Thoughts on Appendix N and Magic

[sbwilson]

I'm fairly new to Appendix N - even though I've played RPGs since the early 80s, I'm just now starting to go through those books. One of the first ones I went through were the first three books in Andre Norton's Witchworld series. Those that have read those know there is a link between being able to do magic and...umm...shall we say the lack of carnal knowledge. Most recently, I've started to reread Mary Stewart's Merlin Trilogy (Crystal Cave, Hollow Hills, Last Enchantment). While not strictly Appendix N, I did come across this little note at the end of The Crystal Cave:

"There is so strong a connection in legend (and indeed in history) between celibacy, or virginity, and power, that I have thought it reasonable to insist on Merlin's virginity."

So, not only do wizards have to deal with Patrons and corruption, but they ain't getting any either! Who wants to be a mage now? I feel very strongly about enforcing this little tidbit of color - we'll see how my players react.

[finarvyn]

It's an interesting observation and certainly I can see where it has a historical basis if you include some of the virgins who were found in early temples. Of course, that's more like cleric magic instead of wizard magic, but at least not unheard of. Also there is the virgin-unicorn connection.

It would also explain why Conan couldn't cast spells and was out to get any evil wizard he could find.

[mythfish]

It would also explain why Conan couldn't cast spells and was out to get any evil wizard he could find.

And explains why so many wizards are evil...

[DCCfan]

It would also explain why Conan couldn't cast spells and was out to get any evil wizard he could find.

And explains why so many wizards are evil...

[Geoffrey]

Conan couldn't cast spells...

Conan employs a witch-symbol in part V of "Beyond the Black River". It's not a spell, but it's something.

[finarvyn]

Conan couldn't cast spells...

Conan employs a witch-symbol in part V of "Beyond the Black River". It's not a spell, but it's something.

Maybe that was in his pre-wenching days?

[Hamakto]

So, not only do wizards have to deal with Patrons and corruption, but they ain't getting any either! Who wants to be a mage now? I feel very strongly about enforcing this little tidbit of color - we'll see how my players react.

As long as your group does not consist of LARPers.... you should be fine.