The Houses of High Sorcery

D&D 3e (3.0/3.5) Rules

by Simon Lipscomb

Within the philosophically divided structure of the Orders, there are a number of more vocationally orientated Houses. The Houses cross Order boundaries (thus within each House there may be Mages from each of the three Orders) and are loosely based on astrological ties to the planets of Krynn (given here with their Istarian name).

Inquisitor. This House is concerned with tracking down rogue mages and bringing them into the fold of the Orders. Black-Robe Inquisitors are often more concerned with destroying the rogue whereas White-Robes feel that they are helping the rogue by bringing them into an environment that understands them and can teach them. House Inquisitor is tied to the planet Zivilyn, planet of knowledge and omnipresence.

Artificer. House Artificer specializes in manufacture of magical items and enchantments. It was House Artificer that created the Dragon Orbs and many of the magical items that currently exist on Krynn. During the time of Istar, House Artificer developed close links with the Kingpriests who desired magical wonders of all kinds, and as such they are still considered in disgrace by the rest of the Orders. House Artificer is linked to Reorx, the planet of creation and manufacture.

Ambassador. This House is the most closely linked to the world of non-mages. Members of this House feel that isolation is not productive, and that the Orders can only exist in the world if they interact with their neighbors. White-Robes favor friendly and co-operative relations whereas Black-Robes seek to dominate and establish a magocracy.

Innovator. Closely linked to House Artificer, House Innovator is dedicated to research and development. House Innovator, however, seek to deepen the understanding of magic itself. It is House Innovator that uncovers new formulaic spells and techniques, which are then employed by House Artificer in their items. Sometimes, House Innovator delves too deeply and disturbs sinister powers, and as such they are closely monitored by the other Houses. House Innovator is linked to the planet Sirrion, source of power and insight.

Naturalist. Also known as "Green Wizards", members of this House focus on the forms of Animal and Herbam, spending their time studying the natural world rather than the world of humanity and its cousins. They take a holistic view of magic, believing that all things in the world are intimately linked. House Naturalist is connected to the planet Chislev, ruler of the natural world.

Mediator. House Mediator serves to tie the Orders together. Its members act as messengers and arbitrators, concerned with solving problems between brother Mages and maintaining relations with traveling Mages. House mediator has no planetary ties, but instead is considered linked to all three moons and the constellation of Gilean.

Non-Aligned. Approximately 60% of all Mages in the Orders do not belong to any of these Houses, instead being loosely grouped under the heading Non-Aligned. These mages have no specific duties within the orders and are free to act as they please. They are represented by the Sun, symbol of freedom.

Mystic. This is an off-shoot House found only amongst the Elves. Long ago, the xenophobic Silvanesti elves broke their ties to the Orders and formed their own organization using the principles taught by the three moon gods. Although technically rogues, House Mystic is too powerful for the Orders to oppose, and since it generally only operates within the boundaries of Silvanesti it has been left alone. All members of House Mystic are Silvanesti elves exclusively, and all belong to the Order of Solinari. Qualinesti elves join the "true" Orders.

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