GUARDHOUSE INCIDENT
On Frostfall 9, the ancient mage Idris used volatile magicks to escape from his imprisonment within the Spire’s guardhouse. Idris had been detained by Councilman Rott on allegations of employing forbidden necromantic magicks to raise mindless undead. However, substantial evidence to support these claims was not presented, nor were other Councilors informed of his detainment.
Out of concern for transparency and the Spire’s history with unjust imprisonments, Councilwoman Noctis requested Idris’ release, addressing the matter directly with Guard Captain Pierre. Her decision was also influenced by the potential risks of provoking a mage of Idris’ significant, though unquantified, power, especially as he had not committed any recorded offenses prior to his detainment.
Councilman Rott objected to this decision and denied the release, leading to unresolved questions about the mage’s continued imprisonment. During his confinement, Idris reportedly expressed frustration and warned of consequences for perceived injustices against him. With no resolution or acknowledgment from Councilman Rott, Idris’ anima eventually erupted, resulting in the destruction of the guardhouse. Tragically, this event caused the death of Guard Captain Pierre and serious injuries to Guardsman Lonny and Dame Ayana. Idris escaped the scene by burrowing into the earth, leaving the guardhouse in a hazardous state that remains unfit for exploration.
Emergency Declarations and Legal Amendments
In light of the incident, and pending formal resolution by the Circle of Four, the following measures have been enacted:
State of the Guardhouse:
The guardhouse has been deemed unsafe. It is cordoned off, with oversight by the militia and guard. Unauthorized entry, including by militia members without prior approval from a Militia Captain, is prohibited and will result in fines for reckless endangerment.
Idris’ Legal Status:
Idris is officially declared WANTED within the Spire, charged with violations of:
- Section 5-II: Use of harmful magicks resulting in destruction and arson.
- Section 2-III: The cursing of an individual, while imprisoned.
- Section 3-IV: The killing of Guard Captain Pierre.
These charges are actions taken after his detention and escape.
Council Powers and Oversight:
To ensure accountability, the Circle of Four must collectively approve any imprisonment unless the situation involves an immediate and escalating threat. All Council members must be informed promptly of such decisions for resolution.
Clarification Regarding the Arcanist’s Accord:
The Arcanist’s Accord is not recognized as a governing legal document within the Spire. All mages are afforded the right to privacy regarding their source of anima (e.g., patrons) and the magicks they practice. The Right to Safety, Expression, and Freedom guarantees that mages shall not face harassment or discrimination. Accordists are reminded of their responsibility to uphold these principles.
Section 5-I Amendment:
The definition of necromancy has been refined as follows:
“Necromancy refers specifically to the act of raising the dead without free will or sentience.”
This amendment aims to protect magicks involving revival or restoration of individuals who retain sentience and autonomy.
Addition of Section 6-I:
“Individuals who act in good faith to preserve or restore a being’s life, or to protect them from harm, shall not be held criminally liable if it is later determined that the being did not wish to be saved or revived, provided their actions were reasonable and intended to prevent death or injury.”
This addition safeguards healers, doctors, and Ichor practitioners in performing life-preserving actions.
These measures are enacted to address the immediate aftermath of the guardhouse incident and foster a fair, transparent, and just approach to future governance. In upcoming days, the Circle of Four will weigh in on whether or not to keep them. But until then, they are considered effective immediately.
Signed,
Councilwoman Meriel Noctis
Militia Captain Umeneri Helara
