*Central Kingdoms*
Unpublished manuscript
D. M. Lawson
Magic is an industry and a profession in Lantry. For those discovered to have the talent for magic, there is a track of education that focuses the student through the basic theory of magic, spells, and alchemical processes. As the student progresses, a grounding class in each school of magic is presented, and a plan of study devised for each student based on demonstrated aptitudes.
There are strict rules governing the use of magic. “Hotdogging” is frowned upon in all circumstances and punishable in most. It is considered extremely poor form to use magic against an untalented opponent unless lives are actually threatened by inaction. Magical dueling is illegal. Using magic in a sword duel must be agreed upon in advance and only if both parties to the duel have talent.
Non-magical dueling is a popular sport. There are ornate rules, and anyone who breaks them too often finds him- or herself with a reputation as a bad sport. Once entered, a duel must be completed, and once lost fairly it is poor form to seek vengeance. The terms of a duel must be set out in advance, must be specific, and must be within the capabilities of both parties.
Anyone who uses magic in a circumstance that could be considered questionable can be called to account, in front of a gathering of fellow mages. Exceptions are made for open combat with an enemy of Lantry, provable self-defense, and honest failure of a spell meant for another purpose. (If a spell meant for cooking food causes a fire, the caster may still be liable for the damage done, but is not likely to encounter serious censure. If a spell meant to raise the dead, questionable in the first place, spreads the plague the corpse died from, the caster will encounter penalty, from having the talent deadened to being put to death.)
Dueling with swords is an art form. There are weights of weapons, specific stances which are accepted and those which are not. The rules of the duel vary by season, House, severity of insult, and the personal preferences of the parties involved. Anyone who interferes in a duel once it is set may find himself in a duel of his own.
House Treganval has a reputation for dueling. They are the architects of much in Lantry, including the code of sword fighting. In order to earn allies, they have endowed a school to teach the art of sword fighting. The school is entirely above board. Some of what has been said about “after class” activities against rival Houses is not. No accusation has ever been proven. Alexa Bandevar was briefly involved with and taught by Robyn Treganval, but will not discuss his activities, if she knows of them.
For the Hoard 