In Chapter 7 of Argentum we meet up with an old friend, Captain Hansen and also say “Hello” to the King of Magic whose name might look a little familiar to you. My interpretation of King Mitra is loosely based on the god Mithras, who has an interesting history in Hindu, Persian and Roman history.

One of the key concepts in this chapter, is that we read about the concept of “The Condemned.” In the magic world, there is a series of Oaths that bind and tie each and every entity within the magical community together. These Oaths are a complex network of promises and “social contracts,” replacing the need for written laws. Oaths are binding and brutal, for many concepts like “free will” go right out the window once an Oathbringer brands the oath into their mind–literally. The strength of the Oath depends upon a lot of factors including the magical prowess of the Oathbringer, the resiliency of the person’s mind, how many people are branded, etc.

A “condemned” entity or individual is someone who has broken a particular type of Oath. Sophie (formerly known as Serafina) broke the Great Oath, which caused her to be Condemned. Most of the time, if you are Condemned you go into exile in the world “Above.” “Above” also has a dual meaning, it means: above the surface and “above the Veil.” To date, no Condemned has ever re-entered the magical community. The longer they are away from Magic, the more they forget about their former World. Unless (of course) they are a god.

I hope you enjoy Chapter 7 of Argentum and I’m already working on the next one. Have a wonderful day!