Witches, Wizards and Hedge Mages

1. Witches and Their Connection to the Countryside:

• Witches, drawing their power from pacts with wild one nature spirits, prefer the tranquility and harmony of the countryside. They live in close proximity to nature and have deep bonds with the land, animals, and the spirits that inhabit them.
• Witches often reside in small villages nestled within the forests, near serene lakes, or in secluded groves hidden from the bustling cities. They interact closely with the villeins (common folk) of the countryside, serving as healers, protectors, and spiritual guides.
• Their magical abilities are used to maintain the balance of nature, ensuring bountiful harvests, healthy livestock, and the well-being of the local communities. Witches are often revered and consulted by the villeins for their wisdom and their connection to the wild.

2. Wizards in the Urban Landscape:

• Wizards, with their institutionalized approach to magic and headquarters in the Citadel, are more concentrated in the urban areas of the Empire. The cities and towns are centers of learning, innovation, and magical research.
• The Citadel, in particular, is the epicenter of wizardry and serves as the headquarters of the magical institution, the Circle of Gold. Here, wizards study arcane texts, conduct experiments, and develop advanced magical technologies.
• In cities and towns, wizards play a crucial role in governance, trade, and industry. They provide magical services such as enchanting objects, offering protection, and ensuring the smooth operation of various businesses. However, their power and influence also make them enigmatic and, at times, detached from the common populace.

3. Hedge Mages, Wanderers, and Guilds:

• Hedge mages, who practice low-level magic using various methods, are versatile and can be found throughout the Empire. They are known to wander between villages, offering their services as healers, merchants, artisans, or entertainers.
• In the cities and towns, hedge mages often organize themselves into loosely structured guilds or associations based on their profession or location. These guilds help them share knowledge, protect their interests, and collectively navigate the complexities of urban life.
• Hedge mages bridge the gap between rural and urban communities. They are often seen as approachable and accessible, providing magical assistance to those who might not have access to the more formalized institutions of magic. Notable Leaders in the Hedge Mage Community:
  1. Master Remy Farashade, Collector of Curiosities
     • Role: Master Remy is a wise and experienced hedge mage who acts as a unifying figure in the hedge mage community. He encourages cooperation, education, and mutual support among hedge mages.
     • Unique Trait: Remy has a vast collection of ancient magical tomes and artifacts, making him a repository of valuable knowledge in the hedge mage world.
  2. Evelyn Thornfield - Guildmaster of the Wanderer's Guild:
     • Role: Evelyn leads the Wanderer's Guild, an association of hedge mages who travel between villages, offering their magical services. She focuses on improving the reputation and rights of wandering hedge mages.
     • Unique Trait: Evelyn possesses a magical staff made from the wood of a unique, ancient tree, which enhances her magical abilities and serves as a symbol of her leadership.
  3. Thaddeus Emberforge - Leader of the Hearthfire Knights:
     • Role: Thaddeus oversees the Hearthfire Knights, a group of hedge mages who provide essential services to rural communities, such as fire control and crop blessings. He aims to strengthen the bonds between hedge mages and villagers.
     • Unique Trait: Thaddeus is known for his skilled fire magic and his ability to forge powerful magical amulets that protect homes from fires.

This distribution of magical practitioners reflects the diverse landscape of Arcanum and the different roles each group plays in society. Witches protect the countryside and its inhabitants, wizards drive progress and innovation in the cities, and hedge mages serve as a vital link between these two worlds, ensuring that magic touches the lives of all its inhabitants in one form or another.