahir comes to the characters (or per- for both soap and bitumen. There have haps is one of the characters) in need long been Isma’ili strongholds on the Story Seed: Summoner’s Salts of solutions: how to escape from the many hilltops around Arranjan, and the powerful jinni he has summoned, and city itself has recently been captured by A sahir is gifted with a princely how to uncover the nefarious plot of sum of salt of seven colors, either as the Isma’ilis. his “benefactor.”

Darabgerd The Kajarani Worms

The circular city of Darabgerd was The worms are an unusual Beast of ity) Virtue to its owner in addition to founded by a family of Daylamite origin, Virtue, in that they can be Enriched Luck. To prevent the worm from dy- and has always held Isma’ili sympathies (Realms of Power: Magic, page 124) while ing it can be Enriched in the third and even if this has not been openly declared. they are still alive. A worm must be fourth years; the worm grows to the Near Darabgerd is the Kubbat-al-Mumiya, kept on its own in a box for a season, size of a cat and a dog respectively, and the “Bitumen Dome,” which is locked by and not be exposed to any light during grants the Venus’ Blessing Virtue in the an iron door and opened once a year when this period. Every day the worm must third year and the Wealthy Virtue in an officer of the sultan arrives and gathers be fed twelve mulberry leaves, each one the fourth. in a box the twelve months’ accumulation precisely folded into a pellet. At the All Virtues are cumulative, but if the of bitumen for royal use. end of the season, the worm grants the worm dies, they are lost. However, in Luck Virtue to the person who fed it. If the third year the possessor of a worm it was fed by more than one person, it cannot refuse to pander to the worm’s Kajaran dies. A Kajarani worm eats any other comfort (the Compulsion Flaw); and in worms it comes across. After a year, the the fourth year it begins to repulse him, Enrichment process must be repeated, eventually developing into the Fear This is a small but prosperous town or else the worm dies. If repeated, the Flaw. No one in Kajaran permits their near the Persian Gulf. Endemic to the re- worm grows bigger — to the size of worms to live for a fifth year, in fear of gion is a type of magical worm that grants a mouse — and grants Puissant (Abil- becoming another Haftvad. skill and luck to those that possess it. The

145 The Cradle & The Crescent fortune it grants is proportional to its size, growing rice and pomegranates. so, since the previous port of Siraf further but the Kajarani are careful not to allow On the hills to the northwest of the city west around the coast was destroyed by an the worm to grow too big. In the past, are the Sih Gundaban, the “Three Domes,” earthquake that lasted seven days. Haftvad allowed his worm to grow for three great fortresses, behind which has seven years, into a glossy black dragon been built a great dam in a deep gorge. The with a splendid saffron-colored pattern on dam provides sufficient water for a thou- Abarkavan it. Once a simple peasant, Haftvad used sand men during a year long siege. There is his good luck to became a tyrant who con- also a training ground on a flat hilltop. The Long Island is home to pirates and trolled all the land from Basra to Kirman. Between Shiraz and Istakhr is the For- raiders, and is the bane of the emir of Kish His armies defeated King Ardeshir (found- est of Kamfiruz, an oak forest surrounded who prefers that the traders coming to his er of the Sasanid dynasty), and it was not by pasture land, and the town of Bayda. port are unmolested. Kish’s lucrative pearl until Ardeshir killed the elephant-sized The forest is home to fierce lions, which fishery banks are also close to Abarkavan, dragon with boiling lead that Haftvad’s are the terror of the cattle on its pasture. and divers risk encounters with the pirates luck ran out and he was slain. Haftvad’s whenever they collect their harvest. The pi- mighty fortress still exists, hidden high in rates have among their number an elemen- the mountains. talist (Hedge Magic Revised Edition, Chapter 2) Kish who plays havoc with the wind and waves. Istakhr The island of Kish is the principal port Mount Kavarvand of the Persian Gulf. A great walled city dom- The governance of the north district inates Kish, which lies about 12 miles from of Fars is administered from Istakhr, which the coast. Famous in its own right for the This mountain is home to Adur Farn- was known to the Greeks as Persepolis. pearls fished here, Kish throngs with trade bag, one of the three Royal Fires of Zo- Around and inside the city are several from Arabia, Africa, and Al-Sindh; products roastrianism (for the others, see Mihr and buildings that date to the time of Jamshid are transported to Huzu on the mainland Takht-i-Suleiman, later). The Royal Fires and King Solomon. The shores of nearby and taken north to Shiraz. Kish has risen in were believed to have been ignited be- Lake Bakhtigan are crowded with villages prominence over the last hundred years or fore creation, and brought forth on the

King Jamshid

The fourth king to rule the world, elixir of immortality. This can be any liq- Muslim invasion. It was never taken by according to the Shahnameh, Jamshid uid that grants long life, such as al-Iksir the Arab rulers and remained hidden in Is- made his capital at Istakhr, which then (see Chapter 3: Order of Suleiman) or a takhr until rediscovered by a sahir several was called Takht-e Jamshed. He was a Hermetic Longevity Ritual in an appro- years ago. mighty sorcerer who had control over all priate form. This liquid must be invented the jinn of the world, and invented armor afresh each time it is made, and brewed and weapons, weaving and dyeing, ma- specifically for the user of the cup; this Story Seed: The Spying Sahir sonry, making wine, and navigation and permits use of the device for one season. ship-building. He was endowed with the Once used in the cup, the elixir loses its The sahir in possession of the Cup royal farr, a shining light that indicated magical properties. When activated, the of Jamshid has been using it for petty the blessing of Ahura Mazda. However, cup allows the bearer to see any place in purposes — spying on his neighbors he grew to boast of his accomplishments, the world, similar to Summoning the Distant and rivals, which may include the char- and the farr abandoned him. Without the Image, but without the need for an Arcane acters. In the midst of his nosy scrying, farr, Zahhak (see later) was able to make Connection to the place scried. The user he stumbles upon a noted member of the war on him, and Jamshid was brutally needs to merely mention the name of the community doing something unconscio- murdered by the demonic tyrant. place to be viewed, and an image appears nable, such as binding a sentient being, in the cup. The Jaam-e Jam can also give sacrificing to the devil, or something visions of the heavens, which doubles similar. There is no way he can reveal The Jaam-e Jam the wielder’s Artes Liberales for astrolog- what he has seen without revealing how, ical calculations, and doubles Solomonic and so he must manipulate the charac- The Cup of Jamshid is a silver cup Astrology for magical workings. ters through his secret knowledge of ringed seven times with gold and gems. The Cup of Jamshid was used by the them, making them uncover the nefari- For it to work, it must be filled with an ancient Persian dynasties right up to the ous deeds of the eminent citizen.

146 The Cradle & The Crescent Shapur The Imamzadihs of Shiraz

The shrine of the brother of the devotees of each shrine clamor for his The City of Flowers, as it is sometimes fourth imam and the shrine to the attention, knowing the prestige (and known, Shapur’s exports are irises, violets, daughter of the sixth imam have a long riches) they will earn from his healing. jasmine, narcissuses, and, most notably, the and bitter rivalry. The former is found Characters who have been healed at one red rose of Shapur. Ten different kinds of on the Street of Butchers, and is known of the shrines might be asked to provide perfumed oil are made in Shapur, made from for baraka to cure injuries to the limbs. testimony, and get caught up in the riots the various flowers of the city. Of these, at- The latter has a much more prominent when the other shrine tries to disrupt tar of roses is perhaps the most famous; this position just off the main square, and the proceedings. The emir might ask expensive perfume makes it all the way to grants baraka to cure all problems with the characters to determine which of the the courts of England and France. the feet. When a powerful emir is in- two shrines is the most worthy — or the flicted with a painful abscess on his foot, most likely — to cure his complaint. Yazd back of the ox Srishok to propagate faith wall that surrounds it. Today, Shiraz is and protect mankind. Adur Farnbag is to famed as a place of learning, home to The mountainous region around Yazd be found within a terrestrial Divine re- several academies and schools of famous became the stronghold of Zoroastrianism gio (see Realms of Power: The Divine, page poets, and it has been granted the epi- after the coming of Islam to Persia, and 13) with an aura of 8. The entrance to thet of Dar al-Elm, the House of Knowl- remains one of the few regions where the the regio opens on the west side of the edge. Its central position in Fars makes it Mazdean faith is still practiced openly. mountain every dawn and the east side of a thoroughfare for most of the province’s The mountains around Yazd contain six the mountain every dusk; the pure holy business and trade. It is packed with nar- holy shrines, or pirs, which form the des- fire pours forth from the regio entrance, row, crowded markets, and boasts three tinations for yearly communal pilgrimages earning Kavarvand the epithet of “the great mosques. for the Zoroastrian villages, and an excuse shining mountain.” Perhaps the most famous structures of for feasting and dancing. Adur Farnbag is housed within a Zo- Shiraz are its many shrines to the imamza- The city of Yazd is well-fortified, and roastrian fire temple. It is accounted the dihs — the relatives or descendents of the has two iron gates on the Istakhr road. The most holy of the three Royal Fires because twelve Shi’i imams. Each imamzadih can city is very fertile, thanks to the streams it is seen as the earthly representation of grant a different miraculous power (mostly that flow from the nearby mountains, and the yazata Atar, who burns in the pres- regarding healing specific ailments, find- it seems like paradise to have such a fertile ence of Ahura Mazda. It was originally ing a spouse, or easing childbirth), and the land so close to the Great Deserts. The located in Khwarazm, but later brought shrines vie for the attention of pilgrims mobeds are held responsible for this mi- here by mobeds who still dwell on Ka- and visitors. nor miracle. varvand, thanks to the Gifts of Gayomart (see Chapter 5: Mythic Zoroastrianism). Adur Farnbag represents the priests of The Black Man Ahura Mazda, and anyone who is an ervad or higher initiate receives a bonus to In a cave near Shapur is a 40-foot- to be one of the 45 named demons all Ability and magic rolls equal to their tall statue of a man carved in black (Chapter 5: Mythic Zoroastrianism), Theology: Mazdean Ability while within stone. At the base of the statue are three but which one is unknown. Knowing the regio. Mount Kavarvand is a place of carved leaves. Some say that the statue he was not powerful enough to bind the pilgrimage for Zoroastrians. Any temple is carved to represent King Shapur; oth- demon in perpetuity, he fashioned the fire which is lit from a flame deriving from ers believe it to have been a real man three leaves — originally colored green Adur Farnbag has its Divine aura increased turned to stone by God. The kings of — as a warning of when to repeat the by an additional +1. Persia’s ancient dynasties used to anoint binding; as it eroded the color would the statue in oils, but none have given fade from the leaves. In the days of the it homage for many centuries. The cave Zoroastrians, the anointment of the Shiraz behind the statue has a waterfall, and a statue was accompanied by a blessing by wind always seems to be blowing from the mobeds to renew the binding. Since its mouth. the days of Muslim rule this practice was Shiraz was made the capital of the The statue is actually a mighty div abolished as idolatry, and the demon is Persian empire by the Buyid dynasty (demon), bound into this statue by a close to being free. Only one tenth of (945–1055), who decorated it with pal- mobed many centuries ago. It is believed one of the leaves remains green. aces, with mosques, and with the great

147 The Cradle & The Crescent Persian Rugs

A famed export from all over Persia manufacturer of the famed flying car- Dadvand’s Steed of the Air is the intricately woven carpet or rug, pet. Dadvand’s family have been making and the center of excellence in Persia these carpets since the time of the Sasa- Twice per day, this heavy woolen car- is Isfahan. A traditional Isfahan rug has nids, and they have patrons among the pet can lift off the ground and transport an ivory-colored field bearing a single Suhhar Sulayman. These are exception- its owner, and everything he is carrying, central medallion surrounded by leaves ally expensive due to the skill required through the air as fast as a horse can run. and vines. Vibrant hues of blue, rose, and to make them. Dadvand makes other ReAn 15 (Base 1, +1 Conc, +2 very un- indigo are employed using dyeing tech- magical rugs as well, such as ones that natural motion, +1 carry person on carpet, niques that are a closely guarded secret promote an aura of health which speeds +1 speed; +5 maintains concentration). of the Isfahani weavers. recovery from wounds. Ease Factor to make: 16 There are several weavers of magical Yarankush is known for making car- carpets in Isfahan; these craftsmen most- pets which protect their owner. He spe- ly have the Touched by Magic Major cializes in rugs that let out a loud noise Yarankush’s Virtue (City & Guild, page 72). This Virtue when they are stepped on by anyone Murderers’ Chagrin allows a weaver to make a magical carpet other than their owner, and in these days Twice per day, the owner can acti- by adding the magnitude of the magical of secret murder such carpets are a boon vate the warning function of this carpet. effect and the Uses per Day modifier to to any powerful man. Unknown to all, As long as he remains in contact with the basic Craft Total of 12. Each weaver Yarankush is a member of the Isma’ili as- the carpet (sleeping or sitting on it, for can only instill magical effects which sassin sect (see later), and in the design example), any other individual touching cover two Hermetic Forms. A magical of the carpet he hides a secret warning the carpet causes it to emit a loud sound carpet only ever operates for the person so that they know not to step on it. Since for a round; each carpet produces a dif- for whom it was made. advertising that one has a Yarankush rug ferent noise. CrIm 3 (Base 1, +1 Touch, The two most famous weavers are defeats the point of having one, this has +1 Size). Ease Factor to make: 14 Dadvand and Yarankush. Dadvand is a not affected Yarankush’s sales.

wind, or riding one of Isfahan’s famous is for its carpets — the famed Persian rug Jibal flying carpets, speeding to some impor- — that Isfahan is best known. tant engagement. Named “the mountains” (al-jibal) by the Arabs, this province is dominated by the Zagros mountains which run north- Isfahan Kargas Kuh west to southeast along its southern quarter. Its four great cities (Hamadan, Isfahan, and Siyah Kuh Kirmanshah, and Qazvin) have all at one Arising in the Zagros Mountains to the time been home to one or more of Persia’s west of Isfahan, the Zayandah River passes The “Vulture Hills” and “Black Hills” dynasties or conquerors, and their fortunes through the city and flows into the swamp are the highest points on the plain of Per- have waxed and waned; but at all times the of Gav-Khanah on the borders of the Dasht- sia: black, evil-looking mountains, and fa- largest city Isfahan has flourished. South i Kavir. Here the river sinks underground mous hiding-places for robbers. Between of Hamadan is the emirate of Luristan, the and emerges 90 leagues away in Kirman, the two mountain ranges is the caravan- home of the Lurs, a semi-nomadic people where it eventually reaches the sea. serai of Dayr al-Jiss, where, by order of who herd goats in the foothills of the Za- This, the biggest of Jibal’s cities, lies on the Sultan, four great tanks are kept full gros mountains. the northern bank of the Zayandah River. of water to supply travelers crossing the The chief road through Jibal — called It is actually a twinned city: to the east is Dasht-i Kavir. the Khurasan Road — passes from Bagh- Jay, surrounded by a wall with a hundred dad to Kirmanshah, then Hamadan, and towers, and to the west is Al-Yahudiyah, Rayy before heading into Qumis through the “town of the Jews,” who have dwelt Kirmanshah the Caspian Gates. Jibal is one of the here since the time of Nebuchadnezzar. most densely populated of Persia’s prov- The noted physician Ibn Sina (known as inces, and has a correspondingly high Avicenna in the West) lived and taught This is the seat of the semi-indepen- number of sahirs. It is common to see a here. Isfahan exports silk and cotton, as dent province of Kurdistan, which was sahir carried aloft on a jinni-made whirl- well as saffron and all kinds of fruit, but it created in about 1150 by Sultan San-

148 The Cradle & The Crescent

jar for his nephew. Kirmanshah boasts A few miles east of Qum is the mosque is a source of Aquam vis, if the water is col- a great mosque and a sumptuous palace. of Jam Karan. In 986 Hassan ibn Muthih lected when Venus is in the sky. About a day’s march east of Kirmanshah was visited by the Imam of the Ages and are the sculptures of Bustam, carved into the prophet al-Khidr, and told to build the black rock of the mountainside. These a mosque on the sacred ground of Jam Savah depict King Darius receiving tribute from Karan. The mosque built at his direction his subject kings, and the much later is virtually unequaled in Persia in terms sculptures of King Khursaw Parviz and of architecture and embellishment. The The people of Savah are camel-drivers Queen Shirin, whose story is well known mosque has a Dominion aura of 7. and herders, but the great mosque of Sa- — Shirin was loved by the sculptor Far- vah contains a magical library unequaled had, who killed himself in despair for his in Persia. Attached to the town’s mosque love of her. Rayy is a hospital and a tall domed tower, which houses the library on its lower floors and an observatory at its top. The tower is Kanguvar The city of Rayy is strongly fortified, staffed by Savah’s House of Wisdom, all of and has five gates over the five roads that whom are members of the Ashab al-Najm Kanguvar, called Kasr-al Lusus, the radiate from here — to Hamadan, Qazvin, (see Chapter 3: Order of Suleiman). The Robber’s Castle, by the Arabs, lies near to Mazandaran, Khurasan, and Qum. The in- observatory of Savah is world-renowned, the road heading east from Kirmanshah; ner city, containing the mosque and the containing innumerable star maps ranging it is so named because of the larcenous houses of the bureaucrats, is surrounded from ancient Babylonia to the current day, activities of its inhabitants. Travelers are by a ditch. The outer city surrounds and and the state-of-the-art in astronomical in- well-advised to count their fingers and overlooks the inner city, and has a promi- struments. In addition to having a Magic toes after passing through Kanguvar. nent fruit market selling melons, peaches, aura of 5, the observatory grants a +3 bo- apricots, and so forth. It also exports blue- nus to any astrology rolls, including use of dyed cotton, particularly as striped cloth, Solomonic Astrology. Qum and hardwood taken from the Mazanda- The current Asala of the Ashab al- ran forests. Najm hails from Savah, a wizened old man On a nearby mountain there is a shrine named Meriq al-Asala al-Qalani al-Safar Perhaps the second most holy place to dedicated to Shahr Banu, a Sasanid prin- al-Najm. He is mostly known for wearing Islam in Persia after Mashhad, Qum bears cess and mother of the fourth Shi’i imam. a strange hat that looks like it is inside-out, a shrine to the Fatima, sister of Imam Reza Legend has it that the princess was swal- and joking that his hat does not sit on his (see Mashhad, later). Buried with her are lowed by the mountain rather than allow- head, but rather that his head sits on his the three daughters of the ninth imam. ing her enemies to kill her. For centuries hat. After the previous Asala left in 1186 Reza once told the faithful that a pilgrim- before there had been a shrine here dedi- (see Chapter 7: Mythic Mesopotamia, Na- age to his sister’s tomb would assure en- cated to Anahita, the Mazdean yazata of sibin), Meriq stepped forward to represent trance to Paradise. water and fertility. The spring at the shrine the family, to general acceptance by the

149 The Cradle & The Crescent other astrologer-viziers at the Majlis, who in the days of old Babylon. Khuzistan oc- and covered porches of canvas held up by consulted the heavens. Many of them now cupies the watershed of the great Karun wooden columns on all four sides. It has think he does not take the responsibil- River, which starts in the Zagros moun- many windows depicting the stories of ity seriously enough, but do not feel they tains, and Khuzistan’s well-watered plains the members of the First Council, though should ask him to step down. He does not are used to grow sugar cane. Its many riv- many locals mistakenly believe them to have The Gift, but is nonetheless a gifted ers have been canalized to serve the fields depict Christian legends, and a great hall communicator and has written many ex- and the towns, and all are navigable by surrounded by an outer corridor (much cellent books on Artes Liberales and Solo- boat. The northern reaches of the prov- like a cloister). The whole house is inside monic Astrology, among other subjects. ince are home to the semi-nomadic Lurs a Divine aura, which the sahirs must work (who also occupy southern Jibal). Khuz- around by digging out laboratories deep istan is ruled by a Ghuzz atabeg of the beneath the ground where there are many Takht-i-Suleiman Hazarasp family who has sworn loyalty buried pockets of Magic power, and these to the Khwarazm-shah. rooms are connected with the common area by long, narrow ladders. The “Throne of Solomon” is located in The vizier currently representing the a semi-circular valley in the mountains of Ahwaz bayt at Gundeshapur is Nil al-Wazir al- Jibal. At the summit of a small, flat-topped Salih al-Yad, a sahir of Christian descent hill is a small but deep lake fed by an un- who converted to Islam after joining the derwater spring. On its shores is a remark- The capital of the province of Khuzistan, Suhhar. Many believe that he maintains ably well-preserved Mazdean fire temple, Ahwaz is plagued by jinn who cause it to be a dangerously close association with the whose walls are co-terminal with a terres- unbearably hot during the day, and swarm- sahir sect called the Nizaris (see The trial Divine regio of aura 8. The regio is ing with biting flies at night. The crashing Nizari Isma’ili State, later), members of the resting place of Adur Gushnasp, one of the waterbound jinn over Ahwaz’s weir which have occasionally visited him at of the three Royal Fires of Zoroastrian be- keeps those not used to it up at night, and the famous House of Healing. The Ashab lief (see Mount Kavarvand earlier for more the fields around the city are plagued with al-Yad have always had a poor reputation details of the Royal Fires). Adur Gushnasp all manner of snakes and scorpions. in the Suhhar, however, and Nil has never is particularly attuned to warriors and no- seemed particularly troubled by these ac- bles, and a weapon made in a forge lit from cusations at Majlis. He is said to be a great Adur Gushnap and quenched in the waters Gundeshapur historian, very knowledgeable about past of the lake receives a +4 bonus to invok- events of the Middle East, and also well- ing God’s aid in battle (Realms of Power: The versed in European history. He is not es- Divine, page 41) whenever the warrior for The city of Gundeshapur is home pecially skilled at Solomonic Medicine, as whom it was made uses that weapon. This to the great medical school and hospital others of his family might expect him to bonus lasts for a number of years equal to known as the House of Healing. It was be, but instead seems to prefer the art of the wielder’s Theology: Mazdean Ability. founded by the sahir Bakhtyshu, a Nesto- Solomonic Storytelling, and is said to have The weapon loses all power permanently rian Christian and one of members of the an enchanting singing voice. if used by another. wise council of Harun that reformed the Suhhar Sulayman. His descendents still run the school, which was funded by the Ramhurmuz Seljuk Sultans and has remained in high regard with the Khwarazm-shah. Unsur- Khuzistan prisingly, the House of Healing is also A rich town that makes its living from Gundeshapur’s largest bayt al-hikma. It silk and perfume, Ramhurmuz also boasts a Khuzistan is the most ancient inhab- is a palatial building near the center of modest library. The sahirs of Ramhurmuz ited area in Persia, once known as Elam town, with doors open to every direction in the past made contact with one of the fabled sorcerers of Soqotra (see Rival Magic). For several years the exotic wizard studied The Alchemist of Ahwaz with them and they exchanged ideas; but in his naivety he gave away many of the There is an alchemist who claims to needs. Key among these ingredients is secrets of his island, including the recipes be able to turn base metals into gold who the wood collected by the gryphons that for many perfumes which the sahirs made lives in Ahwaz. He needs a few magical live in the Zagros mountains for their into a commercial success. When he real- ingredients to effect this change, and nests. However, he intends to abandon ized that he had been duped, the sorcerer promises to share his yield with charac- his helpers to the mercy of the gryphons, left, but not before laying a fearful curse ters if they help him get the supplies he so as to safeguard his secret recipe. on the district, which every year is inundated with gnats and biting midges.

150 The Cradle & The Crescent District of the Zutt The Balu Tribesmen The Zutt are a tribe that dwells to the southeast of Ramhurmuz, close to The Jabal Kufs are occupied by The Balu have a strong dose of Jinni the border with Fars. They are a semi- Balu tribesmen who are greatly feared Blood (Chapter 3: The Jinn), and very of- nomadic people who claim to originate by the Persians. Travelers’ tales recount ten have the Greater Immunity to Thirst from beyond Al-Sind, and they travel in that they use rocks to stone their vic- Virtue. They are usually accompanied wagons richly painted with vibrant de- tims to death in order not to needlessly by their jinn kinsmen on their raids, and signs. The Zutt themselves favor flam- blunt their swords. They are rumored to they have wise men who possess Faerie boyant colors in their dress, utilizing need neither food nor drink, and to have Summoning and Bonding (see Realms of delicate silks and heavily-dyed linen. the tireless nature of their war-camels. Power: Faerie, pages 131–133). Their war The Zutt have a reputation for larceny, The Balu detest the Ghuzz, but con- leaders are occasionally bonded to des- and the Khuzistani are usually hostile to sider them worthy enemies to use their ert or mountain jinni, allowing them ac- them when they arrive in town to trade. swords upon. cess to their faerie powers. Zutt women are known for being powerful Folk Witches (Hedge Magic Revised Edi- tion, Chapter 3). Occasionally the Zutt wander further Story Seed: The Lion-Shah afield, and have been encountered Egypt and in Samarkand. Furthermore, some of When the lion-shah hears that the to Jiruft so that they may be safe. In the covenfolk of Atsingani (see The Lion and lions of Kamfiruz in Fars (see Istakhr, return, he offers his gratitude and that the Lily, page 76) bear a close resemblance earlier) are being persecuted by the lo- of the lions; this could prove a valu- to the Zutt. cal emir, he asks the characters to pro- able commodity to a sahir or to an ani- tect them, and if possible, bring them mal trainer.

on a very tall hill is the provincial gov- Kirman ernor’s palace, set amid lush gardens. Mazandaran The city is guarded by a second fortress Kirman, although technically part of at the gate, and a third castle overlooks This is the collective name given to Persia, has a history of remaining virtu- the houses from the center of the city. the provinces between the Caspian Sea ally independent. The Ghuzz had ruled Despite all this military might, Bardasir and the Alborz mountains. Gilan is the the region since invading across the des- was still sacked during the Ghuzz inva- easternmost province (see Chapter 7: ert fifty years ago, but their authority sion, and it has been overtaken by Sirjan Mythic Mesopotamia), with Daylam to has disintegrated under their notorious in importance. its south, then Tabaristan further west inability to be ruled themselves, and the (whose chief city is Amul), then Gur- Ghuzz have entered into the ranks of the gan in the far west (whose capital is also Khwarazm-shah’s army, which now occu- Jiruft called Gurgan). During the Muslim con- pies Kirman. quest of Persia, Mazandaran was never Kirman is mostly steppe and semi-des- taken, partly due to its protection by the ert, and is famous for its oranges, dates, This city lies on the Div Rud — the Alborz mountains to the south and partly and pistachios. It is the home to several “Demon River” — that thunders with such due to the strong resistance put forth by secretive communities of Mazdeans, who force that waterwheels throughout the city its aristocratic Mazdean families. The Ba- try to not draw attention to themselves, supply power to the processing of indigo, vand family remained in control of Ma- for they have been heavily persecuted in cotton, and grain. The forests around zandaran for 200 years, before they were the past. A quarter of the province is taken Jiruft are home to lions, and the city is un- eventually brought down by the Nizari up by the Jabal Kufs, mountains found to der siege from the fierce creatures. Anyone Isma’ilis (see later) in 1125, who are now the south of the Dasht-i Lut. approaching the city must brave the deep- dominant in the region. shadowed forests, and trade with the out- Mazandaran was known to the ancient side has dried to a trickle in recent years. world as Hyrcania, a land famous for its ti- Bardasir The lions of Jiruft are ruled by a jinni, who gers (see insert). The region is exception- took over the pride about a decade ago. ally fertile with a tropical climate, and the Since he extended his glamour over the Zoroastrians believe that it was especially The city of Bardasir is an important forest of Jiruft it has acquired a Faerie aura, blessed by Ahura Mazda. Unlike most of trading center, set between the west of and the lions have become mildly Warped Persia, houses in Mazandaran are usually Persia and Khurasan. Outside the town in the process. built of wood rather than brick, and it is

151 The Cradle & The Crescent Hyrcanian Vis

Vis is plentiful in the lush and fertile a character who makes the roll by 8 Condition: Searched this area in the lands of Mazandaran. The yatus attribute may take 11 days (halving four times) last year this to Mount Damavand, believing it to find five pawns of vis. Renewable Modifier: –3 to be the source of all vis in the world, sources of vis cannot be found using * Only one of these bonuses can be used whereas the Daylami mobeds consider it this method; those should result from ** Cannot grant a bonus greater than part of Ahura Mazda’s bounty. stories instead. the character’s Mazandaran Lore. Vis commonly accumulates in the Further, if Magic Lore is not used, unique or unusual in Mazandaran: for Search for Vis: half of the vis found (rounded up) is example, if a chicken lays three brown Per + Mazandaran Lore + Modifiers + tainted by the Realm applicable to eggs and one white, the white one con- simple die against an Ease Factor of 9 the Lore used. tains vis. In a field of wheat, it is the ear that has thirteen grains that has the vis. Condition: Spell that detects vis* The storyguide can adjust the Ease The furthest piece of driftwood on the Modifier: + magnitude of spell with Factor according to the density of local Caspian shore might also contain vis. highest Target parameter magicians or magical creatures. For ex- Characters can spend time search- Condition: Magic Sensitivity* ample, if another sahir has searched in ing for vis by following up on rumors Modifier: + Ability the region in the previous year, then the gleaned from locals, and the hunter can –3 penalty from the table is appropriate, expect to follow blind alleys or find Condition: (Realm) Lore** even if the character has not searched that the vis has already gone. Searching Modifier: +Ability here recently. At the storyguide’s option, for vis takes a base time of one season, this mechanic can be used to find vis in and the character must travel through Condition: Entire region searched other regions (with the appropriate Area an area the size of a small county. Make within a Magic aura Lore), although the yield is typically a Perception + Area Lore: Mazandaran Modifier: +aura lower. The Ease Factor would be 12 for a roll against an Ease Factor of 9. Success Condition: Searched this area in the typical wilderness region, 15 in a settled indicates a pawn of vis. For every point last season area, and 18 in a city. in excess of the Ease Factor, either an- Modifier: –15 Most sahirs living in the region — other pawn of vis is found, or the time whether of yatu or Nizari training — dis- taken is halved. These can be combined Condition: Searched this area in the cover or are granted a Personal Vis Source in the case of a good roll; for example, last six months Modifier: –9 (as per the Virtue) early in their career.

particularly famed for an exotic hardwood detest the yatus for their paganism and accept Islam, and Zoroastrianism is still called khalanj. presumed diabolism. relatively strong here, existing uncomfort- Mazandaran is a magical battleground ably alongside Isma’ili Islam. The Nizari between three factions of magicians. First, Isma’ilis hold fifty castles in Daylam, of in the southwest is Daylam, which is one Daylam which the chief is Alamut (see later), the of the few strongholds of Zoroastrianism strongest is Maimun-Diz, and the most re- remaining in Persia. Second are the Nizari mote is Lamasar. Isma’ilis, who have strongholds in the Al- This highland region resides in Gi- borz mountains and dominate the politi- lan and Mazandaran, but may as well be cal scene in Mazandaran. Finally, there are a country in its own right. At the height Qumis the yatus of Mount Damavand. The mem- of its power in the tenth century, Daylam bers of these three groups clash regularly. encompassed all of Gilan, Tabaristan, Gur- All three groups have deep religious con- gan, and Qumis; now all of these provinc- The province of Qumis lies at the east- victions that they will never agree upon, es are under separate rule, and Daylam is ern Alborz mountains south of Tabaristan. and Isma’ilism in particular is a prosely- identified culturally rather than geograph- Its chief settlement is the city of Damghan, tizing faith which seeks to unite all men ically or politically. The Alborz mountains which is virtually the only non-Isma’ili under its banner, and remove those who isolate Daylam from the Persian plateau, settlement in the province. The emir of refuse to convert. Furthermore, the yatus and it is inhabited by a fiercely indepen- Qumis is under siege in his own land, and and the Nizaris fight over vis sources, the dent people who resisted the rule of the he treads very carefully so as to not up- mobeds and Nizari fight to influence or Sasanids and the Arabs. The Daylami set his subjects, never knowing which of control the local rulers, and the mobeds were one of the last peoples in Persia to them is a Nizari. Isma’ili efforts in Qumis

152 The Cradle & The Crescent

are coordinated from the great mountain stronghold of Girdkuh. Girdkuh charges a The Caspian Gates toll on all travelers through Qumis, since it is on the only route between western Through the province of Qumis between the vertical cliff faces, and Persia and Khurasan that does not cross runs the road from Rayy to Nishapur. progress is hindered further by the the Great Desert. This road passes through the Caspian water pouring down the rocks and the Gates, or Sirdara to the Persians. The swarms of serpents that haunt the area. “gates” are an interminable narrow Merchants still risk the road in pref- gorge cutting through the mountains; erence to taking the route across the The Great carts can only advance in single file Great Desert. Wall of Gurgan

This immense fortification stretches made from diamonds by certain magicians. One of the reasons it might have failed from the eastern shore of the Caspian Sea There is a Magic aura of 5 along the length to repel the Ghuzz is a breach in the wall, eastwards and north to end in the Pishka- of the wall. Legend holds that the wall was at the closest fort to the Gates of Alex- mar Mountains. The wall is over 120 miles built on the order of Alexander the Great ander, which mark the western terminus in length, with 35 forts placed approximate- (and thus is sometimes called Sadd-i-Iksandar, of the wall close to the Caspian shore. ly every 30 miles. The wall is 25 feet wide, the dam of Alexander) to keep the descen- No one knows how recent the breach about 20 feet tall, and has a central canal dents of Gog and Magog from entering Per- is, but since its discovery the local sahirs carrying water throughout its entire length. sia. In this purpose it seems to have failed, have noted the lack of the aura alignment It is made of red bricks, reinforced by steel for the Ghuzz (see earlier) entered Persia a (Realms of Power: Magic, page 16) that used and adamantine — an unbreakable metal century ago, and were invited to stay. to mark the Wall of Gurgan, in that spells

Hyrcanian Tiger

Magic Might: 10 (Animal) * If the tiger exceeds its opponent’s Hyrcanian Tigers are found in Mazan- Season: Spring Defense Total by 3; it is knocked daran and Persia’s northern desert. The ti- Characteristics: Cun +1, Per 0, Pre prone. ger is named after its swift flight (coming –2, Com –5, Str 0, Sta +1, Dex +2, Soak: +2 from a word meaning “arrow”), and gives Qik +5 Wound Penalties: –1 (1–5), –3 (6–10), its name to the Tigris River. The ancient Size: 0 –5 (11–15), Incapacitated (16–20), Persian kings loved keeping Hyrcanian Confidence Score: 1 (3) Dead (21+) tigers as pets, and even today the nobil- Virtues and Flaws: Magic Animal; Affin- Abilities: Athletics 6+2 (running), ity set hunters to steal cubs to be trained ity with Athletics, Improved Charac- Awareness 3 (gazelle), Brawl 5 (bite), for the hunt. The pursuing mother can be teristics, Puissant Athletics; Proud Dasht-i Kavir Lore 2 (oases), Hunt 4 distracted by glass spheres; on seeing her Magical Qualities and Inferiorities: No (gazelle), Survival 3 (semi-desert) own reflection she thinks it is her cub and Fatigue; Improved Abilities (x3), Im- Powers: is cheated from her revenge. proved Attack (trip), Minor Virtue Swiftness of Thought, 1 point, Init +4, Ani- The tiger receives a +3 to all rolls in- (Great Quickness) (x2), Personal mal: A Hyrcanian tiger can naturally volving running. Power move at incredible speeds, but by For a mundane version of this crea- Qualities: Crafty, Fast Runner, Pursuit spending a Might point it moves an ture, remove the Might score, Magi- Predator, Tireless* extra 500 paces for a single round. cal Qualities, Powers, and vis from the * A magical Hyrcanian tiger suffers no ReAn 20 (Base 20, by analogy with earlier description. A Hyrcanian tiger is fatigue, but a mundane tiger has this ReCo) Personal Power (20 levels, –1 more than twice as swift than the fastest Quality. Might cost) horse, even without magical powers, but Personality Traits: Vain +5, Swift* +3, Vis: 2 pawns Animal, in feet. can normally only sustain such speeds Brave +1 Appearance: The Hyrcanian tiger is a for one or two rounds. Its prey’s only * This is an Essential Trait; see Realms of long-legged tawny cat, about 7 feet hope of escape is to dodge and weave, Power: Magic, page 54. long (including a 3 foot tail), and since the Hyrcanian tiger cannot make Combat: weighing about 150 pounds. Tigers sharp turns when traveling at full speed. Bite: Init +5, Attack +11, Defense +12, in Mythic Europe have spots rather It is in the magical tiger’s nature to hunt, Damage +1 than stripes, although naturally you and it consumes its prey — principally Trip: Init +4, Attack +11, Defense +13, can have striped tigers in your saga gazelles — even though, as a magic ani- Damage n/a* if you prefer. mal, it doesn’t need this to survive.

153 The Cradle & The Crescent

seven settlements on the lower slopes of Story Seed: Sealing the Breach the mountain, each one with its own bayt al-hikma composed of mostly yatu-de- The characters are aware of a threat to Focus of “Enemies of Persia,” but it can scended sahirs (see insert). Persia’s security, whether from the Mon- only be performed in the aligned aura of gols, from a Zahhak, or from an enemy the Wall of Gurgan. The characters must yet to reveal itself. They learn the yatus of try to repair the breach in the wall, which Damavand are the guardians of an initia- might involve going head-to-head with tion script that grants the Major Magical whatever supernatural foe caused it. The Great directed against giants used to receive Mount Damavand Desert twice the normal aura bonus. It is obvious to anyone who inspects it that the breach This distinctive mountain dominates Although referred to as a single des- was intentional, and there is evidence of the whole of Tabaristan, and its snow- ert — the Great Desert, or Al-Mafazah non-Solomonic magic used to enforce the capped summit is visible for hundreds of (“The Wilderness”) — Persia’s central gap in the wall’s protection. The sahirs of miles across the plains of Persia. Dama- dry lands are composed of two distinct Mazandaran have showed little interest in vand is the home of the Simurgh, and the regions, called Dasht-i Kavir in the north repairing the breach since the Ghuzz are evil tyrant Zahhak is believed to be im- and Dasht-i Lut in the south. The Great of no current threat to them. prisoned below the mountain. There are Desert belongs to no province; it is a no-

The Simurgh

The Simurgh is an immense bird that The Simurgh sian literature), Athletics 5 (flying), lives on Mount Damavand, although she Awareness 4 (wrongdoers), Brawl makes expeditions to all corners of Persia Faerie Might: 50 (Animal) 5 (claws), Philosophiae 8 (natural and most of its inhabitants have seen her Characteristics: Int +1, Per +2, Pre 0, sciences), Survival 6 (mountains), at some point. The people of Persia are Com +1, Str +15, Sta +3, Dex +1, Teaching 5 (Area Lore) oddly comforted by her presence, as she Qik 0 Powers: is a bringer of fertility as well as a sym- Size: +9 Heart of the Whirlwind, 1–10 points, Init bol of national pride. The Simurgh is so Virtues and Flaws: External Vis, Huge –(Might cost), Auram: This Focus old that she claims to have seen the de- x8; Faerie Beast, Faerie Sight, Fa- Power allows the Simurgh to dupli- struction of the world three times over. erie Speech, Focus Power (Heart of cate any non-ritual wind-related spell During her exceptionally long life she the Whirlwind), Greater Immunity up to 50th level, at a cost of 1 Might has accumulated wisdom, and she is an (Bludgeoning Weapons), Greater Im- point per magnitude of the spell. authority on many subjects. In her most munity (Slashing Weapons), Greater Grant Fertility, 2 points, Init –22, Herbam: famous legend, the simurgh adopted the Immunity (Piercing Weapons), Im- As the Simurgh flies over fields, she albino Zal (the father of Rostam), when proved Characteristics x9, Improved can use this power to create an effect he was abandoned by his father in the Powers x6, Positive Folk Tales, Repu- similar to The Bountiful Feast, except Alborz mountains. Zal learnt much from tation as Confidence, Ritual Power that it affects an area ten times great- the Simurgh, and when he left her she (Grant Fertility) x3; Compassionate; er, and grants fertility to animals as gave him three of her feathers, with Incognizant, Traditional Ward well as plants. CrHe(An) 55 (Base 1, which he could summon her in need. Personality Traits: Kind +6, Curious +3 +3 Sight, +4 Year, +4 Bound, +2 Size, The Simurgh is so large that nor- Reputations: Bird of God 5 (Local) +1 Animal requisite) Ritual Power mal weapons are as nothing to her. It Combat: (55 levels, –9 Might cost, including requires magical weapons or spells to Claws: Init 0, Attack +12, Defense +8, 5 points from Improved Powers) cause wounds. She may grant a worthy Damage +19 Vis: 15 pawns of Animal, in breast feathers character one of her breast feathers us- Soak: +12 Appearance: The Simurgh is an enor- ing her External Vis Virtue; each one Wound Penalties: –1 (1–14), –3 (15–28), mous creature, large enough to carry contains five pawns of vis. These feathers –5 (29–42), Incapacitated (43–56), off an elephant. She appears as an ea- are Arcane Connections to the Simurgh, Dead (57+) gle with the head of a dog and claws and can be used to summon her in times Pretenses: Area Lore: Arabia 5 (wars), of a lion. Her feathers are the color of great need by casting them into a fire. Area Lore: Persia 8 (legendary fig- of highly polished copper, although The Simurgh is not designed to be a ures), Area Lore: Transoxiana 5 her peacock-like tail is patterned player character. (peoples), Artes Liberales 8 (Per- with thirty different colors.

154 The Cradle & The Crescent

man’s-land where outlaws find shelter and there are no permanent villages except for the three oases. The roads that join towns on opposite sides of the Great Desert have water tanks and domes built every three to four leagues, and it is in the best interests of merchants to keep these tanks full. Both deserts are the haunt of jinn.

Dasht-i Kavir

This salt desert is found to the north of Persia’s central plateau. It is about 500 miles west to east, and about 200 miles north to south. Although the center of the desert receives virtually no rainfall, there are marshes, wadis, and steppe-like regions within the Dasht-i Kavir, and in the west a great salt lake. Unlike the Dasht-i Lut (see later), the Dasht-i Ka- vir is home to many birds, such as the ubiquitous sand grouse and the impres- sively large bustard, as well as the fabled Persian gazelle and the Hyrcanian tigers who hunt it.

ert. It consists of three hamlets camped Naband Garmah around a small fort, some palm trees, and pasture where cattle can forage. The emir The middle of the three oases of the In the center of the Dasht-i Kavir, of the fort is charged with keeping the Dasht-i Kavir, Naband sits between Kir- halfway between Isfahan and Tabas, is desert routes clear for merchants and man and Quhistan. Despite possessing a one of the three oases of the Great Des- other travelers. guard house, the domed water tanks of

Gazelle, Persian

Characteristics: Cun –2, Per +1, Pre Dodge: Init +3, Attack n/a, Defense +10, lope with fawn hide; its flanks are –4, Com –4, Str –2, Sta +3, Dex +1, Damage n/a marked with a dark stripe. The Qik +3 Soak: +4 male has horns that it uses to de- Size: –1 Fatigue Levels: OK, 0/0, –1/–1, –3/–3, fend itself. Virtues and Flaws: Improved Abili- –5, Unconscious ties, Long Winded, Well-Traveled; Wound Penalties: –1 (1–4), –3 (5–8), –5 The gazelle (Arabic ghazal), is called Compassionate (9–12), Incapacitated (13–16), Dead “dorcas” in the Western bestiaries. It has Qualities: Defensive Fighter, Fast Run- (17+) exceptionally sharp sight (+3 to vision- ner, Herd Leader*, Keen Eyesight, Abilities: Area Lore: Dasht-i Kavir 4 related rolls) and is swift (+3 to run- Large Horns*, Herd Animal, Tireless (finding water), Athletics 4 (running), ning-related rolls). Only the male ga- * Males only. Awareness 3 (predators), Brawl 4 zelle engages in combat; when forced to Personality Traits: Gentle +3 (dodging), Leadership 5 (gazelles)*, do so, he temporarily gains the Ferocity Combat: Survival 3 (semi-desert) Virtue (grants 3 temporary Confidence Horns: Init +5, Attack +8, Defense +9, * Males only. Points). It is common in the Dasht-i Ka- Damage +1 Appearance: A small, delicate ante- vir of Persia.

155 The Cradle & The Crescent The Rig-i Jinn Makran

An area of sand dunes in the central a lush oasis where there should be none. This coastal province gets its name Dasht-i Kavir is home to a tribe of jinn. They may encounter either hospitality from mahi khoran, meaning “eaters of fish” in The Rig-i Jinn is avoided by the traders or hostility depending on the mood of Parsi. It is sparsely populated, with most of who cross the desert, but the jinn, while the jinn, but whether they are given the population concentrated in small fish- mischievous, are not malicious. The food and drink or wounds, the oasis ing villages. The capital of the province is Rig-i Jinn is found within a Faerie Aura will have moved during the encounter, Fannazbur, but it is a poor town compared of 3, but it is an extension of the glam- and when the faeries retreat, the charac- to the mighty cities of other provinces. our of the tribe, and moves when they ters could be tens of leagues away from The port of Tiz is a stopping point between do. Travelers encountering the jinn spy where they started. Al-Sind in the east and Fars in the west. In the past, Makran was the battleground between the Arab caliphs and the kings of Al-Sind, and war elephants captured from the latter in battle were integrated into Why Go to Hell? the Persian army. Bands of Ghuzz roam It is difficult to imagine why char- while fleeing from the Balu tribesman; through Makran, having once been part of the invasion force that occupied Kirman. acters would ever come to Gandom if this occurs, they may find them- Beriyan. However, there are a few selves being rescued by their pursuers, reasons why they might. It is a place who are loathe to allow the land more of Infernal pilgrimage, and a group of victims than is necessary. Alternative- The Gedrosian Desert characters might chase a villain here ly, as the hottest place on earth, the before he can dedicate himself more Gandom Beriyan might be important O Commander of the faithful! It’s a fully to the path of Hell. Characters in a mystery initiation, or as a place to land where the plains are stony; Where might accidentally stumble upon it forge or destroy an item of power. water is scanty; Where the fruits are unsa- vory; Where men are known for treachery; Where plenty is unknown; Where virtue Naband are notorious hiding places for place in Persia, and is completely devoid is held of little account; And where evil is desert raiders. of animal or plant life. dominant; A large army is small for there; The Gandom Beriyan is, however, the And a small army is useless there; The land home of the most malicious and evil of the beyond it, is even worse… Dasht-i Lut jinn tribes, since an Infernal aura of 4 cov- — Messenger to Caliph Umar, ers this area. The aura is corrupted with 644 AD a Debauched aura of exhaustion (Realms of The “emptiness desert” is approximate- Power: The Infernal, page 14) that prevents Famous for its impassibility, the desert ly 300 miles along its northwest-to-south- anyone from spending Confidence points of Makran has fought at least three great east axis and 200 miles wide. The eastern while here. At the heart of the Gandom ancient armies in the past: that of Cyrus part of the Dasht-i Lut is a low plateau Beriyan is the entrance to a Tartaran re- the Great, the legions of Queen Semiramis, of salt flats. The southeast is principally gio with an Aura of 7 where the air itself and finally the previously unconquered sandy. Unlike the Dasht-i Kavir, animal burns, and the rock is molten. One of the veterans of Alexander the Great. Known as and plant life is much more scarce in the most powerful corrupt jinn in Persia lurks Gedrosia to the ancients, the arid coastal southern desert. in this regio. region is inhabited by scattered fisherfolk. The region contains an incredibly large number of pagan ghosts, soldiers Gandom Beriyan Sanij from the armies that have died since antiquity attempting to cross its arid expanse. The central portion of the Dasht-i Lut The southernmost oasis of the Great As restless dead, these spirits are readily is called Gandom Beriyan (“the toasted Desert, Sanij links Kirman with Seistan. susceptible to the summons of necroman- wheat”). It is a volcanic wasteland covered The Balu tribesmen (see Kirman, earlier) cers and other summoners, although most in black lava. It is the most treacherous know this valley oasis well, and are a con- are overwhelmed with the emotions of de- of terrains, riddled with ravines and sink- stant threat to the sizable population that spair and memories of deprivation and are holes, and blasted by a terrifically strong lives here. unable to provide much useful information wind. The Gandom Beriyan is the hottest about their past.

156 The Cradle & The Crescent Seistan The Idol of Zur

Seistan is a lowland country around and At the time of the Muslim conquest, of the Zutt matriarch, the idol has the east of Lake Zarah, into which several major a fabulous idol was taken as booty from ability to move, and has been walking rivers drain. Like Quhistan and Ghur, Seistan the Zur Mountain near Dartal. It was in the direction of Zur for the last few is a dependency of Khurasan. In the Shahn- made of solid gold, and had rubies for years. The characters encounter the ameh, Seistan is called Zabulistan, famous as eyes. For the last few hundred years it Zutt family following the two-foot idol the home of Zal and his son Rostam, a man has been owned by a succession of no- as it slowly makes its way to Zur. What of both heroic proportions and heroic repu- tables, but is now in the possession of will happen if it is permitted to return to tation. Seistan is home to many Ghuzz. a Zutt family (see Khuzistan, earlier). its shrine is unknown, but could either Whether through its own power or that be very good, or very, very bad. Dartal to the passes into the mountains of Ghur. Ghurs on the other side of the mountains. The city of Dartal is located in the Za- Dartal is heavily garrisoned with horse Flocks in the Zamin-Dawar is the source min-Dawar, the “Land of Gates,” referring guards as protection against the warlike of much of Persia’s wool.

Rostam

Rostam is the legendary hero of the Per- can grant himself a +3 bonus to any one against an Ease Factor of 9 is required sian race. He was a giant so big his mother type of physical action that is a specialty to rouse the character from sleep at all, struggled to give birth, and his father had of the Athletics, Ride, or Swim Abilities and when woken the character has a to be taught to perform a caesarian section (e.g., climbing, running, riding at speed, –1 penalty to all actions until the sun by the Simurgh. His constant companion diving, swimming long distances, etc.). rises. These effects can be thrown off by was Rakhsh, a stallion big enough to bear Each time this power is used, a different spending a Confidence point. The tiger his weight, fierce enough to kill a lion, physical action can be selected; the bo- skin is currently in the possession of the and twice as swift as any other horse. The nus lasts for two minutes, and the power emir of Ghur. best-known tales of Rostam are Haft Khan-e cannot be used again until the previous Rostam’s Mace is a two-handed Rostam and Rostam and Sohrab. In Haft Khan-e bonus’s duration has expired (ReCo 25: mace (treat as a warhammer, ArM5, Rostam (Rostam’s Seven Quests), he jour- base 10, +1 Diam, +2 flexibility). The page 176) of superlative craftsman- neys to rescue his king from the clutches Minor Magical Focus that accompanies ship, and grants +3 to both Attack and of the demons of Mazandaran. The story this bloodline is Damaging Supernatural Defense Totals. While held, the mace ends with an epic battle between Rostam Creatures, and the Personality Flaw is grants the wielder the effects of the In- and the Div-e Sepid (“White Demon”). In Reckless (born mostly from stubborn- spirational Virtue. It was taken to Turan Rostam and Sohrab, Rostam mistakenly kills ness rather than heroism). It is likely that (Transoxiana) by Rostam’s enemies his own son Sohrab in battle. Rostam was the character has either the Large or the after his death, and is currently in Sa- eventually killed through the treachery of Giant Blood Virtue. markand, lying forgotten in one of the the king he served. tombs in the Shahr-i-Zindah. The legend of Rostam can be inte- It is said that reuniting the mace grated into a saga in a number of ways, Rostam’s and the tiger skin with the body of and some ideas are given later. So famous Tiger Skin and Mace Rostam will rouse the hero from his is it that any Persian character is likely to deathlike sleep — albeit temporarily know the story of Rostam without an ap- Rostam’s Tiger Skin was worn over — and cause him to stride afresh to propriate Ability roll, but precise details his armor, and he used it as a blanket Persia’s defense. Once the threat from should be left to those with an appropri- when adventuring. It grants a Soak bo- the east becomes apparent (see Chap- ate Area Lore. nus of +5 that is cumulative with any ter 9: The Silk Road, Genghis Khan), other armor, and it has a Load of 1. It Persian sahirs may well consider that makes its possessor a very deep sleeper; the resurrection of their greatest hero is Mythic Blood: Rostam the character can always recover Long worth the trouble. A quest in the story Term Fatigue levels from a night’s sleep, of Rostam in Elysium (Realms of Power: A magus who hails from the line of even if it is on hard ground or unpleas- Faerie, page 34) may grant clues to the Rostam has great physical prowess. He antly cold. However, a Stamina roll location of the two items.

157 The Cradle & The Crescent Zaranj the desert sands. The Zaranj area is fa- Herat mous for its baad sad va bist rooz, the “120- day wind” which blows north to south The capital of Seistan is Zaranj, built from the beginning of summer until the Known as the Pearl of Khurasan, Her- on a branch of the great Helmund River; autumn. As it blows, it whips up a cloud of at is dominated by the remains of a citadel during flood time the city is perilously dust that clothes the whole region in dirt. built by Alexander the Great. Like many of close to the shores of Lake Zarah as it Some believe the wind to be the home of the cities in this area, Herat has changed swells dramatically in size. The city has jinn, but in fact it is a host of migrating hands many times in the last century, but an inner town surrounded by a wall, be- air elementals (see Realms of Power: Magic, it has nevertheless managed to develop yond which are the suburbs of the outer page 138) who cavort through the area a reputation for brassworking, which re- town. All the houses have running water once a year. mains its chief export. thanks to above-ground channels, and Herat boasts a Zoroastrian fire temple they nearly all have cellars in which the called Sirishk just two leagues to the north inhabitants live in the oppressive heat of atop a hill; unusually, this temple is still in- the summer. Within Zaranj is a fluted tow- habited by a mobed and attracts worshiper with no doors, stairs, or visible means Khurasan ers from the nearby hills. The presence of of approach. On top of the tower are be- Shamiran castle directly behind the tem- lieved to be the bones of Rostam and his The largest province of Persia, ple may have contributed to its longevity. horse Rakhsh; their bodies were exposed Khurasan is named after khor, the sun, in- There is also a Nestorian church between to the sun and the vultures in the Zoroas- dicating that for many Persians, the sun Sirishk and Herat. To the south of the city trian manner, but their bones were never rises over Khurasan. The region has long is a lush land like a garden, profusely ir- retrieved. Instead, the tower was sealed to operated as an independent sultanate, but rigated by numerous canals. serve as a monument. is now firmly part of the Empire of the Around the city are salt marshes; these Khwarazm-shah. Seistan, Quhistan, and are inundated when the level of the lake Ghur are all districts of Khurasan rather Karakum Desert rises every year. Beyond the marshes are than provinces in their own right.

This “black sand” desert, also called the Desert of the Ghuzz, lies between the Lake Zarah and Mount Khajeh Caspian Sea to the west and the Aral Sea to the north. It is bounded on its north- According to Nestorian Christian- kind. The waters of the lake have a Di- eastern border by the Oxus River which ity, the three magi started their trip to vine aura of 2. flows into the Aral Sea in Khwarazm. Bethlehem from Lake Zarah. Accord- A flat-topped black hill called Mount ing to Mazdean legend, the lake is the Khajeh emerges from the waters of Lake keeper of Zoroaster’s seed; when the Zarah. It bears an ancient fire temple final renovation of the world is near and two abandoned forts collectively Merv three virgins will enter the lake and called Qal’a-e Sam — the “fort of Saum” thence give birth to the saviors of man- — named after Rostam’s grandfather. An important oasis-city on the Silk Road, Merv has been named “the ren- dezvous of the great and the small” as a testament to its immense market, where, Story Seed: The Riddles if accounts are true, it is possible to buy anything. Merv once claimed to be the The Emir of Herat has made a strange enough to answer those of the ghoul. largest city in the world, but in 1153 it announcement: “One must come to me, Unfortunately, the ghoul also has a was pillaged by the Ghuzz nomads, and neither clothed nor naked, neither afoot powerful Death Prophecy: it can only since then has changed hands between the nor on horse, and speak to me neither be killed by someone who is neither Khwarazmians, the Ghuzz, and the Ghu- indoors nor out. If this person does not man nor beast; by someone who does rids, and has lost importance in Khurasan come, then Herat shall be destroyed!” it neither by day or by night; someone in favor of Nishapur. The last of the great The emir is under the control of a hor- who offers it a present that is not a gift; Seljuks, Sultan Sanjar, is buried in Merv, rible ghoul, and the only way to free neither by metal, nor rope, nor poison, under a great dome covered in blue tiles him is to answer its three riddles, and nor stone, nor fire, nor water; and by which is so high that it can be seen from a the emir reckons anyone clever enough someone who is neither fasting nor eat- day’s march away. to answer his own riddle is also smart ing at the time. The libraries of Merv are greatly cel- ebrated. The Great Mosque has two: the

158 The Cradle & The Crescent Rishtah

A disease that is particularly common istics, Puissant Stealth, Tough; Glut- flicts +30 damage. The creature can- in Khurasan thanks to the malign influ- tonous; Offensive to Animals, Poor not use this power between June and ence of Mars is rishtah, known as dracuncu- Communication x2 November (Restricted Power Flaw). lus (“little dragon”) in Latin. Worms form Magical Qualities and Inferiorities: CrIg 35 (Base 25, +2 Voice) Greater in the flesh of the limbs of the victim, and Greater Power (Spit Fire), Major Vir- Power (35 levels, –3 Might cost, +6 their hot venom causes severe inflamma- tue (Greater Immunity to Fire); Im- Init (from Fiery Touch power and Im- tion and paralysis of the infected limb. proved Abilities, Improved Might x proved Powers)) Most often the legs are affected (caus- 4, Improved Powers, Personal Power Fiery Touch, 0 points, constant effect, Ig- ing the Lame Flaw until cured), but rish- x2 (Fiery Touch); Monstrous Appear- nem: The fiery slime of the olghoi tah occasionally afflicts the arms or eyes ance; Minor Flaw (Restricted Power) khorkhoi’s body burns those it touch- (simulated with the Missing Hand or Personality Traits: Hungry +6 es and corrodes even metal armor. It Missing Eye Flaws, respectively). Rishtah Reputations: Death Worm 2 (Local) inflicts +10 damage in addition to its is difficult to contract, but also difficult to Combat: bludgeoning attack, and any armor eliminate without medical assistance. It Fiery venom: Init +6*, Attack +11*, De- worn by its opponent loses one point is a Serious Choleric disease of Severity fense +9*, Damage +30 (see Spit Fire of Protection even if the opponent 12; with a Stable Ease Factor of 4 and a power, later) soaked all damage. CrIg 30 (Base 5, Recovery Ease Factor of 18. The interval Bludgeon: Init +5*, Attack +15*, Defense +1 Touch, +2 Sun, +1 corrosive ef- time is one month (for more details of +10*, Damage +9 (and +10 fire dam- fect, +1 constant effect) Personal diseases, see Art & Academe, page 45). age, see Fiery Touch power, later) Power x2 (30 levels, –3 Might cost) A cure used by the Ghuzz is to bury * Includes +3 for Ways of the Desert Vis: 3 pawns of Ignem, in body the afflicted limb in hot sand from dawn Soak: +10 Appearance: A worm, five feet long and until dusk. The worm then migrates from Fatigue Levels: OK, 0, –1, –3, –5, one foot in diameter; the olghoi the limb and into the sand. The problem Unconscious khorkhoi has no discernable head with this cure is that sometimes the rish- Wound Penalties: –1 (1–5), –3 (6–10), or tail. It is blood-red in color, with tah survives in the sand and can grow to –5 (11–15), Incapacitated (16–20), black mottling. be five feet long (and some report even Dead (21+) bigger ones). The Ghuzz call such a Abilities: Brawl 4 (bludgeon), Desert Found in the northern deserts of Per- worm the olghoi khorkhoi, and report that Lore 2 (trails), Stealth 4+2 (under sia and Transoxiana, the olghoi khorkhoi it has been known to attack travelers and sand), Thrown Weapon 4 (fiery (“intestine worm”) is the mature form of livestock with its fiery venom. venom) the worms that cause the disease called Powers: rishtah. It can move about freely beneath Spit Fire, 1 point, Init +3, Ignem: The ol- the soil, and, while blind, is very sensitive Olghoi Khorkhoi ghoi khorkhoi can spit fiery venom to vibrations. If it succeeds in a Dexter- up to 15 paces. It must succeed in a ity + Stealth roll greater than its victim’s Magic Might: 14 (Animal) Thrown Weapons Attack to do so, Perception + Awareness roll, it can burst Season: Spring receiving a –2 penalty if the target out of the ground next to him, gaining a Characteristics: Cun –1, Per +1, Pre 0, is 6–10 paces away, and a –4 penalty +3 bonus to Attack on the first round of Com –5, Str +2, Sta +3, Dex +3, if it is greater than 10 paces away. combat only. Initiative is rolled after this Qik +1 The fiery venom can only be parried initial attack. Animals instinctively shy Size: 0 if the target has a shield; otherwise from the olghoi khorkhoi, and the reac- Virtues and Flaws: Magic Animal; Ways it must be dodged with a Brawl De- tion of horses is often the first sign that of the Desert; Improved Character- fense Total. If it hits, the venom in- one is in the area.

‘Aziziyah, with over 12,000 books; and Nizam al-Mulk is part of the greater col- making exchanges with mortals, although the Kamaliyah library, with slightly few- lection of Merv, and its House of Wis- they themselves do not supply any goods; er. Also stored here are the libraries of the dom is the keeper of these great tomes they simply arrange a deal with a different colleges of Samanidiyah, ‘Umaydiyah, of magic. mortal who can provide the desired goods. and Khatuniya. The Dumayriyah library Merv is home to a group of faeries who The result is an intricate web of favors and is perhaps one of the smallest, but many dwell in the market, running stalls next to exchanges that might involve several tiers of its 200 books are unique, and all are the locals. These faeries help fulfill Merv’s of mortal involvement. priceless. Of most interest to the Suhhar reputation as a place where anything can If the characters need a particularly Sulayman, the library of the grand vizier be purchased. They gain vitality from exotic ingredient or item, then Merv is a

159 The Cradle & The Crescent good place to find it, but the price might accuse Mamun of regretting his decision be equally difficult to obtain. The answer and solving the tense political situation is to visit a different faerie merchant to with murder. obtain that thing, hoping he will ask in Mashhad ar-Rizawi (“the place of the return for something easier to get. The martyrdom of Reza”) was built on the site trick is knowing when to stop; you might of his death, a tradition arose that a pil- end up needing to find a pebble with grimage to Mashhad was worth 70,000 a white spot on it, but you are equally pilgrimages to Mecca, and the tomb of likely to be asked for the crown of the the imam became a holy place to which Sasanid king! people flocked from all over Persia. The shrine has a Divine aura of 6. Mashhad Nishapur The city of Mashhad is perhaps best known for its luxurious shrine to Imam On a strategic site controlling access Reza, the eighth Shi’i imam. Reza was un- to the east, Nishapur is named after the expectedly appointed by the Sunni Caliph first Sassanian King, Shapur I, who made Mamun to be his successor to the Abba- it his capitol for a brief time. Like most of sid caliphate. Following violent uprisings Khurasan’s cities, Nishapur is dominated from the Sunni Muslims after hearing this by its market. Its market streets have many announcement, Reza suddenly died before hostels for the merchants, and almost ev- he could take his post, leading the Shi’a to ery trade is represented here. Virtually all

Story Seed: Save the Books

The invasion of the Ghuzz have • A forgotten secret is uncovered taught the sahirs of Merv a lesson. when a book is copied. Example: the An even bigger threat, in the shape of location of Solomon’s Seal. Genghis Khan, looms to the east, and • Theft of books to which clerics Merv is home to thousands of books deny access. Example: A daring raid that can never be replaced. Unable to into the Dumayriyah to liberate a tome of impress on the colleges and madrasas Isma’ili theology. the importance of moving their books • Transport of books to a safe place. to a safer location, the sahirs are doing Example: Some of Nizam al-Mulk’s most their best to copy as many as they can. prominent tomes are moved further west, This frantic attempt to preserve these but a group of hostile magicians are aware irreplaceable texts can lead to any num- of the opportunity to steal magical power ber of stories: for themselves.

The Footsteps of Imam Reza

All along the road between Nishapur er, several of the footsteps are difficult to and Mashhad are imprints on the rocky locate thanks to erosion and the actions road which are locally believed to be the of malicious jinn, who sometimes create footprints of Imam Reza left as he made false trails to lead petitioners astray. Com- his fateful journey towards his death in pleting the pilgrimage should involve a Mashhad. It is said that a person who short story where the character’s faith is retraces every footstep and matches his tested, but if completed successfully, the own to them will be especially blessed in character gains the Intuition Virtue for the next venture he undertakes. Howev- the duration of his next venture.

160 The Cradle & The Crescent

the turquoise and malachite that makes its way into the Middle East and Europe ‘Umar Khayyam originates from mines near Nishapur. This famous astronomer, poet, and Treatise on Demonstration of Problems of Al- sahir lived and taught in Nishapur until gebra; written in Arabic; Summa on Mihr his death in 1123. He was trained in the Artes Liberales (Level 5, Quality 9) Solomonic Arts at Nishapur’s House of Explanations of the Difficulties in the Postulates This unprepossessing village on the Wisdom — a House he later went on to of Euclid; written in Arabic; Tractatus road to Nishapur is the home to one of lead — and was an apprentice with both on Artes Liberales (Quality 10) the three Royal Fires of Zoroastrianism Hasan-i Sabbah and Nizam al-Mulk Map of the Stars; written in Arabic; a Trac- (see Mount Kavarvand, earlier, for more (see The Nizari Isma’ilis State, later). tatus on Artes Liberales and a Trac- information on the Royal Fires). The ru- Nizam al-Mulk later provided him with tatus on Solomonic Astrology (both ins of a fire temple hide the entrance to a yearly pension to continue his studies. Quality 11; includes a +1 from the a terrestrial Divine regio of aura 8. With- ‘Umar Khayyam wrote several influen- beautiful illustrations of the original) in, the fire temple is intact, and inside it tial books on mathematics, astronomy, Rubaiyat (collection of poems); written burns Adur Burzen-Mihr, the holy flame. and philosophy, but he is best known in Parsi; Summa on Philosophiae This fire is specifically tied to farmers and for his poetry. (Level 4, Quality 9) craftsmen, just as the other two fires are tied to royalty and the priesthood. A tool left in the regio for a year will be purified by the holy flame, and henceforth grant a The Cypress of Kishmar +4 bonus to any Craft or Profession Abil- ity rolls made using it. This bonus lasts for In Kishmar near Turshiz, Zoro- Quhistan that people claim have grown a number of years equal to the Theology: aster planted a cypress tree that had from seeds of the Kishmar tree, and in Mazdean Ability of its owner. Only the sprung from a branch he had brought some cases, this is even true. The trees owner of the tool can benefit from this bo- from Paradise. It grew taller than any themselves radiate a Divine aura of 1 nus; should another even touch the tool, it cypress ever had, a monument to the within five paces, and this aura is auto- loses its purity forever. conversion of King Goshtasp to Zoro- matically tempered with the Calm vir- astrianism. It was uprooted in 861 by tue (see Realms of Power: The Divine, pages Caliph Mutawakkil and transported 38–39). Wood from the fallen branches across Persia to be used for beams in of these trees fed into the sacred fire of a Quhistan his new palace, although the caliph Zoroastrian temple increases the Divine was killed on the very day it reached aura of the temple by 1 point until the This “land of the mountains” is on its destination. wood has been burnt. Wood chopped the east of the Great Desert, bounded by There are several cypresses in from the trees lack this property. Khurasan and Seistan. It is mostly a highland district with a corresponding cool climate, unlike the surrounding lands. While technically a dependency of Khurasan, The Shansabani Quhistan is part of the shadow Isma’ili state (see later), and they control the mountain The ruling family of Ghur have long west or south. They were divided into fortresses of Turshiz, Qa’in, Birjand, Mu- been the Shansabani family, who claim three branches: one ruled Bactria and minabad, Dara, Tabas and Nih. Zahhak (see earlier) as their first ances- Badakhshan from Bamiyan, another ruled tor. Sultan Ala’uddin Hussain, known as Khurasan from Ghazni, and the main Jahansoz (“World Burner”), took Ghur branch ruled Ghur from Firuzkuh. from the Ghaznavids with the help of his The last Shansabani sultan was Mo- demonic patrons, and he and his kin ruled hammed al-Ghuri, and he was a host to over Ghur (and later Khurasan) with an Zahhak. The Shansabani never conced- Ghur iron fist. The Shansabani brooked no ed the province and have not been of- The people of Ghur are more closely dissent or disaffection, and any political ficially replaced, but they have all van- related to the Baluchi and the people of troublemakers simply disappeared mys- ished. Some claim they have left Persia Bactria and Badakhshan than they are to teriously. The sultans of Ghur pursued an for Mythic Hind; others claim they have Persians. When the Shansabani (see in- aggressive policy with their neighbors, gone into hiding. One persistent rumor sert) were driven from Ghur by the Kh- but fortunately for Persia, their attentions places the Shansabani heir at the court warazm-shah, they unfortunately left their were drawn to the fabled east rather than of Genghis Khan. familiar demons and evil spirits behind. As

161 The Cradle & The Crescent a consequence, Ghur is a dangerous land, The Minaret stance called myrobalan, a greasy speckled and many of its roads are haunted by mali- powder with a spicy nature akin to pepper cious jinn. The towns are home to demons Located on a bend in the Hari River, or cardamom. Myrobalan is of great inter- that walk in human form, and the Ghurs the Minaret of Firuzkuh stands over 200 est to physicians, since when properly pre- live in permanent suspicion of their neigh- feet high, and is made of baked bricks. It pared it can have potent curative proper- bors, and even members of their own fam- is intricately decorated with glazed tiles ties. However, it can induce hallucinations ily should they start to act in an unusual bearing alternating bands of Qur’anic that can be pleasurable (if the myrobalan manner. In some towns, the demons have verses, geometric patterns, and calligra- is prepared with wine) or horrific (if pre- taken over and rule openly, and the hu- phy in multiple scripts. The verses from pared with water). Either sensation proves mans are powerless to stop them. the Qur’an are taken from the surat Maryam, devastatingly addictive, and the markets which relate to Mary, the mother of Jesus. of Kabul are littered by myrobalan addicts The minaret has been under assault from with their distinctive vacant expressions the jinn of the Hari, and just recently the and dark-stained teeth. Kabul is ruled by Bamiyan mosque to which the minaret was attached a demon known only as “The Shadowed was destroyed in a flash flood. The mina- One,” who is somehow connected to the ret stands firm against their attacks, for it trade in myrobalan. None have seen him A rich yet unfortified city in the east is powerfully warded against supernatural in person; his four lieutenants control the of the Ghur district, Bamiyan was recently creatures. Sahirs have spend long years people on his behalf with their demon- one of the three capitals of the Shansaba- trying to figure out the means by which it granted powers. ni. Its people are infidels and pay respect is protected, but the minaret’s secrets have to two great idols high up on the moun- so far eluded them, other than to deter- tainside. In a chamber supported on col- mine it is of Divine origin. umns are two statues cut into the living rock; the locals call these Surkh and Khing The Nizari (“Red” and “Gray,” respectively) and in the Ghazni convoluted religion of Bamiyan they are twin aspects of a single god. The cham- Isma’ili State ber in which these idols are found is richly Formerly the capital of the mamluk of decorated with carvings of birds, which Ghur, but now abandoned by the Shan- The Isma’ili state is unlike others in the have been covered in beaten gold. The sabani, Ghazni is famous for the Bahram- Mythic Middle East, in that it does not ex- two idols wander occasionally from their shah mosque, which has minarets with a ist on maps, or in terms of military might, mountainside nook, bringing a Faerie aura star-shaped cross-section, covered in geo- but rather lies in the hearts of men. It is a with them as they come. When Khing metric patterns. It is also well-known as a small state and widely scattered, neverthe- walks, the people of Bamiyan hold feasts fabulously rich city, with ornate decora- less it is united under a strong devotion to in its honor and bedeck it with flowers, but tions on the lowliest of buildings, and os- its beliefs and goals, and has successfully when Surkh fares abroad they hide within tentatious displays of gold and jewels from resisted all threats aimed against it since their houses and tremble. its inhabitants. Even the lowliest peasant its foundation over a hundred years ago. has a gold necklace or bracelet, and higher The Nizaris exercise political dominance status individuals drip with precious gems. in Persia, not through their meager terri- Firuzkuh These riches derive from the Wealth of Na- torial successes but through the point of a tions power of a False God (Realms of Power: knife and through magical murder. Rather The Infernal, page 37) worshiped in secret than meeting their enemies in battle they The summer capital of the Ghurids, by the Ghaznians. use subterfuge and deception to eliminate Firuzkuh means “turquoise mountain” in the leaders. the local dialect due to the preponder- ance of that mineral, along with silver, Kabul in the surrounding hills. Firuzkuh was a History retreat used by the Shansabani to keep their wicked activities hidden. Many of A city greatly frequented by mer- their political enemies were brought in chants, who travel up the single fortified In the middle of the 11th century, secret to Firuzkuh, and drowned in the road to the market to trade with the ex- three apprentice sahirs at the same House Hari river. Some claim that Firuzkuh otic merchants who also come here from of Wisdom in Nishapur — Abu ‘Ali al-Tusi, was the center of devil-worship by the Mythic Hind. Of most interest to the Hasan-i Sabbah, and ‘Umar Khayyam — Shansabani. The palace is now empty, al- Persians is indigo, which can command a became the closest of friends. They swore though the ghosts of the family’s victims rich price further west. However, a more a pact of brotherhood that if any one of still stalk its halls. sinister substance is also sought out: a sub- them achieved fame and greatness, he

162 The Cradle & The Crescent

would share it with his friends. Abu ‘Ali al- Tusi was the rising star of the trio, and be- An Assassin by Another Name came vizier to the Seljuk Sultanate (where he gained the laqab of Nizam al-Mulk), In Syria, the Nizari Isma’ilis have felt for the wild beliefs and extravagant and also grand vizier of the Suhhar Sulay- been slandered with the name of “hash- behavior displayed by the Isma’ilis, and man. As agreed, he offered positions to his ishiyyin” (smokers of hashish); this sobri- in any case is not used to describe the friends; ‘Umar refused, asking instead for quet was adopted by the Crusaders as main Persian sect. the means to continue his studies. Hasan “assassin,” and is the origin of the mod- In Persia, the Isma’ilis are princi- accepted, but only to get close to the vi- ern term. The rigidly ascetic Nizaris do pally known as the Batiniyya (men of zier. He had secretly become a member of not use drugs of any kind, and in any the batin), suggesting that they place the Isma’ili sect of Islam, and at their in- case they would likely interfere with the too much emphasis on the inner mean- stigation, murdered his childhood friend. concentration and planning required ing of the Qur’an; or the Malahida (her- The Suhhar Sulayman was outraged, but for executing their public murders. The etics), referring to their rejection of true to the dying wishes of their grand vi- name stems instead from the contempt shari’a law. zier they held fire on their vengeance. Rec- onciliation between Hasan and the Suhhar Sulayman soon became impossible, and a that give the sect its notoriety and politi- lieve that shari’a law no longer applies to schism within the Isma’ilis caused Prince cal pressure. The first initiated rank is the those who embrace the batin, and conse- Nizar — Hasan’s superior — to flee to the mustajib (respondent), who know some of quently, they reject the five Pillars of Islam mountain fortress of Alamut in Persia. the mysteries of the cult, but have none of (and hence receive no benefit from them; Hasan-i Sabbah continued to train the authority of the next three grades, da’i see Realms of Power: The Divine, page 106), his devoted followers in the arts of Solo- (“missionary”), hujja (“proof”) and dai’d-duat dietary restrictions, the authority of the monic magic, and, it is rumored, to com- (“chief missionary”). The seventh and final caliph, and so forth. mand sentient spirits. The Nizari Isma’ilis rank is that of the imam-qa’im, the mystical According to the da’wa, ever since became feared for their single-minded teacher and spiritual leader of the sect. the creation of the world, human history devotion, using magic to walk in secret, The Nizaris are organized into jaziras has been characterized by alternating cy- ensorcel minds, kill through poison, and (“islands”), each representing a geographi- cles, each begun by a “speaking” imam or travel vast distances in the blink of an eye. cal territory, and under the control of a hu- prophet (the imam-qa’im), followed by a These tactics proved to be shockingly ef- jja. The da’is within each jazira are respon- succession of “silent” imams. They hold fective, and the Seljuk governor of Persia sible for preaching the doctrines of the sect that the imam represents God’s will in the — despite help from the Suhhar Sulay- and spreading the Isma’ili faith. Each hujja world at all times, that he is constantly un- man — proved incapable of mounting reports directly to the dai’d-duat, who is der divine guidance since the batin flows an effective response. The Nizaris were the head of the sect and grand master of through him, and that his commands de- successful in taking key towns, but their Alamut. Members of the sect commonly mand absolute obedience. Nizar was a strategy merely caused the populace to refer to each other as rafiq, “comrade.” member of the true line of silent imams, fear Isma’ilism, rather than embrace it. The followed by Hasan-i Sabbah and the other Nizaris and the Suhhar Sulayman settled dai’d-duats of Alamut. into a pattern of attempting to wipe each The Da’wa The imam-qai’m is an immortal be- other out, but losses on both sides have ing of unlimited wisdom, who has been, been roughly equal. The Isma’ili sect have The da’wa (mission) is the philosophy in the past, Elijah, Enoch, Khidr, and ‘Ali also established a branch in Syria, also and organization of the Nizaris. A core (the first Shi’i imam). It is believed that the based in mountain castles. The most fa- doctrine is that of taqiyya, the concealment current cycle is the qiyama (“resurrection”), mous member of this branch was Rashid of one’s beliefs in the face of danger. Islam and that the souls of those who follow the al-Din Sinan (who died in 1193), who be- stresses the importance of truth and hon- da’wa are already in heaven, whereas the came well-known to the crusaders as “the esty, and yet taqiyya allows the Isma’ilis souls of all other Muslims — plus those of Old Man of the Mountains.” to deny their adherence to its precepts a non-Muslim faith — have already been and live in secret among others. It per- judged and suffer in hell. mits them to use subterfuges and disguises A Sect of Assassins without betraying their faith in God. Nizaris believe in the inner meaning, The Nizaris Today or batin, of the Qur’an, holding that it con- The sect is divided into seven ranks. tains the very secrets of the universe if the The lowest ranks are those of the fida’i (de- layers of symbolism and numerical corre- The current dai’d-duat of the Nizari voted one) and lasiq (adherent), neither of spondence can be understood. They live Isma’ilis is Jalal al-Din Hasan, who suc- which are properly initiated into the cult. an ascetic life according to the 51 epistles ceeded in 1210. During his rule, Jalal al-Din These ranks perform the assassinations of Isma’ilism, called the Rasa’il. They be- has done the unthinkable — publicly con-

163 The Cradle & The Crescent New Nizari Virtues

New Virtue: Fida’i cessfully completed seven murders at aris. Mustajib may take Academic and the orders of his grand master, and com- Arcane Abilities at character creation. Social Status, Minor mands a small band of up to six fida’is. Most mustajibs started their careers as The character is an assassin of the Lasiq may take Martial Abilities at char- fida’is, and typically have this Virtue Nizari Isma’ilis. A fida’i is a devout mem- acter creation. (or the Lasiq Virtue) to represent their ber of the sect who is prepared to die on social status among non-magical folk. its orders, and as such he should consider However, if he joined the sect later in taking either the Oath of Fealty or Du- New Virtue: Mustajib life he may choose different Social Sta- tybound Flaw. When not on a mission, a tus Virtue. Social Status, Free fida’i wears white, with a red girdle, cap, This Virtue is the Nizari equivalent or boots. He has been trained in precise of the Sahir Virtue. The character has placement of daggers and blades, as well New Virtue: Trained Assassin been initiated into the magical tradi- as disguise. Fida’i may take Martial Abili- tions of the Nizaris, and must take Sol- General, Minor ties at character creation. He can expect omonic Sihr as his Summoning Power. This Virtue is only available to to become a lasiq if he proves his loyalty If a mustajib has The Gift, he has been characters with one of the three Social to the sect. Opened to all of the Solomonic Arts; if Status Virtues of the Nizaris. He has he is unGifted, then the Solomonic Arts completed several missions on behalf New Virtue: Lasiq must be bought as Virtues or else be of his masters, giving him 50 additional Initiated after character creation. Un- experience points that may be spent on Social Status, Major Gifted characters should also take the any Martial Abilities as well as Athletics, The character is an experienced as- Necessary Condition and Prohibition Guile, or Stealth. sassin of the Nizari Isma’ilis, having suc- Flaws to represent Initiation by the Niz-

Initiation Scripts of the Nizaris

Two example Initiation Scripts are sary Condition (brandishing a weapon) and devote himself to the sect. He must given here. Nizaris are almost always onto all of the character’s magic (+9). donate all his possessions and land to the Initiated into Solomonic Storytelling in When he returns to the mundane Nizaris, and cut off all ties with family preference to other Solomonic Arts. world with the vision of paradise still fill- and friends. Even his name is changed to ing his head, he is told that the master of a cultic name (+2). Alamut can return him to paradise at any The initiatory rite takes place at Al- Initiation of Solomonic Sihr time, and he is promised a place in para- amut when Sirius rises (+3); the initiate and the Rank of Mustajib dise permanently if he dies in his service. is taken once more to the paradise in- In return he swears a magically-enforced sula within the Magic Realm. He must Ease Factor: 21 oath to never betray the secrets of the quest on at least three different insulae Script Bonus: +18 sect, lest he be damned to eternal fire (thus navigating the Void that sepa- Details: This rite takes place at Al- (the Prohibition Flaw, +3). rates them), and obtain three objects amut during Ramadan (+3). The Initi- The ritual that Opens the Arts of a that resonate with three different emo- ate is taken to the garden and magically Gifted Nizari has similar elements to this tions (+6). transported to the Magic Realm by his Initiation, although it does not impose Upon returning to the mundane mystagogue (using Solomonic Travel). any Flaws. world, he must spend a season compos- He finds himself in an insula (seeRealms ing an encoded poem which tells of his of Power: Magic, page 19) of intense para- journey while appearing to be about an dise, populated with beautiful maidens to Initiation of Solomonic entirely different subject, demonstrating cater to his every need. He must quest to Storytelling his mastery of the batin (+1). find himself a companion spirit through After this second visit to paradise, which he will work his magic (+3), and Ease Factor: 21 the mustajib discovers that any use of in the process of this quest his magic is Script Bonus: +15 his magic briefly transports him mentally bound very closely to a weapon that rep- Details: The initiate is asked to sur- back there (simulated by the Disorien- resents that spirit, imposing the Neces- render all contact with the outside world tating Magic Flaw, +3).

164 The Cradle & The Crescent verted the sect to Sunni Islam. The Nizaris cities in the Mythic Middle East. The Syr- Nizari Characters recognize this as an exercise in taqiyya and ian Assassins have their base at Masyaf in have obeyed without question. Jalal al-Din the Holy Land, with a further stronghold expects to garner support from the enemies near Aleppo. The rank of fida’i is suitable for grog of the Khwarazm-shah, namely the Caliph and companion characters, who should of Baghdad in the west and Genghis Khan take the Dutybound Flaw (or, for com- in the east. He has already made alliances Alamut panion characters, the Oath of Fealty with the rulers of Arran and Azerbaijan, Flaw) to represent the vows of obedience and married the four daughters of the emir Alamut was built by one of the kings of taken to the grand master of the sect. If of Gilan. Since he has ushered in a new era Daylam; he was out hunting one day and a fida’i proves himself to be capable, he of outward law, many of Isma’ilis believe his eagle alighted on a rock. He imme- can expect to be elevated to the rank Jalal al-Din to be the imam-qa’im. diately saw the strategic potential of the of lasiq, and command a squad of men. Relations with the Suhhar Sulayman are site, and built a castle there that he called Only a fraction of the Nizaris become hostile; the Suhhar still holds the Nizaris aluh-amut, which in the Daylami language Initiated into the magical traditions of as traitors and refuses to treat with them. means “the eagle’s lesson.” Since then, Al- the sect, and become mustajibs. The rank Many sahirs attempt to slay or drive off amut has become more than just a castle; of da’i (which is not represented by a So- known Nizaris, most often using the fear it is a fortified village in Rudbar, the valley cial Status Virtue) is awarded to mustajibs and hatred of the populace against them. of the Shahrud. who have Initiated at least two Solomon- The Nizaris, on the other hand, have no Alamut is physically an immense, tow- ic Arts other than Solomonic Sihr; all specific enmity towards the Suhhar Sulay- ering rock, with unapproachable slopes on Gifted mustajibs are automatically da’is. man, but treat them like any other power- all sides, and yet a flat top on which ex- A da’i is expected to lead a community ful individual — if they stand in the way of tensive buildings have been constructed. It of Isma’ilis and to convert others to the the imam’s coming, then they die. has vast storerooms hollowed out from the cause. The ranks of hujja and dai’d-duat In addition to Daylam, Quhistan, and very bedrock, and possesses its own spring. are both available to player characters Qumis (mentioned earlier), the Nizaris A notable feature amid the dust and rock is through roleplaying. have significant hidden communities in a luxurious garden; this is the source of the Apart from those things noted in the the south of the Zagros Mountains in Fars fortress’s Magic aura of 3, and it contains a inserts nearby, mustajibs (and da’is) should (including the fortress of Shardiz), and link to the Magic Realm important in the be created using the rules for sahirs (see scattered cells in most of the important initiatory rituals of the Nizaris (see later). Chapter 3: Order of Suleiman).

165 Chapter Nine The Silk Road & Beyond

The fabled route to distant Serica, the northeastward from Baghdad. Through River.” Known first as Turan to the Persians, land of silk, is beginning to coalesce again Khurasan and into the Eastern Provinces then later as Transoxiana to the Greeks at the beginning of the 13th century, as of Transoxiana, Badakhshan, and Wakhan, and Romans, these lands have always been the Mongol invasion paradoxically cre- the trade routes delve past the borders of at the edge of civilization. Nominally ates a degree of safety for traveling mer- Mythic Middle East and even into the su- ruled by the Khwarazmshah, the region chants and missionaries by controlling the pernatural Realms beyond. includes the ancient oases of Farghana, almost incessant brigandage of the area. Sogdia and Bactria, the estuarine province Later to become known as the Silk Road, of Khwarazm, and the jinn-infested des- the route has existed throughout antiquity ert of Kyzylkum (“red desert”) — all bor- in various states of accessibility. It consists dered by the endless northeastern steppes of not one road but many — a network of Transoxiana and the harsh eastern mountain arc of the caravan stages, marked by resting places Pamir and Paromisidae. known as caravanserais, that branches Beyond the great river known to the Invaded by the triumphant Arabs un- and reforms through the deserts, steppes ancients as the Oxus lay the borderlands der Qutayba in the seventh century, Tran- and mountains as the caravans travel of Mawara’n-nahr, “the Lands Beyond the soxiana was washed over by the Islamic empire until its wave of conquest broke on the shores of the vast inland steppe. Islam itself changed and adapted as it flowed into the steppe — orthodox Sunni practices found little hold, but the ecstatic brand of Sufi mysticism, with similarities to the shamanism of the Turkish nomads and a focus on highly charismatic holy men, was more successful. Many of the inhabitants profess Islam but cling to many pagan beliefs and folk traditions linked to the local Faerie and Magic spirits. The region has a history of loose pastoralist domination and local dynasties centered on riverine oases. No single authority has ruled the borderlands between the pastoralist nomads and the urban settlers since the ancient Turk Empire, although this is about to change as a new nomad empire descends from the east.

The Great Rivers

Transoxiana is bordered and defined by the two great rivers that flow through it — a liminal zone of cultural transi- tion and trade, bordering the deserts

166 The Cradle & The Crescent

south of the Aral Sea and forming a barrier between wild nomad steppes to the Story Seeds for The Great Rivers north beyond the Jaxartes and the urban settlements of the south across the Oxus. A River Runs Through It allow irrigation of the rich province via A third lesser river, the Zeravshan (“the many canals. golden”), courses past the great cities of In winter, both the lower Oxus Faerie, Infernal, and Magic (perhaps Samarkand and Bukhara only to choke and the Jaxartes freeze over, allowing even Divine) lesser river spirits can be into dust in the deserts before reaching merchant caravans (and lately nomad found along the river’s fragmented lower one of the inland seas. armies) to cross with ease. The cause of course, bound to its network of canals. this phenomenon is an ongoing struggle Each spirit has its own unique name and between the Faerie and Magic jinn that cultural allegiance, although shifting The Oxus claim dominance of the lands on either alliances and swirling courts appear to side of the great rivers. In winter, the collect from time to time. Mistakenly associated with the He- local Faerie spirits hold sway and the One such lesser captive Magic brew Gihon, one of the four rivers that rivers freeze over, allowing nomads and spirit, Ahurani or Anahit, represents flows into Eden, the great waterway known their stories to cross between the steppe the vestige of a pre-Zoroastrian fertility as the Jahyun to the Arabs, the Amu Darya and settled lands, engendering conflict spirit, or yazata, adopted by the Sogdi- to the Turks, and the Oxus to the classical and vitality for the faeries to feed off. ans, now yoked to supply the harvests of Greeks has always been considered one In summer, the ancient Magic spirits the Khwarazmshah. The greater Faerie of the frontiers of the classical world. Lo- resume their dominance, allowing the nobles known locally as Old Jahyun and cals of the high Pamir village of Qarabo- waters to flow in their natural course the Son of the Oxus are known to be laq claim it is birthed from the eerie Lake and providing irrigation to the towns of the most capricious and most powerful, Zorkul nearby, but the classic geographers their lower reaches. although a clever magus or sahir may be claim it begins its journey as it melts from able to bargain with one at the expense a great ice cave beneath a glacier high up of the other. in the fabled Wakhan corridor. Spirits of the Oxus Delta The original bed of the Oxus runs Once a single mighty Magic Spirit, he axartes iver pirit westward across the desert for six days T J R S the clash of cultures along its lower march before reaching the shores of the banks has split the great spirit into a Unlike the Oxus, the Jaxartes is distant Bahr Khazar (Caspian Sea) near multitude of lesser entities as the river dominated by a single Faerie entity that the fishing town of Khalkhal. This former splits into numerous waterways and ca- involves itself in stories of nomad incur- stretch of the river is devoid of magical nals as it approaches the Aral Sea. Just sions. The ancient Jaxartes spirit feeds spirits as they have all been bound into short of this lake, the river is prevented on the fear of the urban oasis dwellers of the structures and canals near Gurganj, but from following its natural course by the the rapacious barbarians of the steppes, nevertheless retains a fading Magic aura of great dykes of Gurganj, solid structures orchestrating an invasion every few cen- 2 along its dusty length. On cool nights, magically reinforced with captive jinn turies by summoning a Faerie host with a when the constellation of Aquarius is as- enslaved by the ancient sahirs of pre-Is- new name through the gateway to Arca- cending, small clear pools of water can be lamic times. The sequence of dams that dia that lies just outside of Talas. See “The found along the dry bed and can be har- disrupt the natural course of the river Endless Nomad Cycle” Story Seed later. vested for Aquam vis.

The Jaxartes The Sea of Khazar court of the popes. Although the Khazars have long since Also known as the Sayhun or the The Bahr Khazar (Khazar or Caspian dispersed, the stories they engendered Nahr-ash-Shash (“the river of Shash”), the Sea) forms the northwestern boundary have spawned Faerie jinn that imitate their Jaxartes forms from numerous mountain of Transoxiana. Beyond its expanse to culture and kingdom. Those seeking the streams in the valley of Farghana, flow- the northwest once ruled the mythical far northwestern shores of the sea past the ing through this province past the home- Khazars, a powerful kingdom of nomads Caucasus range, either by land or by water land deserts of the Ghuzz Turks via many that converted to Judaism in the ninth may encounter the secret isle of the Ama- channels into the northeastern part of the and tenth centuries. This lost kingdom zons (see Rival Magic for details). Brave Buhayrah Khwarazm (Aral Sea). More so held back the Islamic expansion in the travelers that push further find themselves than its greater sibling to the south, the ninth century, only to fade back into the in the magical lands of the jinn and be- Jaxartes forms the true border between steppes from where it arose. Stories about yond, having delved into those outer parts Iran and Turan, Persian and Turk, civilized their far realm continue filter all the way of Jinnistan that lie in either the Faerie or agrarian and barbaric nomad. back into Mythic Europe, even to the Magic Realms.

167 The Cradle & The Crescent Genghis Khan and the Fall of Transoxiana

“O people, know that you have com- Jand, Yanikent and Banakat. By the end ventional Hermetic characters or their mitted great sins, and that the great ones of autumn 1220, when the horde settles companions traveling in the area may among you have committed these sins. down along the Vaksh River, the Khan’s become caught up in one of the sieges If you ask me what proof I have of these armies have captured the twin capitals or escape from the sacking of a town and words, I say it is because I am the punish- of the shah’s realm, Samarkand and be forced to cooperate with native char- ment of God. If you had not committed Gurganj, and chased the Sultan him- acters in order to escape back to Chris- great sins, God would not have sent a self across Khurasan to his death on the tendom, bearing news of the “hurricane punishment like me upon you.” shore of the Caspian Sea. Within an- from the east” to the disbelieving Order. — Temujin (Genghis Khan), other year, the Mongol juggernaut has Trianoma magi seeking to assess the Or- as reported by Juvaini in penetrated into Persia, sacked Balkh, der of Suleiman may become embroiled History of the World Conqueror Merv, Nishapur, and Herat, and routed in the fight against the Mongol jugger- the Sultan’s son Jalal al-Din across the naut. Tytalan magi may be attracted to At the beginning of a canonical Ars Indus, while the two great generals, the conflict engendered, whereas House Magica saga set at the start of 1220, Jebe and Subadei, have commenced Tremere’s reconnaissance may lead them Genghis Khan and a large detachment their great raid into Russia. Abandoned to become involved in assessing the de- of his horde are encamped outside the and never resettled, the original sites of gree of threat posed by the invaders. besieged town of Bukhara. If history fol- the sacked cities may become home to Both Jerbiton magi and Redcaps may lows its course, the town will have fallen similar Infernal auras, tarnished with the have links through trade or travel and be within two weeks, the surviving defend- Personality Trait of Wrath. Such places drawn into stories involving their mun- ers put to death without exception. All attract lesser demons of destruction, dane connections or family. Necroman- the civilians are ordered from the town; dark faeries, ghul, and malevolent jinn cers within the Order may be attracted artisans are sent as slaves to Mongolia, to the Mongol wake and add to the hu- to the sites of the massacres at Otrar, young men forced to follow the army, man misery. Bukhara, and other Transoxanian cities and the women suffered far worse fates. and be willing to risk their souls amidst A great fire breaks out and almost entire- the Infernal ruins. ly destroys the mostly wooden buildings Saga Seeds: A saga set primarily in the Mythic and by the end of winter, there is little Of Mongols and Magi ... Middle East could be focused on rebuild- but smoking ruins left standing. Due to ing amidst the ruins of Khwarazmshah’s the atrocities committed in Bukhara, the Exactly how these events affect your state under the foreign yoke of the Mon- whole area becomes overlaid by a Ma- Saga depends on the role the main char- gol Empire. The breakdown of mundane levolent Infernal aura of strength 3 (see acters intend to play within the region. power structures and the scattering of Realms of Power: The Infernal, page 15) apart For natives of Transoxiana, the Mongol local wizards could tempt Seekers and from the small area surrounding the invasion is devastating, resulting in a young Hermetic magi to mount expe- Kalyan minaret. Many of the slain are large loss of life and culture, but it can be ditions to explore and perhaps settle in not given proper burial, allowing their used as a stimulus for introducing exist- covenants within the fractured polities anguished ghosts to roam free through- ing Hermetic characters to the Mythic of the former lands of Alexander’s great out the ruins or vulnerable to summon- Middle East. The massive tumult in the empire. Stories may run with the usual ing by necromantic magic. area may provide rich backgrounds for Spring covenant founding aim but could Throughout 1220, the Mongol the introduction of wandering Mythic involve the complexities of dealing with armies, reinforced by Turkish recruits Middle Eastern companion characters both the foreign mundane civilians and and deserters, ravage along the Jaxartes into Western-based Sagas, similar to unusual magical natives of the area while all the way to Khojend in Farghana, the diaspora following the fall of Con- interacting with the Mongol aristocracy destroying the oasis towns of Signak, stantinople to the Latins in 1204. Con- and the accompanying bureaucracy.

The Aral Sea haz, that has a Magic Aura of 4. The Kyzylkum Desert water surrounding the island is perpetu- Also known as the Lake of Khwarazm, ally frozen — local folk swear it must The “red sands” lie between the two this shallow and reedy lake is known for be the dwelling of powerful water jinn, great rivers, forming the southeastern bor- its excellent fishing in the southern part, the marid Jaghrahaz, but none are brave der of the estuarine province of Khwarazm although it is not considered navigable. enough to venture across the frozen wa- and the northwestern border of Sogdiana. In the southeastern corner of the sea ter to investigate the small hill that the Despite tracts of crescent-shaped dunes, lies a small island, called Jabal Jaghra- island contains. much wildlife can be found at its less arid

168 The Cradle & The Crescent

eastern edge: gazelles, golden eagles, deer gham. Originally founded by Alexander ander and the rebellious satrap of Sogdia, and koulan (onagers or wild asses). the Great as Alexandria on the Oxus, it Oxyartes of Balkh, father of the legendary The northern reaches are the domain was later developed into the important Se- beauty Roxane. It can only be accessed by of giant lizards known as waral or the vara- leucid city of Eucratidia. little-known mountain paths and its exact nus —remarkably intelligent, their lead- Partial remains of several structures, location is known to only a handful of lo- ers are able to walk on their hind legs and including a gymnasium, a theater almost cal tribesmen. The ancient spirits of the 30 converse in the local language but appear the size of the great structure at Epidauros, men who fell during the ascent continue to have only rudimentary magic. and several temples to pagan Greek gods, to haunt the site but bear no love for the most notably Zeus and Dionysius, give the successors of their Persian adversaries. area an overall Magic aura of 4. The gym- Bactria nasium is the best preserved building and lies within a level 7 Magic aura, centered Sogdiana upon a pillar engraved with a dedication Once known as Bactriana and more to both Hermes and Hercules. recently referred to as Tokharistan, the Since ancient times a land of mer- lands cradled by the Oxus and the Cau- chants and middlemen, Sogdiana remains casus Indicus have long been a melting Sogdian Rock a place of crossroads and caravans. The pot of culture and a cauldron of rebellion. major trails from Baghdad cut through Although annexed as a satrapy by Cyrus This landmark marks the site of an the province, passing through Samarkand the Great, the region resisted the attempts ancient battle between the forces of Alex- and on to the Turkish lands beyond. Once of Alexander to incorporate it into his empire, only to form the center of first the Seleucid Empire and then an independent Greco-Bactrian kingdom. Bactria Story Seeds Despite being conquered by succes- Naw Bahar den within one of the temples at the sive waves of nomads — the Sakas, the outskirts of the city. As detailed in Kushans, the Sassanids, the Hepthaelites, A fire temple by the name of Naw Ancient Magic, page 125, the altars of and most recently the Arab forces — the Bahar in one of Balkh’s suburbs was built Alexander have powerful mystical con- hinterland of the region retains many of its in the Sassanian days as a rival to the nections to each other, and link to over classical monuments and links to the Fa- Ka’ba of Mecca. Its walls are adorned 70 different sites. A magus, casting a erie powers of Greek myth. Outside of the with precious stones, and brocaded cur- spell using the Arcane Connection Theban Tribunal, it contains more classi- tains are hung everywhere. The walls Range while touching such an altar, is cal Greek structures than anywhere else in and floor emit a sweet smell of perfume considered to have an Arcane Connec- the Mythic Middle East. from centuries of application of un- tion with a +4 Penetration multiplier guents. The main building is surmount- to the other shrines, cities, or temples ed by a great cupola 375 feet high, and so connected. This site may either Balkh around this central building there are provide an entry point into the Mythic 360 chambers to host the mobeds. Middle East for Seekers investigating For a long time, the large and ancient Although no longer active as a temple other sites or a potential lifeline back city of Balkh was the home of Zoroastrian- it retains a Divine aura of 5. Naw Bahar to Europe for Hermetic colonists deep ism, since Zoroaster was born here and is remains unmolested by time or treasure within enemy territory. buried within its walls. At the time of the seekers, and its floors are clean of detri- Islamic invasion of Persia, Balkh provided tus and vermin. Those intrepid enough to a refuge to the Persian emperor Yezdgird, go inside — and few are — report that A Covenant on the Rock? but in the current era it has thoroughly a fire burns at the center of the temple, Sogdian Rock is a superb natural embraced Islam. The Greek name for although no one is ever seen within. The fortress, riddled with natural caves and Balkh was Bactra, and gave its name to the inside of the temple leads to a Terrestrial carved cisterns capable of holding large whole region of Bactria. Divine regio that shelters a small Zoroas- reserves of food and water in case of trian community within the higher levels. siege. The site is enveloped by a Magic The Ruins at Ai Khanoum aura of strength 3, although higher auras Altars of Alexander may exist within the deeper caves. Al- Once an important center for Helle- though isolated, it is a potential base for nism in the centuries before Christ, these Of further interest to Hermetic Hermetic magi wishing to explore the eastern ruins lie at the confluence of the Seekers, an altar of Alexander is hid- mysteries of the Mythic Middle East. Jahyun and its tributary, the Nahr Dir-

169 The Cradle & The Crescent Ship of the Desert

The two-humped Bactrian camel pre- Dead (29+) the Survival Ability. Most Bactrian dominates throughout the wider Mythic Abilities: Athletics 4 (running), Aware- camels found in the great caravans are Middle East and differs slightly from its ness 3 (predators), Brawl 2 (dodg- pack camels. cousin, the single humped dromedary, ing), Survival 5 (home terrain). Wild Bactrian Camel: Add the Wilder- which is more common in North Africa, Powers: ness Sense Virtue and the Greater Im- Egypt, Arabia and the Levant (see Chap- Smell Water, 0 points, Init 0: All camels munity: Thirst Virtue. Reduce Commu- ter 6: Mythic Arabia for details on drom- can smell drinkable water for a dis- nication to –6. Add Defensive Fighter edaries). Wild camels are rare, although tance up to two miles. (and therefore an extra Fatigue level), wild Bactrian camels can be found in the Survive Without Water, 0 points, Init 0: All Fast Runner and Herd Animal Qualities. far eastern reaches. camels can survive without water for Increase Brawl (dodging) to 4 and add up to two weeks. Wilderness Sense (sense sandstorms) 3. Appearance: These statistics are for a A wild Bactrian camel’s kick has the fol- Bactrian Camel typical Bactrian riding camel. Known lowing statistics: Init +0 Attack +5 De- for their stubbornness, resilience and fense +3 Damage +4. Characteristics: Cun –2, Per –1, Pre –4, pungent odor, these otherwise docile War Camel (variant): Add the Aggres- Com –5, Str +3, Sta +4, Dex –1, animals can become very aggressive sive and Pack Animal Qualities and the Qik –2 during mating season. Their ability Ferocity (when ridden in battle) Virtue. +2 Size: to last without water for weeks on Increase Brawl (hooves) to 5. A war 0 (0) Confidence Score: end and locate buried water makes camel’s kick has the following modifi- Long-Winded; Feral Virtues and Flaws: them the preferred beast of burden cations to the basic combat statistics Scent for desert crossings. given for either the Bactrian camel Hardy, Herd Animal Qualities: or a dromedary camel: Init +0 Attack Ill-tempered beast +3 Reputations: Camels have been bred, like horses, +4 Defense +3 Damage +0. It can be (throughout Mythic Middle East) to have differing traits: trained to attack as part of a Trained Combat: Bactrian Pack Camel: Add the Do- Group with its rider. Init +0, Attack +3, Defense Kick (hooves): mesticated Quality and gain the Great Rare Bjornaer magi who are born in +2, Damage +4 Bearer Minor Heroic Virtue (Houses of the southeastern peripheries of Mythic +4 Soak: Hermes: True Lineages, page 105), which Europe have been noted with a drom- OK, 0/0, –1/–1, –3/–3, Fatigue Levels: allows the camel to carry twice as much edary or even wild Bactrian camel –5, Unconscious on its back before becoming weighed Heartbeast. Camels are considered to –1 (1 7), –3 (8 14), Wound Penalties: – – down and to travel twice as far before have a melancholic humor with a cho- –5 (15 21), Incapacitated (22 28), – – becoming fatigued by a journey. Drop leric aspect. the heartland of the Manichean heresy, it ry but remains one of the most populous siege the town. Despite recent fortifica- remains a mixture of mercantile religious and cosmopolitan cities of the region. It tion, the city falls to the nomad hordes communities, counting Sunni Muslims, is the eastern capital of the Khwarazm- after only five days. The surrendering gar- Nestorian Christians, and Jews among its shah’s empire. rison is executed in batches with ruthless transient population. To the east of the old city of Mara- efficiency. The population are moved out kanda lies Shahr-i-Zindah (“tomb of the of the city to facilitate the sacking and di- living king”), a street of tombs named af- vided up like the unfortunates of Bukhara Samarkand ter the central shrine, the grave of Qusam (see the insert “Genghis Khan and the Fall ibn-Abbas. The remainder of the tombs of Transoxiana” earlier). “Everything I have heard about Mara- are entrances to a city of dark Faerie jinn kanda is true, except that it is more beauti- and ghul, giving the street a malevolent ful than I ever imagined.” Faerie aura of 5 during the day alternating Bukhara — Alexander the Great with an equivalent Infernal aura during the night. The shrine forms a forlorn sanctu- A trading center since ancient times, Known as Marakanda to the Greeks, ary amid the darkness, retaining a small Bukhara lies on the Zeravshan River the ancient capital of Sogdia on the up- Divine aura of strength 2. downstream of Samarkand in the middle per Zeravshan River has been conquered If your Saga follows history, in spring of the Kyzylkum Desert. In the ninth by various conquerors throughout histo- of 1220 the armies of Genghis Khan be- and tenth centuries it was the center of

170 The Cradle & The Crescent the Samanid state and was considered the heart of Islamic culture and religious thought, producing such notables from its hinterland as the Persian poets Firdausi and Ridauki. Ibn Sina used the famous library here and the book bazaars were said by al-Biruni to be beyond compare. In the 13th century, Bukhara is home to a large Jewish community — one of the largest non-Hebrew speaking branches of the Diaspora. The half-buried tomb of Isma’il Sa- manid (r. 893-907), the founder of the Samanid dynasty, lies just outside the town. Long forgotten by the debauched inhabitants, if your saga follows history, this building will escape the Mongol devastation as the dust of disuse hides it from the horde. A circle in nested squares, a Zoroastrian symbol, is carved above the main door. The building retains a Magic aura of 3 during the night that alternates with a similar strength Divine aura during the day, due to its former use by Zoroas- trian mobeds. The Mongols sack Bukhara at the beginning of 1220 but several sites survive. (See the earlier sidebar on “Genghis Khan and the Fall of Transoxiana” for further details.) The Kalyan minaret is one of the few structures of Bukhara still standing after the Mongol invasion of Transoxiana, being spared by Genghis Khan himself. A folk story tells of how the great nomad stopped to look at the minaret and a gust of wind knocked his hat from his head. He stooped to pick up his hat and then said: “This minaret is the first thing I have ever bowed to.” He spared the minaret Story Seed: Caravans but not the sheikhs, slaying 200 holy men and having their heads thrown down the An immense variety of goods passes maintained by local rulers at intervals of nearby well before rising to the pulpit and through Transoxiana in the 13th cen- a day’s journey (10 to 15 miles) to sup- uttering his famous speech. tury laden on the packs of asses, cam- ply the merchant trains. Some caravans From the top minaret’s rotunda with els, horses, or mules, depending on the resembled miniature towns on the move, 16 arched fenestrations, the muezzin terrain. Huge caravans return from the one of the largest ones being noted by summoned the city’s faithful to prayer or northern lands, carrying goods from the geographer Ibn-Fadlan consisted of warriors kept lookout for enemies. An or- the steppes of the Volga Bulghars or up to 3000 pack animals and 5000 men. namental frieze of diagonal brickwork cov- the northern forests, pass through the Such a caravan may become an in- ered with Arabic inscriptions encircles the towns of Merv, Baghdad, Samarkand, teresting cover for a covenant of per- tower’s base. or Khojend, and thence further west to egrinatory Hermetic magi or provide The minaret was once part of the larg- Europe via Venetian merchants or east protection for a group of native Mythic er Po-i-Kalyan mosque complex — the via Sogdian merchants to fabled Serica. Middle Eastern characters. Either sce- immediate ruins retain a Divine aura of 5 Caravanserais, stone staging posts with nario may be a source of varied stories amid the Infernal aura that comes to cover water supplies and a small garrison, were based around trade and exploration. most of the city ruins after the sacking.

171 The Cradle & The Crescent Story Seeds for Bukhara and Otrar

The Sheikhs The faeries associated with the library the resident Faerie jinn can be bargained Beneath the Well take the form of rare books, appearing un- with for the faerie-tainted Terram and expectedly in market stalls run by eccentric Aquam vis produced by re-enacting the The Po-i-Kalyan mosque’s well lies merchants or being found serendipitously ancient story within its walls. When the beneath an octagonal platform nearby. in the disused sections of old mundane li- local sahir goes missing, who is to blame If uncovered, explorers can climb down braries. The books themselves are Faerie — angered jinn or a jealous rival seeking the dry shaft to the base, which contains creatures and act as Threshold Guardians to usurp the vis source? a pile of loosely stacked skulls within — by reading the Faerie text and wishing a small Magic aura of strength 3. Each to rediscover the lost library, the readers skull acts as an Arcane Connection to find themselves in Arcadia. Such stories Uqana, the the sheikh it once belonged to and can are always tinged with tragedy and sad- Ghostly Ambassador be used to summon the restless spirit of ness, for a reader may visit the library but The ambassador of the first embassy that particular holy man. Beneath the once and leave with only a small token of to the Khwarazmshah was Uqana, a base of the minaret itself lies the grave his travel and memories to spread the leg- Muslim merchant trusted with a per- of an imam ritually slain by the tower’s end of the Lost Library further within the sonal message of friendship from the builder, Arslan Khan. hearts of scholars throughout Mythic Eu- rope. Such loss and longing provides fur- great Khan. His execution at the hands ther vitality to the faeries of the library, as of a fellow Muslim has resulted in a rest- The Lost Books of Bukhara its story weaves into similar tales and cre- less spirit, trapped as an apparition after ates a lasting motif through the centuries. death (see Realms of Power: Magic, page After the Mongols raze Bukhara in 115, for details of this class of ghost). early 1220, several rumors circulate as to Although the great Khan has avenged the fate of the various book collections Job’s Spring his murder, Uqana is unable to rest, as and libraries. Much poetry is written la- his spirit feels he failed in his duty to de- menting the loss of this great collection At the edge of Bukhara’s farmers’ mar- liver his message. Convincing the trau- of scholarly works, comparing it to the ket lies a small mausoleum, the Chash- matized ghost to depart to his proper burning of the Great Library of Alexan- ma-Ayyub, recently built over a small rest will be difficult, given the wake of dria. Such tales, woven over the years by strength 3 Faerie aura containing a small destruction that the Mongols have left gifted poets and the Merinita magi of the spring. Unlike other mausoleums, no since their affront at Otrar. If compelled Keepers of Tales Mystery Cult, attract one is buried within its walls. Local folk- by magical means, Uqana may provide faeries to the story. Eventually, the col- lore describes it as the place where Job valuable information about the inten- lective lamentation may provide enough struck his staff to the ground and called tions and plans of the Mongol leaders. vitality to reproduce a Faerie replica of forth water, but perhaps the legend just Attempting such magical coercion or the library. Access to such a place would represents the adoption of an older pa- lying convincingly to gain the former be greatly sought after by mundane, gan tradition. Visited annually by one ambassador’s trust may have grave con- Hermetic and sahir scholars searching of the sahirs of the local bayt al-hikma sequences within the Infernal aura that for lost secrets and classical knowledge. who sponsored the recent construction, encompasses his haunt.

The minaret itself contains a Divine aura of becoming with child. The tree is home and executed the entire caravan of 450 of 7. By climbing the spiral staircase just to a Faerie jinn with powers over fertility — men, including the ambassador, on the prior to dawn, a devout Muslim can access passing beneath the wood of the arch leads basis that he believed they were spies a small Terrestrial divine regio of strength to a small strength 2 Faerie regio just large or perhaps merely out of greed for their 8 that appears as a round chamber above enough for an adult human to enter. valuable wares. The execution of ambas- the rotunda section. sadors was considered a grave insult to the Mongol leader — one underlined by Otrar the subsequent humiliation of the Mon- Kasri Orifon gols sent in a second embassy. Through In 1218, a Mongol ambassador ar- this gross insult from a minor official, the A small village just east of Bukhara, this rived at the head of a richly laden cara- Mongol horde descended with devastat- site is known for the “wishing tree.” The van in this town on the eastern bank of ing effect on the Mawara’n-Nahr. dead trunk of an ancient mulberry tree forms the Jaxartes, carrying a message to the If your saga follows history, Otrar lasts a twisted arch in the main square. Barren Khwarazmshah. Governor Inalchuq, a for five months under siege in the first half women crawl beneath its trunk in the hope cousin of the Khwarazmshah, imprisoned of 1220 before succumbing to Mongol

172 The Cradle & The Crescent forces. Inalchuq is captured alive but exe- a lie have their Ease Factor increased by soxiana and the home to the bellicose cuted by having molten silver poured into the aura strength. Khwarazmshah whose actions brought his eyes and ears. The town is reduced to down the wrath of the Mongol hordes, rubble and its population slain or enslaved, Sultan Mohammed II Iskander. It pro- a prelude to the fate of the other towns Khwarazm duces large crops of cotton, sustains large in the region. Its ruins contain a Perfidious flocks of sheep for wool, and pastures Infernal aura of strength 6, tarnished with great herds of cattle in the marshlands the sin of Deceit. Lies told within the ruins A province of canals and gardens, Kh- among its multitude of canals. Its main seem more believable — attempts to spot warazm is the agricultural heart of Tran- industry is trade, including expensive

Elephants in Persia

The elephant was considered a prize Abilities: Athletics 3 (running), Aware- War Elephant: Add the Aggressive and war animal by the Persian armies of an- ness 3 (food), Brawl 4 (dodge), Sur- Pack Animal Qualities. Change to Brawl tiquity. Small numbers are still found vival 3 (forests or plains), Swimming 5 (stomp) and improve the elephant’s throughout the eastern reaches in the 4 (rivers). Stomp attack: Init –2, Attack +6, De- possession of nobles or the Khwarazm Powers: fense +3, Damage +13. Persian war el- military, the former as curiosities and the Trunk, 0 points, constant, Animal: the ephants are usually clad in the equivalent latter as part of shock troops. Elephants elephant’s trunk can be used to ma- of leather or metal scale (add Protection are legendary opponents of dragons and nipulate objects like a human hand, of 3 or more to Soak) and carry a plat- fearlessly attack serpents at any opportu- although tasks requiring two hands form known as a howdah which can ac- nity, but are deathly afraid of the squeal suffer a –3 penalty. commodate up to six soldiers armed with of a sow or boar and will flee this sound Natural Weapons: an elephant’s stomp javelins, polearms or bows. They can unless restrained. has the following combat character- be trained to fight as part of a Trained istics: Init –1, Attack 0, Defense –1, Group with their squad of accompany- Damage +3. Their trunk is only ef- ing soldiers under the direction of their Asian Elephant fective as a grapple. mahout or driver. Appearance: The elephant found Characteristics: Cun 0, Per +1, Pre –4, throughout the Mythic Middle East Com –5, Str +10, Sta +3, Dex 0, is the Asian variety. It stands up to 10 Story Seed: Qik –2 feet tall, measures 20 feet long and Elephants of Alexander Size: +4 weighs up to 8,000 pounds. These Confidence Score: 0 (0) statistics represent the more com- The ghosts of ancient war elephants Virtues and Flaws: Improved Character- monly domesticated female — only can be summoned at the battle sites of istics x3*, Tough; Fear (the squeal of the male elephant has significantly antiquity throughout Arabia, Persia, and a pig). sized tusks to use in combat. Transoxiana, using their bones to call * As a Size +4 creature, an elephant them back to unearthly service. Such gains 12 Characteristic points per Elephants have excellent hearing and sites are of particular interest to House Improved Characteristic Virtue. vibration sense through the trunk, gain- Tremere, who seek to expand the versa- Qualities: Amphibious, Crafty, Defen- ing a +3 on all rolls involving hearing. tility and power of their ghostly forces. sive Fighter, Grapple, Herd Animal, An average elephant inflicts +15 damage Faerie war elephants from the land Sharp Ears, Thick Skin, Tough Hide. when dropped onto a human-sized char- of Hind, as used in the armies of Al- Personality Traits: Lustful –3, Wise +2 acter from on high. exander the Great, appear even larger Combat: and more fearsome than their mundane Male Elephant: Add Aggressive and Stomp: Init –2, Attack +4, Defense +2, change to Brawl 5 (tusks). Add the Ex- kin. Such creatures sport multiple large Damage +13 tra Natural Weapons, Imposing Ap- curved tusks and have been trained to Trunk (grapple): Init –1, Attack +4, De- pearance x2, Large Horns (Tusks), and wield spiked balls on chains with their fense +2, Damage n/a Herd Leader Qualities and the Ferocity trunks. They prompt panic in lesser Soak: +9 (defending herd) Virtue. Increase Pres- creatures and are capable of deafening Fatigue Levels: OK, 0/0, –1, –3, –5, ence to +1 and Communication to –4. opponents with their trumpeting. The Unconscious Add Leadership 5 (elephants). A male remains of these giant creatures are Wound Penalties: –1 (1–10), –3 (11–20), elephant’s Tusk attack has the follow- found primarily in the far mountains of –5 (21–30), Incapacitated (31–40), ing combat statistics: Init +1, Attack +9, the eastern provinces and the southern Dead (41+) Defense +5, Damage +13. deserts of Persia.

173 The Cradle & The Crescent The Heavenly Horse of Farghana

The valley at the headwaters of the ed, Improved Characteristic x3, Posi- although even an experienced horse Jaxartes has been known for its excel- tive Reputation, Unaffected by The trainer will find it difficult to ascer- lent horses since antiquity. According Gift; Incognizant, Proud (minor), tain its origin. Usual specimens stand to legend, the horses of Farghana are Susceptible to Deprivation. just under 16 hands (62 inches) high offspring of mundane horses and either Qualities: Amphibious, Domesticated, Fast but appear more refined than even mountain river dragons or other seem- Runner, Good Jumper, Herd Animal, the finest mundane horse. ingly divine steeds that visited the wild Imposing Appearance x3, Tireless. steppe herds in the past. Such “Heav- Personality Traits: Spirited +3, Loyal +2 These Faerie mounts are believed to enly Horses” appear similar to the Ara- Reputations: Dragon-steed 2 (local) be descended from river dragons east of bian-descended horses of the European Combat: the valley of Farghana. Unlike mundane nobility but are slightly larger. These Hooves: Init +4, Attack +2, Defense +6, horses, they are not affected by the neg- Faerie animals are particularly sought Damage +6 ative effects of The Gift or Magical Air after by magi and Gifted sahirs due to Soak: +4 of their riders. Even a Blatant Gift does their suitability as mounts for Gifted Wound Penalties: –1 (1–7), –3 (8–14), not especially bother the animal. magicians, and local tales tell of rep- –5 (15–21), Incapacitated (22–28), These Faerie horses are also re- resentatives from Serica traveling vast Dead (29+) nowned for their unusual trait of distances to procure even one of these Pretenses: Athletics 4 (long-distance sweating blood. The crimson sweat amazing mounts. running), Awareness 3 (noises), Brawl is produced by any significant physi- 2 (hooves), Swim 4 (rivers). cal exertion, but does no harm to the Powers: creature. If properly collected over the Heavenly Horse Heavenly Hooves, 2 points, Constant, Ani- course of a year, such sweat acts as a Vis mal: This power allows the animal Source and provides 1 pawn of faerie- 5 (Animal) Faerie Might: to move at its maximum speed, un- tainted Animal vis per year. As a faerie, Cun –2, Per 0, Pre +2, Characteristics: impeded by poor terrain, achieving it does not suffer from fatigue or age, Com –4, Str +5, Sta +4, Dex +1, up to 30 miles per day. It may even although it does suffer the usual conse- Qik +3 do this across open water or chasms quences if it lacks air, food, and water in +2 Size: without needing to slow its pace. its role as a magical steed. 0 Confidence Score: ReAn 25 (Base 10, Sun +2, +1 Con- Like all horses, a Heavenly Horse External Vis (minor, Virtues and Flaws: stant): Personal Power, 25 levels. gets a +3 to all rolls involving running bloody sweat), Faerie Beast, Ferocity Appearance: These horses appear similar or jumping. These creatures are not bal- (when ridden in battle), Long Wind- to other mid-sized breeds of charger, anced to be used as player characters. furs from the lands of the Bulghars to the gols besiege Gurganj in 1220, breaking dynasty, this once-magnificent city on north. Khwarazm is particularly known the massive dyke in frustration after five the eastern bank of the Oxus has suffered for its Turkish slaves, however, and is the months and unleashing the pent-up wa- repeated flooding throughout its history, center of the slave trade in Transoxiana. ters of the Oxus. Once again, the city washing it into secondary rank. Young nomads are bought or stolen from falls to the onrushing waters and the Overlooking a great necropolis to the the steppes, given an Islamic education, great river resumes its flow into the Cas- north stands the mausoleum of Il-Arslan. and then dispatched to the far corners of pian Sea, releasing the enslaved magical the Islamic Empire. spirits upon their former Khwarazmian captors (see the sidebar on Spirits of the Farghana Oxus Delta, earlier). All that will remain Gurganj after the Mongols march away from the town are sundry corpses and the ruined To the northeast of Sogdiana lie the A leading town along the trade walls that sketch the outline of the once- open plains of the vast valley of Farghana, routes, the town of Gurganj or Al-Jur- great city. the most eastern point reached by the initial janiyah has shifted its site on the west- wave of expansion sparked by Islam. Famous ern bank of the river over the years to for its horses, metal goods, and particularly accommodate the vagaries of the flood- Kath its weapons, it also has fine oil and bitumen. waters of the Oxus and the vengeance of Arab armies are using clay pipes filled with the native river spirits. Former capital of Khwarazm and orig- oil as incendiaries in sieges, a tactic later ad- If your saga follows history, the Mon- inal home of the native Khwarazmshah opted by their Mongol conquerors.

174 The Cradle & The Crescent Khojend The Gutluk-Temir Minaret Framed at the mouth of the Farghana valley, this small trade town is built near the The tallest brick minaret of the the minaret are maintained by the lo- ruins of Alexandria Eschate: the furthest Mythic Middle East, this structure rises cal community of sahirs, who use the settlement established by Alexander the to over 180 feet, providing a dominat- structure as their meeting place and Great in his campaign of conquests. Anoth- ing view of the surrounding irrigated ensure the canals continue to support er Altar of Alexander lies hidden beneath province. Despite the religious style, the province’s famed fertility. The sahir the city or within the adjacent ruins (see it is surrounded by a Magic aura of 7 community lies directly in the path of Ruins at Ai Khanoum earlier for details). and forms the focus of the magical net- the onrushing Mongol horde — the few work of fetters and wards that binds the survivors may be some of the first Solo- various Oxus river spirits to the dykes monic magi to bear news to their breth- Osh noted earlier. The protective magics of ren in the west.

Located just downstream from the source of the Jaxartes in the Pamir moun- Badakhshan south, it is one of the borderlands of the tains, Osh is the easternmost settlement in ancient world known to the traders who the Farghana valley and the northernmost Fabled for its rubies, sapphires, and traverse it from northwest to southeast. town of the Islamic Caliphate, making it the other jewels, this mountainous region rises end of certainty and the starting point for upwards into the Caucasus Indicus south stories of exploration past the map’s edge. of a great northern loop of the Oxus, Wakhan Osh is the last caravan stop on the transected by its main tributary, the Nahr Great Khurasan Road from Baghdad. Dirgham (Badakhshan or Kokchka River). This narrow territory follows the Oxus Merchants follow tales and legends rather Known in antiquity as Balascia, classical River from lower Badakhshan back to its than tracks as they climb into the eastern geographers place it on the north face mythical source. It is inhabited by reclu- mountains on their way to the fabled Fa- of the southeastern slopes of legendary sive pastoralists known as the Vakhi who erie city of Khashgar and thence by the Mount Imeon. Now free from the demon- speak an almost unintelligible dialect of dreaded desert route to legendary Serica. ic yoke of the Shansabani of Maiyan to the Parsi (–3 penalty to Ability score). Since

Badakhshan Story Seeds

The Faerie Road to Serica the shores of a great encroaching des- Cartophilius intends nothing less ert. The most sought-after paths provide than to find the true source of silk by Unlike the lower reaches, the whole portals into the various worlds of Faerie. traveling eastward to mythical Serica. upper valley of the Oxus past its junction Those leading to Arcadia are commonest Several members argued against his with the Badakhshan River is covered by a although a solitary traveler is more likely plan, stating that no precedent for such a extremely lengthy but narrow Faerie aura to be drawn into Eudokia to resolve the Seeker covenant exists, but, surprisingly, bounded by the sharp mountain crest lines crisis that has led them to flee beyond the the Exarch of House Tremere guaranteed to the north and south. Beginning with a bounds of Hermetic knowledge. full support for such an expedition and weak aura of only 2 at the outskirts of Ai volunteered two experienced Tremere Khanoum, the aura increases gradually as Itineris Serica magi to accompany the Mercere’s ven- a traveler climbs further east. At the level ture. Whether the Exarch’s motives were of the Wakhan Valley proper, the aura has Cartophilius of Mercere has always out of true support or just a pragmatic reached a strength of 6 and the Warping been regarded as eccentric, even among solution to finding an outlet for the more it induces is partly responsible for the Mercere magi. His father, Geographicus, enthusiastic members of the Burning taciturn nature of the nomads (Reclusive was one of the founders of a similar travel- Acorn Vexillation remains in doubt. Minor Flaw). Multiple Faerie regiones ing covenant, so it is perhaps unsurprising This covenant may provide an inter- can be accessed from the path, depend- he has proposed forming another mobile esting high fantasy or high Faerie diver- ing on the traveler’s mood, goals, and gathering of magi at the recent Normandy sion from the usual “castle on the hill by particular Faerie Sympathies (see Realms of Tribunal meeting. The covenant’s mun- the Faerie wood” trope that is the default Power: Faerie for further details). Some of dane cover as a merchant caravan is noth- of many Ars Magica sagas. Possible cov- these regiones lead only to blind canyons ing new, but his intent to seek funding as enant magi might include a Nestorian Tri- and certain death, while others contain a dedicated research covenant surprised anoma spy, a Turkish Criamon Sufi master, whole lost kingdoms and cities built on even the archmagi who knew his parens. and a Levantine Merinita jinn specialist.

175 The Cradle & The Crescent antiquity, a trade route has wound its there and back again. On occasion, exot- tales of their adventures in the mountains way up this valley and on to the mythical ic travelers and pilgrims have appeared in and stories about the fabled cities of their land of Serica, although no merchant yet the Mythic Middle East, claiming to have homelands in the desolate Taklimakan claims to have traveled the whole journey traversed the corridor westwards, reciting desert beyond.

Blue Stones of Mythic Europe

Commonly mistaken for sapphire in on the last day of the month on an altar potion require a blue stone the same period, lapis lazuli’s name derives from dedicated to the Egyptian deity Ra, it con- size as the magus himself as a compo- the Latin lapis (“stone”) and a corruption fers the Minor Supernatural Virtue Lesser nent, but the cerulean he is using is in- of the Persian name of its town of origin, Immunity (obsession power of demons) adequate for the task. Citing Pliny as Lahzvard (Latin lazulum, “from Lahzvard”). (ArM5, page 45). Alternatively, it can be an authority, he has determined that Its use in amulets, scarabs, and even seals smelted in a crucible with lead to remove he requires the classical sapphiros. The is documented in various Egyptian and its gold flecks. When the result is ground stone must be freshly born, at least hu- Babylonian magical texts. It is also an es- to fine powder and applied to the eyelids, man-sized, and remain untouched by sential ingredient in the pigment ultrama- it acts as a potent aphrodisiac equivalent human hands. Magical manipulation is rine. Such pure pigment is greatly valued to the wearer having the Venus’ Blessing out, as the resonance will be destroyed for the illumination of Hermetic texts as a Minor General Virtue (ArM5, page 50). if the rock is affected by magic prior to highly resonant material, although a less- At the Troupe’s discretion, only blue the ritual. er pigment made from locally available gems from beyond the bounds of Mythic Mining a correctly-shaped hunk of mineral referred to as kuanos, or cerulean Europe may provide the proper “sap- lapis lazuli using indirect magic or mun- (azurite), is often substituted. phire” bonuses — a potential story idea dane means may not represent a great Pliny’s description of sapphiros flecked is that such blue stones may have to be problem, but delivering such a rock to with gold is believed by many Hermetic discovered in dreams, Faerie, the Magic the magus all the way from the mines lapidary specialists to refer to lapis rather realm or as the result of looting dragon of Lahzvard in Badakhshan presents a than sapphire (blue corundum). Lapis la- hoards. Details of Sapphires of Virtue are problem. The only guaranteed option is zuli has the following shape and material given in Realms of Power: Magic, page 127. traveling by mundane means through the bonuses: +3 aphrodisiac (when ground as eastern Caliphate. Given the tumult of a powder), +5 keep limbs healthy, +5 cure the area in the aftermath of the Mongol boils and ulcers, +6 versus the Obsession Story Seed: Untouched Stone incursion, such an expedition is bound to power of demons. A Lapis Lazuli of Vir- present several challenges, not least the tue contains 2 pawns of Corpus vis. When A senior magus seeks the charac- risk from bandits or nomads seeking to Enriched by carving it in the shape of an ters’ help with a delicate problem. His haul off what is a rather difficult-to-con- eye, set in gold, and placed as an offering attempts to stabilize his new longevity ceal small fortune.

Ruq

Magic Might: 14 (Animal) Qualities: Accomplished Flier, Aggres- Soak: +5 Season: Autumn sive, Extra Natural Weapons, Fast Fatigue Levels: OK, 0, –1, –3, –5, Characteristics: Cun 0, Per +3, Pre +2, Com Flyer, Grapple, Imposing Appearance Unconscious 0, Str +13, Sta +3, Dex +1, Qik –4 x3, Keen Eyesight, Pursuit Predator, Wound Penalties: –1 (1–14), –3 (15–28), Size: +6 Tough Feathers –5 (29–42), Incapacitated (43–56), Confidence Score: 1 (3) Personality Traits: Fierce +3, Raptor* +3 Dead (57+) Virtues and Flaws: Magical Animal; Feroc- Reputations: Stealer of livestock 3 Abilities: Area Lore: Persia 6 (mountains), ity, Keen Vision, (Cloud) Regio Net- (Transoxiana) Area Lore: Transoxiana 6 (moun- work, Unaffected by the Gift; Magical Combat: tains), Athletics 5 (flight), Awareness Monster; Offensive to Animals. Beak: Init +5, Attack +7, Defense +6, 4 (prey), Brawl 5 (grapple), Hunt 4 Magical Qualities and Inferiorities: Damage +14 (find prey), Survival 3 (mountains) Gigantic x5; Improved Initiative x5, Talons: Init –1, Attack +11, Defense +3, Powers: Lesser Power x2; Major Flaw (Age Damage +13 Clasp, 2 points, Init –8, Corpus: This Quickly); Reduced Might x3, Sus- Grapple: Init –1, Attack +6, Defense +1, power weakens the upper limbs of ceptible to Deprivation. Damage n/a a target clasped by the talons of the

176 The Cradle & The Crescent The Mines of Lahzvard

The limestone deposits along the Ba- dakhshan River at Lahzvard are the only source of lapis lazuli known in Mythic Eu- rope. The greedy jinn of Zubaydah, a fort named after the favored wife of Caliph Haroun al-Rashid, oversee the main mine works. From here, strongly guarded ship- ments of lapis lazuli travel west to supply European artists and magi or are sent east into the fabled lands of Hind, Serica, and perhaps even the adjoining mountainous regions of Faerie.

The Roof of the World

The Bam-i-Dunya, or “Roof of the World,” refers to the high plateaus of the Pamir knot, the northwestern Cau- casus Indicus, and the ranges that extend southward and eastward into lands outside the Dar al-Islam (“House of Islam”). The civilizations spawned in the valleys cradled below the peaks have traditionally been the middlemen in interactions between the Roman and Persian Empires to the west and the mysterious land of massive eagles that can lift a man in one the possible original location of the Axis Serica in the east. of their claws and carry him away like a Magica prior to Criamon’s ascendance Islamic mythology claims this chain small mouse. into Twilight. of stone as part of the Mountains of In classical texts, the crests of this re- The whole area is covered by a un- Qaf and thus one of the homelands of gion are the lesser flanks of Mount Imeon, spoiled Magic aura of at least 4, although the jinn. Valleys strewn with fist-sized the mountain at the center of the world, areas with higher auras and regiones of diamonds are the roost of the great ruq, considered by some Criamon magi as other Realms punctuate its icy expanses.

Ruq (cont’d)

ruq after a successful Grapple at- Appearance: The ruq appears as a gigan- specimens (Size +8) have been seen to tempt. He cannot attempt to free tic eagle, with steel-bright eyes and carry off elephants and even giants. himself from the ruq’s talons by op- cruelly curved talons. These statistics Golden Eagles: Used by the eastern posing the Grapple. ReCo (base 3, represent one of the smaller speci- Turks and Mongols, the large burkit (Size +1 Eye, +2 Sun), Lesser Power (10 mens, standing just over 25 feet tall –2) of the steppe are used to hunt foxes levels, –2 Initiative, 1 spare intricacy with a wingspan just over 40 feet. and can even be trained to attack wolves. point from 5 unused spell levels). Although similar in appearance to ruq, Paralyzing Stare, 1 points, Init –9, Corpus: Although a magnificent creature, a such eagles use the base characteristics of This power transfixes any human- ruq (or roc) is not a Beast of Virtue and a falcon given in the Book of Mundane Beasts sized target that makes eye contact is not designed to be a player charac- but have the additional Qualities: Grapple with the great bird’s fearsome stare. ter. This ruq is based on a large falcon and Imposing Appearance x2. Oversized ReCo (base 5, +1 Eye, +1 Conc), or eagle (Size –2) with a base Might of eagles (up to Size 0) are sometimes used Lesser Power (15 levels, -2 Might, –1 15 advanced to gigantic proportions. by the Ghuzz magic-kin and have their Initiative from intricacy points) This specimen is large enough to carry characteristics modified accordingly for Vis: 3 pawns of Animal, in wingtip feathers off livestock, horses and humans. Larger their size (see Chapter 8: Mythic Persia).

177 The Cradle & The Crescent Ruq Story Seeds

The Ruq’s Nest ferent gems contain differently-flavored mountain peak on a clear day and all but vis according to their nature, although inaccessible except by magic, or being Faerie ruq also exist, typically acting as such vis is always Faerie tainted. carried to its aerie by one of the great Threshold Guardians involving the Path The Faerie versions differ only in ruq. The stories say its alien inhabitants of Chance and stories within Arcadia. that they possess the Spirit Away Power claim descent from an ancient magical Characters attempting to flee the bird’s ap- and replace the (Cloud) Regio Network race that once ruled over the earth, al- proach may suffer grievous wounds, while with the Faerie Speech Virtue, which although they appear human in guise. those snatched up by the great raptors lows them to fulfill their role as catalysts Is this a lost Nephilim settlement? find themselves cast into strange stories of high adventure. The true location of Hyperborea in in distant lands, much like the legendary Turkistan? An ancient and reclusive cov- Sinbad the Sailor. Stories tell of whole val- enant of elder magi? The descendents leys within regiones beneath their nests Janaindar, the City of a rival magical tradition founded by lined with diamonds as large as a man’s fist, Above the Clouds Trianoma’s sister, Viea? The last refuge of populated by giant-sized Faerie sheep and the Zoroastrian mobeds? A potential site Local nomad legends speak of a lost goats. Successful adventurers who escape for a high-fantasy Hermetic covenant city built at the edge of the Magic Realm, to mundane lands may claim such gem- above the clouds? The last sanctum of seen rising above the clouds atop a great stones as the prize for their courage — dif- the Diedne?

Turris Lapidae, the Stone Tower east and is thus one of the mundane geo- winds, and malicious demons populate graphical limits of the Order’s knowledge these stories, and all contribute to luring Ptolemy’s Geography mentions the of the world. No Redcap or Mercere magus travelers from their caravans into lingering small mountain kingdom of Sarikol as the claims to have yet visited this mythical site deaths from starvation and hunger. stopping point for caravans heading east- or entered the fabled tower, leading some wards towards the fabled Sera Metropo- Merinita magi to speculate that while it lis, the capital of the Seres. Some say the still lies within the mundane world, it can Khashgar overlooking fort marks the halfway point only be reached by passing along the Ar- between Europe and the lands of the East, cadian paths known to House Merinita. Of all the legendary cities associated others claim it is a town half in the mun- with the eastern journey, Khashgar is per- dane world, half in the Faerie Realm that haps the most widely known in the 13th provides a gateway into Arcadia. Descrip- Beyond the century. Routes from north and south con- tions stem from the merchant traveler, verge on this mythical oasis city before Maes Titanos, although his report is con- Roof of the World branching around the dreaded Taklimakan sidered suspect by Ptolemy’s source, the desert on their way eastward to the Land pre-Hermetic wizard Marinus of Tyre who Travelers’ tales tell of fantastical crea- of Silk. Scholars debate its origin and exact regards the figure of Titanos as a fabrica- tures found just beyond the eastern peaks. location but all agree its streets teem with tion, Faerie, or an infernalist. After the mountains comes the desert, humans, jinn, and other Eastern faeries In the Mythic world, this sizable town studded by prosperous oasis towns and ru- mixing shoulder to shoulder with angels, marks the extent of classical travel to the ins of lost civilizations. Searing heat, cruel demons, and non-Hermetic sorcerers. Nominally Muslim since the late ninth century, Khashgar suffered repression and Story Seed: The Black and the Blue intolerance under the Eastern faeries of the Qara Khitai dynasty, but has recently fall- The dunes off the main track are Infernal Aerial Powers than to Magi- en under the Mongol yoke without resis- feared as the abode of the qara buran cal spirits (see Chapter 4: The Jinn). tance. The inhabitants, both mundane and (“black hurricanes”), bloodthirsty The storm spirits divide their loyalty magical, appear to have taken the change wind spirits that assail caravans as between the great Gök Buran — a in overlords without much concern. mighty sandstorms, separating trav- frighteningly powerful Daimon that Famous for the Yekshenbar bazaar elers from their camels and compan- dwells within an even stronger Magic (“Sunday market”), the city is a place where ions. These untamable buran closely regio deep within the center of the all manner of exotic goods can be bought resemble elemental jinn in nature, but sands — and its rival, a Duke of Hell or sold. Desert brigands mix with worn some creatures appear more akin to known as Great Lop. merchants; exotic silks, knives, and jewelry are displayed alongside more magical

178 The Cradle & The Crescent

wares. Slaves, both mundane and magical, can be found here, for a price. Story Seed: The Endless Nomad Cycle Some Merinita claim to have visited the Khashgar market in traveling through Arca- The ruins of an old nomad fortress lie ries and folktales of the people who dwell dia, and suggest several versions of the city near the old town of Talas. Just outside is in the lands beyond the Oxus. Each suc- may exist at once, or that the whole town the terminus of a road from Arcadia that cessive wave carries a slightly different may lie in a regio accessed from several dif- leads to a Faerie reflection of the Mythic name but brings new terror — the recur- ferent mundane sites in Mythic Europe. Steppe. Throughout history, since before ring story they enact breaking upon the Ignoring the scholars and their musings, the time of Alexander, waves of Faerie shores of civilization through eternity. life and commerce goes on in Khashgar. nomads summoned by the great Jaxartes The Mongols may merely represent the river spirit have descended upon the latest retelling of the ancient story — see lands of Transoxiana in an eternal cycle “Gog and Magog” in the sidebar later for The Taklimakan of destruction that echoes in the memo- further ideas.

This magical desert is a place of death — its name translates as “those who go in, shah had already sacked much of it in 1214. never come out.” A pair of geographically The Great Steppe Like other towns in the area, it was a city of shifting auras of constant strength 7 (one Even at its height, the Eastern Roman canals, famous for its vineyards. It formed Infernal, one Magical) swirl and intertwine Empire reached only the fringes of the vast a trade center between the latter-day Sog- across the sands as opposing storms. The ocean of grassland that stretches the breadth dians and their nomadic Turkic neighbors two spiral-shaped auras constantly enve- of the continent of Asia, from the Sea of until the recent Mongol incursion. It is al- lope and then reveal ancient Faerie regios, Azov and the great gulf of grass forming ready beginning to be resettled and recov- which either contain the ruins of long-de- the Hungarian plain in the west to the Or- er its trade position under Mongol lordship serted cities or thriving oases populated by dos, and extending to the limitless horizon and marks the frontier between civilization jinn from before the coming of Islam. in the east. Herodotus refers to the littoral and the barbarian wilderness. of this grass lake as Scythia but speaks of its endless and timeless nature — no continuous landscape feature encountered by Talas Hermetic magi is on the same scale. The Mythic In July 751 the Muslim armies led by Ziya ben Salih met a strange expedition- Steppe Tashkent ary force from beyond the eastern steppes. Although less significant than the Battle of Untamed grasslands stretch for almost The Turkish “City of Stone,” once the Poitiers in 732 in the west, this confronta- unimaginable distances along the edge of greatest Arab town beyond the Jaxartes, tion marked the easternmost expansion of the Mythic Middle East, and from them was laid to waste by the vengeful Mongol the Arab armies. pour the Mongol hordes. hordes in 1219, although the Khwarazm- Many exotic artisans were captured

Horse, Steppe Pony (Turpanus)

Characteristics: Cun –2, Per 0, Pre 0, Com Unconscious notably different than larger breeds com- –4, Str +2, Sta +4, Dex –2, Qik +3 Wound Penalties: –1 (1–6), –3 (7–12), monly used in Europe, Arabia, and south- Size: +1 –5 (13–18), Incapacitated (18–24), ern Persia presented in the Book of Mundane Confidence Score: 0 Dead (25+) Beasts and Lords of Men, Chapter 5: Leisure. Virtues and Flaws: Enduring Constitu- Abilities: Athletics 4 (long-distance run- Steppe ponies are bred from the wild tion, Long Winded, Improved Char- ning), Survival 3 (steppe) horses of the Steppe by the various no- acteristic; Simple-Minded Appearance: Slightly smaller than their mad tribes that range across it. Excep- Personality Traits: Brave +2 European cousins, these hardy po- tional Steppe ponies with the Minor Reputations: Hardy 1 (local) nies range in coloration from light Heroic Virtues Great Bearer and Sure Combat: grey to dappled brown. Traveler (see Houses of Hermes: True Lineages, Kick: Init +5, Attack 0, Defense +5, Dam- pages 105-107) are highly prized by the age +3 The majority of horses in the Eastern Steppe nomads. Like all light horses, a Soak: +4 Provinces are the small but hardy ponies Steppe pony is a fast runner and gets a +3 Fatigue Levels: OK, 0/0, –1/–1, –3, –5, of the steppe’s nomad tribes. They are to rolls involving running or jumping.

179 The Cradle & The Crescent in this campaign. The technology of pain your saga. Alternate ideas on the nomad permaking passed into the Islamic world Mundane Mongols horde and the effect of aligning it to the from such captives, with the first paper various Supernatural Realms follow later. mill being built in Samarkand shortly af- The following statistics represent an ter. Nearly five centuries later, the last Kh- example of mundane versions of the Mon- warazmshah, Muhammad II, defeated the gol forces invading Transoxiana and East- Great Tengri Faerie forces of the mysterious Kara-Khi- ern Persia, as seen through the eyes of their tai nomad dynasty in 1218 to consolidate victims. These statistics first appeared in his rule over Transoxiana. The town was one form in Ancient Magic, pages 15–18. Dif- The nomadic peoples of the Mythic razed completely in 1219 by the Mongol fering characteristics and Ability specializa- Steppe share a belief in a common an- armies on their way to Otrar. tions may be used, depending on their role cestor and overpower, Khan Tengri, “the

Mongol Trooper

Characteristics: Int –1, Per +1, Pre 0, 3 (tracking), Mongolian 5 (military exhaust them, before suddenly turning Com –1, Str +1, Sta +2, Dex +1, communication), Ride 3+2 (battle), around and attacking. Qik +2 Single Weapon 5 (saber), Survival 3 An orlock (Mongol general) can be cre- Size: 0 (steppe) ated as an older Companion-level char- Age: 30 Equipment: composite bow (Load +2), acter based on the Mongol trooper tem- Virtues and Flaws: Puissant Ability (Ride), metal reinforced leather half-armor plate earlier, with the following changes Puissant Ability (Bows), Warrior; (Load +2), saber (Load +1), daggers, as an example. Adjust the characteristics Reckless; Disfigured (scars), Infamous spear (Load +1) to Int 0, Per +1, Pre +2 (1), Com +1, Str Personality Traits: Brave +3, Reckless Encumbrance: 2 (3) 0, Sta +2, Dex +1, Qik 0 due to posses- +3, Loyal +3 Appearance: A fierce-looking eastern sion of the Improved Characteristics Vir- Reputations: Murderous 4 (local) warrior on horseback, his upper body tue. An example orlock might have the Combat: lightly covered by fur-lined leather following additional Virtues and Flaws: Dagger: Init +0, Attack +7, Defense +6, armor, with an acorn-like metal hel- Affinity with Leadership, Clear Thinker, Damage +4 met also fringed with fur. He carries Improved Characteristics, Inspirational, Composite Bow (mounted): Init +0, Attack a bow in a quiver on his saddle, a Puissant Ability (Leadership), Self-Con- +16, Defense +13, Damage +8 saber, and a short spear with a small fident, Strong-Willed; Enemies (Mythic Composite Bow (on foot): Init –2, Attack hook at the base of the blade. Middle East), Outsider, Vow (loyalty to +13, Defense +10, Damage +8 Genghis Khan). They lack the Puissant Saber (mounted): Init +4, Attack +14, De- While there are younger soldiers in Ability (Bows) Virtue and Reckless Flaw fense +12, Damage +7 the Mongol army, this trooper represents of their troops. Their Confidence score Saber (on foot): Init +2, Attack +11, De- the finest specimen that the characters are is increased to 2(5) and they have the fense +9, Damage +7 likely to encounter, the sort of character following Personality Traits: Resolute Spear (mounted): Init +4, Attack +11, De- who would fight in the vanguard during +3, Ruthless +5, Cunning +4. The aver- fense +10, Damage +6 a group engagement, or who might be age age of an orlock is 40 and they have Spear (on foot): Init +2, Attack +8, Defense found singly acting as a scout or guard. the following additional Abilities: Artes +7, Damage +6 Leading such troopers are experi- Liberales 1 (military communication), Soak: +4 (armor and Stamina) enced generals — usually regular war- Craft Siege Equipment 3 (catapults or Fatigue Levels: OK, 0, –1, –3, –5, riors with exceptional talent rather than mangonels), Folk Ken 2 (nobles), Guile Unconscious blood relatives of the Mongol royal 3 (elaborate lies), Intrigue 3 (alliances), Wound Penalties: –1 (1–5), –3 (6–10), family — or hereditary chieftains. The Leadership 6+2 (7)(battlefield), Persian –5 (11–15), Incapacitated (16-19), Mongolian generals are experts in strat- 3 (negotiations). They lack the Bar- Dead (20+) egy and tactics, and most of their suc- gain ability of the common trooper and Abilities: Animal Handling 3 (horses), cesses may be attributed to their superior have their Bows score reduced to only Area Lore: Mythic Steppe 3 (geog- military intelligence and their ability to 5. Their Soak, Fatigue Levels, Wound raphy), Area Lore: Persia 2 (geog- quickly assess the nature of the battle- Penalties, Equipment and Encumbrance raphy), Area Lore: Transoxanian 2 field. Many of their enemies are fooled remain unchanged but their combat sta- (geography), Athletics 3 (running), by a carefully staged organized retreat, tistics will need to be appropriately ad- Awareness 2 (in combat), Bargain 2 their finest maneuver, wherein they seem justed. Individual generals encountered (livestock), Bows 5+2 (composite), to pull back and draw their opponents may have slightly different Virtues, Brawl 3 (dagger), Craft Bows 3, Hunt out behind them in a long pursuit to Flaws and Abilities.

180 The Cradle & The Crescent Mongol Spirit Shaman

Fatigue Levels: OK, 0, –1, –3, –5, gol sky god. Versed in the power of the Characteristics: Int +1 (1), Per –1 (1), Unconscious spirit world, they can summon spirits to Pre +2 (1), Com +1, Str –2 (1), Sta Wound Penalties: –1 (1–5), –3 (6–10), aid them by scouting out the area, attack- +2 (1), Dex –1 (1), Qik +1 (1) –5 (11–15), Incapacitated (16–19), ing supernatural enemies, and spying on Size: 0 Dead (20+) their opponents. The rules on Solomon- Age: 55 Abilities: Animal Handling 3 (horses), ic Summoning in Chapter 3: The Or- Decrepitude: 1 (5) Area Lore: Mythic Steppe 3 (geog- der of Suleiman can be used as a guide, Confidence Score: 1 (3) raphy), Area Lore: Persia 2 (geog- and more complex rules for summoning Virtues and Flaws: Wise One; Summon- raphy), Area Lore: Transoxanian 2 spirits in this way are found in Realms of ing (see Realms of Power: The Infernal); (geography), , Athletics 3 (running), Power: The Infernal, pages 114–115. For Ghostly Warder (homeland spirit); Awareness 3 (in combat), Bargain 3 the sake of simplicity, you may assume Puissant Ability (Ride), Warrior; En- (spirits), Bows 5 (composite), Craft that the shaman can easily summon an emies (Mythic Middle East); Outsid- Bows 2 (composite), Brawl 2 (dagger), appropriate Faerie, Magical, or Infernal er; Disfigured (scars), Infamous, Vow Faerie Lore 2 (spirits), Guile 2 (elabo- spirit of Might 30 or less and bargain (loyalty Genghis Khan) rate lies), Hunt 2 (tracking), Infernal with it to convince it to do his bidding. Personality Traits: Resolute +3, Ruthless Lore 3 (spirits), Leadership 2 (battle- These spirits might agree to be bound to +5, Discerning +4 field), Magic Lore 3 (spirits), Mon- a weapon, creating a sort of enchanted Reputations: Murderous 4 (local), Spir- golian 5 (negotiations), Penetration device, or commanded to perform a task it-worshiper 3 (Infernal) 4 (spirits), Persian 3 (negotiations), for the shaman. The shamans employ Combat: Ride 3+2 (in battle), Single Weapon whatever sort of spirit is convenient to Dagger: Init +1, Attack +4, Defense +4, 3 (saber), Survival (steppe) 3. help them accomplish their objectives, Damage +1 Arts: Summoning 22 even demons. Composite Bow (mounted): Init –1, Attack Equipment: composite bow (Load +2), All shamans have a personal famil- +12, Defense +10, Damage +5 metal reinforced leather half-armor iar spirit, similar to the qareen noted in Composite Bow (on foot): Init –3, Attack +9, (Load +2), saber (Load +1), daggers, Chapter 4: The Jinn. This is usually an an- Defense +7, Damage +5 spear (Load +1) cestor spirit associated with their home- Saber (mounted): Init +3, Attack +10, De- Encumbrance: 3 (3) land that follows them and aids them. fense +9, Damage +4 Appearance: An easterner dressed in a For examples of these sorts of beings and Saber (on foot): Init +1, Attack +7, Defense collection of tattered cloth, feath- the powers they have at their command, +6, Damage +4 ers, and beads, carrying a ceremonial see The Mysteries: Revised Edition or Realms of Spear (mounted): Init +3, Attack +7, De- drum and stick. Closer inspection re- Power: Magic or use the jinn as a guide to fense +7, Damage +3 veals his clothing is reversed. creating various elemental spirits. Spear (on foot): Init +1, Attack +4, Defense Note that these hedge wizards dif- +4, Damage +3 A few of the Mongols in the army are fer somewhat from the original shamans Soak: +4 (armor and Stamina) tribal shamans of Great Tengri, the Mon- presented in Ancient Magic, page 18.

Great Sky.” Like the original spirit of the All are considered genii loci of their to the size of a large European kingdom. Hercynian Forest (see Guardians of the Forest, particular steppe. Three possible fates await such lesser frag- Chapter 3: The Forest, pages 30–40) in the Typical Powers: Creator of Winds or ment spirits. far west, the Great Tengri of the Steppe is Earth, Guide, Manifestation, Presence, Survival: The genius locus of the local a powerful supernatural entity that draws Ruler of Winds or Earth. All Steppe Spirits steppe is strong enough to hold its own its power from the Magic realm. To Her- possess the Ways of the Steppe Virtue and against the encroachment of the mundanes metic understanding, this primal spirit is some have the ability to Grant Major Super- and the Dominion. These spirits give rise similar to a Kosmokrator of the Steppe natural Virtues to their chosen messengers. to magical steppes, such as the southeast and the Sky, an Elder Daimon that governs At its settled fringes, where the Great plains of Russia around the Sea of Azov, the vast grass sea of the Mythic Steppe. Steppe has begun to fray under the ad- the Dzungarian depression, and the dis- vance of settled communities, the Great tant eastern plains of Mongolia. Between Tengri has engendered lesser spirits at such peripheries, the Great Steppe spirit Lesser Steppe Spirits the cost of some of its own power. These rules unchecked, only slightly diminished lesser spirits are considered genii loci of in power. Beyond these buffers, only lesser Magic Might: 30-45 (Auram, Terram, a particular region, stretches of grassland nature spirits and faeries are found. or rarely Aquam or Herbam). that can range in size from a small valley, Dissolution: The genius locus of the

181 The Cradle & The Crescent steppe is too small to maintain its control Dominion of the Byzantine Empire have of its remaining strength, becoming an over the steppe, or else it borders on more forced the lesser steppe spirits to flee into isolated promontory of Divine pasture. powerful areas that sap its strength until the deeper steppe. Likewise, the Hungar- Replacement: The genius locus has nothing remains. These spirits leave be- ian plain, hemmed in by the arc of the dwindled and been replaced by another hind a mundane steppe. Examples include Carpathians, where the formerly nomadic supernatural being. This most commonly Pannonia, where the effects of the nearby Magyars have settled, has also been sapped gives rise to a Faerie steppe at the edges of

Mythic Mongols Story Seeds

Dark Angels of Punishment Spawn of Gog and Magog the mundane Mongol Trooper detailed earlier. The shamans and tributary magi- The possibility of an Infernal Mon- Another alternative is that the Mon- cians accompanying the horde would be gol horde may appeal to some troupes. gol horde has ridden out of Arcadia, the represented by Faerie Wizards skilled in Perhaps the nomad leader and his gener- latest incarnation of a recurring story the Artes Fabulosa, or perhaps true Fa- als are the mortal incarnations of pow- that manifests the fears of nomad bru- eries with powers that can equal, and in erful Angels of Punishment, demons of tality and avarice held by the agrarian some cases exceed, Hermetic magic. the Order of Avengers of Evil posing as settlers along the steppe frontier since Divine retribution (Realms of Power: The ancient times. From the biblical hordes Prester John, I Presume? Infernal, pages 39–40). The accompany- of Gog and Magog, then Goths, then the ing shamans may be Infernally-aligned Huns and the Avars, the recent Magyars, A more positive take on the Faerie human summoners or even fully-fledged and now the Mongols, such cyclic dark horde may involve the nomads as the diabolists, but the majority of the horde Faerie incursions are repeated through- soldiers of Prester John, the Christian may still be composed of mundane no- out the history of the region. King of the East, born out of the legends mads. Instead of an Angel of Punishment, In this scenario, Genghis Khan may of the Crusades. The exact source of the Genghis Khan may be a startling incar- be the latest role played by a dark Faerie legend is unclear, but may relate to cor- nation of the new Zahhak, possessed by Monarch, with his generals and officials rupted rumors of Sultan Sanjar’s defeat in the ancient demonic foe of Persia, Azi represented by the other powerful court 1141 by the forces of the Qara Khitai at Dahak (see Chapter 8: Mythic Persia). faeries (see Realms of Power: Faerie, pages the Qatwan steppes near Samarkand. This For more high-fantasy Sagas with a 80–83). The rank and file of the Mongol far eastern confederation of nomad tribes strong Infernal theme, the horde may horde may contain variants of lesser Faer- contained several Nestorian Christian ele- contain true demons of destruction and ie Knights, Faerie-touched humans, and ments under the rule of a mysterious nomad other Infernal creatures. This latter op- mundane human nomads. In a high-fan- dynasty. Regardless of the legend’s origins, tion is recommended only for high-pow- tasy saga, the horse archers of the horde the story is popular throughout Mythic ered troupes who are willing to explore a may be led by Faerie centaurs, or contain Europe, perhaps even popular enough to heavily Infernal-themed Saga. whole troops of such faeries rather than have drawn a troupe of powerful Faeries

182 The Cradle & The Crescent

settlement and pastoralists. The power of the original spirit is subsumed by a Faerie Steppe Spirit Story Seeds incarnation that feeds off the folktales told by the descendents of nomads. The towns The Ride of the Shaman ity (see Hedge Magic Revised Edition, pages along the Jaxartes border a Faerie steppe. 103–119, for examples of Nightwalker Led by visions of an unending sea of traditions capable of spirit traveling). grass beneath the clearest of blue skies, one of the characters wanders out into the The Founder’s Final Work Mythic Mongols steppe alone. After surviving a harrowing night of severe exposure on the Steppe, Aloof, distant, and uncaring, the Great the character successfully achieves com- Tengri would seem to present no current The exact nature of Genghis Khan munion with the Steppe spirit and is or- threat to the western based Order. Unlike and his Mongol hordes is best left to in- dained a shaman of the Great Tengri. the fractured remnants of the Hercynian dividual troupes to determine, based on The Ordeal inflicts an effect similar to Forest Spirit, Mercurian rituals have not the needs of their saga and the resources a premature gain in enough Aging Points weakened this primal magical force, and available. The simplest approach is to treat (in any Characteristic) to achieve the next it is yet untouched by the settlement of the Mongols as mundane barbarians under level in Decrepitude, automatically forc- the mundane and the miracles of the Do- a brilliantly talented mundane general and ing a Crisis (see ArM5, pages 169–170), minion. Its lands are largely untamed, ex- let history unfold as usual. Details for mun- and the gain of enough Warping Points cept at its fringes where the lesser steppe dane Mongol troops are given earlier. Fur- to raise his Warping score by 2. touches on urbanized cultures. Quiet and ther details of the nomad horde’s activities In return, the character gains the alien, it remains as powerful as ever, a vast in the Mythic Middle East in the immedi- equivalent of the Nightwalker Vir- reservoir of magical power waiting to be ate canonical future are given in Chapter tue, and the ability to enter ekstasis and studied and unlocked by a Hermetic generate a spirit body referred to as a magus dedicated to completing the final 2 of Ancient Magic, pages 15–18. The bibli- phantasticum in return for the Pagan Flaw work of Hercynius filius Bonisagus, the ography in the Appendix provides further — the great spirit, while tolerant, de- integration of Merinita’s original nature reading and resources available on the web mands its messengers respect its divin- magic into Hermetic theory. that may aid sagas with a strong Mongol Mythic Mongols Story Seeds (cont’d)

styling themselves as the legions of the power of the Divine is the only force blurred summation of both forms. Philipus lost Christian monarch. Although posing that can trump the otherwise unassail- Niger’s first attack appears to have little ef- as Divine agents, such creatures may best able in-game position of the Order of fect on the supposed spirit. The apparition be presented as Faeries playing a pious Hermes as the most powerful magic in merely looks around at the gathering, says role. They feed off the Vitality released by Mythic Europe. In a Divine horde saga, nothing, and then quickly fades away. The the powerful emotions created by the ef- the Mongol shamans may be holy com- covenant’s Aegis appears intact. The el- fect of their arrival on the Islamic Caliph- panions following a monotheistic vision derly Archivist, Xavier of Mercere, claims ate, and the consequences the news of its of the Great Tengri. Their holy powers to recognize the apparition, which he says devastation has on the embattled Crusad- are duly feared by the sahirs and hedge resembles the long-lost magus. ers and the rest of Christian Europe. magicians of the Mythic Middle East. Is the apparition The Aquila or merely a shamanic descendant spirit traveling by The Vengeance of God The Lost Line of The Aquila phantasticum? Is there now a Nightwalker tradition strong enough to challenge the A final interpretation of the Mon- The fate of the second apprentice of Order of Hermes, somewhere out in the gols is as a Divine host of punishment, Hercynius is unknown. His name is con- Mythic Steppe? Could the lineage of Her- although this is the most difficult to real- jecture, although most tales refer to him cynius have survived? Out of Hermetic ize within the historical framework. Rec- simply as The Aquila. Traveling eastwards contact for nearly two centuries, would onciling the massacres of the Transoxa- in search of untouched wilderness, he was the magic of The Aquila’s descendants nian towns may be problematic, but even last seen entering the littoral steppes north even be recognizable as Hermetic? Where within the Dominion, the manipulations of the Crimea in the late 11th century. would their allegiances lie — to the Order of demons and the Infernal attempt to On the third day of the 1228 Tribunal, that abandoned them or to the encroach- divert the righteous into temptation and a strange apparition appears in the Duren- ing nomads of the great grass sea? What sin. The Crusades of the Levant provide mar council chamber. The spirit material- ramifications for the Order would ensue a precedent for the paradox of holy war. izes next to the startled Praeco. Witnesses if the secret of Parma Magica has been Of all the scenarios this may be the most describe seeing a translucent man carrying handed down and shared with the hedge challenging to Hermetic magi, as the a legionary standard, a large eagle, or a magicians of the encroaching hordes?

183 The Cradle & The Crescent story element. able to call upon elemental Magic powers man might best be represented as Gifted More Mythic variants based loosely in staggering enough to require the fractured Companion or Mythic Companion vari- historical fact include casting the Mongol Order of Hermes to unite against his cam- ants of Nightwalkers, able to travel by leader and even his more famous generals paign or risk annihilation. Rules for Spirit phantasticum (spirit-body), similar to as powerful Blood of Heroes Mythic Com- Votaries are detailed in Realms of Power: the Magyar Taltos. Such Magic-aligned panions, as detailed in Houses of Hermes: True Magic, pages 88–89. nomad magicians may have access to the Lineages, pages 103–104. In this option, the Goetic Art of Summoning, the Major Vir- Mongol leaders are scions of Ares (Mars) tue Mythic Herbalism and perhaps some or perhaps Attila, the most famous nomad Magus-level Shamans? minor powers (Flight, Healing, Premoni- raider of the near past. tions, Skinchanger) commonly attributed Alternatively, Genghis Khan himself Troupes with access to Hedge Magic to the Folk Witches found in other parts may be invested as a Spirit Votary of the Revised Edition may wish to consider using of Mythic Europe (see Hedge Magic Revised Great Tengri spirit of the Mythic Steppe, magus-level shamans in their sagas, either Edition, pages 33–54, for details of Folk having bargained with the sky spirit on the as worthy non-Hermetic adversaries or Witches, and pages 103–119, for exam- slopes of the sacred Mongolian mountain perhaps even as potential recruits to the ples of Nightwalker traditions capable of of Burkhan Khaldun (see earlier for details Order via House Criamon or Ex-Miscel- spirit traveling). on this Kosmokrator-level Magic Spirit). lanea. In either of the historically rooted This version of Genghis Khan may be scenarios detailed earlier, a powerful sha-

184 Appendix A Languages and Names

Given the immense area covered by Bactria, where they have their own dia- consisting of “Abd” (servant of) plus this book, it is not surprising that a wide lect. Parsi uses an extension of the Ara- one of the names of God (among men; range of languages are spoken through- bic script to permit Persian sounds such women might use “Amat” in place of out the region, none of which are partic- as “p” and “ch,” although ancient texts use “Abd,” but this is much less common), ularly related to one another. Each con- the Pahlavi script. Sogdian uses its own or a non-Arabic name. sists of several distinct regional dialects, Sogdian alphabet. Avestan is the liturgical Nasab: Pedigree. The nasab in Arabic con- which are given in parentheses; most language of Zoroastrianism, and uses ei- sists of “ibn” (son of) or “bint” (daugh- characters should take the appropriate ther the older Pahlavi or the more recent ter of), followed by either the father’s one as a specialty. Educated or well-trav- Avestan script. ism or a family ism. eled speakers will have tried hard to rid Throughout the Muslim world, vari- Kunya: This is the term “abu” (father of) or themselves of their dialect, and may have ants of Oghuz are also spoken by many “umm” (mother of), prefixed to either standard specialties (see ArM5, page 66). members of the nobility. Turkish is the the name of a child or an attribute, ac- When two characters converse in differ- dialect most commonly heard in Seljuk- quired either upon becoming a parent ent dialects of the same language they influenced areas, although the Azerbaijani or as an epithet. This may appear be- must both subtract one from their Lan- and Ghuzz dialects of Oghuz are suffi- fore the ism or after the nasab. guage Ability scores. ciently different from the Turkish dialect Laqab: An honorific or descriptive title, to cause some difficulties in understand- or occasionally a nickname, often Arabic (Egyptian, Khaliji, Levantine, ing. Historically, Oghuz was transliterated held by nobility, religious notables Maghrebi, Maslawi) in Turkic “runes,” but only the Ghuzz re- or other important figures. Many Oghuz (Azerbaijani, Ghuzz, Turkish) tain this tradition; Turkish is written using laqabs consist of a compound term Parsi (Bactrian, Baloch, Kurdish, Luri, Pa- the Arabic script. ending in “al-Din” (of the faith) or shto, Persian, Sogdian, Tabari) Other languages that characters “al-Dawla” (of the state), while an- Avestan (a dead Language) may encounter include Hebrew (among other common form is to start with Jews), Latin and Greek (especially “al-Malik” (the king), followed by Arabic is the most important of these, among scholars), Mongolian, Aramaic a descriptive term. Individuals may as the language of the Qur’an and of re- (among some Christians of the Jazira have more than one laqab. ligion, of scholarship, and of the admin- and northwest provinces), Ge’ez (among Nisba: A broad term denoting profes- istration in most of the Muslim world, Ethiopian Christians), Georgian, and sion, place of origin or birth, or tribe as well as the language most commonly Armenian. One language that is written or family. It can also be a descriptive spoken in the western Middle East. The and used liturgically but not commonly element. Nisbas often begin with the Khaliji dialect is spoken principally in spoken is Syriac, used by Nestorian and definite article “al-” and end in “i,” in Arabia, whereas the Maslawi dialect is Jacobite Christians. the case of men, or “iyya,” in the case spoken in Iraq and Jibal. The Maghrebi of women. An individual may have dialect is spoken throughout North Af- several nisbas. rica. The Arabic language uses the Ara- bic script. As an example, the full name of Saladin Parsi is also widely used, especially in Muslim Names is: Al-Malik al-Nasir Salah al-Din Abu’l- the eastern regions, with Persian (Parsik) Muzaffar Yusuf ibn Ayyub ibn Shadhi al- as its “court” dialect, and various distinct Traditional Muslim names consist of Kurdi. This breaks down into: dialects for Kirman and Makran (Baloch), some or all of a number of elements: Mazandaran (Tabari), Khuzistan (Luri), Name: Al-Malik al-Nasir Jibal (Kurdish), and Ghur (Pashto). The Ism: The name given at birth. This may Meaning: The King who Aids Sogdian dialect is spoken in most of be an Arabic name, the Qur’anic form Element: laqab Transoxiana and Khwarazm, except for of a biblical name, a compound name

185 The Cradle & The Crescent

Name: Salah al-Din may be found both in this book and in many Parvin, Roshanak, Roshanara, Roshni, Meaning: Righteousness of the Faith history books about the Middle East. Sahar, Sanaz, Shabnam, Shahnaz, Element: laqab Shahrazad, Shideh, Shirin, Shohreh, Shokufeh, Simin, Tahirih, Yasamin, Name: Abu’l-Muzaffar Sample Arabic Isms Zareen, Ziba Meaning: Father of al-Muzaffar Element: kunya Men: ‘Abd Allah, ‘Abd al-Rahman, Ah- mad, ‘Ali, Asad, Ayyub, Bakr, Badar, Sample Seljuk Isms Name: Yusuf Dawud, Dirgham, Fadl, Ghassan, Meaning: Joseph Ghazi, Harith, Harun, al-Hasan, al- Element: ism Husayn, Ibrahim, ‘Isa, Ishaq, Isma’il, Men: Adem, Ahmed, Ahmet, Alp, Altan, Ja’far, Jamil, Kathir, Khalid, Khalil, La- Asil, Aslan, Aydin, Bariş, Berk, Ber- ame ibn Ayyub N : bid, Mahmud, Muhammad, Nu’man, kant, Berker, Bulut, Bünyamin, Burak, Meaning: Son of Job Qasim, Rashid, Ridwan, Salih, Salim, Çağatay, Can, Coskun, Direnç, Ediz, Element: nasab Shibl, Sulayman, Tahir, Tamim, Tariq, Emin, Emir, Emre, Ender, Engin, Er- Thabit, ‘Umar, Usama, ‘Uthman, dem, Eren, Erol, Firat, Göker, Hakan, Name: ibn Shadhi Wahhab, Yahya, Yusuf, Zayd, Ziby- Hikmet, İbrahim, İlhami, İlker, İlkin, Meaning: Son of Shadhi an, Zubayr. Kadri, Koray, Kudret, Levent, Mehm- Element: nasab Women: ‘A’isha, Amina, Anisa, Bilqis, ed, Mehmet, Metin, Muhammet, Mu- Busra, Dhakira, Duba’a, Dujaja, Dur- rat, Musa, Ömer, Onur, Osman, Ozan, Name: al-Kurdi ra, Fadila, Fatima, Ghazala, Ghaytha, Özgür, Savas, Selim, Serhan, Serhat, Meaning: The Kurd Habiba, Hajir, Hakima, Hind, Jamila, Serkan, Soner, Temel, Tolga, Tunç, Element: nisba Jumana, Kabira, Kabsha, Khadija, Turgay, Ufuk, Umut, Volkan, Yakup, Khalila, Layla, Lubaba, Maryam, May- Yavuz, Zeki muna, Nasiba, Nawal, Nawar, Qamra’, Women: Asli, Aygül, Aylin, Ayşe, Aysel, Rabi’a, Rahima, Sa’da, Safiyya, Salma, Aysu, Aysun, Basak, Belgin, Berna, al-Shafa’, Shayma’, Sumayta, Taliha, Bilge, Burcu, Canan, Ceren, Deniz, Persian Names Tarifa, Tayma, Thubayta, ‘Unayza, Derya, Dilara, Dilek, Ebru, Ece, Eda, Muslim name structures are used by Walida, Yasira, Yasmina, Zahira, Zah- Ekin, Elif, Elmas, Emel, Emine, Esen, Persians, with a few differences. Tradi- ra, Zaynab. Esin, Fidan, Filiz, Gizem, Gonca, tional Persian isms tend replace the Arabic Gözde, Gül, Gülay, Gülbahar, Gül- components. The nasab is indicated with istan, Hande, Havva, Hazan, Ipek, Ir- either “i” rather than “ibn,” or else using Sample Persian Isms mak, Kelebek, Kiraz, Meryem, Müge, the suffixes “-pur” or “-zade.” Laqabs and Nergis, Nesrin, Nilüfer, Nuray, Özge, nisbas tend to follow the Muslim model, Özlem, Pembe, Pinar, Şebnem, Sevda, although often use their Parsi equivalents. Men: Alborz, Arash, Arastoo, Ardashir, Sevgi, Simge, Tülay, Tutku, Yağmur, Babak, Bahadur, Bahman, Bahram, Yeter, Yildiz, Yonca, Zeynep Baraz, Behnam, Behram, Behruz, Dar- iush, Daryush, Delshad, Ebrahim, Es- mail, Faridoon, Firdaus, Firuz, Gulzar, Sample Laqabs Heydar, Jahan, Jahangir, Jamshad, Seljuk Names Javaid, Khodadad, Khorshid, Kh- The Seljuks have adopted Muslim waja, Kianoush, Massoud, Mehrdad, Given their predominance in gov- names, by and large, although traditional Mirza, Navid, Omid, Papak, Parvaiz, ernment, laqabs are most commonly Turkic isms are used. Either “-oghlu” or “- Payam, Rashne, Roshan, Rustam, used by men. zade” is suffixed to the father’s or family Shahin, Shahjahan, Shahpur, Shah- name to form the nasab. Sometimes sev- riar, Shahrivar, Shahriyar, Shahrokh, Men: ‘Imad al-Din (Support of the Faith), eral forbears are given. Shahzad, Sher, Siavush, Sohrab, Ur- ‘Izz al-Din (Power of the Faith), Nur vakhsha, Zhubin al-Din (Light of the Faith), Salah al- Women: Arzu, Atefeh, Azar, Bahar, Banu, Din (Righteousness of the Faith), Elaheh, Firuza, Ghoncheh, Gul, Sharaf al-Din (Honor of the Faith), Gulbahar, Gulistan, Jaleh, Laleh, Ma- Baha’ al-Dawla (Beauty of the State), Sample Names hin, Mahine, Mahtab, Mahvash, Mi- Majd al-Dawla (Glory of the State), noo, Minu, Mojgan, Morvarid, Na- Nasir al-Dawla (Aid of the State), A number of sample isms, laqabs, and heed, Nahid, Nasrin, Nilofer, Nousha, Sayf al-Dawla (Sword of the State), nisbas are given here. Other Muslim names Paniz, Parastu, Pari, Parisa, Parvana, Shams al-Dawla (Sun of the State),

186 The Cradle & The Crescent

Nizam al-Mulk (Order of the King- Sample Nisbas Women: Women’s nisbas appear in the dom), Fakhr al-Mulk (Pride of the masculine or feminine forms in his- Kingdom), Taj al-Muluk (Crown of torical sources, depending on whether Kings), al-Malik al-’Adil (the Just Men: al-Kufi (of Kufa), al-Makki (of Mecca), the author regards them as being part King), al-Malik al-Afdal (the Most al-Isfahani (of Isfahan), al-Farisi (of Per- of the woman’s name or the patrilin- Excellent King), al-Malik al-Kamil sia), al-Khwarizmi (of Khwarizm), al- eal genealogy. Generally if the kunya (the Perfect King), al-Malik al-Nasir Kalbi (of the tribe of Kalb), al-Khazraji is placed after the nasabs, the nisbas (the King who Aids), al-Malik al-Sa- (of the tribe of Khazraj), al-Qaysi (of the will be in the feminine. The feminine lih (the Righteous King). tribe of Qays), al-Shaybani (of the tribe forms of the earlier nisbas are: al-Ku- Women: Walidat Khalil (Mother of Khalil of Shayban), al-Ayyubi (of the family fiyya, al-Makkiyya, al-Isfahaniyya, — used by the Mamluk sultana Shajar of Ayyub), al-Kutubi (the bookseller), al-Farisiyya, al-Khwarizmiyya, al-Kal- al-Durr (r. 1250), indicating her be- al-Qalanisi (the hat-maker), al-Suyufi biyya, al-Khazrajiyya, al-Qaysiyya, ing mother to the son of al-Salih II (the swordmaker), al-Shafi’i (follower of al-Shaybaniyya, al-Ayyubiyya, al-Ku- Ayyub), Radiyyat al-Din (Approval of the Shafi’i school of law), al-Mutanabbi tubiyya, al-Qalanisiyya, al-Suyufiyya, the Faith). (claiming to be a prophet). al-Shafi’iyya, al-Mutanabbiyya.

187 Appendix B Timeline

c. 950 BC Suleiman first practices his Art 632 Death of Muhammad. Abu Bakr caliph. Baghdad with the first meeting of the in the Middle East. 632–644 Muslims take Syria, the Holy Majlis al-Sulayman. 650 Birth of Zoroaster. Land and Egypt. 869 – 917 Persian Muslim dynasties gain 550–330 The Achaemenid Empire, found- 634 Death of Abu Bakr. ‘Umar caliph. power under ‘Abbasid caliphate. Perse- ed by Cyrus The Great and ended by 637–651 The Islamic Conquest of Persia, cution of Mazdeans intensifies to 917. Alexander the Great; at its height, it leading to the end of both Sasanid rule Leaders of Persian Mazdeans sail from encompasses Anatolia, Mythic Persia, and Zoroastrian dominance. Much Persian Gulf to a fabled Eastern land. the Levant, as well as Transoxiana slaughter of Mazdean priests and 925 Iberian sahirs split from the Suhhar and Egypt, and also engages in sig- forced conversions. Sulayman. nificant territorial disputes with the 644 Death of ‘Umar. ‘Uthman caliph. 945 Persian Buyids take control of Bagh- Greek city-states. Zoroastrianism es- 644–671 Muslims take Khurasan. dad and the caliphate. tablished by Cyrus as the official state 656 Death of ‘Uthman. ‘Ali caliph. 961 Execution of Tasgillia. religion. Fire temples are built across 661 Death of ‘Ali. Mu’awiya first caliph 1003–1012 Schism War. the empire under Antaxerxes II. Zoro- of Umayyad dynasty. Jizya imposed 1009 Ferdowsi finishes theShahnameh , the astrian calendar is formalized. Zurvan on non-Muslims. Conversion of Persian “Book of Kings.” heresy emerges. Mazdeans is sporadic. Most Persians 1037 The Seljuk Togril Beg unites the 539 Destruction of Babylon by Persians still Mazdean. Turkomen tribes of the Great Steppe under Cyrus the Great. 680 Battle of Karbala’, death of al-Husayn. and invades Persia. In 1055 he takes 334–326 Conquest of Persia by Alexan- c. 700 The first Solomonic summoners Baghdad, and assumes control over der the Great. Slaughter of Mazdean swear service to the Umayyad caliphs. the caliph and the armies of the ‘Ab- priests, destruction of literature. Fire 707 Muslims take North Africa. basid caliphate. His successor Alp Ar- temples are destroyed. 712 Muslims invade Spain. slan extends the sultanate to Anatolia, 323 Death of Alexander the Great. 717 Muslims cross Pyrenees into France. Armenia, and Georgia. Increased per- 312–61 BC The Seleucid Empire of Persia, c. 720 Umayyad summoners and jinn at war secution of Mazdeans. one of the successor states of the empire 732 Muslims defeated by Franks under 1090 Hasan-i Sabbah takes Alamut. established by Alexander the Great. Charles Martel at Poitiers. 1092 Death of Malik Shah and partial 141 BC–224 AD Empire of the Parthians 746 Jinn lay siege to Damascus. fragmentation of the Seljuk Sultanate in Persia. Revival of Mazdean faith, 750 Fall of Umayyad caliphate. Al-Saffah between his sons. rediscovery of many lost traditions first ‘Abbasid caliph. 1095–1109 First Crusade. Soldiers from and scriptures. 762 Foundation of Baghdad. Europe take much of Levantine coast 224 AD Ardeshir I defeats the Parthian 767 Order of Hermes founded. and establish states at Antioch, Edessa, king and becomes the first ruler of 786–809 Reign of Harun al-Rashid. Tripoli, and Jerusalem. the Sasanid dynasty of Persia. High 786 Harun al-Rashid becomes caliph, in- 1131 Ahmed Sanjar, son of Malik Shah, priest Tansar fixes the Mazdean can- vites scholars to serve as viziers on his consolidates control over the western on. His successor Kirder reorganizes “Solomonic” council. Seljuk Empire. the priesthood. Many fire temples re- 787 First Council of Harun al-Rashid 1144 Zangi takes Edessa. founded. Oral tradition is recorded. established. 1147–1148 Second Crusade fails to take 412 Cult of Mercury disbanded. 789 Grand vizier Al-Khayzuran dies. Ya- Damascus. c. 570 Birth of Muhammad. hya ibn Khalid retires, Ja’far ibn Yahya 1149 Shansabani coup in Khurasan, lead 610 Muhammad receives first revelation. becomes grand vizier. by Ala’uddin Hussain, also called Jah- 622 Muhammad emigrates from Mecca 803 Grand Vizier Ja’far beheaded, Yahya ansoz — “World Burner.” to Medina. Date of start of Muslim imprisoned. 1151 Ghuzz invade southeastern Persia, calendar. 848 Sundering of House Tremere. capture Sultan Ahmed Sanjar and hold 630 Muhammad takes Mecca. 805 The Suhhar Sulayman established in him captive for three years.

188 The Cradle & The Crescent

1157 ‘Abbasid caliph al-Muqtafi (r. 1136– 1160) successfully defends Baghdad from Seljuks, securing independence of the caliphate. 1174–1187 Saladin unites Muslim Levant, takes Jerusalem and much of coast from crusaders. 1180–1225 Reign of the ‘Abbasid caliph al-Nasir. 1189–1192 Third Crusade secures territory on coast but fails to take Jerusalem. 1194 Tekish, the ruler of Khwarazm, defeats Togril III, ending Seljuk rule of Persia. 1195 Most recent Grand Tribunal held. 1202–1204 Fourth Crusade takes Constantinople. 1205 Ala al-Din (son of Tekish) conquers Persia and proclaims himself shah (emperor). 1206 Shansabani Sultan Mohammed al- Ghuri assassinated on the banks of the River Sind by a Nizari; the Khwarazm- shah forces the Shansabani to concede control of Khurasan. 1212 Ala al-Din adds Transoxanian territories to his empire and now rules all the land from the Jaxartes to the Tigris. 1218–1221 Crusaders temporarily hold territory in Egypt. 1219–1227 Mongols under Genghis Khan take eastern Persia. 1230–1240 Mongols take western Persia, Georgia, Armenia, and northern Iraq. 1243 Mongols overwhelm Seljuk sultan of Asia Minor. 1248–1250 Crusaders under St Louis temporarily hold territory in Egypt. 1261 Byzantines retake Constantinople. 1273 Mamluks destroy last of Assassins’ 1256 Mongols destroy strongholds of Per- ‘Abbasid caliphate re-established in strongholds in Syria. sian Assassins. Cairo. 1281 Mamluks defeat renewed Mongol in- 1258 Mongols take Baghdad, put caliph to 1265 Mongols establish protectorate over vasion in Syria. death. Seljuk Asia Minor. 1295 Mongol khan of Persia becomes 1260 Mamluks halt Mongol advance in 1268–1291 Mamluks gradually re-conquer Muslim. Syria. coast from crusaders.

189 Appendix C Bibliography

Works that are useful introductory Bosworth, C.E., The New Islamic Dynasties. be downloaded from: material by Mayhew, B., & Sheng, A., (18th February 2009). Silk Road: Monks, Warriors & Merchants. *Lewis, B., The Middle East. London: Phoe- Hong Kong: Odyssey, 2008. nix, 1996. General Christian, D., A History of Russia, Central Man, D., Genghis Khan: Life, Death and Resur- Asia and Mongolia: Volume I, Inner Eurasia rection. London: Bantam Press, 2004. from Prehistory to the Mongol Empire. Ox- Omar, Farouk, “Urban Centres in the Gulf Reference ford: Blackwell Publishing, 1998. during the Early Islamic Period: A His- De Hartog, L., Genghis Khan: Conqueror of the torical Study,” in Bulletin of the British *Bacharach, J.L., A Middle East Studies Hand- World. London: I.B. Tauris & Co, 1989. Society for Middle Eastern Studies, Vol. 14, book. Seattle & London: University of *Egger, V.O., A History of the Muslim World to No. 2 (1987), pages 156–161. Washington Press, 1984. 1405. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Peters, Francis E., Mecca: A Literary History of Kabir, B.b.M.H., A Guide to Islamic Names. Education, 2004. the Muslim Holy Land. Princeton: Princ- Mecca: Safa Press, 1990. An Historical Atlas of Islam, ed. Brice, W.C. eton University Press, 1994. Various, Encyclopaedia Iranica Online: http:// Leiden: E.J. Brill, 1981. *Ruthven, M. & A. Nanji, Historical Atlas of www.iranica.com (13th February Historical Atlas of the Muslim Peoples, ed. R. Islam. Cambridge, MA: Harvard Uni- 2009). Roolvink. Amsterdam: Djambatan, versity Press, 2004. Various, The Encyclopaedia of Islam. 1st Edi- 1957. tion, 4 vols. and Supplement. Leiden: *Hourani, A., A History of the Arab Peoples. E.J. Brill & London: Luzac & Co., London: Faber and Faber, 1991. 1913–38. Humphreys, A., King, J., Mayhew, B., No- Various, The Encyclopaedia of Islam. New ble, J., Plunkett, R. and Richmond, S. Religion Edition, 12 vols. and Supplements. Lonely Planet: Central Asia 2nd ed. Mel- Leiden: E.J. Brill, 1979–2009. bourne: Lonely Planet Publications Ahmad, Salim, Revealing the Mystery Behind Wikipedia: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ Pty Ltd, 2000. the World of Jinn. USA: BookSurge Pub- Main_Page (13th February 2009). Ibn Jubayr, Muhammad, trans. R. Broad- lishing, 2008. hurst. The Travels of Ibn Jubayr. New Al-Ashqar, U.S., trans. Jamaal al-Din & M. Delhi: Goodword Books, 2007. Zarabozo, The World of the Jinn and Dev- Kennedy, H.N., The Great Arab Conquests: ils. Boulder: Al-Basheer Company for How the Spread of Islam Changed the World Publications and Translations, 1996. History and We Live In. UK: De Capo Press, 2007. Jawaid, Mahmood., Secrets of Angels, Demons, Kennedy, H.N., The Prophet and the Age of the Satan and Jinns. USA: InstantPublisher. Caliphates. London & New York: Long- Com, 2006. Geography man Inc., 1986. Livingstone, E.A., The Concise Oxford Dic- Lane, E.W., ed. S. Lane-Poole, Arabian So- tionary of the Christian Church. 2nd ed. Benjamin of Tudela, trans. M.N. Adler, The ciety in the Middle Ages. London: Curzon Oxford & New York: Oxford Univer- Itinerary of Benjamin of Tudela. New York: Press, 1883; repr. 1987. sity Press, 2000. Philipp Feldheim, Inc., 1907. Le Strange, G., The Lands of the Eastern Ca- The Meaning of the Glorious Koran, trans. Bosworth, A.B., Alexander and the East: The liphate. Cambridge: Cambridge Univer- M.M. Pickthall. New York & London: Tragedy of Triumph. Oxford: Clarendon sity Press, 1905; repr. U.S.A.: Elibron Mentor, n.d. Press, 1996. Classics, 2006. PDFs of the maps may *Rippin, A., Muslims: Their Religious Beliefs

190 The Cradle & The Crescent

and Practices. 2nd ed. London & New Bushnaq, I., Arab Folktales. New York: Pan- Lane & ed. E.S. Poole. 3 vols. London York: Routledge, 2001. theon, 1987. & New York: Routledge, Warne and Toorawa, S.M., “Khidr: The History of Gaiman, N. & P.C. Russell, The Sandman Routledge, 1865. a Ubiquitous Master,” in Sufi, No. 30 #50: Distant Mirrors: Ramadan. USA: DC The Thousand Nights and a Night, trans. Vari- (Summer 1996), pages 45–49. Comics/Vertigo, 1993. ous (collection of various versions): The Unbound Bible: http://unbound.biola. Hanauer, J.E., The Holy Land: Myths and Leg- (18th February 2009). Various, The Catholic Encyclopedia: http:// Ibn al-Kalbi, Hisham, trans. Nabih Amin Walker, B.K., Turkish Folk-Tales. Oxford www.newadvent.org/cathen (13th Faris, The Book of Idols. Princeton: Princ- Myths & Legends. Oxford: Oxford February 2009). eton University Press, 1952. University Press, 1993. Irwin, R., The Arabian Nights: A Companion. Willingham, B. & M. Buckingham, Fables London & New York: Penguin Books, Vol. 7: Arabian Nights (and Days). USA: 1994. DC Comics/Vertigo 2006. Myths from Mesopotamia, trans. S. Dalley. Myths and Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2000. Pseudo-Callisthenes, trans. R. Stoneman, Legends The Greek Alexander Romance. London: Other Penguin, 1991. *Arabian Nights, trans. R.F. Burton & ed. J. *Al-Saleh, K. & Salim, R.N., Fabled Cities, Christie, N., Blood and Sand: The Levant Tri- Zipes. New York & London: Penguin Princes & Jinn from Arab Myths and Leg- bunal. Roseville, MN: Trident, Inc., Books, 1991. ends. World Mythologies Series, USA: 2002. The Book of the Thousand Nights and One Night, Schocken, 1985. Sheoul, S., The Dragon and the Bear: The trans. J.C. Mardrus & P. Mathers. 4 Severin, T., In Search of Genghis Khan. New Novgorod Tribunal. Roseville, MN: Tri- vols. London: Routledge & Kegan Paul York: Cooper Square Press, 2003. dent, Inc., 1999. Ltd., 1953. The Thousand and One Nights, trans. E.W.

191