The Wizards of the Black Ring are a cabal of powerful and eccentric arcane practitioners who worship The Golden Peacock. They have carved out a unique niche in Seregon. Originally brought together by a mutual desire to explore the deepest mysteries of magic, they found their true purpose during the The Tiamat Incident, where they played a critical role in saving the city from the rampaging Goristro demon. This event galvanized the group, revealing that their greatest strength lay in disrupting evil plans, both within and outside their order.
Philosophy and Purpose
- Disruptors of Evil: The Wizards of the Black Ring have become obsessed with foiling the schemes of other malevolent forces, particularly those that encroach upon their territory or threaten their way of life. Whether it's a rival wizard's nefarious plot, an infernal pact, or the ambitions of dark gods like Nergal, the wizards take great pleasure in thwarting these plans. They see themselves as both protectors and saboteurs, enjoying the thrill of outmaneuvering their enemies.
- Hedonistic Pursuits: While their rivals, like the Wizards of the Jeweled Skull, are studious and focused on lichdom, the Black Ring wizards are hedonists at heart. They indulge in the pleasures of life—fine wines, exotic foods, sensual pleasures, and lavish parties. Their gatherings are infamous for their decadence, where arcane knowledge is shared as freely as wine, and where alliances are forged in the heat of passion.
- Arcane Legacy: Although some members occasionally toy with the idea of lichdom, they see it as a distant goal, something to be pursued only when they've exhausted the pleasures of mortal life. Immortality, to them, is less about eternity and more about leaving a lasting legacy—both in the annals of magic and in the memories of those who’ve witnessed their exploits.
Organization and Rituals
Leadership. Archmagus Eva Mulder is a striking figure, known as much for her commanding presence as for her provocative style. Standing tall with an elegant yet imposing posture, she exudes an aura of both danger and allure. Her long, raven-black hair cascades down her back in loose waves, often adorned with subtle jeweled pins that catch the light, adding a touch of glamour to her otherwise dark appearance.
- Membership: The Black Ring is a selective order, with new members invited based on their magical prowess, willingness to embrace the group's hedonistic lifestyle, and ability to contribute to the cabal's goals. While they may be indulgent, they are also discerning; not just anyone can join their ranks.
- Gatherings: The wizards meet regularly at the estate of Baeatrijs van Kroos, the mother of Johan van Kroos, of the Wizards of the Jeweled Skull. Here their gatherings are a mix of arcane symposiums, hedonistic revelries, and strategy sessions. These events are infamous for their extravagant nature, featuring the finest luxuries, magical performances, and debates on the latest arcane theories.
Rivalry with the Wizards of the Jeweled Skull
- Opposition: The Wizards of the Black Ring have a longstanding rivalry with the Wizards of the Jeweled Skull, who are devout followers of Nergal and are fanatically dedicated to achieving lichdom. The Jeweled Skull wizards are the antithesis of the Black Ring—grim, obsessive, and utterly humorless. Their gatherings, in stark contrast to the Black Ring’s decadent parties, are austere affairs focused entirely on the study of the Book of Vile Darkness and other dark tomes.
- Ongoing Conflict: This rivalry often manifests in subtle (and not-so-subtle) acts of sabotage, with the Black Ring wizards taking great pleasure in disrupting the Jeweled Skull’s rituals, stealing their artifacts, and generally making their lives difficult. For the Wizards of the Black Ring, the rivalry is as much about having fun as it is about maintaining a balance of power in Seregon.
Reputation in Seregon
- Public Perception: The Wizards of the Black Ring are known throughout Seregon as both protectors and troublemakers. While their hedonistic lifestyle and flamboyant behavior raise eyebrows, their role in saving the city during the Tiamat Incident has earned them a grudging respect. Many in Seregon see them as necessary, if unconventional, defenders against the darker forces that threaten the city.
- Alliances and Influence: Despite their reputation, the Black Ring wizards maintain strong ties with various influential figures in Seregon, including members of the aristocracy, Ithosian Talons, Seven Sins,and other magical orders. Their ability to balance their indulgences with their arcane responsibilities makes them both feared and admired.