Lore and History: The Great Philosophers

There are three philosophers whose teachings have shaped the recent history of Midland. Magic users live long lives, so "recent" history covers the last three generations of magicians, or about 600 years:

Ralda

The first of the Great Philosophers, Ralda's emergence remains shrouded in mystery, and heated arguments between historians continue to this day over whether she was a magic user or not. What remains of her writings are cryptic and open to much interpretation. Different groups ascribe their own conflicting ideas and morals onto her, because of the ambiguity of her origins and legacy. One of the few facts consistently agreed upon is that Ralda was teacher and mentor to both Foris and Viridian.

Viridian

The second of the Great Philosophers, he was a Shaper, and founded the Magicians Order 600 years ago. Viridian is credited with popularizing the present taboos against hybrid magic, and against magicians studying too extensively outside of their chosen disciplines. Viridian was a contemporary of Foris, and there was lifelong rivalry and ill-will between the two.

Foris

The third of the Great Philosophers, he was a SolGuard Healer and founder of the Midland Sunkeepers. Foris was the originator of the Sunkeepers' Sacred Web theory of life, and the protectiveness and secrecy Midland Sunkeepers place on their technology is due to his teachings. Foris had a lifelong rivalry with his peer, Viridian, and the two competed for more than a century over control of Midland.

These historical figures' influence can still be felt to this day, and it is not unusual to hear Midlanders adopting their names as expletives. Cursing "Viridian's beard," "Ralda's teeth," etc. are especially popular forms of profanity.