The Red Wizards

Lore & Background

The relationship between these mages and the military command was often tense but necessary. They provided critical support during sieges and battles, such as at Sethanon or Krondor itself. Pug's journey—from apprentice to Kulgan in Crydee to founder of Stardock—highlights a separate magical tradition, not that of the Imperial College. By the saga's end, the Imperial College's role evolved to maintain stability in a fractured world.

Reader's Guide

The leadership structure revolves around the High Mage of Krondor, who reports directly to the Imperial Council or the Emperor. During the war, their political goal was the preservation of Malloreon's sovereignty against Tsurani invasion. Military capabilities included teleportation, elemental attacks, and magical barriers. However, they were limited by the need for focus and preparation time compared to physical armies. Internal conflicts often arose between traditionalists who valued secrecy and those willing to use magic openly on the battlefield. By the saga's end, the College remained a pillar of stability. While specific titles varied, their transformation saw them shifting from purely defensive roles to active guardians of the realm against lingering threats.

Did You Know?

• The Imperial College trains mages from childhood to ensure loyalty and discipline.
• Magic use in public was strictly regulated by Kingdom law during the war.
• Tsurani mages rarely directly opposed Kingdom mages in open battle, contrary to some claims.